{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"Called (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)","home_page_url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm","feed_url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/json","description":"Called (with Father Mike Schmitz) brings you powerful stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives of service. Hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and brought to you by The Catholic Initiative in partnership with Ascension, each episode features conversations with individuals who have answered God’s call to serve others—from highly successful entrepreneurs to industry executives and community leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or looking for practical ways to live your faith, Called will challenge you to see service not as obligation, but as invitation. ","_fireside":{"subtitle":"Stories that spark action. Faith that changes lives.","pubdate":"2025-12-12T15:00:00.000-05:00","explicit":false,"owner":"Ascension","image":"https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/5/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/cover.jpg?v=1"},"items":[{"id":"bcfe705e-08a8-4883-8841-bd38070b8245","title":"Called to Accompany Mothers w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and the Sisters of Life","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-sistersoflife","content_text":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Sr. Gianna Maria and Sister Zelie Maria Louis of the Sisters of Life—a community of religious sisters whose mission is to protect and enhance the sacredness of every human life. One of their missions is to serve women who are vulnerable to abortion and give them the support and resources they need to choose life for themselves and their children.\n\nTogether, they share powerful stories of hope, trust, and God’s unwavering tenderness. From “tea party” first meetings, to miraculous moments like the “gummy bear grace”, to the long-term accompaniment that continues far beyond a baby’s birth, the sisters reveal what it truly means to walk with women in love.\n\nThey also open up about:\n\n\nHow each discovered their vocation—including one sister’s unforgettable rap testimony.\nThe deep spiritual motherhood at the heart of every religious vocation.\nWhat genuine healing looks like for women wounded by abortion.\nHow ordinary Catholics—men and women—can speak hope into someone’s life.\nWhat it looks like when parishes become true communities of accompaniment.\n\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Sr. Gianna Maria and Sister Zelie Maria Louis of the Sisters of Life—a community of religious sisters whose mission is to protect and enhance the sacredness of every human life. One of their missions is to serve women who are vulnerable to abortion and give them the support and resources they need to choose life for themselves and their children.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they share powerful stories of hope, trust, and God’s unwavering tenderness. From “tea party” first meetings, to miraculous moments like the “gummy bear grace”, to the long-term accompaniment that continues far beyond a baby’s birth, the sisters reveal what it truly means to walk with women in love.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey also open up about:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow each discovered their vocation—including one sister’s unforgettable rap testimony.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe deep spiritual motherhood at the heart of every religious vocation.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat genuine healing looks like for women wounded by abortion.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow ordinary Catholics—men and women—can speak hope into someone’s life.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat it looks like when parishes become true communities of accompaniment.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Sr. Gianna Maria and Sister Zelie Maria Louis of the Sisters of Life—a community of religious sisters whose mission is to protect and enhance the sacredness of every human life. One of their missions is to serve women who are vulnerable to abortion and give them the support and resources they need to choose life for themselves and their children.\r\n\r\nTogether, they share powerful stories of hope, trust, and God’s unwavering tenderness. From “tea party” first meetings, to miraculous moments like the “gummy bear grace”, to the long-term accompaniment that continues far beyond a baby’s birth, the sisters reveal what it truly means to walk with women in love.\r\n\r\nThey also open up about:\r\n\r\n- How each discovered their vocation—including one sister’s unforgettable rap testimony.\r\n- The deep spiritual motherhood at the heart of every religious vocation.\r\n- What genuine healing looks like for women wounded by abortion.\r\n- How ordinary Catholics—men and women—can speak hope into someone’s life.\r\n- What it looks like when parishes become true communities of accompaniment.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-12-12T15:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/bcfe705e-08a8-4883-8841-bd38070b8245.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":147875520,"duration_in_seconds":3696}]},{"id":"fc765a27-d833-4d32-80be-664825fc4d57","title":"Called to Walk with the Poor w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Kerry Robinson","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-kerry-robinson","content_text":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to “walk with the poor.”\n\nKerry shares her remarkable lifelong journey of service — shaped by her family’s legacy of Catholic philanthropy, her early encounters with heroic witnesses of faith, and her vocational call to bring hope where it’s needed most. From her unexpected path into fundraising at Yale, to her leadership with Catholic Charities USA, Kerry reveals how answering God’s call often begins with simply refusing to look away from human suffering.\n\nTogether, she and Fr. Mike explore:\n\n✨ What “vocational living” means and why it changes everything\n✨ How Catholic Charities serves millions with dignity, mercy, and the heart of the Gospel\n✨ The power of accompaniment and why presence matters as much as service\n✨ How ordinary Catholics can begin helping the poor right where they are\n✨ Why collaboration between clergy and laity is essential for the Church’s mission\n✨ The deeper joy found in giving your life away in love\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to “walk with the poor.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKerry shares her remarkable lifelong journey of service — shaped by her family’s legacy of Catholic philanthropy, her early encounters with heroic witnesses of faith, and her vocational call to bring hope where it’s needed most. From her unexpected path into fundraising at Yale, to her leadership with Catholic Charities USA, Kerry reveals how answering God’s call often begins with simply refusing to look away from human suffering.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, she and Fr. Mike explore:\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e✨ What “vocational living” means and why it changes everything\u003cbr\u003e\n✨ How Catholic Charities serves millions with dignity, mercy, and the heart of the Gospel\u003cbr\u003e\n✨ The power of accompaniment and why presence matters as much as service\u003cbr\u003e\n✨ How ordinary Catholics can begin helping the poor right where they are\u003cbr\u003e\n✨ Why collaboration between clergy and laity is essential for the Church’s mission\u003cbr\u003e\n✨ The deeper joy found in giving your life away in love\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to “walk with the poor.”\r\n\r\nKerry shares her remarkable lifelong journey of service — shaped by her family’s legacy of Catholic philanthropy, her early encounters with heroic witnesses of faith, and her vocational call to bring hope where it’s needed most. From her unexpected path into fundraising at Yale, to her leadership with Catholic Charities USA, Kerry reveals how answering God’s call often begins with simply refusing to look away from human suffering.\r\n\r\nTogether, she and Fr. Mike explore:\r\n\r\n✨ What “vocational living” means and why it changes everything\r\n✨ How Catholic Charities serves millions with dignity, mercy, and the heart of the Gospel\r\n✨ The power of accompaniment and why presence matters as much as service\r\n✨ How ordinary Catholics can begin helping the poor right where they are\r\n✨ Why collaboration between clergy and laity is essential for the Church’s mission\r\n✨ The deeper joy found in giving your life away in love\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-12-02T14:15:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/fc765a27-d833-4d32-80be-664825fc4d57.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":140279040,"duration_in_seconds":3506}]},{"id":"bd9ff1bd-50a7-4c49-8973-bb630fedbc03","title":"Called to Unify w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Dave Arnold","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-to-unify","content_text":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Dave Arnold—former CEO turned global ministry leader—about how God transformed his life and led him into the heart of Rwanda’s post-genocide healing. Dave shares how the PEACE Plan united government, business, and the church to rebuild a nation and how simple, local acts of love sparked reconciliation for millions.\n\nTogether they explore what real unity looks like, how forgiveness becomes possible after deep wounds, and how each of us can begin answering God’s call right where we are.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Dave Arnold—former CEO turned global ministry leader—about how God transformed his life and led him into the heart of Rwanda’s post-genocide healing. Dave shares how the PEACE Plan united government, business, and the church to rebuild a nation and how simple, local acts of love sparked reconciliation for millions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTogether they explore what real unity looks like, how forgiveness becomes possible after deep wounds, and how each of us can begin answering God’s call right where we are.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Dave Arnold—former CEO turned global ministry leader—about how God transformed his life and led him into the heart of Rwanda’s post-genocide healing. Dave shares how the PEACE Plan united government, business, and the church to rebuild a nation and how simple, local acts of love sparked reconciliation for millions.\r\n\r\nTogether they explore what real unity looks like, how forgiveness becomes possible after deep wounds, and how each of us can begin answering God’s call right where we are.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-11-14T14:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/bd9ff1bd-50a7-4c49-8973-bb630fedbc03.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":72816120,"duration_in_seconds":3033}]},{"id":"97bbbc4b-1d75-4129-9f7f-9321871fb92f","title":"Called to Sustain the Church for Generations w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Kevin Doyle","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-kevin-doyle","content_text":"When thousands of parishes are closing and fewer people identify with any faith, how can the Church not only survive—but thrive?\n\nIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Kevin Doyle, president of the Catholic Initiative, about a bold new approach to sustaining vibrant parishes and schools for generations to come. From restoring Detroit’s historic St. Anne’s Basilica to supporting under-resourced communities, the Catholic Initiative is reimagining what it means to invest in the future of the Church.\n\nDiscover how one man’s generosity sparked a movement of faith, service, and renewal—and how we’re all called to build something that lasts.\n\nYou can learn more about the Called podcast at: https://ascensionpress.com/pages/called.\nTo learn more The Catholic Initiative, please visit https://thecatholicinitiative.org/.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eWhen thousands of parishes are closing and fewer people identify with any faith, how can the Church not only survive—but thrive?\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Kevin Doyle, president of the Catholic Initiative, about a bold new approach to sustaining vibrant parishes and schools for generations to come. From restoring Detroit’s historic St. Anne’s Basilica to supporting under-resourced communities, the Catholic Initiative is reimagining what it means to invest in the future of the Church.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDiscover how one man’s generosity sparked a movement of faith, service, and renewal—and how we’re all called to build something that lasts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou can learn more about the Called podcast at: \u003ca href=\"https://ascensionpress.com/pages/called\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://ascensionpress.com/pages/called\u003c/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\nTo learn more The Catholic Initiative, please visit \u003ca href=\"https://thecatholicinitiative.org/\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ehttps://thecatholicinitiative.org/\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"When thousands of parishes are closing and fewer people identify with any faith, how can the Church not only survive—but thrive?\r\n\r\nIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Kevin Doyle, president of the Catholic Initiative, about a bold new approach to sustaining vibrant parishes and schools for generations to come. From restoring Detroit’s historic St. Anne’s Basilica to supporting under-resourced communities, the Catholic Initiative is reimagining what it means to invest in the future of the Church.\r\n\r\nDiscover how one man’s generosity sparked a movement of faith, service, and renewal—and how we’re all called to build something that lasts.\r\n\r\nYou can learn more about the Called podcast at: https://ascensionpress.com/pages/called.\r\nTo learn more The Catholic Initiative, please visit https://thecatholicinitiative.org/.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-10-31T15:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/97bbbc4b-1d75-4129-9f7f-9321871fb92f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":114423360,"duration_in_seconds":2860}]},{"id":"d9349a02-c79d-44b7-be15-e9ecdbaf7c85","title":"Called to Build Bridges w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Darryl Woods (The Called Podcast)","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-darryl-woods","content_text":"Wrongly convicted at 18, Darryl Woods Sr. spent nearly 30 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. But instead of giving in to bitterness, he found freedom through faith—transforming prison walls into a mission field of hope and redemption.\n\nIn this episode of the Called podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, Darryl shares his incredible journey from Detroit’s streets to the chair of the Detroit Police Commission. His story is a powerful reminder that God can bring purpose out of the darkest places.\n\nListen to hear how forgiveness, perseverance, and faith turned tragedy into transformation.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eWrongly convicted at 18, Darryl Woods Sr. spent nearly 30 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. But instead of giving in to bitterness, he found freedom through faith—transforming prison walls into a mission field of hope and redemption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of the Called podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, Darryl shares his incredible journey from Detroit’s streets to the chair of the Detroit Police Commission. His story is a powerful reminder that God can bring purpose out of the darkest places.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eListen to hear how forgiveness, perseverance, and faith turned tragedy into transformation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Wrongly convicted at 18, Darryl Woods Sr. spent nearly 30 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. But instead of giving in to bitterness, he found freedom through faith—transforming prison walls into a mission field of hope and redemption.\r\n\r\nIn this episode of the Called podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, Darryl shares his incredible journey from Detroit’s streets to the chair of the Detroit Police Commission. His story is a powerful reminder that God can bring purpose out of the darkest places.\r\n\r\nListen to hear how forgiveness, perseverance, and faith turned tragedy into transformation.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-10-17T17:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/d9349a02-c79d-44b7-be15-e9ecdbaf7c85.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":174776640,"duration_in_seconds":4369}]},{"id":"c2a16f3a-04c0-4089-bc25-efb999384209","title":"Called to Use Your Gifts for Good w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Chris Green ","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-chrisgreen","content_text":"What does it look like to turn a paycheck into purpose? In this episode of Called, Fr.Mike Schmitz sits down with Chris Green, President of Humanitarian Hotels, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a mission field. With over 35 years of experience, Chris shares how true leadership is about seeing people, creating meaningful culture, and using every gift for something greater. Discover how entire hotels are giving 100% of their profits to charity, why authentic service transforms both staff and guests, and how you, too, can step fully into the person God made you to be.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eWhat does it look like to turn a paycheck into purpose? In this episode of Called, Fr.Mike Schmitz sits down with Chris Green, President of Humanitarian Hotels, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a mission field. With over 35 years of experience, Chris shares how true leadership is about seeing people, creating meaningful culture, and using every gift for something greater. Discover how entire hotels are giving 100% of their profits to charity, why authentic service transforms both staff and guests, and how you, too, can step fully into the person God made you to be.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"What does it look like to turn a paycheck into purpose? In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Chris Green, President of Humanitarian Hotels, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a mission field. With over 35 years of experience, Chris shares how true leadership is about seeing people, creating meaningful culture, and using every gift for something greater. Discover how entire hotels are giving 100% of their profits to charity, why authentic service transforms both staff and guests, and how you, too, can step fully into the person God made you to be.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-09-26T15:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/c2a16f3a-04c0-4089-bc25-efb999384209.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":78585600,"duration_in_seconds":1964}]},{"id":"09f8f790-070b-4394-8bf1-2cd9804e1f64","title":"Called to Form the Young w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Coach Lou Holtz ","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-louholtz","content_text":"In this powerful episode of \"Called\", Father Mike Schmitz sits down with legendary football coach and devout Catholic, Lou Holtz.\nTogether they explore the urgent challenge of forming the next generation in faith and character. Coach Holtz shares timeless wisdom drawn from decades of leadership on and off the field—his famous three rules for life (“Do what’s right, do your best, and show people you care”), the importance of making good choices, and the lasting impact of faith, family, and responsibility.\nFrom stories of his coaching days at Notre Dame, to lessons learned in the military, to personal reflections on marriage, loss, and legacy, Holtz offers a heartfelt testimony of hope, perseverance, and purpose. This conversation is a masterclass in faith-driven leadership, reminding us that true success is not measured in wins but in lives formed and hearts changed.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this powerful episode of \u0026quot;Called\u0026quot;, Father Mike Schmitz sits down with legendary football coach and devout Catholic, Lou Holtz.\u003cbr\u003e\nTogether they explore the urgent challenge of forming the next generation in faith and character. Coach Holtz shares timeless wisdom drawn from decades of leadership on and off the field—his famous three rules for life (“Do what’s right, do your best, and show people you care”), the importance of making good choices, and the lasting impact of faith, family, and responsibility.\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom stories of his coaching days at Notre Dame, to lessons learned in the military, to personal reflections on marriage, loss, and legacy, Holtz offers a heartfelt testimony of hope, perseverance, and purpose. This conversation is a masterclass in faith-driven leadership, reminding us that true success is not measured in wins but in lives formed and hearts changed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this powerful episode of \"Called\", Father Mike Schmitz sits down with legendary football coach and devout Catholic, Lou Holtz.\r\nTogether they explore the urgent challenge of forming the next generation in faith and character. Coach Holtz shares timeless wisdom drawn from decades of leadership on and off the field—his famous three rules for life (“Do what’s right, do your best, and show people you care”), the importance of making good choices, and the lasting impact of faith, family, and responsibility.\r\nFrom stories of his coaching days at Notre Dame, to lessons learned in the military, to personal reflections on marriage, loss, and legacy, Holtz offers a heartfelt testimony of hope, perseverance, and purpose. This conversation is a masterclass in faith-driven leadership, reminding us that true success is not measured in wins but in lives formed and hearts changed.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-09-13T09:30:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/09f8f790-070b-4394-8bf1-2cd9804e1f64.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":100637760,"duration_in_seconds":2515}]},{"id":"f2b3357c-5eac-49ec-9b16-a4b405eb2704","title":"Called to Heal the Brokenhearted w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. John Riccardo","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-fr-riccardo","content_text":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Fr. John Riccardo, executive director of ACTS XXIX, to talk about how we can accompany and support those who are brokenhearted. Drawing on Psalm 23, they reflect on God’s promise to be close to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Fr. John shares insights from his decades of ministry, offering practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to bring Christ’s compassion into places of pain, grief, and loneliness.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eIn this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Fr. John Riccardo, executive director of ACTS XXIX, to talk about how we can accompany and support those who are brokenhearted. Drawing on Psalm 23, they reflect on God’s promise to be close to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Fr. John shares insights from his decades of ministry, offering practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to bring Christ’s compassion into places of pain, grief, and loneliness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Fr. John Riccardo, executive director of ACTS XXIX, to talk about how we can accompany and support those who are brokenhearted. Drawing on Psalm 23, they reflect on God’s promise to be close to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Fr. John shares insights from his decades of ministry, offering practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to bring Christ’s compassion into places of pain, grief, and loneliness.\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-09-07T15:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/f2b3357c-5eac-49ec-9b16-a4b405eb2704.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":147586560,"duration_in_seconds":3689}]},{"id":"e1c00f61-c013-4054-b943-2388a7aa0159","title":"Ordinary People, Extraordinary Callings","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/called-introduction","content_text":"“Are you going to restore the kingdom?” The apostles asked Jesus this question in Acts 1—and his answer was clear: You will. In this introductory episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz unpacks what it means to be the face, heart, hands, and feet of Christ today, and how Called will share real stories of people responding to God’s voice.\n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003e“Are you going to restore the kingdom?” The apostles asked Jesus this question in Acts 1—and his answer was clear: You will. In this introductory episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz unpacks what it means to be the face, heart, hands, and feet of Christ today, and how Called will share real stories of people responding to God’s voice.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"“Are you going to restore the kingdom?” The apostles asked Jesus this question in Acts 1—and his answer was clear: You will. In this introductory episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz unpacks what it means to be the face, heart, hands, and feet of Christ today, and how Called will share real stories of people responding to God’s voice.\r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-09-04T11:45:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/e1c00f61-c013-4054-b943-2388a7aa0159.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":12877980,"duration_in_seconds":536}]},{"id":"3ddeb2d8-a084-4821-9d88-ee1d08f033c6","title":"Welcome to the Called Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz","url":"https://calledpodcast.fireside.fm/1","content_text":"Called (with Father Mike Schmitz) brings you powerful stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives of service. Hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and brought to you by The Catholic Initiative in partnership with Ascension, each episode features conversations with individuals who have answered God’s call to serve others—from highly successful entrepreneurs to industry executives and community leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or looking for practical ways to live your faith, Called will challenge you to see service not as obligation, but as invitation. \n\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \n\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eCalled (with Father Mike Schmitz) brings you powerful stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives of service. Hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and brought to you by The Catholic Initiative in partnership with Ascension, each episode features conversations with individuals who have answered God’s call to serve others—from highly successful entrepreneurs to industry executives and community leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or looking for practical ways to live your faith, Called will challenge you to see service not as obligation, but as invitation. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email \u003ca href=\"mailto:info@thecatholicinitiative.org\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003einfo@thecatholicinitiative.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u2028\u003c/p\u003e","summary":"Called (with Father Mike Schmitz) brings you powerful stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives of service. Hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and brought to you by The Catholic Initiative in partnership with Ascension, each episode features conversations with individuals who have answered God’s call to serve others—from highly successful entrepreneurs to industry executives and community leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or looking for practical ways to live your faith, Called will challenge you to see service not as obligation, but as invitation. \r\n\r\nTo receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. \r\n\r\nIf you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email info@thecatholicinitiative.org.\u2028","date_published":"2025-08-21T16:00:00.000-04:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/57a827ac-53b5-4a72-83e3-57e88946e534/3ddeb2d8-a084-4821-9d88-ee1d08f033c6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":2987520,"duration_in_seconds":74}]}]}