EquipCast

Archdiocese of Omaha
  • 4.8 (25)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Sharing your Catholic faith with family and friends can sometimes feel daunting. Where do I start? How do I make an impact? Welcome to EquipCast, a weekly podcast from the Archdiocese of Omaha. We want to support your faith journey and equip you with the tools to express your faith authentically in your everyday life. Each week, we’ll discuss practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world. Each episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration so you can make an impact and make disciples in your own faith community. For more information and to stay connected with us, head to equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

  1. DEC 23

    Break Announcement: See You in the New Year!

    Merry Christmas! We are taking a break for the Christmas season. Our next episode will be January 6th! In the meantime, here's a few of our favorite episodes: Episode 32: Missional Amnesia (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/32) One of our earliest episodes. Fr. Lorig (original host) and Jim Jansen unpack why “missional” isn’t just a buzzword but a crucial shift for today’s Church. If you've ever struggled to explain missionary discipleship or reach someone far from the faith, this episode gives clarity, urgency, and practical next steps. Episode 45: Ministry or Apostolate? (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/45) Our most downloaded episode! We often treat “ministry” and “apostolate” like interchangeable terms—but they’re not. This episode explores why reclaiming the lay apostolate is essential for a Church that reaches beyond its walls and reclaims its missionary identity. Episode 82: Religious Ed that's Tailored to YOUR Needs (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/82) When a beautifully designed “Mend” box landed on my desk, curiosity turned into conviction—this wasn’t just another program. Discover with me how Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries is equipping parents and parishes to accompany children in the sacraments—starting with something as simple (and beautiful) as a box. Hear why "Mend" made it home instead of to a staff review pile, and how it could be a game-changer for your family or parish. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    1 min
  2. Confronting the Ghost of St. John Vianney: A Vision for Modern Parish Life

    DEC 16

    Confronting the Ghost of St. John Vianney: A Vision for Modern Parish Life

    Is the ideal of priesthood stuck in the past? I love the saints—especially guys like St. John Vianney—but trying to imitate their circumstances can leave today’s priests feeling defeated before they even begin. In this episode, Fr. Scott Traynor and I get honest about how different our world is now, and why that’s not a problem to mourn but a mission to embrace. We talk about the heart of priesthood today: prayer, the sacraments, and investing deeply in a few people who can carry the Gospel into a culture that’s drifting away from Christ. And here’s the hope: renewal isn’t about going backward. It’s about priests doing what only they can do—celebrate, preach, shepherd—and unleashing the laity to live their mission with confidence. If you’ve ever felt the weight of expectations you can’t live up to or wondered whether your parish can actually flourish in a secular age, this conversation will help you imagine a future filled with purpose and hope. 01:21 Meet Father Scott Traynor 04:34 The Legacy of St. John Vianney 10:51 Historical Context of Parish Life 21:25 Modern Parish Challenges and Solutions 31:49 The Role of the Parish Priest 37:07 The Power of Relationships in Evangelization 48:36 Building a Leadership Culture in Parishes 51:20 The Transmission of Faith in Parish Life 56:18 Practical Steps to Start Evangelizing 59:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Books mentioned in this podcast: * From Christendom to Apostolic Mission (https://www.amazon.com/Christendom-Apostolic-Mission-Pastoral-Strategies/dp/099887289X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2E2L8F8IOB42N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XqKmGIzYvYr-zvy0QndfgnMKCsZRmHDUNoxT0QFQ1VKN8K-x4U9-23N6FKaINctQRdcJ2Y-KVB1n9q_-02RXaQFu3JKj_D2UaFMsXio5iL8qHcWIkExs8O_RQWN2GNqJJz39d74ZuQZwV1PwrBCRnr1SVysF2YUXsfjFOua3ItA.pmztDhf-W2Kl7B86unRBY7RHm47SOnfQrSvoQv_tpHQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=christendom+to+apostolic+mission&qid=1761847022&sprefix=christendo%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1) * The Advantage (https://www.amazon.com/Advantage-Organizational-Health-Everything-Business/dp/0470941529/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LV5AYGA5BPB9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pPRUd5gbTy8ZS0gf6wabwlOFgACN0bQpmLwoTMrIGmSTxCYoPY0FjrfPBh7aQszRjXrnAKRFtbcIpW1JsaWGItGIeOK3Av_DAj8r_SozPM-ObY_W38owgx6dxP1T2hRY9ii4K1ROXgI8mCVsA1Lut0j8Cc4rihJCQbZElVqY7QDmHdcIT5Uv5OV2Z4t25hb4XfBPUeKbBrlsKU9ypcRgYcxgqCBNHlBWm5z0CuFe63Q.uOxeU74PuOLrlcqUskPl52pIBpNgGtBEvA_pam_L1ns&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+advantage&qid=1761846981&sprefix=the+advantage%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1) * The Parish as a School of Prayer (https://www.amazon.com/Parish-School-Prayer-Foundations-Evangelization/dp/0984379290/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjrcQDgEMBWlxKjai4BRe8shADNgx-7FbNGjGs3CLz6nrw22ye0_9Nd70NsI2Rlx21YZOMT3aA1ZW2-z7UtEr2CTvs364_wDKSyhYxJ6m-WC-OPad6HSoln9JoNy6DJQEVz48d0Ahi3gne4nixa6FNY3UnNog9KOYdaTgHm70rEvTZPzbvwaZBOcqrM6uF7HhEWNOKfX0n8N4F0W-DP1mQ.PrK21-PNy3S5lKIt-Iz0KFRarRz4CyIT9M1NJmkB7rw&dib_tag=se&hvadid=598657698172&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9189219&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=11773289655691973530--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11773289655691973530&hvtargid=kwd-310940649083&hydadcr=8293_13544394&keywords=the+parish+as+a+school+of+prayer&mcid=b50e44803f3a31b880115cd37b4215b7&qid=1761846939&sr=8-1) For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    1h 3m
  3. Where is God Leading You? An Ignatian Approach to Setting Goals

    DEC 9

    Where is God Leading You? An Ignatian Approach to Setting Goals

    Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead. [02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education [06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates [09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic [13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path' [18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment [30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation [33:42] Markers of Desolation [35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships [37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships [39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships [46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections [51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment [57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out LaStorta (https://www.lastorta.org/) or contact Lisa (mailto:lisa.kelly@lastorta.org). Also, register for the Spiritual Path Retreat (https://christthekingpriory.com/retreats-schedule/the-spiritual-path-embarking-upon-the-journey-of-a-lifetime-lisa-kelly-ma-steve-titus-jd-phd). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    1 hr
  4. Coach's Corner 25: Pope Leo's Christmas List: Six Gifts That Could Change the Church

    DEC 2

    Coach's Corner 25: Pope Leo's Christmas List: Six Gifts That Could Change the Church

    What’s on Pope Leo’s Christmas list—and can you fulfill it for him? He’s not asking for gifts wrapped in paper and bows. His wish is for a Church renewed in mission, united in love, and bold in proclaiming Christ first. Imagine communities that listen deeply, care tenderly for the least, and engage the world with courage and hope. That’s the heart behind his six desires—and together, we can make them real. [00:34] Introducing Pope Leo's Christmas List [01:32] Pope Leo's Priorities: A Breakdown [03:33] The Primacy of Christ in Proclamation [06:43] Missionary Conversion of the Christian Community [08:47] Growth in Collegiality and Synodality [09:43] Attention to the Sense of the Faithful [10:52] Loving Care for the Least and Rejected [11:39] Dialogue with the Contemporary World [12:38] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    14 min
  5. Courageous Conversations – How to Break the Silence and Bring Healing with Mari Pablo

    NOV 18

    Courageous Conversations – How to Break the Silence and Bring Healing with Mari Pablo

    What do you do when silence feels safer than the truth? Rely on God to give you the grace and courage to do what your strength can’t: turn difficult moments into opportunities for honesty, deeper trust, and real healing. In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Mari Pablo—a fearless, bilingual evangelist who isn’t afraid to step into the topics most people avoid. Together, we talk about how to build trust, speak truth with compassion, and bridge cultural and generational divides in the Church. Mari shares practical strategies for navigating sensitive issues like mental health and sexuality without fear—and without losing sight of Christ. If you’ve ever hesitated to start a hard conversation or wondered how to lead with both honesty and hope, this episode will inspire you to lean on Jesus and embrace the mission He’s given you. [00:58] Meet Mari Pablo: A Multicultural Evangelist [03:28] Journey of Faith and Ministry [06:17] The Call to Public Speaking [11:54] Addressing Difficult Topics with Teens [18:21] Building Trust and Authentic Connections [25:09] Challenges and Hopes for Today's Youth [28:58] The Importance of Being Present and Real [29:40] Influence of Parental Faith on Children [32:40] Personal Apostolate Experiences [35:17] Engaging with Hispanic Catholic Culture [43:37] Bridging Cultural Gaps in the Church [51:08] Invitation to Unity and Understanding [54:37] Final Words and Invitation to Retreat Check out In His Heart Ministries (https://www.inhisheart.com/) and Mari’s Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/maripablo25/?hl=en)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    58 min
  6. Pilgrims of Hope: The Recipe for Lasting Parish Renewal with Julianne Stanz

    NOV 11

    Pilgrims of Hope: The Recipe for Lasting Parish Renewal with Julianne Stanz

    What if the secret to transforming your parish isn’t doing more—but praying more deeply and trusting God to lead? We’ve seen it happen. The Diocese of Green Bay started small, rooted everything in prayer, and asked the Holy Spirit to guide them. The results were beyond what they imagined: seminarians doubled, schools flourished, and parishes once half-empty now overflow. In this episode, I talk with Julianne Stanz—a nationally recognized leader in evangelization whose own encounter with God set her on this path—about the real ingredients for lasting renewal. Together, we explore how prayer, vision, relationships, and simple, steady steps can turn hope into a movement. It’s not a program; it’s a way of life that lets God bring new life to His Church. [01:04] Meet Julianne Stanz: From Ireland to Wisconsin [06:33] The Power of Pilgrimage [10:51] Hope and Renewal in Ministry [17:49] The Green Bay Transformation Story [26:01] The Role of Prayer in Discipleship [32:46] Reflecting on Parish Identity and Discipleship [39:27] Recognizing and Utilizing Gifts and Charisms [44:58] Inspiring Change and Overcoming Resistance [50:02] Embracing Poverty and Resourcefulness in Parishes [54:18] The Importance of Pastoral Planning [59:02] Witnessing the Church's Global Awakening [01:05:58] Final Thoughts and Blessings Check out Julianne’s website (https://www.juliannestanz.com/) and download her infograph (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Managing-Complex-Change-at-the-ParishPDF.pdf) of how to minister through complex change at a parish. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    1h 7m
  7. The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish

    NOV 4

    The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish

    *Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? * Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care. In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you. [01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story [05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth [08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith [14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V [18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment [21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis [23:33] Discerning Your Vocation [24:24] Community and Evangelization [25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives [28:30] Engaging Young Kids [30:06] Middle School and High School Faith [32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment [34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders [39:47] Encouraging Vocations [42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out OmahaVocations.org (https://omahavocations.org/)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    45 min
  8. Coach's Corner 24: When You’re Stuck at Step One

    OCT 28

    Coach's Corner 24: When You’re Stuck at Step One

    When the mission feels massive, how do you take the first step? We all feel the pressure. With souls on the line, it feels like we need big plans, big programs, big results. But what if the most fruitful thing you could do today was simply to take one small step? In this episode, I share four strategies that have helped me and others start small, build momentum, and trust that God will grow what we begin. Whether you're leading a parish, a ministry, or just trying to follow Jesus more closely, I want to encourage you: don’t wait for perfect. Start small. God delights in small beginnings, and He’ll grow them into something beautiful. [01:42] Strategy 1: Shrink the First Step [02:46] Strategy 2: Do the Next Right Thing [04:42] Strategy 3: Settle for Incomplete and Imperfect [08:43] Strategy 4: Biblical Encouragement to Start Small [10:11] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

    11 min
See All (244)

Trailers

4.8
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Sharing your Catholic faith with family and friends can sometimes feel daunting. Where do I start? How do I make an impact? Welcome to EquipCast, a weekly podcast from the Archdiocese of Omaha. We want to support your faith journey and equip you with the tools to express your faith authentically in your everyday life. Each week, we’ll discuss practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world. Each episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration so you can make an impact and make disciples in your own faith community. For more information and to stay connected with us, head to equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

Information

  • Creator
    Archdiocese of Omaha
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    244
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Archdiocese of Omaha
  • Show Website
    EquipCast

You Might Also Like