Catholic Women Now

Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder
  • 4.6 (15)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

In an easy going conversational style, hosts Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder speak to what is on the hearts and minds of women as if sharing coffee with friends in a coffee shop. We cover all things in light of the Catholic faith: femininity, faith, family, marriage, dirty diapers, teenagers, empty nesting. Grab your cuppa coffee and join us!

  1. 2d ago

    Every Child Deserves a Mom and Dad: Josh Wood of Them Before Us – 06/11/2026

    Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder welcome Josh Wood, Executive Director of Them Before Us, a nonprofit giving children a voice in cultural and legislative conversations that too often prioritize adult desires over kids' needs. What is Them Before Us? Founded in response to the 2012–2015 cultural shift around same-sex marriage, Them Before Us uses social science research to make the case that children consistently flourish best with their married, biological mother and father — and that every departure from that, whether through divorce, surrogacy, or same-sex households, carries real costs for kids that culture has been too quick to dismiss. Surrogacy vs. Adoption & the viral "Mama" video: Josh draws a sharp distinction between adoption, which tries to heal a child's loss, and surrogacy, which deliberately inflicts it. The conversation also unpacks a viral video of a baby raised by a same-sex couple instinctively crying out "Mama" — and what it reveals about children's biological and emotional needs. How you can help: Follow and share @ThemBeforeUs on social media, read the blog at thembeforus.substack.com, support their work financially, engage your legislators, and start close to home — model a strong, sacrificial marriage for the children already in your life. Learn more at thembeforeus.com Episode Contributors Julie Nelson, Chris Magruder, Josh Wood #CatholicWomenNow #ThemBeforeUs #ChildrensRights #ProChild #CatholicRadio #IowaCatholicRadio #FamilyFirst #DefendTheFamily #CatholicMoms #SurrogacyVsAdoption #MarriageAndFamily #CatholicFaith #HolyBoldness #ProtectChildren #NaturalFamily Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  2. Jun 4

    Hope in the Depths of Suffering: The Story of Michelle Duppong with Stephanie Parks – 06/04/2026

    Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder sit down with Stephanie Parks — Director of Campus Ministry at Dowling Catholic High School in Des Moines and co-author of Michelle Duppong: Hope in the Depths of Suffering (written with Patti Armstrong) — to tell the story of a modern woman whose life and death are captivating the Church. Who Was Michelle Duppong? Born in 1984 and raised on a North Dakota farm, Michelle was a faithful Catholic who experienced a powerful conversion through FOCUS and Eagle Eye Ministries summer camp. After graduating from North Dakota State University in Fargo, she served six years as a FOCUS missionary — opening campuses and discipling students — before joining the Diocese of Bismarck for adult faith formation. In late 2014, she was diagnosed with stage four cancer and given two months to live. She lived a full year more, transforming everyone around her — hospital staff, nurses, cafeteria workers — through her contagious joy. She died on Christmas Day, 2015, surrounded by her family. Her cause for canonization was officially opened in 2022, and she now holds the title Servant of God. The Book Stephanie co-authored Michelle Duppong: Hope in the Depths of Suffering with Patti Armstrong, whose connection to Michelle's family in Bismarck perfectly complemented Stephanie's perspective from inside FOCUS. The book covers Michelle's life, her heroic suffering, and the signs of hope her family experienced after her death — including a beautiful account from her sister Lisa. How to Support Michelle's Cause Prayer cards are available. If you experience a grace through Michelle's intercession, report it to the Guild overseeing her cause. Also in This Episode — Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 2026 June 11th: The USCCB will consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — a first in American history. Enthronement resources: WelcomeHisHeart.com Film: Sacred Heart: His Reign Has No End — screening in Des Moines, Waukee, and Waterloo on June 9, 11, and 12. For family consecration guidance, revisit the Catholic Women Now episode with Emily Jaminet from January. Episode Contributors Julie Nelson, Chris Magruder, Stephanie Parks #CatholicWomenNow #MichelleDuppong #ServantOfGod #HopeInThDepthsOfSuffering #CatholicSaints #FOCUS #RedemptiveSuffering #SacredHeartOfJesus #CatholicRadio #IowaCatholicRadio #CatholicWomen #NewSaints #CatholicFaith #DowlingCatholic #StephanieParks Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  3. May 28

    Types & Shadows: Discovering Christ Hidden in the Old Testament with Barbara Heil - 05/28/2026

    How does the Old Testament point directly to Jesus Christ? This week on Catholic Women Now, Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder welcome renowned Catholic speaker and teacher Barbara Heil for a fascinating discussion on “types and shadows” in Sacred Scripture. Barbara explains how the people, symbols, events, and imagery of the Old Testament foreshadow the realities fulfilled in Christ and the Catholic faith. From the Passover lamb and Jonah to the tabernacle, Ark of the Covenant, and the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt, listeners will discover how the Bible tells one unified story of salvation. In this episode: What “types and shadows” mean in Scripture How the Old Testament prepares us for Christ Biblical connections to baptism, the Eucharist, and the Mass The spiritual meaning behind the tabernacle and sacred objects Why understanding Scripture strengthens Catholic faith How revelation leads to transformation Barbara Heil brings Scripture alive in a way that helps Catholics encounter the heart of God through His Word. Learn more about Barbara Heil and her ministry at:https://www.fromhisheart.com/ #CatholicWomenNow #BarbaraHeil #TypesAndShadows #SacredScripture #BibleStudy #CatholicFaith #IowaCatholicRadio #CatholicPodcast #OldTestament #NewTestament #BiblicalTheology #CatholicWomen #ScriptureStudy #SalvationHistory #TheWordOfGod #Eucharist #CatholicTeaching #BibleInAYear #CatholicBibleStudy #JesusChrist #CatholicLiving #FaithFormation #CatholicRadio #Mass #CatholicTruth Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  4. May 21

    Dressing with Purpose: Mary Harper on Liturgical Style, Beauty & the Saints - 05/21/2026

    How can getting dressed become an act of prayer? This week on Catholic Women Now, Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder welcome Mary D. Harper, theologian, speaker, and author of The Liturgical Style Guide. Mary shares how fashion, beauty, color, textiles, and even accessories can reflect the liturgical seasons and draw us deeper into our Catholic faith. From Pentecost pinks and Sacred Heart reds to saint-inspired style and the theology of fabrics, this conversation explores how beauty evangelizes and how women can dress intentionally while embracing their unique vocation and personal style. Topics include: The meaning behind liturgical colors and fabrics Fashion inspired by the saints and Scripture Pentecost symbolism and the “Pentecostal rose” Dressing modestly without losing individuality The spiritual beauty of clothing and creativity Ethical fashion and secondhand shopping How beauty can elevate the soul toward God Learn more about Mary Harper at:https://www.liturgicalstyle.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liturgicalstyle/ #CatholicWomenNow #MaryHarper #LiturgicalStyle #CatholicFashion #CatholicWomen #IowaCatholicRadio #CatholicPodcast #FaithAndFashion #LiturgicalLiving #CatholicStyle #SacredBeauty #CatholicLifestyle #Pentecost #SacredHeart #CatholicCulture #WomenOfFaith #TheologyOfBeauty #SaintInspired #ChristianWomen #AveMariaUniversity Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  5. May 14

    Praise & Worship: Renewing the Heart Through Praise - 05/14/2026

    Why praise is deeply Catholic The Mass as a “sacrifice of praise” Catechism 2649 and the meaning of praise prayer How praise renews the mind and calms anxiety Scripture reflections on praise, including Acts 16 Personal testimonies of God working through praise Simple ways to begin praising God daily The connection between praise, peace, and spiritual renewal Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  6. May 7

    Sister Wilhelmina, Incorruptibility & the Beauty of Spiritual Motherhood - Sister Martina - 05/07/2026

    Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  7. Apr 30

    Sacred Listening: Hearing with the Heart of Christ - 04/30/2026

    What does it mean to truly listen—not just hear, but encounter another person with the heart of Christ? In this episode of Catholic Women Now, hosts Julie Nelson and Chris McGruder explore the powerful concept of sacred listening. Drawing from spiritual direction, Scripture, and everyday life, Julie shares how listening is not just a skill—but a grace that invites healing, dignity, and deeper relationships. You’ll learn the difference between hearing and listening, how Jesus modeled attentive and compassionate listening, and practical ways to become a more present, empathetic listener in your family, friendships, and daily encounters. Whether you're navigating conversations with loved ones or seeking to grow in your faith, this episode offers simple yet profound wisdom to help you listen with love—and create space for God to move. Opening prayer and reflections on truth, beauty, and goodness Introduction to sacred listening and its importance Difference between hearing vs. listening Insights from Julie’s experience as a spiritual director Scriptural examples of how Jesus listens (e.g., Martha and Mary) Practical tools for better listening: Affirmation and presence Nonverbal communication Embracing silence Avoiding “fixing” or redirecting Discussion on empathy vs. sympathy Navigating difficult conversations and “victim mindset” Real-life examples of healing through listening Applying sacred listening in marriage, family, and friendships Closing prayer and encouragement Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  8. Apr 23

    Reclaiming Beauty & Identity with Chantel Howard - 04/23/2026

    On this episode of Catholic Women Now, hosts Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder sit down with Chantel Howard to explore the beauty, dignity, and formation of young women through her initiative, the Catholic Finishing School. Inspired by a desire to restore authentic femininity in a culture often confused about identity, Chantel shares how her program equips girls ages 14–19 with confidence, virtue, and practical life skills rooted in Catholic teaching. From etiquette and communication to deeper formation through Theology of the Body, Scripture, and the lives of the saints, this program offers a holistic approach to becoming the woman God created them to be. The conversation also touches on the importance of beauty in daily life, the role of mothers and mentors, and how families can foster meaningful conversations about identity, worth, and purpose. Chantel also shares exciting opportunities, including a pilgrimage experience for mothers and daughters. ✨ Learn more: https://catholicfinishingschool.com Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min
See All (441)

Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

In an easy going conversational style, hosts Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder speak to what is on the hearts and minds of women as if sharing coffee with friends in a coffee shop. We cover all things in light of the Catholic faith: femininity, faith, family, marriage, dirty diapers, teenagers, empty nesting. Grab your cuppa coffee and join us!

Information

  • Creator
    Julie Nelson and Chris Magruder
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    441
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2017-2026 Iowa Catholic Radio
  • Show Website
    Catholic Women Now

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