In this podcast episode, Christina Semmens discusses the importance of setting priorities for the new year, focusing on our true worth as God’s creations, and the necessity of silence and reflection in our lives. She emphasizes living justly and impartially towards others and the role of suffering in achieving personal growth and virtue. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their identity as beloved children of God and to strive for a more just and loving world.

Takeaways

• We should focus on one priority this year: love.

• Our true worth is defined by God, not by others.

• Silence is essential for discernment and reflection.

• Justice requires us to treat others as we wish to be treated.

• Suffering can lead to personal growth and virtue.

• We must strive to be the change we want to see.

• God is always present, even in difficult times.

• Living justly means understanding individual needs.

• Perseverance is key to achieving our goals.

• Our witness can inspire others to persevere.

Sound Bites

• “We are God’s beloved sons and daughters.”

• “You need to be the change that you wish to see.”

• “God is always with you, never forget that.”

Chapters

00:00 New Beginnings: Embracing the New Year

02:42 Understanding Our True Worth

05:21 The Importance of Silence and Reflection

08:24 Living Justly: The Call to Justice

11:05 The Role of Suffering in Growth

13:41 The Pursuit of Virtue and Love

16:38 The Crown of Eternal Life: Perseverance and Hope

During the holiday season, there can be SUPER high anxiety. If you dread the holidays, or can’t wait for them to be over, then this Say Yes to Holiness podcast episode is definitely for you.

Christina Semmens sits down for a deep conversation with Rachael Popcak Isaac, a Pastoral Counselor and Mental Performance Specialist of Success and Performance Coaching at CatholicCounselors.com.

Dr. Rachael (Popcak) Isaac, LCSW, CPT is the founder and director of the Success and Performance Coaching Program at CatholicCounselors.com. She holds a Psychology degree from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. With a focus on success and sports psychology, Rachael has coached individuals, teams, and organizations from high school to the professional level.

Together, Christina and Rachael explore the integration of faith with mental performance, the importance of understanding confidence and humility, and effective strategies for managing stress and anxiety. Rachael also shares her personal journey and insights on how a faith-based approach can enhance counseling and personal growth, emphasizing the significance of recognizing one’s worth and purpose in life.

Their discussion concludes with highlighting transformative practices and mindsets that can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.

Takeaways

• Rachel Isaac is a Pastoral Counselor and Mental Performance Specialist.
• She integrates faith with mental performance in her counseling.
• Confidence is about knowing who you are, not comparing yourself to others.
• Stress and anxiety management are common struggles for clients.
• Faith is integral to personal identity and counseling effectiveness.
• Understanding our worth is crucial for personal growth.
• Connecting with our passions and desires is essential.
• Practicing mindfulness and emotional regulation is important.
• Visualization techniques can enhance performance and reduce anxiety.
• Building a supportive community is key to emotional well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pastoral Counseling and Mental Performance

04:46 Integrating Faith and Mental Performance Counseling

09:54 Understanding Confidence and Humility

14:58 Managing Stress and Anxiety

20:09 The Importance of Faith in Counseling

24:53 Finding Peace and Purpose in Life

29:57 Transformative Practices and Mindsets

34:59 Conclusion and Resources

For more information on Dr Rachael and her work, go to: https://catholiccounselors.com/success-and-performance-coaching/

In this podcast, Christina Semmens reflects on the significance of the Advent season, emphasizing the importance of preparation, silence, and the role of Mary in guiding us towards Jesus.

She encourages listeners to embrace the waiting period of Advent, to be present in their lives, and to cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence. The discussion also highlights the need for silence in order to hear God’s voice and the importance of responding with kindness and love during the holiday season. Ultimately, Christina calls for a joyful and peaceful approach to Christmas, focusing on the true meaning of the season.

Takeaways

• Advent is a time of waiting and preparation for Christmas.

• Being present is essential to receiving God’s gifts.

• Silence allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly.

• Mary plays a crucial role in leading us to Jesus.

• We should focus on experiences rather than material gifts.

• Joy comes from a deep awareness of God’s presence.

• Responding with kindness can prevent misunderstandings.

• The rosary helps us connect with Jesus through Mary.

• We must open our hearts to receive the Lord.

• Christmas should be celebrated with peace and joy.

Sound Bites

• “We have to be present in order to receive.”

• “Take a beat before responding.”

• “Mary always points us to her Son.”

Chapters

00:00 Advent: A Time of Waiting and Preparation

02:32 The Importance of Presence and Silence

08:10 Joy in Advent: Embracing Silence and Awareness

12:36 The Power of Silence in Communication

17:39 Mary’s Role in Advent and Discipleship