This Whole Life

Pat & Kenna Millea

How does our mental health relate to our faith? How can we become whole while living in a broken world? Every day, we all strive to encounter God amidst the challenges of balancing faith and family, work and leisure, our sense of self and complicated relationships. Pat & Kenna Millea bring joy, hope, and wisdom to those who believe there *is* a connection between holiness and happiness. Kenna is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist; Pat served for 15 years as a youth minister; together they have 7 children and a perfectly imperfect marriage. From their education and experience, they share tools, resources, interviews, and stories that point the way to sanity and sanctity. (Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.)

  1. FEB 2

    Ep92 Thank God for My Anxiety? w/ Catherine DiNuzzo

    "Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you." ~ 1 Peter 5:7 What is anxiety, really? How do I process my anxiety when it's not helpful? Seriously - thanking God for my anxiety? In this episode of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat welcome licensed professional counselor Catherine DiNuzzo for a deep dive into anxiety—what it is, why it happens, and how to manage it. Catherine DiNuzzo shares her insights on the biology of anxiety, her work with clients, and the importance of approaching anxiety with self-compassion rather than fear (or more anxiety). The discussion covers the reasons that God built anxiety into our experience, practical strategies for managing anxiety, and how parents can support anxious children. Highlights include Catherine DiNuzzo’s perspective on thanking God for anxiety, grounding techniques, and the ways the Catholic faith naturally integrates mental wellness. With relatable stories and actionable advice, this episode offers hope, empathy, and spiritual wisdom for anyone looking to find peace amidst the struggles of modern life. And yes, you'll even thank God for your anxiety. Catherine DiNuzzo, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice, who also operates Sacred Heart Mental Wellness. Catherine earned her Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Prior to her private practice, Catherine worked for several years in both schools and in agency counseling, especially with Veterans. She has spoken internationally and with many Catholic events & organizations on the topic of mental wellness. Catherine and her husband, Dave, live in a small rural town in the middle of Kansas with their four amazing children. Episode 92 Show Notes Reflection Questions Chapters: 0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards 14:02: Why did that make me anxious? 21:55: What is (and isn't) anxiety? 28:06: What causes anxiety? 34:44: But the Bible says to NOT be anxious... 41:30: How do I calm unnecessary anxiety? 48:34: Helping our kids with their anxiety 52:37: Challenge By Choice Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey Support the show Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

    1 hr
  2. JAN 19

    Ep91 Hope Amid Depression w/ Dr. Anthony Isacco

    "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed." ~ Psalm 34:19 Is it a sin to be depression? Is depression really able to be treated and healed? How can I help my loved one who is suffering with depression? In the first ever episode of "This Whole Life" recorded in front of a LIVE audience, Pat is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco to dive into the realities of depression—what it is, how it affects individuals and families, and its complex relationship with faith. The conversation explores common misconceptions, clinical symptoms, and ways to distinguish normal sadness from major depressive disorder. Listeners will find hope as Dr. Isacco shares evidence-based approaches for healing, emphasizing the power of behavioral activation, social connection, and integrated spiritual practices. Full of relatable anecdotes and practical advice, the episode stresses that depression is treatable and offers tangible steps for listeners to support themselves or loved ones. Whether you’re seeking understanding as a parent, friend, or clinician, this episode delivers empathy, science, and faith in one thoughtful package. Anthony Isacco, PhD is program director, professor, and head of clinical research in the new MS in clinical psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. He is a licensed psychologist and is the principal of a small private practice focused on helping clergy, seminarians, and women religious live healthy, holy, and happy lives in their vocations. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville (BA), Boston College (MA), and Loyola University of Chicago (PhD). Dr. Isacco lives in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife and four daughters. Episode 91 Show Notes Reflection Questions Chapters: 0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards 11:13: Understanding depression 19:46: The relationship between depression & faith 26:36: Is it a sin to be depressed? 36:51: Suggestions for someone who is depressed 43:14: Early signs of depression 50:45: Challenge By Choice Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey Support the show Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

    58 min
  3. JAN 5

    Ep90 Loving Persons With Mental Illness

    "But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight." ~ Luke 10:33 How can I better support my loved one who suffers with mental illness? What is the Church's place in caring for those with mental illnesses? Is it possible to choose my responses instead of just reacting? In episode 90, Kenna & Pat welcome Beth Hlabse, program director of the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the University of Notre Dame, for an honest conversation about loving and supporting people with mental illness. Drawing on personal stories, professional expertise, and Catholic teaching, the episode explores the complexities of mental health through the lens of accompaniment, compassion, and community. Beth shares practical wisdom for churches and families, highlighting the importance of seeing the gifts and goodness of every person beyond their diagnosis, setting healthy boundaries, and moving from reactive to responsive support. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own biases and discomfort, discovering pathways to deeper empathy, hope, and belonging—especially in faith communities. Whether you’re walking this journey yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers encouragement and tangible steps toward stronger, more healing connections. Beth Hlabse is the program director for the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. As a mental health counselor, Beth has provided therapeutic care for adolescents and adults with histories of trauma and adverse child experiences. Beth graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2011 and she obtained her masters in clinical mental health counseling from Divine Mercy University. Beth and her husband Pete live in South Bend, Indiana. Episode 90 Show Notes Reflection Questions Chapters: 0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards 18:40: Acknowledging my past to inform my future 29:00: Loving others in the midst of mental illness 42:07: Isolation: a cause and effect of mental illness 54:03: Healthy boundaries in relationship with others with mental illness 59:01: Challenge By Choice Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey Support the show Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

    1h 9m
  4. 12/22/2025

    Ep89 Family from 30,000 Feet w/ Mike & Alicia Hernon

    “Where there is no vision, the people perish." ~ Proverbs 29:18 Why do my spouse and I fight over such trivial things? How can we be more connected in our marriage? How do we create a vision of hope for our family? In episode 89 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna & Pat Millea welcome Mike & Alicia Hernon, founders of the Messy Family Project. Together, they dive deep into the importance of building a shared vision for marriage and family, exploring the transformative power of intentionality in daily life. The Hernons share candid stories from parenting ten children and offer insights into their Family Board Meeting — a practical tool for couples to step back from the daily grind and realign on what truly matters. From handling sibling conflict to fostering lifelong bonds within the family, the conversation balances vulnerability, laughter, and actionable wisdom. Listeners will learn how vision shapes family culture, hear guidance for spouses who bristle against setting a family vision, and find inspiration to move beyond survival mode toward thriving family life. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hope, and encouragement from two couples passionate about faith and family. Mike & Alicia Hernon are co-founders of the Messy Family Project, a ministry dedicated to empowering moms and dads to embrace their sacred calling. Before launching the ministry, Mike was Vice President of Advancement at Franciscan University and host of Franciscan University Presents on EWTN. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Master’s in Business Administration. Alicia has a degree in Education and is the founder of Mary Seat of Wisdom Classical Community. Parents of ten children and grandparents to eight, the Hernons have made their home in Steubenville, OH for the past 30 years. Episode 89 Show Notes Chapters: 0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards 12:42: Setting a vision for your family 23:31: Hopes for the future to impact the present 32:26: The Family Board Meeting 43:50: What if one spouse doesn't want to do a Family Board Meeting? 55:12: Challenge By Choice Reflection Questions: What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?Do you have a vision for your family? Can you and your spouse both articulate that vision to your children & others?What daily issues are most likely to get you stuck in the urgent instead of the important?Get your copy of He Leadeth Me for our Lenten book study Let us know your thoughts on this 3-minute This Whole Life listener survey Support the show Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters! Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

    1h 1m
5
out of 5
141 Ratings

About

How does our mental health relate to our faith? How can we become whole while living in a broken world? Every day, we all strive to encounter God amidst the challenges of balancing faith and family, work and leisure, our sense of self and complicated relationships. Pat & Kenna Millea bring joy, hope, and wisdom to those who believe there *is* a connection between holiness and happiness. Kenna is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist; Pat served for 15 years as a youth minister; together they have 7 children and a perfectly imperfect marriage. From their education and experience, they share tools, resources, interviews, and stories that point the way to sanity and sanctity. (Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.)

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