Greg Wasinski - Faith and Real Life Podcast

Author and Speaker, Greg Wasinski, shares inspirational insights to give listeners hope through faith. It's a journey together that consists of personal motivation and a better understanding of why we believe what we believe.

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Holy Week - Fear 03/26/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Holy Week - Fear Weekly Theme: Letting Go of Fear and Trusting God’s Victory Holy Week brings us face to face with fear. Fear of loss. Fear of suffering. Fear of uncertainty. But the journey of Christ shows us something greater — that fear does not have the final word. God does. Overview As Holy Week begins, we remember the joy of Palm Sunday — people shouting “Hosanna,” meaning “Save us now,” welcoming Jesus as the Messiah. There is confidence. There is excitement. There is no fear. But that doesn’t last. As the week unfolds, everything changes. The same voices that praised Him will turn against Him. The disciples will scatter. Even those closest to Jesus will falter under pressure. Fear begins to take over. We see it everywhere: Judas, who betrays Jesus out of fear and confusion Peter, who denies Him when it matters most The disciples, who run and hide The crowds, who turn on Him when He doesn’t meet their expectations Even in the garden, Jesus experiences deep sorrow and distress. In His humanity, He shows us what it feels like to face overwhelming fear. But He does not stay there. He surrenders. “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Jesus lets go of fear and chooses trust. And through that surrender, He carries out the greatest act of love — giving His life so that we may have eternal life. At the end of the Passion, everything appears lost. Jesus is placed in the tomb. Silence fills the world. Hope seems distant. But this is not the end. It is the waiting. Just like the quiet beauty of Lenten roses blooming at the right time, even when everything else appears dormant — God is still at work. Even in silence. Even in darkness. Even in fear. God wins in the end. Scripture Focus First Reading: Isaiah 50:4–7 “I have set my face like flint…” Faithfulness in the face of suffering. Second Reading: Philippians 2:6–11 “He humbled himself, becoming obedient to death…” Christ shows us that humility leads to glory. Gospel: Matthew 26:14–27:66 (The Passion) The full story of betrayal, suffering, and crucifixion. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Even in suffering, God’s plan is unfolding. Spiritual Focus for the Week Fear often causes us to forget what we know to be true. Ask yourself: When have I allowed fear to influence my decisions or faith? Do I trust God even when I don’t understand what He is doing? Where in my life am I being asked to surrender instead of control? Letting go of fear allows us to remain faithful even in uncertainty. More at /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40568645

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Fifth Sunday - Limits 03/21/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Fifth Sunday - Limits Fifth Sunday of Lent – Letting Go of Limits Weekly Theme: Letting Go of What We Think Is Impossible We all place limits on what we believe God can do — in our lives, in our struggles, and in our future. But this week reveals a powerful truth: God is not bound by our expectations, our pain, or even death itself. Lent calls us to release the limits we place on God and trust in His power to bring life where we see none. Overview There are moments in life when we feel spiritually empty — going through the motions, chasing success, yet feeling disconnected from something deeper. Sometimes this happens because we unknowingly place limits on God. We decide what a life with Him should look like. We decide what is possible. We decide how far we’re willing to let Him in. But the readings this week challenge that mindset completely. In Ezekiel, the prophet is shown a vision of dry bones — lifeless, scattered, without hope. Yet God brings them back together, restores flesh, and breathes life into them. What once was dead becomes alive. Paul reminds us that life without the Spirit is not truly life at all. We can be physically alive, yet spiritually disconnected. It is the Spirit of God that makes us fully alive. Then we encounter one of the most emotional moments in the Gospel — the raising of Lazarus. Even those closest to Jesus — Martha and Mary — struggled with limits. “If you had been here, my brother would not have died.” They believed in Jesus… but only within the boundaries of their understanding. But Jesus reveals something greater: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Lazarus had to die so that God’s glory could be revealed. What looked like the end was actually the beginning of belief. This week asks us a direct question: Where have I decided that something is too far gone for God? Scripture Focus First Reading: Ezekiel 37:12–14 “I will open your graves and have you rise…” God restores life even where there seems to be none. Second Reading: Romans 8:8–11 “The Spirit of God dwells in you.” True life comes not from the world, but from the Spirit within us. Gospel: John 11:1–45 The raising of Lazarus. “I am the resurrection and the life…” Even death is not a limit to God’s power. Spiritual Focus for the Week Limits often come from our human understanding. Ask yourself: Where have I limited what God can do in my life? Have I placed conditions on my faith based on what I can understand? Do I truly believe that God can bring life out of my current situation? God does not operate within our timeline or expectations. He operates in truth, purpose, and eternal perspective. For More, visit: www.FaithandRealLife.com /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40568395

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Fourth Sunday - Labels 03/13/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Fourth Sunday - Labels Weekly Theme: Labels - Letting Go of False Identity This week we are invited to bring truth into the light. Many things that grow in darkness — shame, fear, and false identities — lose their power when exposed to God’s truth. The label the world gives us is never the identity God gives us. Lent calls us to release the labels that limit us and rediscover who we truly are as children of God. Overview Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly chooses the people no one expects. In the first reading from Samuel, the prophet is sent to anoint a king from the sons of Jesse. One by one the older, stronger, and more impressive sons are presented. Yet none of them are chosen. David, the youngest, is not even invited to the gathering. He is out tending the sheep — overlooked and underestimated. But God reminds Samuel of a powerful truth: “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” The world labeled David one way. God saw him another way entirely. This theme continues in the Gospel with the man born blind. The culture of the time labeled him a sinner. Because of his blindness, people assumed his life must be the result of wrongdoing. He was pushed to the margins of society and reduced to a title: beggar. But Jesus refuses to accept that label. Instead, Christ reveals that this man’s story will become a testimony to the works of God. When Jesus heals him, the miracle exposes something deeper — the people who believed they could see were actually the ones who were blind. The Pharisees were so attached to their own labels, authority, and interpretations that they could not recognize the presence of God standing before them. This still happens today. Sometimes others place labels on us. Sometimes we place them on ourselves. Sometimes we accept identities shaped by fear, past mistakes, or the opinions of others. But God sees something different. Before anything else, you are a child of God — created in His image and called into His light. Scripture Focus First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6–7, 10–13a David is chosen as king, even though he is the least expected. “The Lord does not look at the things people look at… the Lord looks at the heart.” God sees beyond labels and appearances. Second Reading: Ephesians 5:8–14 “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.” Our identity is not rooted in the past — it is transformed by grace. Gospel: John 9:1–41 Jesus heals the man born blind. “One thing I do know is that I was blind and now I see.” The miracle reveals two kinds of blindness: physical and spiritual. Spiritual Focus for the Week Labels can quietly shape how we see ourselves. Ask yourself: Have I accepted labels from others that limit who I believe I can become? Do I still define myself by past mistakes or failures? Am I willing to see myself the way God sees me? When we bring our struggles into the light, God restores our vision. /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40353935

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Third Sunday - Wrongdoings 03/07/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Third Sunday - Wrongdoings Weekly Theme: Letting Go of Sin and Returning to Hope In order to be made new, we must release anything that separates us from God. Lent invites us to confront the wrongdoings that quietly shape our hearts — not to shame us, but to heal us. This week reminds us that no sin is stronger than God’s desire to restore us. Overview At this point in Lent, many people begin to feel the weight of the journey. The enthusiasm of the first days fades, discipline becomes harder, and spiritual warfare can intensify. But this week’s readings leave little room for misunderstanding. In Exodus, the Israelites grumble against God even after witnessing His miracles — freedom from slavery, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the gift of manna. Their thirst leads them not to trust, but to accusation. It raises an uncomfortable question for us: Do we still question God even after seeing His goodness in our lives? Paul answers that struggle with the virtue of hope. In Romans, he reminds us that Christ died for us while we were still sinners. God’s love does not depend on our perfection. His mercy meets us even in our doubt and weakness. Then we encounter one of the most powerful moments in the Gospel — the Woman at the Well. This woman carries a history of broken relationships and deep personal struggle. Yet Jesus meets her exactly where she is. He does not condemn her; He invites her. “Give me a drink.” In that simple request, Christ reveals something profound: God thirsts for us. He seeks relationship even when we feel most unworthy. And when the woman realizes who stands before her, everything changes. Her shame disappears. Her past no longer defines her. She runs back to her town to proclaim the Good News. Lent invites us to do the same — to let go of our wrongdoings and return to the One who never stopped seeking us. Scripture Focus First Reading: Exodus 17:3–7 The Israelites complain against God despite His constant provision. “Is the Lord in our midst or not?” The danger is not thirst — it is forgetting God’s faithfulness. Second Reading: Romans 5:1–8 “Hope does not disappoint.” Even when we are helpless, Christ died for us. Hope is rooted not in circumstances, but in God’s promise. Gospel: John 4:5–42 The encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman. “Whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst.” Jesus reveals that the deepest thirst of the human heart can only be satisfied by God. Spiritual Focus for the Week Wrongdoings often begin quietly — through ingratitude, doubt, or turning away from God’s presence. Ask yourself: When I struggle, do I lean into God or grumble against Him? Have I allowed shame or discouragement to keep me distant from God? Do I truly believe that God desires a relationship with me? Jesus does not wait for perfection before approaching us. He meets us at the well. The enemy often convinces us that our sins define us. “You’ve gone too far.” “God must be tired of forgiving you.” But the Gospel proves the opposite. Jesus meets the Samaritan woman in the middle of her brokenness and offers her living water. Mercy is always stronger than sin. Prayer Lord Jesus, You know the thirst of my heart and the weight of my wrongdoings. Help me to let go of the sins that separate me from Your love. Give me the courage to seek Your mercy and the humility to receive it. May the living water of Your grace renew my heart and restore my hope. Amen. /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40353840

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Second Sunday - Expectations 02/27/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Second Sunday - Expectations SUMMARY: Following Jesus is not a half-hearted “I’m in.” It is surrendering our expectations to His design. This week challenges us to release the version of faith we’ve imagined and trust the glory God wants to reveal — even when it unfolds differently than we expected. RELATED SCRIPTURES: First Reading: Genesis 12:1-4 “Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk…” Faith requires movement before clarity. Second Reading: 2Timothy 1:8-10 “He saved us and called us to a holy life, not according to our works but according to His own design…” Grace is a gift, not achievement. Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9 “This is my beloved Son… listen to Him.” The mountain reveals glory. The valley tests faith. OVERVIEW Last week, we confronted control. - This week, we confront expectations. In Genesis, Abraham is promised land, but not in the way he likely envisioned it. He becomes a stranger in lands not fully his own. Yet his faithfulness remains fixed not on earthly ownership but on the heavenly Kingdom. In the second reading, Paul reminds Timothy that grace is not earned through effort. It is given through God’s design. We are called to holiness — not by our works, but by His grace. Then comes the mountain. Why the mountain? In the Gospel of the Transfiguration, Jesus leads Peter, James, and John up to the summit. There, His glory is revealed. Just as Moses ascended a mountain and was enveloped in a cloud to receive the Law, Jesus reveals Himself as the Living Word before the cloud descends. But notice what happens. At first, Peter wants to stay. Build tents. Capture the moment. Control it. Then the cloud comes, and fear sets in. They experienced glory… but when it no longer looked the way they expected, uncertainty followed. This is us. God brings us to mountaintop moments to reveal what is possible. Then He sends us back into the valley to live it. Lent is a time to let go of human expectations for divine glory that never disappears. /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40256340

"Letting Go" Lent Series - First Sunday 02/20/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - First Sunday The First Sunday of Lent sets the tone for everything that follows. This week calls us to examine where we are trying to take control instead of trusting God. From Adam and Eve to Jesus in the desert, we are reminded that the battle is not new — but neither is God’s faithfulness. Lent invites us to release the illusion of control and return to reliance on the One who gives us life. Overview The readings begin at the beginning — Adam and Eve in the Garden. Everything was good until the serpent introduced doubt and control into the conversation. The temptation was not just about fruit; it was about becoming “like God.” It was about control, status, and self-determination. Adam still had a chance. He could have surrendered. Instead, he chose selfish control. But in the Gospel, we see the reversal. Jesus enters the desert and faces temptation head-on. Hungry, isolated, and vulnerable — yet He does not rely on ego, emotion, or worldly influence. He relies on the Word of God. This week is about asking ourselves: Where am I still trying to control what belongs to God? Lent is about creating a clean temple — a heart open enough to allow God to dwell fully within us. Scripture Focus First Reading: Genesis 2:7–9; 3:1–7 Adam and Eve choose control over trust. The conversation with the serpent begins the fall. “Surely you will not die…” Temptation often starts with conversation. Second Reading: Romans 5:12–19 “Through one man sin entered the world…” Adam’s decision affected humanity — but Christ’s obedience redeems it. Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11 Jesus is led by the Spirit into the desert and fights temptation with Scripture. “One does not live on bread alone…” “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test…” “The Lord, your God, shall you worship…” Jesus models surrender where Adam grasped for control. /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/40165650

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Ash Wednesday 02/18/2026

"Letting Go" Lent Series - Introduction 02/18/2026

"Why I am Catholic..." Guest Jeff Stinson 02/12/2026

"Penance... Really?" with Fr. Jacob Bearer 12/18/2025

"Penance... Really?" with Fr. Jacob Bearer What if penance isn’t about guilt or punishment, but about love, freedom, and healing?Penance is not about shame — it’s about love. Not about punishment — but participation. Not about the past — but transformation. In this episode of the Faith & Real Life Podcast, Greg Wasinski welcomes Fr. Jacob Bearer for an honest and pastoral conversation about penance — what it truly is and why it still matters today. Moving beyond the idea of penance as guilt or obligation, this discussion highlights the beauty of offering sacrifices outside of Confession through prayer, fasting, and intentional self-denial. Together, they reflect on how these practices unite us more closely to Christ, strengthen virtue, aid in the healing of souls, and draw us deeper into the life of the Church. A thoughtful and encouraging episode for anyone seeking a richer, more lived faith. Key Catechism References Mentioned CCC 1450 – The acts of the penitent CCC 1471 – Indulgences and the sacrament of penance CCC 1474 – The Communion of Saints Guest Information Fr. Jacob Bearer Pastor, St. Edward & St. Lucy Parish Parkman, Ohio https://www.ssedwardlucy.com/ Diocese of Cleveland About the Host Greg Wasinski is a full-time Catholic Christian Evangelist and Author who has traveled the country since 2009, sharing a message of hope through faith. He has presented in over 130 cities across 29 states and two countries. His podcasts and video blogs have been seen worldwide, inspiring others to commit more deeply to a relationship with God and helping the faithful better understand “why we believe what we believe.” For more information, visit: Trilogy Retreat Property is a 24-acre, bed-and-breakfast-style retreat property in Northeast Ohio. With five guest rooms, a two-acre lake, a guest cottage, a swimming pool, and an indoor hot tub, guests feel comfortable while allowing their souls to find rest and experience God in a new way. For more information, visit: Music provided by, and copyright, Michael James Mette – “Glimpses of You” #ChristianPodcast#FaithAndRealLife #CatholicPodcast #Penance #Confession #CatholicFaith #SpiritualGrowth #Evangelization #HopeAndHealing #FaithJourney #SpiritualFreedom #HopeAndHealing #BackToChurch /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/39449745

"I Got Your Back" with Miguel Chavez 10/01/2025

"I Got Your Back" with Miguel Chavez When someone you love is drifting, what’s the most evangelical thing you can do? Say—and live—“I got your back.” In this heartfelt conversation, Greg Wasinski and guest Miguel Chavez unpack the power of accompaniment: authentic friendship that stands with people in their restlessness, grief, questions, and return to God. From airports full of people glued to phones to the quiet courage of making eye contact and asking, “Are you okay?”, Greg and Miguel explore how clinging to God’s grace changes what (and who) we cling to. They talk about Gen Z’s search for meaning, why savoring faith matters in a fast-scroll world, and how story—not slogans—opens hearts. Miguel shares a recent health scare and the simple words that carried him: “We’re here.” Greg connects this to the One Initiative and preventative ministry—reaching people before the crisis. Together they revisit the woman at the well, lost sheep on the cliff’s edge, and what it really means to be “good news” for someone else. If you’ve been praying for a spouse, child, or friend to come home, this episode gives you language, hope, and a next step: be present, be patient, and keep saying, “I’ve got you.” Share this with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Greg Wasinski is a full-time Catholic Christian Evangelist and Author who has traveled the country since 2009, sharing a message of hope through faith. He has presented in over 130 cities across 29 states and two countries. His podcasts and video blogs have been seen worldwide, inspiring others to commit more deeply to a relationship with God and helping the faithful better understand “why we believe what we believe.” For more information, visit: Trilogy Retreat Property is a 24-acre, bed-and-breakfast-style retreat property in Northeast Ohio. With five guest rooms, a two-acre lake, a guest cottage, a swimming pool, and an indoor hot tub, guests feel comfortable while allowing their souls to find rest and experience God in a new way. For more information, visit: Music provided by, and copyright, Michael James Mette – “Glimpses of You” #IGotYourBack #FaithAndRealLife #GregWasinski #MiguelChavez #TheOneInitiative #Evangelization #Accompaniment #AuthenticFriendship #ClingToGrace #LostSheep #Hope #Testimony #ChristianPodcast #CatholicPodcast #YoungAdults #PreventativeMinistry #SavorTheMoment #PutDownThePhone #RestlessHearts #WomanAtTheWell #MentalHealthAndFaith #RetreatLife #TrilogyRetreat #ComeBackToChurch /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/38393690

"Life Experiences with Mimi" - Guest Millie Prebel 07/30/2025

"Life Experiences with Mimi" - Guest Millie Prebel In this heartfelt episode of Faith & Real Life, Greg Wasinski welcomes special guest Millie Prebel to explore the power of life experiences in shaping who we are and how we live our faith. From unexpected turns to moments of grace, Millie shares personal stories of transformation, hope, and learning to trust in God through it all. Millie's experience as a "Mimi" shares an interesting parallel with her path as a spiritual director trained in Ignatian Spirituality. Don't worry, this isn't a theological conversation, this is two friends talking life and faith - Mille was the original guest host of the Faith and Real Life Podcast in 2020-2021. 🎙️ Topics Covered: How our past prepares us for purpose Letting go of perfectionism in spiritual growth Finding peace in the process - Why your story matters Subscribe and share with someone who needs encouragement today. 📲 More inspiration at faithandreallife.com FaithAndRealLife #LifeExperiences #FaithJourney #TestimonyOfFaith #GodInOurStory #HopeInHardship #CatholicInspiration #SpiritualGrowth #RealLifeFaith #FindingPurpose #TrustGodAlways #OvercomingWithFaith #YourStoryMatters #MilliePrebel #GregWasinski Greg Wasinski is a full-time Catholic Christian Evangelist and Author who has traveled the country since 2009, sharing a message of hope through faith. He has presented in over 130 cities across 29 states and two countries. His podcasts and video blogs have been seen worldwide, inspiring others to commit more deeply to a relationship with God and helping the faithful better understand “why we believe what we believe.” For more information, visit: www.GregWasinski.com Trilogy Retreat Property is a 24-acre, bed-and-breakfast-style retreat property in Northeast Ohio. With five guest rooms, a two-acre lake, a guest cottage, a swimming pool, and an indoor hot tub, guests feel comfortable while allowing their souls to find rest and experience God in a new way. For more information, visit: www.Trilogy.center Music provided by, and copyright, Michael James Mette – “Glimpses of You” /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/37607850

"Burnt Out, Worn Out, Churched Out" 05/29/2025

"Burnt Out, Worn Out, Churched Out" “The illusion of leadership is to think we can be led out of the desert by someone who’s never been there.” - Henri Nouwen Have you ever given everything you had—emotionally, spiritually, physically—only to find yourself dry, disconnected, and asking if you belong anymore? You’re not alone. In this deeply honest and uplifting episode, Catholic speaker and evangelist Greg Wasinski opens his heart about the very real struggles of spiritual fatigue. Whether you're a ministry leader, a church volunteer, or someone quietly sitting in the pews wondering if you’re the only one feeling numb—this is the conversation you need. 🔹 Greg explores the powerful difference between being burnt out, worn out, or churched out, and what each one truly means. 🔹 He shares biblical wisdom, including the story of Elijah, and personal revelations from his 16-year ministry journey. 🔹 Discover practical steps to renew your soul, reconnect with your purpose, and let God nurse you back to spiritual health. 🔥 If you’re tired of feeling exhausted by the very thing that once gave you life, this episode is your reminder: You’re not alone. You’re not broken. And God still has more for you. There comes a time in life, regardless of certain situations, that our hearts and minds lose their shine because of humanness. Possibly it's our fault for taking on too much. Maybe, life has just put circumstances before us that wear us down. Even in the church, it can stop being worship and turn into mere attendance, or worse, a burden. Greg Wasinski helps us identify these stages of struggle and then gives us practical tips to overcome them. Greg's own story of experiencing these very things while in ministry shows us that we are not alone, and we are not broken when they happen to us. Greg Wasinski is a full-time Catholic Christian Evangelist and Author who has traveled the country since 2009, sharing a message of hope through faith. He has presented in over 130 cities across 29 states and two countries. His podcasts and video blogs have been seen worldwide, inspiring others to commit more deeply to a relationship with God and helping the faithful better understand “why we believe what we believe.” For more information, visit: Trilogy Retreat Property is a 24-acre, bed-and-breakfast-style retreat property in Northeast Ohio. With five guest rooms, a two-acre lake, a guest cottage, a swimming pool, and an indoor hot tub, guests feel comfortable while allowing their souls to find rest and experience God in a new way. For more information, visit: Music provided by, and copyright, Michael James Mette – “Glimpses of You” www.MJM7.band /episode/index/show/faithandreallife/id/36769335