Relatable Catholic

Life gets busy and sometimes God gets pushed to the bottom of the list. In this week’s episode we are asking: Are we really too busy for God or have we just stopped making time for him? Inspired by Mary and Martha, we talk about prayer, slowing down, and making room for Jesus in our everyday lives… without overcomplicating things! Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

This week on Relatable Catholic, I’m joined by my great uncle Br. Larry Kieffer for a very special conversation about his life, his faith, and his many years as a Catholic missionary in Papua New Guinea. Br. Larry shares stories from his time in Papua New Guinea and the experiences that shaped his life and faith. He is such a joyful person and it was a true honor to sit down with his and share his story with you all! This episode was made even more special by having my dad join us for t...

It’s a big week for Venerable Fulton Sheen! Brandon Schetgen joins us to talk about Sheen’s life, ministry, and lasting impact on the Catholic Church as he is Beatified this week. We also break down what beatification means, how the canonization process works, and what’s next on Fulton Sheen’s journey toward sainthood. Documentary: https://youtu.be/YL77iqIRMy0?si=F4VaYtalxMlVL6Wq Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

What's the deal with the Rosary? This week we talk about its roots, what makes this prayer so meaningful, and the very relatable struggle of trying to stay focused while praying it. "Love the Madonna and pray the Rosary, for her Rosary is the weapon against the evils of the world today." - St. Padre Pio Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

We’re back! We are kicking off Season 3 by welcoming one of our new parish priests, Fr. Jacob Rouse, to Relatable Catholic! We’re getting to know Fr. Jacob, talking about his role in the parish, and learning about his deep hatred for cottage cheese. We are so happy to be back and can’t wait to see where the Holy Spirit leads us in Season 3! Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Three pilgrims join us to share their experience walking the Camino de Santiago and the unexpected ways God provided through the kindness of others. Their stories reveal that the Camino is more than a pilgrimage … it’s a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. As we journey toward heaven, God walks with us and often provides exactly what we need through the people we meet along the way. Whether you’re considering the Camino or simply seeking encouragement in your own faith journ...

Our parish is stepping into a new chapter, and Katie's sharing what’s been on her heart, where she feels God is calling her personally, and where He might be calling the parish community. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

This week is a bittersweet one as Fr. Andy joins us for his final episode before beginning his new assignment. We spend some time looking back on favorite memories, sharing a few laughs, talking about what he’s looking forward to in this next chapter, and, of course, hearing one last hot take! More than anything, this episode is our chance to say THANK YOU. Fr. Andy has been such a special part of Relatable Catholic, and we’re incredibly grateful for his friendship, his wisdom, and all the jo...

This week, Jacob Till is back for a fun change of pace! We played Catholic Would You Rather and This or That. We had a lot of laughs, and I hope you’ll play along and answer the questions with us. Enjoy this lighthearted episode of Relatable Catholic and share with us your own Would You Rather questions! 🤎 Katie Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

This week we’re re-releasing one of our most popular episodes, Unlikely Demons with Deacon Stan. If you haven’t listened yet — or want to revisit the conversation — it’s a good one. Tune in for a thoughtful and faith-filled discussion on the ways the enemy can work in unexpected places, and how we’re called to stay rooted in Christ through it all. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube

Some topics tend to get avoided, whispered about, or ignored altogether… so naturally, we’re talking about them. Deacon Stan and Fr. Andy are back… or I guess they never left… to talk about the dignity of life, tithing, and gossip. These conversations may be uncomfortable at times, but they’re important ones. Join us for one of our most honest and thought-provoking yet. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Fr. Andy and Deacon Stan return to the podcast to look back on Deacon Stan’s mini mission at our parish. We share highlights, stories, laughs, and a few unexpected tangents—because it wouldn’t be Relatable Catholic without them. As always, thanks for listening and supporting! Deacon Stan's Mini Mission: Night One Night Two Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

This week, Deacon Stan joins us to preview his upcoming parish talk. Plus, Katie uses the episode as an opportunity to ask Fr. Andy some of the completely random questions she's been collecting before he leaves. The questions may be random, but the conversation is full of faith, laughter, and a few surprising insights. As always, thank you for listening, sharing the podcast, and supporting Relatable Catholic. St. Joseph's Youtube Channel Find us on our Socials! Facebook Ins...

This week Angie joins Katie to share how every unexpected career change led her exactly where God was calling her. We’re talking about trusting God in uncertain seasons, letting go of control, and finding peace in the path you didn’t plan. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Corey and Fr. Andy are back this week to (hopefully) calm the group chat a little. We’re talking through the changes in our parishes, answering the questions on everyone’s mind, and sharing insight from dioceses that are a little ahead of us, plus bringing some much-needed perspective (and maybe a few laughs). Fr. Luke's Homily Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Not all friendships are as good for us as we think… This week we’re talking about what it looks like to have friendships that actually bring you closer to God, and when it might be time to take a step back (even when it’s hard). Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Some changes are harder than others. This is one of those. The announcement of Fr. Andy’s move and parish changes has us feeling all sorts of ways… mostly sad. In this episode, Katie and Corey sit down with Father for an honest conversation about what it looks like to let go of something you love, hold onto faith, and trust God even when it’s difficult. But as Pope John Paul II said, “We are an Easter people and Alleluia is our song!” Fr. Andy's Homily Find us on our Socials! Fac...

The terrific trio is reunited! Corey and Fr. Andy are back, and we’re talking all things Holy Week—from Palm Sunday to the Easter Vigil. We break it down, make it relatable, and answer the important questions… like why Easter somehow involves bunnies and colored boiled eggs? Links 🔗 Join us on Hallow - Join the St. Catherine, St. Donatus, St. Joesph, Sts. Peter and Paul community on Hallow Saints Alive - St. Veronica Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube ...

Holy Week is almost here and it’s not too late to prepare your heart. In this solo episode, I reflect on Palm Sunday and the parable of the Prodigal Son, diving into what it means to return to God, let go of distractions, and truly walk with Jesus—even when it’s hard. If Lent didn’t go as planned, you’re not alone… and there’s still time to come home! Litany of Humility Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube

Geoff Kaiser joins Katie this week as we dive into the life of St. Joseph and the powerful role he plays in fatherhood. We talk about what it truly means to lead a family in faith, how fathers can be a steady example of love and strength, and why St. Joseph is such a strong model of quiet leadership and trust in God. Also… just to clarify… St. Joseph was not physically with us for this episode 😂🙏 but we’re pretty sure he was there spiritually. Fr. Mike Schmitz Homily ...

New episode of Relatable Catholic! I’m joined by Fr. Andy and a new guest - theology teacher and resident “liturgy guy,” Brandon Schetgen. We break down the difference between solemnities, feast days, and memorials, and we dive into one of the Church’s most powerful Lenten devotions: the Stations of the Cross. Let’s just say… I learned a lot. 😅 Whether you’ve always wondered why certain Masses feel “bigger” than others or you’re trying to enter into Lent with more intention, this conversation...

It’s a full house this week! Fr. Andy, Deacon Stan, and Anika Martens join Katie for a rich conversation as we continue diving into Lent. We’re talking about how to find joy in the midst of darkness, what it really means to walk through the desert season with intention, and how Lent can deepen, not drain, our relationship with Jesus. If you’ve ever struggled to balance sacrifice with hope, or wondered how to grow closer to Christ in the hard moments, this episode is for you. Find us on our So...

Corey and Fr. Andy join me to talk St. Michael the Archangel, spiritual warfare (yes, it’s real), and why Lent is basically spiritual boot camp. Are demons dramatic… or are we just spiritually distracted? Why does St. Michael always look like he’s stepping on someone? And how exactly do prayer, fasting, and confession protect us from spiritual attacks? If you’ve ever rushed through the St. Michael Prayer or thought Lent was just about giving up chocolate - this one’s for you. 🛡️ Walking With ...

This week it’s just Katie (and Carl 🐶) talking about Ash Wednesday and the heart of Lent. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving can feel overwhelming before we even begin — so let’s strip it back to what really matters. A shorter episode, a gentle start to the season, and a reminder that Lent isn’t about perfection… it’s about returning and growing. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Ever accidentally stood when everyone else sat? Returned the Sign of Peace a little too enthusiastically? Or witnessed something at Mass that still has you thinking about it years later? In this episode, we’re sharing the awkward, funny, and very human moments that only happen at Mass. From honest mishaps to moments that live rent-free in our heads, this is a reminder that holiness and humanity often show up in the same pew. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube &nbs...

Sharing our faith doesn’t always come naturally and for many of us, it can feel downright uncomfortable. In this episode of Relatable Catholic, Katie and Fr. Andy welcome back Corey Kettmann to unpack why living our Catholic faith publicly can feel awkward, where that fear comes from, and how to grow in courage over time. Fr. Andy’s Homily Homesick for Heaven - By Phil Wickham Your Way's Better - Forrest Frank Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube ...

This week on Relatable Catholic, Katie and Fr. Andy are joined by new guest Corey Kettmann for an honest conversation about faith - why people drift away from it and why so many of us long to understand the why behind our Catholic beliefs. They also discuss practical ways to build a prayer life using the Hallow app and how curiosity, questions, and formation can deepen faith instead of weaken it. Enjoy a fun listen with this terrific trio! Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagra...

Season two is officially here! 🎉 Katie is joined by Buddy and Anika Martens as they catch up after Christmas break, share their words for the year, and reflect on how we’re all growing toward eternity. The conversation wraps up with Epiphany, house blessings, and starting the year with intention. Blessing of the Home and Household on Epiphany Fr. Mike Schmitz Homily - Unconditional Hope Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

It’s almost Christmas, which can only mean one thing… cold and flu season. 🤧🎄 After plenty of cough breaks, tissue runs, and the occasional surprise sneeze, our final episode of 2025 is here! This week we’re chatting about the O Antiphons, how we celebrate Christmas, and a few other delightful, end-of-Advent topics along the way. Thank you so much for listening, sharing, and journeying with us this year. We’re incredibly grateful for this community and can’t wait to kick off Season 2 in the n...

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by friend-of-the-podcast Ryan Orabutt for a clear and relatable deep dive into Mary—her role in Scripture, what the Immaculate Conception really means, and why Catholics honor her. They also explore the powerful story and enduring impact of Our Lady of Guadalupe. A simple, thoughtful conversation that brings Marian apologetics down to earth. Learn more about Our Lady of Guadalupe - Lila Rose Show Father's Book - Guadalupe Mysteries Find us on our Socials...

In this Advent episode, Anika and Buddy Martens join Katie to dive into the meaning behind the Advent wreath and why the Church invites us into a season of holy waiting. Together they explore how to wait well in a world that rushes ahead, and how simple practices—prayer, silence, and intentional preparation—can help us get ready for Christmas. It’s a gentle, hope-filled conversation about slowing down, lighting each candle with purpose, and making room for Christ in the small moments of every...

This Thanksgiving, we’ve got a lot to be grateful for… especially that Fr. Andy is back! 🙌 We’re also joined by Jacob Till, who shares some sweet reflections on his new journey as a dad. 👶💛 Together, we dive into what real gratitude looks like, why the Eucharist is the ultimate thanksgiving, and how God shows up in the chaos, laughter, and little moments of the season. It’s a lighthearted, warm episode to help you head into the holiday with a joyful and thankful heart. ❤️🍁 And of course, we c...

Ever feel like everyone else has their faith life together except you? In this episode, Katie shares a personal reflection on what it’s like to feel “not holy enough” — and how God’s grace shows up right in the middle of our messy, ordinary lives. A gentle reminder that holiness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up and letting God love you as you are. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

✨ New Episode! ✨ Fr. Andy is away on retreat, but we’re blessed to have Kelsey Kaiser joining us this week! 💛 Kelsey shares her beautiful reflections on walking through spiritual darkness — and how to listen for where God might be calling us even when we can’t see the way forward. 🌙🙏 A heartfelt and hope-filled conversation you won’t want to miss! JPII Reflection Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by a very special guest — Fr. John Horan, a friend of Fr. Andy’s from seminary, who stopped by on his way home to his parish in Plainfield, IL. Together, they dive into a meaningful conversation about All Souls’ Day, purgatory, and how we can pray for the dead. It’s a thoughtful and hope-filled discussion that reminds us of the deep connection we share with those who have gone before us in faith. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube&nb...

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by Geoff Kaiser to talk all things Halloween — its Catholic roots, how it became so spooky, and of course… candy 🍫🍬 Tune in for a fun and faith-filled conversation about All Hallows’ Eve and what it really means for us today. Find us on our Socials! Facebook Instagram Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by Buddy and Anika Martens for a deep conversation on forgiveness—what it truly is, how unforgiveness affects our lives, and what the Church teaches about the healing power of mercy. Fr. Andy’s Homily - Fr. Mike Schmitz Homily Forgiveness Article Find us on our Socials! Relatable Catholic on Facebook Relatable Catholic on Instagram Relatable Catholic on Youtube Venmo - @relatablecatholic

It’s a full house this week! Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by Angie Read and Deacon Stan Upah to talk about perimeter blessings, answer questions about the devil, and discuss how we can guard against openings in our lives. The Veil Removed - https://youtu.be/OOLZDaTgIaM?si=WE_Uo7KvONRIdq3w Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Youtub...

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by Kelsey Kaiser for a conversation about living boldly in our faith. Together they explore how to strengthen our relationship with God and embrace the call to share His mission with others. Lila Rose Show - https://youtu.be/J2ofqREesno?si=vRidP9w16auS2mRb Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Youtube - ht...

Fr. Andy and Katie talk about the changes happening in our parishes and across the archdiocese—why they’re happening, how they affect our faith communities, and what it means to trust in God’s holy plan. Join us as we reflect on Journey in Faith, even when the path feels uncertain, and discover how God is always guiding His Church. Journey in Faith - https://www.dbqjourneyinfaith.org/ Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - htt...

Fr. Andy and Katie are joined by Deacon Stan for a conversation you won’t want to miss. From unlikely demons—including stories of Pokémon deliverances—to practical ways we can all combat the devil in daily life, this episode dives into the reality of spiritual warfare with honesty, faith, and of course a little humor! Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdo...

Fr. Andy and Katie are flying solo this week - talking the first week of school, the sacrifice of the Mass, and getting ready for the parish pork roast. The Veil Removed - https://youtu.be/OOLZDaTgIaM?si=WE_Uo7KvONRIdq3w Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@RelatableCatholic_25 Venmo - @relat...

The gang is back together for this week's episode. We are recapping our summers and the great Iowa State Fair! We are also sharing our goals for the upcoming school year. Thank you so much to all of you who ordered from our merch store! It's been so fun seeing Relatable Catholic gear out in the wild! Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm...

This week we are excited to welcome a new guest join us. Ms. Meredith Recker joins Fr. Andy and Katie to discuss Guardian Angels. They are talking what Guardian Angels are, how they help us, and what we can ask of them. The Veil Removed - https://youtu.be/OOLZDaTgIaM?si=WE_Uo7KvONRIdq3w Keith Nester - https://youtu.be/wLA3TH5_2Z8?si=6tlFB1cds4_VS0GT Merch Store - Open until Friday, August 1st! - https://www.aandpgraphicsandsigns.com/product-category/relatable-catholic-fundraiser/ Find u...

This week Fr. Andy is fresh off another parish festival. He's reflecting on his first year in this placement and all the firsts that came along with. He's also reflecting on some of his 'not so tidy' habits! Merch Store: https://www.aandpgraphicsandsigns.com/product-category/relatable-catholic-fundraiser/ Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D...

This week our favorite Deacon is back to discuss the attack on families that our societies are facing today. We are talking sports, technology, social media, and more. Fr. Andy also recaps his big weekend at the tractor pull! Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@RelatableCatholic_25 Venmo - @rela...

This week Jacob Till is back to talk about Eucharistic Miracles with us. Father also receives a very useful gift that you’ll be seeing him in very soon I’m sure! Episode Resources: The Cardiologist Examines Jesus - https://a.co/d/dKF4yT0 Eucharistic Miracles - https://a.co/d/3j5dkJ5 Carlo Acutis Website - https://www.miracolieucaristici.org/en/liste/list.html Buenos Aires Video - https://youtu.be/kbn2Nx7W8l8?si=RT7XKyB7UfkcHH-R Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.c...

We are so honored to have Fr. Andy's dad, Deacon Stan, sitting down us this week. He is talking about his call to Diaconate life, marriage ministry, and healing ministry. We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did! Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/relatablecatholic?igsh=MTRmbmM4b29xbXdobg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@RelatableCatholic_25 Venmo ...

This was a fun one! Fr. Andy and Katie are flying solo this week. They recap Katie's family wedding where Fr. Andy was the Priest, play a big game of Catholic Would You Rather, and talk about Katie's new pet. Thanks for listening! Your support means the world to us! Our Lady of Guadalupe Book - https://a.co/d/5miF3YC Marian Apparitions Video - https://youtu.be/DKb3nFjEUjQ?si=UiahdsqC6vMMimxA Find us on our Socials! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1Aahf8fEiT/?mibextid=wwXIfr In...

Jacob and Louren Till join Fr. Andy and Katie this week. This week’s topic is Adoration. They are discussing what it is, why we do it, and what to expect when attending a Holy Hour. St. Joseph - Bellevue, IA - Holy Hour Times: Family Holy Hour - Wednesdays 6-7 p.m. First Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. All of the episode links can be found in this one, convenient document! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1K0dU8jKJnREiL_mRGIZ9P7FOQXAp3qRKr80qttpBFJA/edit?usp=sharing Find us o...