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The Church Podcast
Each episode features conversations with people from various backgrounds, exploring the real side of ministry. We discuss insights and learnings from the local and national landscape, enriching our understanding of the ministry's impact.
All Episodes
Episode 038 – God of Endurance: Faith, Fitness, and Formation with Chase Crouse
In this energizing and deeply personal episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Chase Crouse, founder of Hypurofit and author of The God of Endurance. As a Catholic athlete, husband, father, and coach, Chase has spent years integrating physical fitness and spiritual formation, helping others see how the discipline of the body can become a path to holiness. Chase shares how his own journey through endurance sports—marathons, triathlons, and CrossFit—led him to recognize that faith is not a sprint but a lifelong race. He unpacks how prayer, fasting, and training all reveal the same truth: transformation happens through consistent, sometimes painful perseverance. Together, he and Christopher explore how ministry leaders and everyday disciples can build endurance in both faith and life. Key Takeaways Faith and Fitness Intersect: The body is not an obstacle to holiness but an instrument for worship and witness. Endurance Over Achievement: Lasting change—in fitness, ministry, or faith—comes through daily consistency, not instant results. Spiritual Discipline as Training: Chase shares how the structure of physical training mirrors the spiritual life—routine, sacrifice, and rest. Overcoming Burnout: Endurance requires recovery; Chase explains how sabbath and silence are essential to sustainable ministry. Building a Rule of Life: Fitness, prayer, community, and purpose must be intentionally balanced for long-term growth. Integration, Not Segregation: God cares about every part of who we are—body, mind, and soul—and wants them aligned in love. For more on this episode visit us at https://thechurchpodcast.org
Episode 037 – The Freedom to Live Fully: Addiction, Healing, and Authentic Masculinity with Nick Redd
Episode 037 – The Freedom to Live Fully: Addiction, Healing, and Authentic Masculinity with Nick Redd In this raw and hope-filled conversation, Christopher Wesley sits down with Nick Redd, co-founder of The Freedom Group, a Catholic coaching community helping men break free from addiction and rediscover their God-given identity. After fifteen years in ministry with NET Ministries and St. Paul’s Outreach, Nick felt called to walk more intentionally with men battling pornography, alcohol, and the deeper wounds that fuel them. Nick shares his own story of transformation—from six days in religious life to years of struggle with addiction and finally into lasting freedom rooted in Christ. He unpacks the neuroscience behind craving, why comfort can be one of the Church’s greatest enemies, and how redemptive suffering leads to healing. Together, Christopher and Nick explore what true freedom means, why it’s not just about behavior change, and how men can reclaim their mission as husbands, fathers, and leaders. Key Takeaways Freedom Defined: True freedom isn’t doing what you want—it’s the capacity to choose the good, even amid suffering and temptation. Pain as a Path: Nick explains how discomfort can become a teacher, guiding men toward deeper healing and maturity. Craving vs. Temptation: The Freedom Group distinguishes between mental temptation and the full-body experience of craving, offering practical tools for each. Reframing Discomfort: Through neuroscience and prayer, men learn to “ride the wave” of discomfort instead of fighting or numbing it. Whole-Person Healing: Freedom involves body, mind, and spirit—breath work, fasting, exercise, and spiritual practices all play a role. Beyond Sobriety: The Freedom Group’s mission isn’t just to end addiction but to form men who live with purpose, responsibility, and joy. Partnering with the Church: Priests and spiritual directors are key collaborators, helping to accompany men in confession and healing rather than shame. For more on this episode visit thechurchpodcast.org
Episode 036 – Gente Puente: Young Hispanic Catholics, Belonging, and the Future of the Church with Gabriella Escalante
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Gabriella Escalante, Pastoral Juvenil Coordinator at the Southeast Pastoral Institute (SEPI). Originally from Venezuela, Gabi shares her journey from hesitant young adult newcomer in Miami to a leader serving across 30 dioceses in the southeastern United States. Gabi reflects on how her father’s search for community drew her into young adult ministry, how a child’s simple words about speaking Spanish in a “safe place” changed her vocational path, and how SEPI is forming leaders and building bridges for the next generation of Hispanic Catholics. Together, they explore what it means to accompany young people facing cultural tension, mental health struggles, and questions of belonging—while also celebrating the gifts and leadership they bring to the Church. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org
Episode 035 – Sacred Listening: Building Trust and Belonging with Josh Packard and Cari Foster
In this timely and thought-provoking episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with sociologist and author Josh Packard, co-founder of Future Faith, and campus minister Cari Foster, Director of Mission and Formation at Lake Catholic High School. Together, they explore how sacred listening, accompaniment, and presence are transforming the way we engage with Gen Z and Gen Alpha in faith formation. Drawing from Josh’s upcoming book Faithful Futures and Cari’s on-the-ground ministry experience, the conversation unpacks why belonging comes before believing, how trust is shifting from institutions to individuals, and why listening is one of the most powerful tools ministry leaders can practice today. Whether you’re a parish leader, campus minister, or parent, this dialogue offers practical tools and fresh hope for walking with young people in an age of distrust, digital disruption, and deep longing for connection. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org