Leedom to Life: Recent Episodes
Emily Leedom
This podcast is for the relationship minded individual to explore the topics of dating, marriage, family, friendship, parenting and community! Emily Leedom, Director of Marriage, Family & Life for the Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls, will be sitting down with individuals who will share real life stories of discovering what it means to be authentically human and fully alive. It's a place with more questions than answers but we believe that extraordinary answers can be found in the ordinariness of a journey.
Mo Irvine has the unique opportunity to see people for who they really are. Moreover, help people see themselves for who they are. People, who we would ordinarily be stereotyped as a bad apple for the things they have done in their past. Mo serves the diocese in the prison ministry office and shares her journey from where it began to where she is today.
Fasting... don't get scared now! (a little christmas pop culture humor for ya for this time of year). Dr. Chris Burgwald gives a fascinating account on how fasting has impacted his life spiritually, which in turn is transforming him physically and mentally. Caffeine is coursing through our veins on this episode, come join the conversation.
Alison Conemac is the epitome of God's servant. Day in and day she lives her life for Christ. Oh.... and she loves wine... BONUS! Come hear Alison's story on how to live intently and devoutly for our lord. There's so much, that she may be back for more!
Tony Menke is back on Leedom to Life this season. How much do you tithe? How much should you tithe? Tony gives a great first hand account on giving and receiving as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ this advent season.
Joining me this week on Leedom to Life is Dr. Angela Turnow, a physical therapist who helps moms with pelvic floor and core issues feel strong and supported for active motherhood. https://achievemovement.com/ (https://achievemovement.com/)
This week we dive back into the archives when Emily talked with Deacon James Keating about how a daily happy hour transformed his marriage. They also discuss building intimacy, praying together and the gift of consistency.
It's easy to go through the motions of daily living without ever really pausing to cultivate and create the life we are capable of living. In this episode, Emily sits down with the most intentional person she knows, Howie Schmidt, to talk about being intentional with our time, our money and our relationships.
Chris Burgwald returns to the show to talk about giving as a gift what we have received as a gift. There's something stirring in the hearts of people and this episode is here to fan the flame
Emily talks with Dylan Kessler, business leader, to talk about a person centered approach to leadership.
Emily sits down with Teresa Henrickson, clinical director of Catholic Family Services, to explore the root of shame.
In this episode, Emily Leedom sits down with Bishop DeGrood of the Diocese of Sioux Falls to talk about finding freedom to be authentically who God has created us to be. Bishop shares some of his own life experiences and how he learned to grow in confidence and his ability to share his true self with God and others.
Emily Leedom sits down with her friend Beth Pole to talk about the power of a well ordered home. Whether it's organizing the stuff in your house or the stuff on your calendar, properly ordering our lives leads to greater freedom and joy.
We are launching Season 3 with an awesome conversation about the power of wonder! You can hear more from Angela on the Awake to Wonder Podcast!
Season two finale is a wrap! As we close out this season, we invited Emily's dear friend, Katie, to come on the show to talk friendship and intentionality.
This is an episode you don't want to miss. It's the story of one couples journey toward healing amidst the challenges of mental illness. You can contact Rachel and Scott at rachel.mark406@gmail.com.
Jessica is the founder and creative mind behind A Thriving Catholic! She's a go getter and after her own challenges with feeling like she wasn't truly thriving, she dove into what was missing. This episode is all about the practical and spiritual needs of the human person in order to be fully alive. You can learn more about Jessica and her work at athrivingcatholic.com!
This weeks episode is a little different. As we enter into Holy Week, Emily shares a short reflection.
Chris Motz, Director of the South Dakota Catholic Conference, returns for this episode of Leedom to Life to discuss dynamic citizenship and policy as it pertains to true freedom. Chris and Emily address a tough topic like the equality act through the lens of faith and reason.
The tables are turning in this episode as Emily is interviewed by Father Scott Traynor regarding what it means to be in pursuit of lifelong Catholic missionary discipleship rooted in God's love.
Father Kowles joins this episode to talk about finding freedom from the things that keep us bound. Based on the book, Unbound by Neal Lozano. Songs mentioned: The Father's House by Cory Asbury Dear Wormwood by the Oh Hellos
Shane VanDiest joins this episode to talk about the power of liturgy and ritual. Shane and Emily explore the human desire for ritual and actions than manifest the heart.
Father Scott Traynor returns as a guest for this episode of Leedom to LIfe all about entering into the season of Lent with a heart of gratitude! Central to a fruitful lenten journey is centering ourselves first in the abundant love of God.
We're launching into new territory on this weeks episode of Leedom to Life! Pelvic floor health is an integral part of flourishing for both individuals and couples. This week, Emily is chatting with pelvic floor therapist, Staci Weitfeld, about how pregnancy and delivery can impact pelvic floor health and couples overall wellness.
This episode is a favorite from the archives about the importance of play. Father Tyler Mattson is a Catholic priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Enjoy!
Nic Davidson is back sharing his heart for mission work! You can find out more about Nic at freelygiveninc.org!
Katelynn Beldin is a counselor who is passionate about accompanying others through the hard. This conversation is dedicated to intentional living, soul searching and pursuing fullness.
Have you noticed a creeping trend among mothers that seems to lift up alcohol as a coping mechanism for parenting? We have, too. Joy Wattenbarger is a writer and the founder of @integrated_mama. She is passionate about integrated and healthy parenting that honors the dignity of children. Joy and Emily examine what's beneath the growing popularity of "mommy wine time" and propose healthier means of coping with the difficulties of parenting.
Dr. Chris Burgwald is an incredible teacher, husband, father and dear friend of Emily's! In this episode, Chris shares his wisdom about being intentional with our lives. They chat all about being a life long learner and the difference between amusement and leisure.
Meet Emily's brother-in-law! Pat is the father of 6 and in this episode, he opens his heart about the joys and challenges of fatherhood, continuing to prioritize marriage and the importance of community.
This episode is all about parenting, marriage and raising saints! Robyn Bruggeman is a mom of seven with a heart for bringing the Church home. You can follow along with Robyn @divine9livinglit
Rachel Herbeck has a preachers heart. In this episode, we cover what it means to have an intentional rhythm of life and what it looks like to create a rule of life. You can follow the work of ID (Intentional Disciples) @intentionaldisciples or follow Rachel directly @rherbeck.
Matt Leedom, a favorite guest on Leedom to Life, returns this episode to discuss the power of family prayer and the anticipation of advent! Instagram Mentioned: @divine9livinlgit
Catherine Huss is an amazing woman with a heart for trying new things, embracing life and pursuing the fullness of life. In this episode, Emily and Catherine discuss taking chances, women's fashion and mental health! You can follow along with Catherine's latest adventure with Siena & Co at www.siena-co.com.
Meet Father Joe Vogel. A priest that is not afraid to say it like is. Father Joe shares his story and offers his insights on marriage, relationships and the journey of life.
Isaiah Lamb is an old soul with a heart for helping the human person discover meaning, purpose and healing. He is currently in the pursuit of his doctorate for clinical mental health and this episode explores the power of presence, the purpose of emotion and the gift of living beneath the surface.
Jay Stringer is a speaker, author and certified mental health counselor. In this episode, Emily asks Jay about the origins of unwanted sexual behavior and the pathway to healing. You can find out more about Jay and his amazing work at jay-stringer.com. Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B7RCM9B/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07B7RCM9B&linkCode=as2&tag=jaystringer09-20&linkId=c8a13c0294baa2f83f96422fab7932a4 (Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing)
Nic Davidson is a missionary at heart. His love for marriage, family and theology of the body is contagious. This episode explores sexuality, healing in marriage and the heart of man. You can check out Nic's podcast: Nic_the_idiot Website: www.freelygiveninc.org
Jennifer Lehr is a certified Marriage and Family Therapist. In this episode, Emily asks Jennifer all about the chemistry of love, tips to help couples feel connected and the dynamics of enhancing marriage. Jennifer is the founder of WeConcile.com! Disclaimer: The Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls does not endorse WeConcile. WeConcile is not a faithbased relationship enhancement program.
Sometimes life changes course. This episode is one mans journey of following Gods plan even when it takes a left turn here or there.
Father Jeff Norfolk has a reputation for encouraging couples to embrace the gift of life! He is passionate about sharing with the world that children are a gift and this episode explores the richness that comes from embracing an open heart to life. Did questions come up for you listening to this episode? You can contact Father Jeff at frjeffnorfolk@sfcatholic.org.
Lauren Wolf is a young professional and single mother with a heart for sharing her journey to choose joy amidst all of lifes circumstances. This is a story of embracing lifes surprises.
We often have a perception of what holiness "should" look like. But holiness is often surrounded by a lot of mess and brokenness. In this episode, Father Andy Thuringer unpacks the perception of holiness and how immense virture can find its way through the messiest of circumstances.
Connor Flanagan considers himself a "fulltime dreamer" and in this episode, he and Emily explore the beauty of pursuing dreams. They also chat about finding balance in pursuing our goals with family life and the difference between selfish dreams and God given dreams. You can follow along with Connor on facebook or instagram @connorflanaganmusic and be sure to checkout his podcast "Fulltime Dreamer" launching soon!
This episode with Matt Leedom, husband of Emily, wraps up Season 1 of Leedom to Life! Matt and Emily discuss sharing a common mission as a couple and supporting each others passions and pursuits. They hash out their favorite episodes from Season 1 and explore the ways they are working on growth in what it means to be authentically human and fully alive. We will be back with Season 2 starting September 1!
Buckle up because this converation with Meghan Krueger is hilarious, honest and fast! Emily and Meghan are talking all about fertility awareness based methods and family planning. We look at it through the perspective of health, well-being and relationship bonding. You can follow Meghan on Instagram @megkrueg or reach out to her for fertility care at (605)323-7320 or meghan1@me.com.
Father Vince Fernandez comes on this episode to chat about the art of healthy conversation. We explore the primacy of pursuing truth and loving people along the way.
Coach Kramer Soderberg has a powerful story of learning to trust, embracing trial and letting God use us however He desires. We chat about how trial can affect our marriages and finding the balance between presence and hustle. Coach Soderberg is an author with coach's heart for encouraging and challenging us all to reach our fullest potential. You can follow along with Kramer on instagram @acatholiccoach
It's no secret that marriage requires investment and ongoing intentionality. And it's one thing to do that as a couple but it's another thing to invite other couples into your marriage to call you on. In this episode, Susanna shares her experience of journeying with other couples. We also chat about healthy conflict in marriage and how to keep your marriage a priority amidst the changes in life's seasons. You can follow along with Susanna's writing at https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y (Fiat and Lily)! https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y (https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y)
Meet Emily's dad! Gregg Hoffmann comes on the podcast in this episode to share his journey of learning from the men before him and growing in his own fatherhood.
Zach Krueger is an educator and philosopher. In this episode we talk about building a foundation of education and the importance of learning logic in order to think well. You can follow up with Zach at zwkrueger@gmail.com.
Lisa Bannwarth is a school psychologist, educator and mom. In this episode we talk all about parenting, setting children up for success and the work of finding personal balance in order to flourish in our ability to raise children well. Have further questions for Lisa? You can email her at lisawolf1425@gmail.com.
Suffering can either create festering wounds or a deep capaticy to love. This conversation with Tony Menke is the story of one mans journey to make sense of suffering. Tony has a heart for walking with others who suffer and you can follow up with him anthony.menke@gmail.com.
Ennie and Cana are missionaries at heart with an aptitude for good food and good friends. In this episode, they share their pursuit of a rhythm of life that cultivates hard work and hard rest. You can follow along with their adventures at delreycollective.com or follow them on instagram @delreycollective, @ennie4 or @canahickman.
Father Scott Traynor has accompanied countless men and women on their journey of personal growth and into marriage. This episode focuses on marriage as a gift of self and a receptive acceptance of the beloved. Emily and Father Scott also discuss the work of personal healing in order to enter fully into the marriages we desire to have.
Meet Emily's mom! In this episode, Emily talks with her mom about the various stages of motherhood, letting people in and keeping marriage, humor and faith a priority.
Emily talks with Deacon James Keating about how a daily happy hour transformed his marriage. They also discuss building intimacy, praying together and the gift of consistency.
Dr. Greg Bottaro is a clinical psychologist and founder of Catholic Psych Institute. In this episode, we chat about what it means to be an integrated mind and soul and how to cope with anxiety by turning off our fight or flight response. You can learn more and find Dr. Gregs resources at https://www.catholicpsych.com/ (www.catholicpsych.com).
Mary Weber is a counselor with over 30 years of experience accompanying individuals as they navigate the trials of life. In this episode, we discuss the reality of grief, intentional solitude instead of frustrating loneliness and what it takes to be resilient. You can contact Mary Weber by calling (605)988-3775 or learn more as sfcatholic.org/cfs.
Joe Rutten is the Director of the Benedictine Leadership Institute and a Professor at Mount Marty College. His passion for forming leaders is contagious. Joe and Emily discuss the choice of leaders amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to lead by virtue. Joe opens up about personal struggles he has had to overcome in order to foster virtue in own life. Share a question you're pondering by texting (605) 215-1515.
In this mini-episode, Emily ponders the importance of allowing ourselves to grieve, looking up and the resurrection of suffering.
Father Max Behna is a priest outside of Chicago and in this conversation we reflect on loneliness, friendship and the power of sacrifice. It's a sincere discussion of the heart. You can find Father Max Behna on facebook to follow along with lots of awesome messages and resources from him! If this message got you thinking about a question of your own, you can text or call (605) 215-1515 and share with us!
Jeremy Sorenson is a financial planner who dedicates himself to assisting people navigate finances to cultivate the life they hope to live. In this episode, we unpack navigating financial difficulties in marriage and learning to work as a team. Conversations about money are never just about the money. It's about getting to the heart of expectations, desires and security. You can follow up with Jeremy at www.aspenpa.com or contact him at (605)951-9622. Is there a question you're pondering after listening to this weeks episode? Shoot us a text at (605) 215-1515.
Alexis Motz is a wife, mother and soon-to-be doctor. In this episode we have an honest conversation about the ways we have commodified sex and how that can build resentment in marriage. We also unpack the nature of desire, the importance of showing up and how self denial is a good. This is a deeply honest episode about the gifts and challenges of natural family planning and authentic sexuality. Methods of Natural Family Planning Mentioned: Creighton and Marquette For additional resources check out sfcatholic.org/familylife
Father Tyler Mattson is a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls. In this episode, Father Tyler shares how examining his own story made him aware of how he often brought anxiety to his relationships. Through the lens of attachment theory, Father shares his journey of coming to a deeper understanding of his own dignity as a human being and a beloved son of God. He shares how he learned to combat his fear and anxiety with the gift of play and taking delight in the ordinary things of life. You can follow Father Tyler on instagram @frtylermattson Send us what you're pondering after listening to this weeks episode at (605) 215-1515!
Heather Mullin is a South Dakota native finding home in South Carolina! In this episode, Emily chats with Heather about taking big leaps and learning to rely on your spouse. She opens up about her and her husbands struggle with infertility and choosing to dance together despite the challenges it has brought up in their marriage. Heather also discusses how writing has been an outlet for her to not only process but invite others into wonder and healing as well. You can follow along with Heather @simplbe or @mullin.heather. We would love to hear what questions you're pondering after listening to this episode. Leave a voicemail or send a message to (605) 215-1515 to join the community.
Edmund Mitchell shares an honest reflection on his first few years of marriage and the tools that helped them heal. Counselor Mentioned: Dave McClow with Pastoral Solutions Institute https://www.catholiccounselors.com/services/our-counselors/ (https://www.catholiccounselors.com/services/our-counselors/) Books Mentioned: The Five Love Languages by John Gottman Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend You can follow along with Edmund on instagram @edmundmitchell and check out his podcast "The Show"! Leave a message or send a text to (605) 215-1515 with a question you're pondering after listening to this episode or with a shout out for a friend!
In this episode, Taylor Specht shares her journey of facing depression and anxiety and discovering the power of vulnerability as a weapon for the battle. We ponder what it means to be honest with ourselves and others and how to let go of the fear of rejection that often comes with not only sharing ourselves but inquiring about the other. We would love to hear from you regarding your thoughts on this episode! As mentioned, you can email Emily at eleedom@sfcatholic.org. You can also leave a voicemail or send a text with a question you're pondering after listening to this episode on our Google Voice number (605) 215-1515! We'll be featuring your questions or shout outs on future episodes!
Taber Carlson is a counselor passionate about personal healing and healthy boundaries in relationships. In this episode, Taber shares some of his personal journey of finding his path and offers insights for healthy communication and boundaries in relationships. Mentioned: The Gottman Institute and "The Four Horesman of the Apocalypse"
Most of us have an idea in our mind of what sexual intimacy in marriage should look like. In this episode, Emily and Marah VanDiest unpack some of the realities of making intimacy a priority in marriage. We also address how resentment can sneak in and how to let go of past baggage in order to enter fully in to our marriage.
Father John Rutten shares his story of discovering God in other people, making amends in life, recovering from addiction and universal life lessons from the Big Book.
In this episode, Emily reflects with her friend, Jon, on seasons of transition in life, getting honest with God and ourselves, the importance of healthy friendships with the opposite sex and grieving the loss of a loved one.
In this episode, Emily sits down with her friend, Arianne Dennison, to talk about dating your spouse, new motherhood and combating loneliness. This is a great episode for married couples, grandparents and friends of individuals welcoming new babies into their home. We discuss dating through the alphabet, postpartum depression and the positive power of social media. You can connect with Arianne on instagram @ariannedennison!
Emily sits down with former US marine, Chris Motz, to explore life lessons from bootcamp and active duty that can be applied to the ordinary journey of marriage and parenting.
In this introduction, Emily shares a bit of the vision for this podcast as a place to explore what it means to be fully human and authentically alive. She mentions Jennifer Fulwiler's word of the year generator which can be found here: http://www.wordoftheyear.me/ (http://www.wordoftheyear.me/)