The Salt & Light Podcasts
Salt & Light Podcast is the home to Desert Wanderers Podcast and Previously S.A.L.T Podcast. Desert Wanderers focuses on faith & Vocational Journies from Priests, religious, and laity. Get to know the person in the pew next to you. Come & See what the Lord is calling you to!
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A Life Dedicated to the Poor: With Sister Joachim
11/13/2025
A Life Dedicated to the Poor: With Sister Joachim
In this inspiring episode of Desert Wanderers, we welcome Sister Joachim, who shares her incredible journey from a multicultural upbringing in England to her profound vocation as a Missionary of Charity. Listen as she recounts her experiences working with the poorest communities across the globe, including her time in Macedonia, Poland, and Ethiopia. Sister Joachim discusses the importance of community, the challenges faced by women in vulnerable situations, and the joy of living a life dedicated to service. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that highlights the beauty of faith and the call to love. 🔔 New episodes drop every Wednesday Subscribe so you never miss an inspiring story from Desert Wanderers! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more uplifting content! 👍🔔 Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers Intro (05:59) Sister’s vocation really begins in her First Communion (11:34) In confession, Father asked me what I want to do with my life (16:17) Sister told me to go back to school because medicine needs me (22:18) I joined Missions of Charity. My manager at the time told me nuns don't dance (23:03) There's this innate spirituality of a child, right? (26:20) How did your parents help you spiritually in your childhood (31:50) The Catholic community is incredibly important in today's world (37:49) Catholic communities are growing because so many people live away from their families (39:38) It sounds like the Holy Spirit was really moving in your childhood (46:00) Is it hard to visualize yourself as a religious (54:20) Sister Joins the Missions of Charity (59:09) Missionaries of Charity worked with gypsies in communist Yugoslavia (01:04:04) Sister then served in Poland and Eastern Europe from 1889 to 2004 (01:08:26) Meeting Father Dom (01:12:10) There is a whole new world in the Somali region of. And 16 million Somalis (01:15:38) FGM is very prevalent among Somalis (01:20:54) I'm looking for volunteers to help develop the mission. (01:25:19) Sister says mission is making Jesus present through humble works
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Discovering the Secular Franciscan Order: W/Terri And Evelyn
11/12/2025
Discovering the Secular Franciscan Order: W/Terri And Evelyn
In this enlightening episode of Desert Wanderers, we explore the unique world of the Secular Franciscan Order with our guests, Terri and Evelyn. They share their personal journeys into this vocation, the differences between the various Franciscan orders, and the significance of living a life grounded in the teachings of St. Francis. Discover how this community fosters joy, fraternity, and active engagement with the world, all while navigating the complexities of faith and service. Join us as we delve into what it truly means to be a Secular Franciscan and how you can become a part of this vibrant community. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: () Desert Wanderers interviews priests, religious, and laity in the Boise diocese () Today, we are talking about the secular Franciscan order () Terry: How does the Franciscan order differ from other religious orders () Franciscans were the last order of the church to be canonically recognized () Terry, how did you find the Franciscan () How did you first hear of the Franciscans? And when did you decide () If I became a Franciscan, I would probably have to have a tattoo () The whole process is three years. So the inquiry is six months, and then the candidacy is four years () Pope Leo XIII rewrote the prayer rule to make it more active () Terry: What does a day in the life of a Franciscan look like () We talked about how people struggle with prayer because they're trying to fit () I love the story of St. Clair, too. Like, that's such a crazy story () We have ongoing formation to maintain and understand our spirituality () There are 26 parts to our rule. How long is the rule? Would it take us a while to get through () Franciscans cultivate a spirit of peace, fidelity, and respect for life () Could you go through what a community meeting would look like, then each month () It just binds us together that we can disagree, but there's still family () What does the demographic of the Franciscans look like in Boise () St. Francis says God is always walking with us. And he can withstand whatever happens () I mean, it's just so important when we have our transitionist () Franciscan spirituality says Jesus had to die for our sins () This episode of Desert Wanderers was produced by Salt Night Radio
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Students for Life @ BSU with Alexis
11/04/2025
Students for Life @ BSU with Alexis
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Alexis Fisher, a passionate pro-life advocate and current student at Boise State University. Alexis shares her journey from New Jersey, where she grew up in a pro-life household, to her current activism efforts in Idaho. We dive into her experiences protesting, the challenges of starting a pro-life club on campus, and the importance of community support in the fight for life. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, activism, and education in the pro-life movement. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: () Desert Wanderers intro () Where did Alexis's Prolife Work Start () Your dad is a central part of your journey into the pro-life movement () Fatih and the prolife ministry () There is no pro-life club on Boise State University's campus () At Belmont Abbey, there was a program for pregnant college students () Women's health- Many people their age find out they have PCOS or endometriosis () Politically Charged topics about Abortion () Boise State is a pretty pro-life campus () The atmosphere at Boise State is welcoming when it comes to pro life issues () Do you guys do any type of fundraising or what to help put on your events () How does your club work with bringing in speakers? Um, it depends () You said that you worked with St. John's on some pro life initiatives () How do you stay up to date on political news on UA campus () Have you guys gotten connected with anyone at the Capitol here in Idaho () Have you worked at all with the Newman Center? Uh, and talking with people about your pro-life mission () One other thing I wanted to mention earlier, and I actually forgot () The pro-life group struggles with financial and recruitment issues () Ontario is right on the border between Idaho and Washington state () M. Wand: We're trying to get a group to go to Ontario
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Generational Catholicism: The Heart of Catholic Family Life ep. 9
10/24/2025
Generational Catholicism: The Heart of Catholic Family Life ep. 9
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we embark on an enlightening journey with Father Cintra as he introduces the Generational Catholicism series. Together with hosts Jake and Lindsay, they delve into the four pillars of family formation as adapted from Father Carter Griffin's insights. The discussion emphasizes the importance of human, spiritual, intellectual, and apostolic formation, particularly focusing on how these elements shape parenting and the transmission of faith. Tune in to explore how fostering healthy relationships and prioritizing human formation can lead to a more profound understanding of Catholicism across generations. Chapters: (00:00) Father Cintra will be discussing Generational Catholicism on Desert Wanderers (06:22) Seminary makes distinction between being normal and being common (10:10) This book outlines five, five virtues for the human formation pillar (10:45) To develop order or orderliness is another way of saying that. So order and sincerity (12:46) Maggie Flanagan says saying no to things helps families (21:05) Flexible firmness in maintaining our standards of order. Um, drawing can become distraction for family (23:49) If our priority is human formation, there's very few professions that can't learn later (33:26) The end is really relationships and people, not hard skills, right (36:53) Something that I've heard many, many times is, oh, you homeschool (39:30) When you recognize an area of woundedness, where does that lead (41:43) M. M. discusses developing human formation when kids are growing and developing (49:36) A lot of good things that I was seeing in him were hidden in sports (50:48) St. Augustine said, safeguard order and order will safeguard you. And from Fulton Sheen, the order imposed by Church teachings (01:00:30) Father Burke Masters wrote an autobiography about his childhood and becoming a priest (01:06:32) Closing thoughts. Your last words, I feel compelled to just say (01:08:42) This week's Desert Wanderers podcast was produced by Salt and Light Radio
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The Marquette Method: Empowering Couples to Embrace Fertility
10/09/2025
The Marquette Method: Empowering Couples to Embrace Fertility
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we welcome Ashley Klein, a registered nurse and Natural Family Planning (NFP) instructor, to share her inspiring journey of faith and vocation. Ashley discusses her conversion to Catholicism, her experiences with various NFP methods, and the importance of informed choices in family planning. Discover how the Marquette Method can empower couples to navigate their fertility while fostering communication and understanding within their relationships. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, health, and community! Resourses: Ashley Klein Use Ashley's Code (24MMNFP) to get 45% off MIRA wands! Chapters: (00:00) Ashley Klein is a registered nurse in Michigan who converted to Catholicism (07:59) Do you actually teach for your parish or do you offer classes at your parish (09:49) Do you feel like you still meet people who don't know about nfp (13:59) What age do you think people should start talking about periods with children (16:31) I don't think the husband should shut the conversation down when daughter asks question (17:31) NFP stands for Natural Family Planning and according to the (26:19) There are different reasons that we can space our children, and one of them could be health reasons (32:35) I think someone needs to be competent when using Marquette method (35:49) Do you think it's important for couples to do NFP together (40:05) Some people struggle more than others with abstaining from sex (42:30) So I am the cycle coach for the Fertility for Formula masterclass (46:38) Have you seen any correlation between holistic products and infertility (51:50) Mold is almost number one mold. So the mold and what it does to hormones is unbelievable (52:37) Napro technology is wonderful. No, it's so great. We defer to napro technologists sometimes (54:19) When PCOS is unmanaged, I see multiple LH surges (56:49) The one thing that's cool about MIRA is you can test multiple times (58:22) Make sure your heart is open to whatever decision you make
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Integrating Faith and Psychology: W/ Jacob from Archangel Catholic
10/02/2025
Integrating Faith and Psychology: W/ Jacob from Archangel Catholic
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we are joined by Jacob Frasier from Archangel Catholic, a therapy clinic dedicated to integrating faith and mental health. Jacob shares his personal faith journey and how it has influenced his work in counseling. He discusses the importance of understanding the difference between perfection and excellence, the role of virtues like temperance and humility in our daily lives, and how therapy can help individuals navigate their mental and spiritual well-being. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on how to build a community rooted in faith and support! 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Resources: Archangel Catholic Salt and Light Radio Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud Exodus 90 Newman Center Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers Intro (00:44) Today is the feast of the Archangels (01:54) Jacob's Fatih Background (07:47) Perfection versus Excellence (11:19)Faith and Therapy (13:14) Therapy without faith can lead to stagnation, (15:58) How do you help people see their identity in God (20:11) What virtues does our world need today? (24:06) What do healthy coping mechanisms look? (30:01) Let's Dive into Humility (35:00) How much of our behavior is nature and how much is nurture (40:48) Today is the feast day of the archangels. What Makes Archangel Catholic Different (43:55) Do you ever feel like you have to set a boundary between therapy and spiritual advisement (51:32) Some questions to ask a counselor or a therapist about faith issues #Faith #Counseling #MentalHealth #CatholicTherapy #Virtues #Perfection #Excellence #Community #BoiseDiocese #ArchangelCatholic #JacobFrasier #Temperance #Humility #IdentityInChrist #SpiritualLife #PsychologicalWell-Being #TherapyAndFaith #PersonalGrowth #CatholicCounseling #mentalwellness
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Understanding the Temperaments: With David Lach
09/30/2025
Understanding the Temperaments: With David Lach
In this enlightening episode of Desert Wanderers, we explore the fascinating world of temperaments with clinical mental health counselor David. Join us as we delve into the four temperaments—sanguine, choleric, melancholic, and phlegmatic—discuss their characteristics, how they interact with one another, and their implications in our daily lives and relationships. David shares personal insights from his journey in counseling and the importance of understanding our temperaments to foster better connections within our communities. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and those around you! #Sanguine #Choleric #Melancholic #Phlagmatic 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Contact David: Scroll down to his name Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers INTRO (01:11) David's Background (13:55) When where you first introduced to the temperaments (15:01) Do you use the temperaments at all in your clinical work (17:57) What are the four temperaments, and their history (21:45)Personality Test vs the Temperaments (28:42) Temeperament and Mental Health (32:09) How temperaments interact with each other (45:23) Common frustrations between each temperament (49:36) The Phlegmatic (52:38) How does each temperament typically express their needs? (57:45) Each temperament might have a tendency to a certain deadly Sin (59:57) Let's review the positive virtues of each temperament (01:06:03) Temperaments and prayer (01:09:25) Last Thoughts (01:13:02) Ending Prayer
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The Spirit Alive: Emily's conversion Story from Charismatic Movement to Catholic
09/29/2025
The Spirit Alive: Emily's conversion Story from Charismatic Movement to Catholic
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we welcome Emily, a recent convert to Catholicism, who shares her profound spiritual journey from Evangelical Christianity to the Catholic Church. Emily reflects on her experiences, the challenges of navigating her faith, and the beauty she discovered in Catholic teachings. This heartfelt conversation explores themes of community, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the significance of the sacraments, offering listeners a unique perspective on faith and transformation. Notes from the show : Encounter School: The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun: 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: () Desert Wanderers interviews priests, religious and laypeople in Boise diocese () Emily's Background () How did you get into the Charismatic movement () You experienced speaking in tongues before going to Africa with a charismatic group () I started praying for the gifts of the Holy Spirit () When I started praying in tongues, people initially thought it was demonic () I think we've explained so much of Catholicism away with the rise of science () Sometimes faith doesn't always feel emotional. () The grace that Jesus gives in the sacraments has been so transformative () There's infighting between Catholics () God's desire for the church to become one () When did you start being exposed to Catholic teaching or thoughts () For me, praying to Mary was kind of the biggest hurdle () The process of coming into the church
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Generational Catholicism: The Roots of Faith With Fr. Julio
09/10/2025
Generational Catholicism: The Roots of Faith With Fr. Julio
In this enlightening episode of Desert Wanderers, Father Cintra introduces a new segment titled "Generational Catholicism" featuring Father Julio Vicente, the pastor of Our Lady of the Valley. Together, they explore the challenges and successes of passing down the Catholic faith through generations. Father Vicente shares his personal journey, the significance of a pastor's presence in a parish, and the vital role of family in nurturing faith amidst a rapidly changing cultural landscape. Join us as we unpack these profound insights and reflect on the importance of a strong spiritual foundation in our homes. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Father Cintra will be doing his Generational Catholicism series (00:39) Father Julio Vicente's story is relevant to our project, Generational Catholicism (01:28) How are things going here in Caldwell so far for you (05:05) What is it like leaving one parish, family and going into another (09:53) Most young Catholics leave the Catholic Church by the time they become teenagers (15:27) What was your family like growing up? And what do you think (23:05) San Alfonso Ligorri says grace is still available when sacraments are unavailable (24:58) How would you describe your human formation as a family at home (31:09) You mentioned that God disciplines us because who loves us (37:49) How did the call to the priesthood come to you (44:12) The importance of having a warm and affectionate home is well-documented (51:20) How old was your sister when she entered the convent (59:57) Did you ever see your parents exercise a personal prayer life (01:03:02) One last question about how secular culture influences families when you were growing up
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Building Bonds: How Storylink Prison Ministry Transforming Families Ep.52
09/10/2025
Building Bonds: How Storylink Prison Ministry Transforming Families Ep.52
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we explore the transformative power of storytelling through the lens of Storylink Idaho, a unique prison ministry that connects incarcerated parents with their children through books. Join hosts Jan and Marian as they interview Maryann Kis, the founder of Storylink, who shares her journey from teaching to clowning, and ultimately to establishing this impactful program. Discover how Storylink not only nurtures familial bonds but also fosters hope and healing within the prison system. Tune in to learn how this initiative is building a bridge between parents and their children, one story at a time. Chapters: (00:00) intro (02:23) Story of Storylink idaho (04:59) QR code technology to allow inmates to read to their grandchildren (12:18) Do you need volunteers that are bilingual then? (13:56) Mary Ann: Where do you guys get your books? (17:20) How many times do you go to prisons (19:22) Residents can leave messages for their children during a recording (20:12) Idaho Department of Corrections focuses on nurturing family relationship through reading (25:29)Sometimes grandparents have a hard time communicating with their grandchildren (30:50) Catholic social teaching goes into Catholic prison ministry (32:45) You never get over the stigma of having your child in prison (42:37) How did you first discover this program Again? You said that you had read this book (44:09) Did you take this to prayer and did you see results (45:05) How many volunteers do you currently have and are waiting for approval (52:16) Are all residents able to be in your program? (54:06) There are several kinds of roles that a volunteer can fill (57:57) Do you guys have someone in a facility advertising for your program or (01:02:55) So what do you guys feel like you need the most right now (01:07:24) Is anyone able to come and sing carols with you guys as well (01:08:12) Desert Wanderers podcast is produced by Salt and Light Radio
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Caleb Burbach: BSU FOCUS Missionary & Creedo app Creator
08/21/2025
Caleb Burbach: BSU FOCUS Missionary & Creedo app Creator
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, Caleb Burbach, a Focus missionary in Boise. We also delve into his faith journey, the role of Focus in college communities, and the launch of his new app, Creedo, designed to make learning about the Catholic faith engaging and accessible. Join us for a delightful conversation filled with humor, insights, and a passion for building community! SUPPORT CALEB AS A MISSIONARY: CREEDO LINKS: iPhone app: Web: 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Intro & Can Caleb Cook? Total Shenanigans (22:19) Caleb's Faith Journey (43:00) Is there a God? (44:41) The question is, is there a Jesus? (51:09) Liar, Lunatic or Lord (52:05) All religions have a founder that is not Christ except for Catholicism (56:22) When I came to that conclusion, I was not going anywhere (01:12:23) Caleb, Focus on working with fraternity guys at Boise State (01:19:40) The Throne Annalogy (01:23:56) The heaven-forward mindset is living as if that's a reality (01:26:10) Creedo: You have an app coming out only for iPhone (01:30:11)Temperance with the Brick (01:30:50) I'm thinking about making Catholic apps that are more accessible to younger generations (01:34:40) Stop Playing Block Blast and play CREEDO (01:36:40) Focus FOCUS helps students find focus missionaries through donations (01:38:57) Caleb Burbach: Go find a missionary immediately on college campuses (01:43:41) Thank you for listening to this week's Desert Wanderers podcast
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The Heart of a Seminarian: Ryan's Story of Faith Ep 50
08/15/2025
The Heart of a Seminarian: Ryan's Story of Faith Ep 50
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Ryan, a seminarian from Boise, who shares his inspiring journey of faith and discernment. From his early days in Pocatello to his experiences at St. Paul Seminary, Ryan opens up about the challenges and blessings he has encountered along the way. Discover how he navigated through moments of doubt and rediscovered his calling, all while emphasizing the importance of community and prayer in the vocation journey. Join us as we explore the beautiful path of becoming a priest and the significance of support from the Catholic community. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Welcome to Desert Wanderers, produced by Salt and Light Radio (01:14) Ryan's introduction (08:03) At what point did seminary first come on your radar (16:47) Was there anyone specifically who prompted you to join the seminary (18:41) What is the hardest part of saying yes to your vocation (20:47) Moment that strengthened your faith (24:05) What do you think you're most excited for once you become a priest (28:57) What are some of your interests in hobbies outside of the seminary (31:02) How can the Catholic community in Idaho best support you and your Fellow seminarians (35:36) What is your favorite saint or scripture verse and, and why
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Guillermo Gutierrez (Memo): A Journey of Faith and Community
08/07/2025
Guillermo Gutierrez (Memo): A Journey of Faith and Community
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Memo, a seminarian in Boise, who shares his unique journey to the priesthood. From his vibrant upbringing in a Catholic family to his experiences in seminary life, Memo discusses the importance of community and the role it played in his discernment process. He reflects on the challenges and joys of preparing for a life dedicated to serving others, emphasizing the significance of the sacraments and the calling to be present in the lives of parishioners. Join us as we explore faith, vocation, and the beauty of responding to God's love. Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers Intro (01:16) Memos vocation story (13:42) Did you start the seminary down in Mexico, or did you come to Idaho (23:08) What do you think the hardest part of saying yes to the priesthood has been (27:28) How has seminary strengthened your faith at this point, then? (39:03) People in the diocese are coming to support seminarians (42:30) What is your favorite saint?
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Embracing the Call: With Ian Willnerd Ep.48
07/31/2025
Embracing the Call: With Ian Willnerd Ep.48
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we welcome Ian, a seminarian currently studying in Minnesota, who shares his profound vocation story and journey towards the priesthood. Join us as we explore the significance of community, the challenges of seminary life, and the beauty of spiritual fatherhood. Ian reflects on the importance of prayer, relationships, and the unique calling of priests to serve others. This insightful conversation invites listeners to deepen their understanding of vocation and the role of faith in everyday life. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Intro (01:01) Prayer (01:35) Ians Background (06:04) Was there any encouragement that helped you make the decision to become a priest (07:56) What has been the hardest part about saying yes to your calling (10:09) Can you share a moment in seminary that has strengthened your faith (16:45) priesthood and the spiritual fatherhood (30:08) Being seen and known by your friends (36:17) What advice would you give someone who is nervous about becoming a priest (43:19) chasing ideals in discernment (44:17) What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of seminary right now (46:54) What does it mean to you personally when people support your vocation (49:19) What is your favorite saint and or scripture verse?
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The Gentle Call: Boise Seminarian, Nathan Ribb
07/23/2025
The Gentle Call: Boise Seminarian, Nathan Ribb
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Nathan, a seminarian from the Boise Diocese, who shares his inspiring journey towards the priesthood. From his early life in California to his current studies in seminary, Nathan opens up about the challenges and joys of discerning his vocation. He discusses the importance of community support, the role of prayer, and the profound impact of his experiences in seminary. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about faith, calling, and the journey to becoming a shepherd for others. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers interviews priests, religious and seminarians in Boise diocese (00:44) Meeting Nathan (03:57) When did you start to think more seriously about the priesthood (13:01) What was the hardest part about saying yes in your vocation (14:27) You've received these abundant gifts through the seminary (19:35) Seminary is a constant purification of faith and hope (22:19) You talked about how your view of Christ has changed a little bit (31:20) What does it mean to you when people support you in your vocation (34:05) Nathan: Where is Christ calling you to excellence? Where is mediocrity
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The Gentle Call: Boise Seminarian, Nathan Ribb
07/23/2025
The Gentle Call: Boise Seminarian, Nathan Ribb
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Nathan, a seminarian from the Boise Diocese, who shares his inspiring journey towards the priesthood. From his early life in California to his current studies in seminary, Nathan opens up about the challenges and joys of discerning his vocation. He discusses the importance of community support, the role of prayer, and the profound impact of his experiences in seminary. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about faith, calling, and the journey to becoming a shepherd for others. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers interviews priests, religious and seminarians in Boise diocese (00:44) Meeting Nathan (03:57) When did you start to think more seriously about the priesthood (13:01) What was the hardest part about saying yes in your vocation (14:27) You've received these abundant gifts through the seminary (19:35) Seminary is a constant purification of faith and hope (22:19) You talked about how your view of Christ has changed a little bit (31:20) What does it mean to you when people support you in your vocation (34:05) Nathan: Where is Christ calling you to excellence? Where is mediocrity
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Firepit: Navigating Faith and Community
07/17/2025
Firepit: Navigating Faith and Community
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we gather around the Fire Pit with a dynamic group of young adults from the Boise diocese. Join us as we explore the vibrant community of Fire Pit, a social organization for those in their 20s and 30s, and hear personal stories of faith, connection, and the journey back to Catholicism. Our guests share their experiences, the importance of building community, and how Fire Pit is addressing the loneliness many young adults face today. Don't miss this insightful conversation about faith, friendship, and finding your place in the Church! 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Intro (03:37) What is Firepit, and who is behind this ministry (11:58) Fire Pit has three directors: social director, communications director, and programming director (13:35) Fire pit puts on Tap Into Theology (15:37) People are struggling to make friends because they're lonely (18:09) Breaking away from your phone and joining a live group (19:44) Let's go into some of the events that you have going into the fall (25:31) What is everyone's favorite event that Firepit hosts (30:16) You met your fiancé through a fire pit event (37:07) If someone's curious about a fire pit or they're new to Catholicism (41:14) Fire Pit hosts several events, not just faith-building (47:11) Fellowship in the Park (48:39) Do you guys think you'll ever do an alumni event (56:32) What is your upcoming events? Where can people find you (59:06) We talk about firepit and social media in this Desert Wanderers podcast
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Bridging Generations: The Heart of Catholic Family Life
07/10/2025
Bridging Generations: The Heart of Catholic Family Life
In the latest episode of Desert Wanderers, Father Cintra introduces the Generational Catholicism series, a vital exploration into how families can successfully pass on their Catholic faith to the next generation. This episode is particularly significant as it highlights the sobering reality that only 15% of children raised in Catholic households remain faithful as adults. This statistic serves as a wake-up call for parents and families who wish to foster a deeper connection to their faith. Father Cintra leads us in a thoughtful discussion about the importance of creating a warm and affectionate home environment. He emphasizes that this nurturing atmosphere is foundational for children to feel seen, known, and loved, which ultimately translates into a stronger faith. Through engaging conversations with four couples, listeners gain insights into the practical ways these families have cultivated their faith at home. The episode also delves into the role of grandparents in shaping the faith of younger generations. As families often find themselves in a multi-generational living situation, the influence of grandparents can provide a unique perspective on faith transmission. This discussion encourages listeners to consider how family dynamics can either support or hinder their faith journey. One of the standout themes of the episode is the balance between high expectations and high affection in parenting. Father Cintra and the guests share that while it’s essential to have expectations for children, it’s equally important to envelop them in love and support. This balance creates an environment where children feel valued and understood, thus fostering their desire to embrace their faith. The episode wraps up with practical advice on family rituals, particularly the significance of shared meals and open communication. By establishing traditions that promote connection and dialogue, families can cultivate a sense of belonging and community that extends beyond just Sunday Mass. Overall, this episode of Desert Wanderers serves as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of intentional parenting and the power of family in nurturing faith. Tune in to discover how you can create a lasting legacy of faith in your family.
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The Joy of Religious Life: Father Jonathan's Vocation Journey
07/10/2025
The Joy of Religious Life: Father Jonathan's Vocation Journey
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Father Jonathan, a priest/Brother from Fraternity Verbum Spei , to explore his unique vocation journey. From his beginnings in New Zealand to his experiences in Mexico and Luxembourg, Father Jonathan shares insights about the importance of community, the role of priests in nurturing young faith, and the beauty of living a religious life. Discover how his upbringing and the influence of dedicated priests shaped his path to the priesthood and why he believes in the power of discernment. Join us for this inspiring conversation! 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Chapters: (00:00) Intro (01:54) Father Johnathan's background. (01:00:09) What would be your advice to anyone interested in pursuing religious life
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Father Hippolytus: Priest on Mission (A Vocation Story)
06/26/2025
Father Hippolytus: Priest on Mission (A Vocation Story)
Today Father Hippo sits down at the Desert Wanderers Podcast table to talk about his vocation story. He talks about how he was formed by his family, what inevitably lead him to want to be a priest and how he joined the Sons of Mary Mother of Mercy at 17. Join us to get to know our local priest a little better and see how the gift of "Mission" is healing the USA. As always if you want to support us please subscribe, like, and give us your feedback in the comments. We read and engage with all our comments on the podcast and we would love to hear who you would like to hear from next!
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Generational Catholicism: The Art of Human Formation
06/26/2025
Generational Catholicism: The Art of Human Formation
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, this discussion focuses on the transmission of faith from one generation to the next, drawing insights from the book Forming Families, Forming Saints by Father Carter Griffin. Join us as we explore the importance of human formation in parenting, the role of family dynamics, and how to cultivate virtues in our children. It's a heartfelt conversation that bridges the gap between faith and everyday family life. Chapters: (00:00) Father Cintra is doing his Generational Catholicism series on Desert Wanderers (00:38) What does it look like to live a generational Catholicism (01:34) Father, as you inspired St. Benedict, guide our families with an ordered way of life (02:38) You guys are getting ready to have one more baby any day now (05:27) The fourth pillar of priestly formation is pastoral formation (10:04) Father: Being humble in front of your kids is important (13:09) There are two separate categories of parenting that are important to unpack (16:52) Human information seeks to bring the best ingredients into the lives of our children (23:43) Human formation piece is essentially like building virtue (33:36) Ken talked about rewarding positive behavior. One of the words from the book was generous (37:36) My first memory of you guys was helping someone on Memorial Day (42:30) Teresa: There was a reasonableness to helping people (49:30) Catherine: I have three questions for Ken Senior about his upbringing (52:51) My parents were really big on making sure we had healthy peer relationships (59:54) Ken and Catherine started teaching their children about Catholicism early on (01:03:49) You mentioned that there is a high expectation for kindness in your home (01:07:58) You learn a lot about your relationship with the Father through relationship with parents (01:11:14) Would you want to speak to that, ke (01:11:27) So you mentioned about, um, my upbringing. It was a challenging childhood for sure (01:14:08) Teresa Moss: Order, sincerity, chastity and magnanimity (01:20:39) Order itself is important, but a tyrant brings about order and he succeeds
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Generational Catholicism: The Art of Human Formation
06/26/2025
Generational Catholicism: The Art of Human Formation
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, this discussion focuses on the transmission of faith from one generation to the next, drawing insights from the book Forming Families, Forming Saints by Father Carter Griffin. Join us as we explore the importance of human formation in parenting, the role of family dynamics, and how to cultivate virtues in our children. It's a heartfelt conversation that bridges the gap between faith and everyday family life. Chapters: (00:00) Father Cintra is doing his Generational Catholicism series on Desert Wanderers (00:38) What does it look like to live a generational Catholicism (01:34) Father, as you inspired St. Benedict, guide our families with an ordered way of life (02:38) You guys are getting ready to have one more baby any day now (05:27) The fourth pillar of priestly formation is pastoral formation (10:04) Father: Being humble in front of your kids is important (13:09) There are two separate categories of parenting that are important to unpack (16:52) Human information seeks to bring the best ingredients into the lives of our children (23:43) Human formation piece is essentially like building virtue (33:36) Ken talked about rewarding positive behavior. One of the words from the book was generous (37:36) My first memory of you guys was helping someone on Memorial Day (42:30) Teresa: There was a reasonableness to helping people (49:30) Catherine: I have three questions for Ken Senior about his upbringing (52:51) My parents were really big on making sure we had healthy peer relationships (59:54) Ken and Catherine started teaching their children about Catholicism early on (01:03:49) You mentioned that there is a high expectation for kindness in your home (01:07:58) You learn a lot about your relationship with the Father through relationship with parents (01:11:14) Would you want to speak to that, ke (01:11:27) So you mentioned about, um, my upbringing. It was a challenging childhood for sure (01:14:08) Teresa Moss: Order, sincerity, chastity and magnanimity (01:20:39) Order itself is important, but a tyrant brings about order and he succeeds
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Finding Joy in Parenting: Lessons from Waldorf Early Child Development Teacher
06/17/2025
Finding Joy in Parenting: Lessons from Waldorf Early Child Development Teacher
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Evelyn, a passionate educator and advocate for early childhood development, to discuss the intersection of faith and education. Evelyn shares her journey of founding her own childcare center, Joyful Noise. We explore her experiences with Waldorf education, the importance of community, and how to foster a nurturing environment for children. Join us as we explore the profound significance of seeing the divine in every person and the transformative power of kindness and understanding in our daily interactions. Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers Intro (1:02) Evelyn's Story (07:20) After graduating from college, I wanted to work for a parish (12:25) I think you have a real gift for people, which is attractive (18:04) Sometimes we're so obsessed with productivity that we miss the journey (19:36) How do you think your faith influenced your journey into early education (22:31) Why should we not have plastic toys (27:00) Montessori vs Waldorf (37:50) Thoughts on allowance (43:01) Winning the power struggle: From If to When (44:06) Sometimes parenting advice seems targeted at older kids, not younger one (45:07) Addressing Discipline and motivators for young children (51:34) Helping kids understand sorry is the number one thing we do (52:30) Why you shouldn't make your kids say sorry (55:50) The threenager (56:31) Sibling confrontations (3,4,5 year olds) (59:16) Waldorf and the four temperaments (01:04:32) Waldorf education is all about child development. American education isn't (01:09:36) Alternative to phones (01:09:55) For families trying to get away from TV; there are different strategies (01:13:53) So what would your advice be for someone who's already introduced tv (01:21:04) How do you deal with sharing toys (01:27:12) When it comes to parenting, what kind of self-awareness do we need (01:34:19) One of my favorite things to say to children is: I hear you (01:35) How to deal with an interrupting child (01:41:50)The Burrito for Energetic Children (01:49:56) The Being Good Jar: Make it easy to be good (01:55:45) What are realistic expectations versus unrealistic expectations when discussing children's chores (01:59) Sleep: Being good Juice (02:09) Children in Nature (02:32) Parting Advice for parents
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Discovering your path to prayer: With Father Tim
06/05/2025
Discovering your path to prayer: With Father Tim
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Father Tim as he shares his unique journey to the priesthood. From his initial unease in a seemingly perfect life to the profound moment of calling he experienced at a young adult event, Father Tim recounts the pivotal moments that led him to embrace his vocation. Join us as we explore the nuances of prayer, the different modalities of spirituality, and how to navigate the challenges of a busy life while cultivating a deeper relationship with God. Chapters: (00:00) Desert Wanderers interview priests, religious and others in Boise diocese (01:14) Fr. Tim Story (12:21) I think people are built very differently in prayer (17:00) For me, prayer felt selfish because I would just talk at God (19:16) I think sometimes we think of prayer and worship in a certain way (20:22) You can use visualization to help God speak to you in different ways (23:53) You can make the rosary very visual. (24:14) So you've got the written word and the spoken word. (27:30) How would you determine if what voice you're hearing is GOD (29:33) How to decern Gods will when choosing two goods (30:13) The devil can use anything and everything, including scripture (33:31) How do you develop understanding who Jesus is and discerning his voice (37:25) So what kind of questions should we be asking ourselves about what type of prayer we are inclined to (43:45) How to pray in our busy lives (47:14) Do we need to simplify our lives (51:57) Let's talk about the intensity of prayer. (57:35) Accountability in prayer (01:04:07) Living a Catholic life doesn't necessarily mean that it's always prayerful (01:04:36) What does it look like for Beginner, intermediate, and Expert Prayer (01:08:04) Let's talk about the environment (01:09:40) So any last piece of advice do you have for, um, busy people (01:10:10) Do you want to lead us in prayer then, to end our conversation
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The Joys and Challenges of Growing Families
05/30/2025
The Joys and Challenges of Growing Families
In this heartfelt episode, we welcome Natalie Lair to the Generational Catholicism Series. She joins us ( Father Cintra and The Dysons) to explore the profound dynamics of parenthood, particularly the journey of welcoming a new child into the family. Through engaging discussions and personal anecdotes, we explore the practicalities of parenting, the sacrifices involved, and the spiritual growth that accompanies raising children. Join us as we reflect on the joys and challenges of family life, and how each new addition shapes not only the children but also the parents in their quest for sanctification.
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Science and Faith Episode 4
05/21/2025
Science and Faith Episode 4
Dr. David Lamey discusses the intersection of science and faith, focusing on biology, particularly DNA and the genetic code. He explains that cells are like automated factories, with DNA as the central information system. Human cells contain 3.2 billion nucleotide bases, with only 1.5% coding for proteins. The ENCODE project revealed that 80% of DNA is functional. Lamey critiques evolutionary theories, noting the lack of transitional fossils and the improbability of random genetic mutations leading to functional improvements. He concludes that functional information in life suggests an intelligent source, challenging the notion that life is a cosmic accident. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast )
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Science and Faith Episode 3
05/14/2025
Science and Faith Episode 3
Dr. David Lamey discusses the Big Bang Theory and its implications for Christian theology. He explains that the Big Bang Theory claims the universe began with a hot, dense state, smaller than an atom, 13.8 billion years ago. This contradicts historical beliefs of an eternal universe held by philosophers like Aristotle and scientists like Einstein. Lamey details the evidence supporting the Big Bang, including redshift observations by Slipher and Hubble's measurements of galaxy distances. He also touches on alternative theories like steady-state, oscillating universe, inflationary theory, and quantum cosmology, concluding that scientific evidence points to a creator out of nothing. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of faith, hope, and community! 👂 Tune in and be inspired! Social Media: Instagram ( / desertwandererspodcast ) Tiktok ( / desertwandererspodcast )
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Science & Faith Episode Two
04/30/2025
Science & Faith Episode Two
In this enlightening episode of Desert Wanderers, Dr. David Lamy takes us on a journey through the historical relationship between science and faith. He challenges the widely held belief that these two realms have always been at odds, exploring how Christianity actually played a pivotal role in the scientific revolution. Join us as we uncover the truths behind the conflict thesis, the contributions of early scientists, and the often misunderstood role of the Catholic Church in advancing scientific knowledge. If you've ever wondered about the intersection of science and faith, this episode is a must-listen!
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Science & Faith 4 Part Series Episode one
04/23/2025
Science & Faith 4 Part Series Episode one
In this episode, physician and science enthusiast Dave Lamy explores the intricate relationship between science and faith, challenging the common perception of their inherent conflict. Delving into the historical context of the scientific revolution, Dave highlights the significant contributions of Christian scientists and examines the factors that led to the modern divide between science and faith. Join us as we uncover the truth behind the so-called 'conflict thesis' and the often misunderstood role of the Catholic Church in scientific advancement.
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Finding Faith Through Suffering With Deacon Lou Aaron
04/16/2025
Finding Faith Through Suffering With Deacon Lou Aaron
In this episode of Desert Wanderers, we sit down with Deacon Lou as he shares his incredible journey of faith, personal struggles, and the transformative power of community. He discusses the importance of genuine conversations and how we can reconnect with the world around us. Deacon Lou also opens up about his battle with cancer, the role of prayer, and the significance of living a life aligned with God's purpose. Join us for an inspiring conversation that bridges the gap between faith and everyday life.
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