Girlfriends (a Podcast For Catholic Women)

In this episode, Danielle Bean interviews Emily Stimson Chapman about her work as a writer and her collaboration with Scott Hahn in creating Catholic children's books. Her newest book is The Supper of the Lamb. They discuss the importance of engaging children in theology and finding balance in motherhood. Emily shares her experience of saying no to opportunities and the challenges of managing writing while raising her family. They also discuss the importance of female friendship and raising children in the faith. The episode concludes with listener feedback about feeling lonely in a new home and seeking community.Resources:Emily Stimpson Chapman's websiteFollow Emily on InstagramSubscribe to Emily's SubstackTakeaways:Engaging children in theology through children's books can be a powerful way to teach them about the faith.Finding balance in motherhood often requires saying no to certain opportunities and focusing on what truly matters.Female friendship is important for mothers and can provide support and comp

In this episode, Danielle Bean discusses the upcoming season of Lent and provides ideas for how to approach it. She encourages listeners to do something more, do something less, and love someone better during Lent. She shares personal stories and examples to illustrate these concepts. Additionally, she reads listener feedback about forgiveness and concludes by inviting listeners to join her Lenten journey through her Substack.TakeawaysDuring Lent, consider doing something more, doing something less, and loving someone better.Small acts of sacrifice and love can have a big impact on our spiritual growth.Forgiveness is a powerful practice that can bring healing and reconciliation.Join Danielle Bean's Lenten journey through her Substack for weekly reflections and content.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more

Father Basil Nortz, author of Holy Silence, joins the Girlfriends podcast to discuss the importance of silence in a noisy world. He shares the inspiration behind writing his book, Holy Silence: A Practical Guide to Recollection in God, and the different types of silence, including silence of the body, silence of the senses, silence of the memory, silence of the imagination, silence of conversations, and silence of self-love. Father Nortz emphasizes the countercultural nature of silence and offers practical advice for embracing silence in everyday life. He also discusses the impact of phones and media on silence and provides guidance for teaching children the value of silence. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the beauty and gift of silence and an invitation to embrace it in the present moment.Key TakeawaysSilence is countercultural in a noisy world, but it is essential for spiritual growth and finding God in the present moment.Different types of silence, such as silence of the body help us order

In this week's episode, Danielle discusses the important topic of forgiveness, even in the face of terrible things. She emphasizes the need for flexibility in our plans and goals, as well as the importance of recognizing our own need for forgiveness. Danielle shares personal stories and insights from Scripture to highlight the challenges and rewards of forgiveness. She encourages listeners to choose forgiveness as an act of the will, even when it is difficult, and reminds them of the power of forgiveness to bring peace and healing. At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from a listener about the practice of Bible journaling.Takeaways:Flexibility is important in our plans and goals, as it allows us to prioritize relationships and respond to opportunities for connection.Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling, and it is a necessary part of our own need for forgiveness and healing.Jesus calls us to forgive even terrible things, and He provides the strength and grace to do so.Unforgiveness hurts u

In this episode, Danielle Bean interviews licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Tablada about resolving conflict in marriage. They discuss the importance of deep connection, practical guidelines for resolving conflict, the value of date nights and couple prayer, and the myth of not going to bed angry. Melissa provides practical advice for couples to communicate effectively and maintain a healthy relationship. The episode concludes with listener feedback and advice on dealing with family conflict.Learn more about Melissa Tablata at her website and follow her on Instagram.At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from listener Grace about how to manage family differences and conflict.Takeaways:Deep connection is essential for resolving conflict in marriage.Avoid using words like 'always' and 'never' during conflicts.Take time to process emotions and communicate intentions before engaging in conflict resolution.Setting boundaries and taking breaks during conflicts can be beneficial.The myt

This week we are thrilled to be launching the Dan & Danielle Bean podcast, exclusively available through subscription at daniellebean.com. After more than 7 years of podcasting on her own with Girlfriends, Danielle is overjoyed to be working on this project with her husband Dan and can’t wait to share it with you!Dan and Danielle have been married almost 30 years (this July!) and they have eight awesome kids. In this new show, they share stories, thoughts, fun, and wisdom that we have gathered through faith and family living. Whether you’re a seasoned parent, a newlywed couple, or someone seeking inspiration in your faith journey, this podcast is your go-to source for genuine insights, relatable stories, wisdom, love, and laughter.Our first episode, How to Have Fun Together as a Family, is shared here this week as a special episode of Girlfriends, but all future shows will be available exclusively to upgraded subscribers. Make sure you don’t miss a thing! Subscribe right now at daniellebean.com

Danielle Bean chats with Dr. Bob Schuchts, the bestselling author of Be Healed and the founder of the John Paul II Healing Center in Tallahassee, Florida.Danielle and Dr. Schuchts discuss every person's need for healing, some ways that we sometimes seek healing in all the wrong places, and Jesus as the source of all healing. They also explore the importance of belief in God's healing power and the challenge of overcoming self-sufficiency. Bob explains the tree and the apple analogy for understanding woundedness and offers practical advice for forgiveness and healing. They also discuss the dangers of navigating new age healing practices and highlight the mission of the St. John Paul II Healing Center.Takeaways:Healing ministry is essential in the Church and the world.Belief in God's healing power is crucial for experiencing miracles.Self-sufficiency can hinder our openness to God's healing.Practicing forgiveness and addressing woundedness are key to personal healing.At the end of today's show, Danielle reads a

Did you make any resolutions this year? In case you need a little inspiration and encouragement, Danielle shares her idea for the ONLY resolution you need to make.If you do nothing else this year, consider working on this--letting God love you. Three things to keep in mind as you do that:1. Take the time.It takes time to get to know God and let him enter more deeply into your life. Time and again, Jesus "went away to pray" and we need to do likewise.2. Screen your thoughts.What are some of your habits of thinking or talking to yourself and how might these get in the way of your relationship with God? Screen your thoughts and influences!3. Let go of fear.Many of us are afraid of being still in the presence of God. it requires a level of openness and vulnerability that might make you uncomfortable. Consider how this might apply to you and how you can let go of that fear that is holding you back.At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from "Anna" who is going through a stressful time in her marri

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We are taking a break and using this opportunity to revisit this popular episode where Danielle shares 5 innovative ideas for things to give up in the new year. 1. Undisciplined phone useAre you constantly checking your phone throughout your day? Do you spend too much time mindlessly scrolling through social media? Consider setting limits to when, where, and how you use your phone, and your mental health will be better for it.2. Stuff you don’t needWhat things are taking up space in your home and work spaces? Too much clothing, extra appliances, or piles of books? Declutter your spaces and give some of your extra “stuff” to others who can use it.3. Ignoring your healthMany of us put others first and neglect our own healthcare. Do you need to make an appointment for a check up, a screening, or a trip to the dentist? For your family’s benefit, you need to take better care of yourself in these most basic ways. Make the call today!4. Negative relationshipsWho in your life bring

“Your marriage is the foundation on which your entire family life is built. Anytime you've got extra pressure in your outside lives, it can really add to the pressure that you experience in your relationship.”In the weeks that lead up to Christmas, financial stress, social pressure, and endless to-do lists can add up to a tense situation in your marriage. We need to take steps to protect and nurture our marriages during the busy season of Advent.Danielle shares some ideas:Pause.Take a breath before responding to your spouse in a challenging situation. Spend time together.It’s always important for couples to make time for each other, but even more so during stressful times. Enjoy the holidays together!Talk. A little communication ahead of time goes a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings and conflict.Give in. Compromise whenever you can, and convince yourself to let little things go. See the big picture. Ask yourself: Will any of these stresses and annoyances matter a hundred years from now? Next month? N

“Give your kids the gift of Scripture that's going to be imprinted on their hearts forever. Put it into their hearts and minds. Make that what's filling their little hearts during this season of Advent.”Here we are, in the thick of Advent! Are you stressed yet? Let’s stay focused on the things that are truly important and help our kids to do the same. Danielle is sharing 6 ideas for ways to nurture your kids’ faith lives this Advent season:Scripture VersesYou might add some relevant Scripture to an Advent calendar or spend some time reading the Book of Luke.Nativity ScenesThere are lots of kid-friendly options to choose from! Here are a couple of them to get you started, from Fisher Price and Bible toys.Jesse TreeThis doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You can check out places like Etsy for beautiful ornaments or search online for printable versions.Advent WreathThis could not be simpler– even just small candles in holders with ribbons can help mark the season. Pray together when you light them!Comm

Snippet From the Show “I do this podcast for you, so it makes sense that I would answer your questions to celebrate the 400th episode. I’m so grateful you’re here. ” Crazy, but true! This is the 400th episode of the Girlfriends podcast and to mark the occasion, Danielle asked for your questions and she answers many of them in today’s show. From work/life balance to raising Catholic kids, Danielle offers ideas and insight on the topics that are on your mind. Thank you for being part of the community of Girlfriends listeners. Here’s to the next 400 episodes! For episode shownotes visit www.goodcatholic.com. Get full access to Girlfriends After Hours at daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe

Snippet From the Show “The holiday season can be a hard time for many people. If you are grieving or struggling, it can be hard to feel pressured to be joyful.” Ready or not, Advent is here! Are you looking forward to this crazy-busy season, or approaching the holidays with some sadness this year? The good news is that joy is not something that depends on your outer circumstances or even your feelings. Authentic joy is something we can choose every day, and especially something we can choose during Advent, as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. This week, Danielle shares 5 ways to find joy, even you are going through something hard, this Advent season: 1) Connect with God. 2) Be present. 3) Reach out. 4) Control your thoughts. 5) Soak up some grace. For episode shownotes visit www.goodcatholic.com. Get full access to Girlfriends After Hours at daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe

Snippet From the Show “I think that the question of love is something really pressing today and the hearts and minds of everyone, especially of young people.” – Anne Marie Bollman Today’s special guest is Anne Marie Bollman, a senior at the University of Notre Dame studying the Program of Liberal Studies and Theology with a minor in history. On campus, she is a student worker for the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture and is deeply involved in Right to Life, coordinating its annual adopt-a-mom fundraiser. Previously, she has worked for Paradisus Dei on the What is Love? project (https://www.whatislove.org/) and is thrilled to see the impact it will have on young people's lives. After studying abroad in France and volunteering at Lourdes, she is now putting her love of the French language and culture to use in a thesis exploring Mary's Immaculate Conception as a response to Enlightenment thought. Anne Marie is also proud to call Texas home. In today’s conversation, Anne Marie shares what it’s like being

Snippet From the Show “When it comes to our spending habits, sometimes the most important thing we need is information.” Whether it’s because of inflation or your growing family, as we look ahead to Thanksgiving and Christmas, many of us are facing tighter budgets this year. Danielle is sharing some reminders of simple ways that we cut back a bit and save some money this month: No-Spend Challenge Challenge yourself to not spend money (beyond essentials) for a set period of time. You might try a week, 10 days or a month. An inspiring book on this topic is The Year of Less by Cait Flanders. Wait If you think you want to buy something non-essential, just wait 30 days before purchasing it. You might be surprised to find you no longer want it. Use an app Whether you use an app that automatically moves some of your money into savings, one that finds bargains for you, or one that shows you what subscriptions you can cancel, technology is a great tool for saving money. De-clutter and sell Go through your closets and

Snippet From the Show “We have resources to help moms identify how they feel about themselves and to get in their right mind and hearts over it, and then we give them all the materials in a step by step way.” –Grace Emily Stark There is so much in our culture today that makes young women feel uncomfortable in their own bodies. Moms want resources to help their girls navigate the emotional and physical changes of their teen years and encourage a positive outlook on their own womanhood. Today’s special guest, grace Emily Stark, editor of Natural Womanhood (https://naturalwomanhood.org/), shares about resources they are creating to help moms do exactly that. Other links mentioned in today’s episode: Mothers of (Pre) Teens online course (https://naturalwomanhood.org/mothers-of-pre-teens-online-course/) Fertility Awareness for Health Professionals (https://naturalwomanhood.org/topic/fertility-awareness-for-health-professionals/) also: The Care and Keeping of You (https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-Am

“Having people over is about so much more than just entertaining. It’s about truly connecting with one another and building real community.”The holiday season is right around the corner, and maybe you are giving some thought to holiday hospitality. Do you dread having people over? Or do you avoid it altogether because it just takes so much effort? Danielle shares some tips to help you overcome some of those obstacles and truly get better at hospitality.Have a plan. Think ahead about the things you might talk about with your guests or interesting topics of conversation.Just do it. A lot. If you are anxious about hosting, the simplest way to get over yourself is to just start doing it. The more you do it, the easier it will become.Start small. You don’t have to host a giant event or fancy dinner party. Just invite some friends for coffee or games.Let others help. Share the load! You can make things simpler by allowing guests to bring some of the food or otherwise help you prepare.Stay within your budget. It can

Snippet From the Show “Like everything in healthcare, with infertility, you become a detective, taking a really good history from both the woman and the man. We need to remember always that it takes two people to create life. So we want to make sure we address right away male fertility and not leave that for down the road.” Jamie Rathjen Today’s special guests are Jamie Rathjen and Teresa Kenney, hosts of The Hormone Genius podcast (https://www.hormonegenius.com/). Jamie is founder of the Fiat Institute (https://www.fiatinstitute.com/), a hormone coach certification program, and Teresa is Women’s health Nurse Practitioner and author of The Happy Girl’s Guide to Being Whole. (https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Girls-Guide-Being-Whole/dp/1735223727) Together, they discuss the topic of male and female infertility and some practical ways to create a safe environment for your hormonal health and fertility. At the end of today’s show, Danielle shares a voicemail from Vanessa who shares about the Duo Lingo app. More links

Snippet From the Show “Be sure you are not discerning your self-worth in the things you accomplish each day. You have worth as a child of God, not matter how productive you are.” Would you like an extra 3 or 4 hours in each day? We all feel overwhelmed and crunched for time sometimes. This week, Danielle shares some ideas for ways to make the most of the 24 hours we do have each day. Some of these include: Clarify your priorities. Block your time and batch similar tasks. Create a daily schedule. Eliminate time wasters. Learn to say “No” and “Not now.” Delegate tasks. Set time limits and take breaks. Take care of yourself. Set realistic goals. Another podcast where we discussed a similar topic was 5 ways to Be More Productive. (https://girlfriends.fireside.fm/351) Other links mentioned in this week’s show: Pomodoro Technique (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique) The Hawk and the Dove by Penelope Wilcock (https://a.co/d/ac8Wkzw) A Mother’s Rule of Life by Holly Pierlot (https://a.co/d/4ocOIr8) At t

Snippet From the Show “You have all these varying degrees of women becoming saints in such different circumstances … If you look at another woman and say she's not listening to God because her life doesn't look the same as yours. Well, then you're not really understanding, one, the saints and two, the Gospel.” – Marie Mazzanti Our guest this week is Marie Mazzanti, a wife, mother, and media creator at Catholic Caritas on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/catholiccaritas/). Marie joins Danielle to discuss the variety of ways that we are called to holiness and the truth that we are not all called in the same way. They share about marriage, gender roles, Theology of the Body. Marie shares from her experience of living a mixed faith marriage and candidly discusses the challenges and joys of her own vocation. Marie Mazzanti’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@CatholicCaritas) For episode shownotes visit www.goodcatholic.com. Get full access to Girlfriends After Hours at daniellebean.substack.com/sub