The NFP Podcast

Amy Smith
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Sexuality
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to "The NFP Podcast," where hosts Amy Smith and Emily Appeldorn bring over a decade and a half of experience guiding single women and married couples through the intricacies of natural family planning (NFP). Join Amy and Emily each week as they delve into the fascinating science of human procreation, unraveling the mysteries of fertility, and exploring the profound nuances of NFP application. With a perfect blend of expertise and compassion, they provide insightful conversations and practical advice on embracing NFP to foster responsible love and intentional family planning. Each episode educates, inspires, and empowers listeners to make informed choices about their reproductive health. Whether you're single, engaged, or married, you'll find valuable discussions on the benefits and challenges of natural family planning, real-life stories from couples who practice NFP, and expert interviews. Subscribe now and start your journey with "The NFP Podcast."

  1. 4h ago

    BONUS: The Courageous Parent: Equipping Moms & Dads for the Most Important Conversations

    Parents are the primary educators of their children—but how do we actually prepare for the conversations that matter most? In this special episode, Amy and Emily introduce an exciting new project they've developed alongside psychologist Dr. Julia Sadusky: The Courageous Parent, a 12-week virtual small-group experience designed to equip Catholic parents to confidently discuss sexuality, relationships, puberty, pornography, boundaries, and God's beautiful design for the human person with their children. Building upon Dr. Sadusky's outstanding course, Talking with Your Teen About Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics, this new small-group experience combines expert instruction with authentic community. Each week, parents will watch a course module together, participate in guided discussion, receive practical conversation tools, and leave with simple activities to help bring these important discussions into their own homes. Throughout the episode, Amy and Emily reflect on why God has entrusted parents—not schools, not youth ministers, and not even experts—with the primary responsibility of forming their children's understanding of human sexuality. They also discuss overcoming fear, learning from previous generations, healing our own experiences, and becoming proactive rather than reactive as our children grow. Whether you're raising a curious nine-year-old or navigating the teenage years, this episode is an invitation to embrace your vocation with greater confidence, clarity, and courage. If you've ever wondered, "Am I ready to have these conversations?"—this episode is for you. Registration for The Courageous Parent is now open. We'd love to walk alongside you as we grow together in wisdom, confidence, and the courage to faithfully lead our families. Resources: 1. The Courageous Parent Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSejKV0WTqa8rAwe1ra9zS1milUe_-BWQC1AOGuZ0Au5iEdaAw/viewform?usp=header 2. Dr. Sadusky's Teen Course: https://talkingtoyourteencourse.com/ 3. Dr. Sadusky on The NFP Podcast: https://youtu.be/y_1FIaatu0A?si=8PfBi6VZF2aERstE

    BONUS: The Courageous Parent: Equipping Moms & Dads for the Most Important Conversations

  2. 2d ago

    Episode 119: Talking to Teens About Human Sexuality with Dr. Julia Sadusky

    How do faithful Catholic parents talk to their children about human sexuality with confidence, clarity, and hope? In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy Smith and Emily Apeldoorn welcome back licensed psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. Julia Sadusky to discuss her brand-new Talking to Teens Course—a practical, faith-filled resource designed to equip parents to become the primary educators of their children in matters of sexuality. Drawing from years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families, Dr. Sadusky explains why the most important conversations begin long before "the talk." Together they walk through each of the course's twelve modules, discussing how parents can confidently navigate conversations about: Preparing yourself before talking with your children Building a positive Catholic vision of sexuality Puberty and healthy body development Attraction and dating Sexual intercourse within God's plan for marriage Protecting teens from boundary violations Addressing masturbation with both truth and compassion Pornography and how to respond when exposure happens Sexual orientation and gender questions Healthy technology habits in a digital world Throughout the conversation, Dr. Sadusky offers practical scripts, encouragement for parents who feel "behind," and a refreshing reminder that these conversations don't require perfection—they require presence. Amy and Emily also discuss why Catholic parents should intentionally prepare for these conversations years before adolescence, how families with multiple children can approach these topics, whether moms and dads have different roles, and why creating an open, trusting family culture is one of the greatest gifts parents can give their children. Whether your children are toddlers, teenagers, or somewhere in between, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged, equipped, and inspired to embrace your God-given role as the primary educator of your children in the beautiful truth of human sexuality. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why age 7–8 is an ideal time for parents to begin preparing How to move beyond "the sex talk" toward lifelong conversations Why proactive conversations are more effective than reactive ones How to discuss difficult topics without fear or shame Practical ways to foster trust so your children come to you first How Catholic teaching and modern psychology beautifully complement one another If you've ever wondered, "Am I doing enough?" or "Where do I even begin?"—this episode is for you. Be sure to check the show notes for Dr. Julia Sadusky's Talking to Teens Course, available handouts, and an exclusive discount for NFP Podcast listeners. Discount Code for Teens Course: THENFPPODCAST25 Online Course - Talking With Your Teens About Sex - Dr Julia Sadusky ***There is an extended supplemental handbook (to be used for extended journaling/reflections/conversations WITH your teen) that's available in English and Spanish for download, included in the cost of the full course. Resources: 1. Talking to Your Teens about Sex Book: https://a.co/d/08XvOhpP 2. Dr. Sadusky Website-https://www.juliasadusky.com/ 3. YouTube Advertisement for Course- https://youtu.be/VUYq6pqSnes?si=7uxOMAnOxPObWjK- 4. Previous Dr. Sadusky Appearance on The NFP Podcast- https://youtu.be/AniIXlzNaaQ?si=M5253o5-yWhHfaXE

    Episode 119: Talking to Teens About Human Sexuality with Dr. Julia Sadusky

  3. 6d ago

    Episode 118: From Frustration to Freedom: Discovering FEMM

    What happens when years of frustration with Natural Family Planning become the very thing that leads you to teach it? In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amylynn and Emily welcome Nichole Ussery—registered nurse, certified FEMM instructor, and Fiat Hormone Coach—to share her deeply personal journey through miscarriage, postpartum family life, perimenopause, and ultimately discovering the beauty of fertility awareness. Nichole shares how her experiences with hormonal health challenges, pregnancy loss, and navigating different NFP methods transformed her perspective on women's health. Together, they discuss the importance of treating the root cause—not just symptoms—why ovulation is a vital sign of health, and how restorative reproductive medicine is changing the way women receive care. Amylynn and Emily also have an honest conversation about the realities of practicing NFP during difficult seasons of marriage, the role of informed consent when prescribing hormonal contraception for medical conditions, and the hope that comes from working with healthcare professionals who truly listen to women. Whether you're new to fertility awareness, navigating hormone concerns, or looking for restorative reproductive healthcare, this episode offers encouragement, practical insight, and hope. In This Episode Nichole's journey from NFP frustration to becoming a FEMM instructor Miscarriage, infertility, and finding hope Perimenopause and recognizing hormone changes Why ovulation is a sign of whole-body health FEMM and restorative reproductive medicine Informed consent and hormonal birth control Supporting women through every stage of reproductive life Love responsibly. Resources: 1. FEMM Health- https://femmhealth.org/ 2. Nichole's Email- essencenu2911@gmail.com 3. Discovery Call- Essence NU- https://www.essencenu2911.com/booking-calendar/discovery-call 4. Work with Nichole- https://www.essencenu2911.com/ 5. Nichole's Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/essencenu2911/ 6. Nichole's Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577722655687

    Episode 118: From Frustration to Freedom: Discovering FEMM

  4. Jul 24

    Episode 117: The Marquette Method Explained: Dr. Richard Fehring on Science, Faith & the Future of NFP

    This week on The NFP Podcast, hosts Amylynn and Emily welcome one of the most influential figures in modern Natural Family Planning, Dr. Richard Fehring. As the developer of the Marquette Method, Professor Emeritus at Marquette University, and one of the world's most highly cited fertility researchers, Dr. Fehring has spent decades advancing the science of fertility awareness while remaining deeply rooted in the Catholic understanding of marriage and human sexuality. Together they discuss: Dr. Fehring's remarkable journey into nursing and Natural Family Planning How the Marquette Method was developed and why it is unique What makes a high-quality NFP effectiveness study The science behind fertility biomarkers and hormone monitoring Why postpartum fertility is so challenging—and how Marquette approaches it The future of fertility technology, AI, and hormone monitors Why Natural Family Planning is far more than fertility awareness alone The importance of marriage preparation, openness to life, and stronger formation for Catholic couples Throughout the conversation, Dr. Fehring shares decades of research, practical wisdom, and hopeful insights into where fertility care is headed while reminding us that authentic Natural Family Planning respects both the science of human fertility and the beauty of God's design for marriage. Whether you're brand new to NFP, currently using the Marquette Method, or simply interested in the intersection of faith, medicine, and fertility, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and inspiring conversation. Love responsibly. Resources 1. https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/institute-natural-family-planning/model.php 2. AAPLOG Interview- https://aaplog.org/episode/the-menstrual-cycle-as-a-vital-sign-richard-fehring-phd/ 3. Dr. Fehring CV- https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/directory/richard-fehring.php

    Episode 117: The Marquette Method Explained: Dr. Richard Fehring on Science, Faith & the Future of NFP

  5. Jul 23

    Episode 116: Financing Your Kids' Future: A Catholic Parent's Guide

    How can Catholic parents faithfully prepare their children—not just spiritually, but financially? In this special episode of The NFP Podcast, Amylynn welcomes her husband, Dr. Joey Smith, finance professor at Washington and Lee University, for a practical conversation on raising financially responsible children. Together they explore how good stewardship is an important part of responsible parenthood and how small decisions today can make a lasting impact on your children's future. Joey shares simple, practical strategies for teaching children about saving, investing, generosity, and delayed gratification. He also explains powerful financial tools available to families—including 529 College Savings Plans, Custodial Roth IRAs, Trump Accounts, and UTMA/UGMA investment accounts—and discusses when each may be appropriate. Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or looking for ways to give your children a strong foundation, this episode offers encouragement and practical ideas to help your family become faithful stewards of the gifts God has entrusted to you. In this episode: Why responsible parenthood includes financial stewardship Teaching children healthy money habits The power of compound growth 529 Plans for education Custodial Roth IRAs for working teens Trump Accounts and how they work UTMA/UGMA investment accounts Practical ways to build generational financial wisdom Love responsibly. Resources: 1. Connect with Dr. Joey Smith- https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-joey-smith-cfa-0bb38a53/ 2. 529 Plan | College Savings Account | Vanguard- https://investor.vanguard.com/accounts-plans/529-plans?msockid=205ee2fb3a22653939d1f2d43b7064a9 3. 529 Plans - College Savings Plans - Fidelity- https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/overview?selectTab=5&imm_pid=92206297623&immid=100833_SEA&imm_eid=ep482887995324&utm_source=MICROSOFT&utm_medium=paid_search&utm_account_id=8528177315&utm_campaign=NAT&utm_content=92206297623&utm_term=fidelity+529+application&utm_campaign_id=100833&utm_id=9223640349&gclid=a7db42688aa11b97131d2837d124a77f&gclsrc=3p.ds& 4. Schwab 529 Plan | Charles Schwab - https://www.schwab.com/529-plan?msockid=205ee2fb3a22653939d1f2d43b7064a9 5. Roth IRA: What it is and How to Open an Account | Vanguard- https://investor.vanguard.com/accounts-plans/iras/roth-ira?msockid=205ee2fb3a22653939d1f2d43b7064a9 6. Roth IRA | Grow Your Retirement Savings | Fidelity Investments- https://www.fidelity.com/retirement/roth-ira?imm_pid=169651397728&immid=100724_SEA&imm_eid=ep343248515473&utm_source=MICROSOFT&utm_medium=paid_search&utm_account_id=4877339293&utm_campaign=RET&utm_content=169651397728&utm_term=open%20roth%20ira%20fidelity&utm_campaign_id=100724&utm_id=21419194274&gclid=6c90012c377f17cef7fb6b736b5b5e92&gclsrc=3p.ds 7. What are Inherited and Custodial IRAs? | Charles Schwab- https://www.schwab.com/ira/inherited-and-custodial-ira?src=SEM&s_kwcid=AL!5158!10!78821460456308!!!!78821871557002!!62077778!5439996897&ef_id=a3550ca4fbc31e20376166fba0396fdb:G:s&keywordid=78821871557002&msclkid=a3550ca4fbc31e20376166fba0396fdb 8. Trump Accounts- https://trumpaccounts.gov/

    Episode 116: Financing Your Kids' Future: A Catholic Parent's Guide

  6. Jul 22

    Episode 115: NFP Awareness Week 2026- The Courage to Become Aware

    What if NFP Awareness Week isn't just about learning Natural Family Planning—but about allowing God to reveal something new in your own heart? In this special NFP Awareness Week episode, Amylynn and Emily reflect on what it truly means to become aware. Whether you're hearing the Church's teaching for the first time, have practiced NFP for years, or are carrying wounds from your past, this conversation is an invitation to let God gently lead you toward greater healing, freedom, and trust. Together they discuss the role of awareness, contrition, and conversion in the Christian life, why God is patient with our journey, and how NFP is about far more than charting fertility—it's about transforming our hearts. They also offer encouragement for couples discerning family life, those struggling with past decisions, and anyone wondering where God is inviting them to take the next step. No matter where you are in your journey, this episode is a reminder that God never stops pursuing us with mercy, truth, and love. In this episode: What NFP Awareness Week is really about Why awareness comes before action The gift of contrition and God's mercy Discernment, generosity, and openness to life Healing from past choices with hope Why every step toward Christ begins with trust Love responsibly.

    Episode 115: NFP Awareness Week 2026- The Courage to Become Aware

  7. Jul 21

    Episode 114: Building a Family Through Discernment

    What happens when two childhood friends grow up, fall in love, and continue saying "yes" to God through every season of marriage? In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, Amylynn and Emily sit down with Chris and Stephanie to share a remarkable story of faith, discernment, and God's providence. From meeting in elementary school and reconnecting in college to discovering the beauty of Theology of the Body and Natural Family Planning, their journey has been one of continual trust in God's plan. Together they discuss what it's been like to navigate marriage, difficult pregnancies, raising four children (with a fifth on the way!), career changes, medical school, and the monthly discernment that comes with faithfully living NFP. Along the way they reflect on how God has remained faithful through uncertainty, sacrifice, and unexpected twists, revealing His goodness one step at a time. They also share practical wisdom about raising children in a home where conversations about faith, love, and human sexuality happen naturally and age-appropriately, helping build a culture of openness rooted in the truth of the Catholic faith. Whether you're engaged, newly married, raising a family, or simply wondering how to trust God more deeply in your own vocation, this conversation is a beautiful reminder that His plans are always worth following. In this episode you'll hear: How Chris and Stephanie's love story began in elementary school Discovering Theology of the Body and the Church's teaching on NFP Learning the Marquette Method and discerning family life together Navigating difficult pregnancies with faith and trust Leaving engineering to pursue medicine through God's guidance Raising children with openness, honesty, and Catholic values Why discernment is a lifelong conversation—not a one-time decision Love responsibly. Resources: 1. Vitae Fertility: https://www.vitaefertility.com/ 2. Good News About Sex and Marriage: https://a.co/d/06o7umtE 3. Humanae Vitae: https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html

    Episode 114: Building a Family Through Discernment

  8. Jul 20

    Episode 113: Complete, Not Done: What "Open to Life" Really Means

    BONUS CONTENT: NFP Awareness Week 2026 What does it really mean for a Catholic couple to be open to life? Does being open to life mean having as many children as possible? And is it ever okay to say your family is "complete"? In this listener-requested episode, Amylynn and Emily unpack one of the most misunderstood teachings of the Catholic Church. They explore the difference between having an "I'm done" mentality and prayerfully discerning that your family may be complete while remaining open to God's will. Together they discuss: The Church's teaching on responsible parenthood Why openness to life is an attitude—not a number The beauty of monthly discernment through Natural Family Planning How couples can find peace amid cultural pressures and difficult questions like, "Are you done having children?" Why every child is a gift, and why true discernment always begins by keeping our eyes fixed on Christ. Whether you're newly married, raising a growing family, or prayerfully discerning your next step, this conversation offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder that the Holy Spirit—not the culture—should guide our family planning decisions. Love responsibly. Resources: 1. Podcast Episode with Fr. Yavarone https://open.spotify.com/episode/1zBapmVKq5DXx4sJogL709?si=ddc3338e1bd14f57

    Episode 113: Complete, Not Done: What "Open to Life" Really Means
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to "The NFP Podcast," where hosts Amy Smith and Emily Appeldorn bring over a decade and a half of experience guiding single women and married couples through the intricacies of natural family planning (NFP). Join Amy and Emily each week as they delve into the fascinating science of human procreation, unraveling the mysteries of fertility, and exploring the profound nuances of NFP application. With a perfect blend of expertise and compassion, they provide insightful conversations and practical advice on embracing NFP to foster responsible love and intentional family planning. Each episode educates, inspires, and empowers listeners to make informed choices about their reproductive health. Whether you're single, engaged, or married, you'll find valuable discussions on the benefits and challenges of natural family planning, real-life stories from couples who practice NFP, and expert interviews. Subscribe now and start your journey with "The NFP Podcast."

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Smith
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    121
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    The NFP Podcast