Fiat in the Mess

Blessed, Stressed, & Totally Present

Blessed, Stressed, and Totally Present Episode Summary How do we stay present to our children, our vocation, and God when we’re sleep-deprived, overwhelmed, and pulled in a dozen directions? Annie and Hailey explore the daily struggle to live in the present moment, grounded in agape love and Christ’s invitation to trust the Father with tomorrow. They share practical changes they’ve made, reflect on what our children really need from us, and close with St. Faustina’s Prayer for the Present Moment. Key Themes Agape is the foundation of motherhood. Most of us don’t struggle to love our kids. We struggle to know how to show up for them in daily life. Presence says “I see you.” Eye contact and undivided attention communicate dignity and love. Being present is not a new problem. Jesus constantly tells us not to worry about tomorrow. “Give us this day our daily bread.” Technology is a tool, not the enemy. The real question is what we reach for when we’re anxious, bored, or avoiding something hard. Our kids mostly want us. Not a perfect house or a perfect schedule. Discussion Highlights Hailey’s anxiety isn’t about her children themselves, but about the to-do list, work deadlines, and whether she’s measuring up as a mother and homemaker. Her Catechesis of the Good Shepherd training reminded her that parents are the primary educators of their children. She can’t control her kids’ faith, but she can prepare the environment so God can meet them there. She met a woman whose family traveled the country for a year, then settled on rural Texas land. Hailey concluded that you don’t have to move to be present. God calls her to the moment she’s in, in her own home. Hailey’s three-year-old asked his dad, “Does your teacher have the same eyes? My teacher has beautiful eyes.” In the atrium, children and teachers greet each other with eye contact and a handshake. It made Hailey ask whether she really looks at her son when she speaks to him. Annie shares how her teenagers often get compliments from engaged couples for looking people in the eye and shaking hands. After a big tantrum, Hailey’s son said, “Mama, I just want to be with you.” As the family became more connected, his challenging behaviors faded. Practical Tips Delete or limit social media if you reach for it when anxious or bored. Hailey stresses this is for her season, not a rule for everyone. Turn off notifications except calls and texts. Set “office hours” for email and texts, and be at peace with slower replies. Keep a running list of random urges (curtains, Pinterest) and visit it at a set time each week. Often you’ll find you were just filling a void. When you need a break, grab your Bible and go outside instead of reaching for your phone. Invite little ones into your work. “I need to finish the dishes, then I’ll be free to play. Want to help?” Let them sit near you, even if it’s messy. Keep devices off the dinner table. Protect family meals and game nights as sacred space. With teens, stay available. Leave the lamp on, and don’t skip the “pointless” conversation, because the real one often comes 15 minutes later. Correct behaviors in toddlers that you wouldn’t want to see in a teenager. Your Turn Share your tricks for staying present, or what your kids have said when you made the effort. Email us or leave a comment. Keep giving God your fiat in the mess.

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Frozen Embryos and the Cross of Infertility: A Conversation with Dr. Irene Alexander

In this episode of Fiat in the Mess, Annie Muller and Hailey Skinner welcome Dr. Irene Alexander, associate professor of moral theology at the University of Dallas, wife, and mother of six. Together they explore one of the most difficult questions in Catholic bioethics: what to do with the thousands of frozen embryos left behind by IVF. They also speak with compassion to the women and couples carrying the cross of infertility. Dr. Alexander's background Dr. Alexander holds her MA and PhD from Ave Maria University. She teaches moral theology, bioethics, Christian marriage, scripture, and tradition. Her scholarship has appeared in the National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly, the Linacre Quarterly, and other journals. Her forthcoming book, Frozen Embryos: A Catholic Moral Evaluation of Embryo Adoption, Cryopreservation, Rehydration, and Artificial Wounds, is expected in 2027. In this episode How Dr. Alexander balances motherhood and academic work, and why her family life and her theological work enrich each other A plain-language explanation of how IVF works, including the creation of multiple embryos, selective reduction, and cryopreservation Why the Church opposes IVF: it is contrary to the dignity of the child and to the unity of marriage, which joins the unitive and procreative meanings of the conjugal act The Church's teaching as an interpretation of natural law rather than a rule only for Catholics Restorative reproductive medicine and NaProTechnology: ethical options that seek to diagnose and heal the underlying causes of infertility The cultural tendency to treat fertility as a problem to be suppressed rather than a gift Embryo adoption: what Dignitas Personae (2008, paragraph 19) says, the ongoing scholarly debate, and Dr. Alexander's own position Artificial wombs and ectogenesis, and the ethical concerns they raise Faith and courage in motherhood, including Dr. Alexander's "pickle jar" story Encouragement for women facing infertility and for those overwhelmed by pregnancy: God sees the ache and invites us to surrender it to Him A note on the discussion Dr. Alexander is clear about the difference between what the Church has officially taught and her own scholarly argument. Embryo adoption remains a disputed question among Catholic theologians. Resources Dr. Alexander’s book, Frozen Embryos: A Catholic Moral Evaluation of Embryo Adoption, Cryopreservation, Rehydration, & Artificial Wombs Dignitas Personae NaProTechnology Saint Paul VI Institute Keep giving God your fiat in the mess.

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The Joyful Mysteries

Pray the Rosary with us! Save this episode to help you pray the Holy Rosary more deeply and to unite your motherhood to the sublime motherhood of Mary, the Mother of God. Meditations from A Mother's Rosary Guide

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Resigning from Martyrdom: Asking for Help in Motherhood

Fiat in the Mess | Resigning from Martyrdom: Asking for Help in Motherhood (3.15) Why is it so hard for mothers to ask for help, and why do we feel embarrassed when we get it? Annie and Hailey talk about the temptation to power through like martyrs, the guilt, pride, and perfectionism that keep us from reaching out and why God never meant motherhood to be a solo mission. Your Father who sees in secret will reward you. You are a beloved daughter of the King, and He sees the work of your hands. Keep giving God your fiat in the mess. In this episode: Mary's pregnancy check-in: week 27, one week from the third trimester. Baby Jesus can recognize Mary and Joseph's voices and perceive light and dark, and Advent is about a month away. Annie's story of the housekeeper her mom and aunt hired when she was pregnant with her seventh, and why she was embarrassed to tell anyone Hailey's "Hot Mess Express" season, and how God the Father answered her tearful prayer within minutes by sending her father-in-law to the door We are dependent, rational creatures made for communion. Self-gift is meant to be mutual, not poured out until we're empty. The cleaning and meals support the mission of the family, but they aren't the mission. The power of being seen, and why it helps to tell your husband what you need instead of leaving him guessing Practical ideas: Swap childcare with a trusted friend, including date-night swaps Trade cleaning: bring your mop to her house, and she scrubs your sink Start a meal train, and be the friend who notices when someone is drowning Take a weekend away and let your husband hold down the fort Write down everything you do in a day to see what you can let go of, and what's simply too much for one person If you have the means, hire help such as a housekeeper or meal prep. That's smart delegation, not failure. Start a weekly rosary group with other moms Hold a Sunday "powwow" with your spouse. Keep a running list all week, then sit down together once the kids are in bed. Your Father who sees in secret will reward you. You are a beloved daughter of the King, and He sees the work of your hands. Keep giving God your fiat in the mess. Have a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Send it our way — we'd love to hear from you! mightyishercall.com/contact-us Upcoming Events Retreat in Augusta, GA and Wichita, KS Support the Podcast: mightyishercall.com/podcast-support

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September Graces: From Mary's Nativity to the Foot of the Cross

Mary’s Birthday and Our Lady of Sorrows This episode reflects on two closely connected Marian feast days in September: the Nativity of Mary and Our Lady of Sorrows. Annie Muller and Hailey Skinner explore why the Church celebrates Mary’s birth, how it points to the beginning of salvation history, and how her sorrows can comfort mothers and anyone carrying suffering.They also connect these feasts to everyday motherhood, hiddenness, surrender, grief, and the hope of Christ’s victory. The conversation blends theology, lived experience, and practical consolation. Key topics Why Mary’s birthday is celebrated on September 8, nine months after the Immaculate Conception. The historical roots of the feast, including its early observance in the Eastern Church. Why the Church celebrates only three birthdays in the liturgical calendar: Jesus, Mary, and John the Baptist. Mary’s hidden life and how holiness often unfolds without recognition. The connection between Mary’s fiat, motherhood, surrender, and quiet sacrifice. Our Lady of Sorrows and the seven sorrows traditionally associated with Mary’s life. The seven sorrows: Simeon’s prophecy, the flight into Egypt, losing Jesus in the temple, meeting Jesus on the way to Calvary, the crucifixion, receiving Jesus’ body, and his burial. How Mary’s sorrows resonate with miscarriage, infant loss, and the pain of motherhood. Why devotion to Mary is not worship, but a relationship of intercession, companionship, and imitation. The seven promises associated with devotion to Mary’s sorrows, including peace, consolation, protection, and hope. Timestamps 00:00 — Opening the September Marian feast days conversation 02:17 — Mary’s nativity as the beginning of redemption 03:39 — The history of celebrating Mary’s birth 06:29 — Why September 8 follows the Immaculate Conception 08:25 — Mary’s birth as preparation for the Incarnation 09:41 — Hidden holiness and motherhood 12:50 — Why Our Lady of Sorrows belongs beside Mary’s birthday 16:42 — Why sorrow and glory belong together 18:39 — The Seven Sorrows devotion 21:28 — Explaining Marian intercession 24:16 — Sitting with a friend in suffering 29:29 — Annie’s story of losing her son Gabriel 31:29 — The communion of saints and the thin veil at Mass 36:31 — Miscarriage, grief, and eternal hope 41:56 — Which sorrows strike each host most deeply 46:51 — The Seven Promises of the devotion 49:17 — The promise of peace for families 51:21 — Seeing the face of Mary at death 52:51 — Closing encouragement Support the Podcast: mightyishercall.com/podcast-support Contact: annie@mightyishercall.com "Keep giving God your fiat in the mess."

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Go Home and Love Your Family: Learning from Mother Teresa

Annie Muller and Hailey Skinner reflect on Mother Teresa’s life, her fierce trust in divine providence, and the way her witness reshaped how they understand motherhood, vocation, and mercy. They explore why Mother Teresa still matters now, especially for moms carrying the hidden, repetitive work of family life.We discuss Mother Teresa’s biography, the “call within a call,” her love for prayer, and how her example teaches that holiness is found in ordinary acts done with great joy. The conversation ends with Mother Teresa’s Fragrance Prayer, a fitting summary of the episode’s theme: letting Christ shine through the small, faithful work of daily life. Key topics Annie and Hailey open with their recent retreat for more than 80 moms in Dallas Hailey gives a brief biography of Mother Teresa Hailey highlights Mother Teresa’s radical trust in divine providence Annie reflects on how Mother Teresa helped her see young motherhood not as small or boring, but as a real place of mission and sanctification. The two discuss Mother Teresa’s insistence that world peace begins at home, with loving one’s own family first. Hailey shares how Mother Teresa became her confirmation saint and how that decision shaped her sense of vocation and mission before marriage. Annie connects Mother Teresa’s teachings to the corporal and spiritual works of mercy lived out daily in motherhood They emphasize kindness and making others feel seen as practical ways of living Christ’s love in the home. Timestamps (00:00) Opening the episode (01:19) Retreat reflections and the gift of gathering with moms(03:23) Why the episode is about Mother Teresa(05:50) Hailey introduces Mother Teresa’s biography(06:56) The “call within a call” and “I thirst”(07:54) Leaving the convent to found the Missionaries of Charity(09:13) Stories of divine providence and unexpected provision(11:17) Prayer before action and Mother Teresa’s insistence on prayer(12:52) Annie on Mother Teresa in the public eye and in her conversion(14:39) Reading No Greater Love in early motherhood(15:53) “How do we promote world peace? You go home and love your family”(16:38) Doing the small things with great joy and great love(18:14) Hailey’s confirmation saint story(23:58) Learning that marriage and motherhood are holy vocations(26:51) No hierarchy of vocations(28:58) The corporal and spiritual works of mercy in motherhood(30:21) Let no one leave without feeling better and happier(34:21) Montessori, eye contact, and greeting children with dignity(40:28) Introducing the Fragrance Prayer(41:13) The quick novena and asking for urgent help Books and Resources Mentioned: Mother Teresa of Calcutta: A Personal Portrait No Greater Love Mother Teresa's Fragrance Prayer Mighty Is Her Call Retreats Support the Podcast annie@mightyishercall.com

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Ask Us Anything: For Newlyweds, Soon-to-Be-Moms, & Moms in the Mess

This week on Fiat in the Mess, Annie is joined by Mary for a special listener Q&A covering the honest, sometimes scary questions many of you have sent in about marriage and motherhood. Nothing was off-limits! Mary—one year into marriage and part of the Mighty Is Her Call team—opens up about the surprising anxiety she felt on her wedding day (including the box-breathing trick her dad taught her to get down the aisle), and how she worked through the "what if" thoughts that came with making a lifelong vow. Annie, celebrating 23 years of marriage this week, shares why she loves her husband even more now than on her wedding day, and how grace shows up in the middle of both the joy and the jitters. From there, the conversation moves into some of the biggest questions newlyweds and future moms wrestle with: Do you ever feel trapped after taking your vows? How to tell the difference between a genuine red flag and normal, amoral anxiety. The identity shift into motherhood — what changes, what doesn't have to, and why staying connected to your husband and friends (away from the kids!) matters so much. Is giving birth embarrassing? Annie's honest take on labor, intimacy, and why husbands walk away in awe, not disgust. Wrestling with anger at God—a beautiful analogy about a silversmith refining precious metal, and why bringing your anger to the Lord (not away from Him) is the healthier path. Mom guilt and pregnancy exhaustion—permission to rest, the story of Elijah's "nap and a snack" from God, and practical tips for breaking up household chores into doable pieces. A messy house isn't a moral failure. Annie reflects on raising six kids in a tiny two-bedroom home—and how her adult kids only remember the happy chaos, not the mess. Comparison culture and social media. How to guard your heart against the curated, "constant Christmas card" feel of Instagram and TikTok, and why liturgical living should look different in every home, not like a copy-paste of your favorite influencer. Whether you're newly married, discerning motherhood, or years into the beautiful mess of raising a family, this episode is full of grace, humor, and hard-won wisdom for wherever you are in your vocation. In This Episode: Managing wedding day anxiety and pre-vow jitters Navigating the identity shift into motherhood Honest talk about labor, birth, and intimacy after baby Bringing anger and hard emotions to God Letting go of mom guilt and household perfectionism Comparison, social media, and authentic Catholic motherhood Have a question you'd like answered on a future episode? Send it our way—we'd love to hear from you! mightyishercall.com/contact-us Keep giving God your fiat in the mess. Upcoming Events Dallas, TX Retreat (August 22) Retreats also coming to Augusta, GA and Wichita, KS Support the Podcast: mightyishercall.com/podcast-support

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Tales from the Trenches: A Mother's Own Mysteries of the Rosary

In this episode, Annie and Hailey sit down for a story-time episode, sharing personal, funny, humbling, and sacred moments from their own motherhood journeys. Since the podcast is walking with Mary through her pregnancy this season, Annie and Hailey frame their stories in the joyful, sorrowful, luminous, and glorious mysteries of the Rosary, reminding listeners that none of us have motherhood figured out, and that God is present in every moment, even (especially) the messy ones. Here is a taste of what’s in store this episode: Joyful: Hailey's plane-ride diaper disaster in South Padre, Annie's skirt mishap at Mass, and a toddler's potty-training protest in the Target toy aisle. Sweet moments: A three-year-old's "great idea" to eat all the chocolate, a bedtime visit from "the holy family," and the funny phrases ("papamas," "I can't like it") that stick around for good. The sorrowful and luminous: Hailey's Florence pilgrimage and a stunning "coincidence" in a book chapter title; Annie's story of a Scripture verse that came back to her, framed, months after her hysterectomy; Hailey's son losing his front teeth in a park accident, and what it taught her about letting go. The glorious: Annie's daughter giving a heartfelt toast at her 50th birthday, and Hailey's tale of two strangers—one sour, one full of wisdom—reminding her the trenches of motherhood are holy ground. Annie and Hailey close by encouraging listeners to write down and share their own stories: it's a gift to yourself and to others! Have a story of your own? Share it with a friend—you never know how it might bless them. Keep giving God your fiat in the mess. Upcoming Events Dallas, TX Retreat (August 22) — both Annie & Hailey speaking Retreats also coming to Augusta, GA and Wichita, KS Details: mightyishercall.com/retreats Support the Podcast: mightyishercall.com/podcast-support

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Family, Faith, and Vocation with Fr. Thomas Esposito

This week Annie and Hailey welcome Fr. Thomas Esposito, a Cistercian monk at Our Lady of Dallas Abbey and longtime friend of Mighty Is Her Call, for a warm conversation about vocation, motherhood, and letting go. Fr. Thomas shares the story of how his parents met (a cigarette, a cup of water, and a nurse who wasn't having it) and reflects on growing up in a joy-filled Catholic home in Omaha, Nebraska, where his mother wove faith naturally into everyday life. He talks about the "annoying hunch" toward priesthood he felt from age twelve, discovering the University of Dallas through a Rome campus brochure, and finding his true calling with the Cistercians—a community he never knew existed until he arrived. The conversation turns to one of this season's central themes: how mothers help their children discern their vocations without deciding for them. Fr. Thomas offers a beautiful meditation on motherhood as a vocation defined by letting go. And on finding peace not in clinging to our children out of fear but in relinquishing them to the Lord's care. Hailey asks how families can normalize vocations and build real friendships with priests and religious—practical, heartfelt advice for parents hoping to raise kids who are comfortable and curious about the religious life. They also dig into Fr. Thomas's new novel, Blue Miles, a fictional look at monastic life set in Nebraska, and why he chose storytelling over memoir to explore themes of memory, loss, hope, and faith. Plus: how a monk with a full schedule of prayer, teaching, and community life found five years to actually write it. Fr. Thomas closes with a word of encouragement for weary moms, drawn from Psalm 27, learning to recognize the voice of love over the voice of fear. In this episode: The delightful story of Fr. Thomas's parents' meet-cute Growing up in a joyful, faith-centered home in Omaha His mother's role in his intellectual and spiritual formation Discovering UD and the Cistercian order What community life looks like inside the Abbey Motherhood as a vocation of letting go Grounding identity in Christ as children grow and leave How to help kids befriend and normalize priests and religious Behind the scenes of writing Blue Miles Time, freedom, and finding God in interruptions Encouragement for moms from Psalm 27 Mentioned in this episode: Blue Miles by Fr. Thomas Esposito University of Dallas Our Lady of Dallas Cistercian Abbey in Irving, TX Mighty Is Her Call Retreats

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The Five 'P's of a Mother's Rule of Life

Annie and Hailey dive into the 5 Ps of a Mother's Rule of Life—a traditional Christian framework for ordering your vocation as a mother. Drawing from Holly Pierlot's book A Mother's Rule of Life: How to Bring Order to Your Home and Peace to Your Soul, they explore how this order can bring greater peace, intentionality, and closeness to Jesus Christ and her family in the midst of everyday motherhood. Pierlot organizes a mother's rule around five P's, each building on the last: 1. Prayer: The foundation of everything. Annie and Hailey discuss the guilt many mothers feel around prayer, the many forms prayer can take, and how the daily work of motherhood itself is a form of prayer. 2. Person: Caring for your own holistic well-being — body, mind, and soul. This comes before marriage and parenting because you can't pour from an empty cup. Pierlot's concept of a monthly "mother's sabbatical" is discussed, along with the idea that sometimes our families are called to sacrifice a little for us too. 3. Partner: Nurturing your marriage. Your vows are to your spouse, not your children, and this relationship is the foundation from which everything else flows. Annie walks through Galatians 5 as a framework for cultivating the fruits of the Holy Spirit in marriage. A note of encouragement is offered to listeners in difficult marriages or who are single/widowed mothers. 4. Parent — Raising children by being a living witness. The best parenting flows from the first three P's. Hailey and Annie discuss discipline as an act of love (drawing a beautiful parallel to the Sacrament of Confession) and close with a simple but convicting question: Are you praying for your children? 5. Provider: Managing the practical details of home life: cooking, cleaning, laundry, finances. This P comes last not because it's the least important, but because it is the "orderly stage upon which all the drama of loving relationships must occur." The encouragement: tackle every task as a direct response to God's will. Books & Resources Mentioned A Mother's Rule of Life by Holly Pierlot The Temperament God Gave You The Working Genius assessment Holy Minute, https://mightyishercall.com/holy-minute/ Upcoming Events Dallas, TX Retreat (August 22) Augusta, GA and Witchita, KS also are open for registration Details: mightyishercall.com/retreats Support the Podcast: mightyishercall.com/podcast-support Contact: annie@mightyishercall.com "Keep giving God your fiat in the mess."

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Faith That Survives Adulthood: The 12 Habits of Families Who Pass on the Faith ft. Lisa Popcak

Faith That Survives Adulthood: The 12 Habits of Families Who Pass on the Faith ft. Lisa Popcak Guest: Lisa Popcak — author of 20+ books on parenting, marriage, and mental well-being; co-host of More to Life on EWTN Radio; VP of CatholicCounselors.com About the Research In 2019, Lisa and her husband Greg hosted a symposium at Notre Dame with the McGrath Institute, gathering 50+ theologians and Catholic thinkers to study what makes Catholic families thrive across generations. The result: a study of families where all children grew into faithful Catholic adults — and the 12 habits they all shared. The 12 Habits (in 3 Categories) 🏠 Relationships (the foundation — "the wood") Schedule family time first — before signing up for activities, protect time together. Aim for at least 3 meals together per week. Generous affection & affirmation — light up when your kids walk in the room; name the virtues you see in them. Attending to each other's needs — mutual self-donation; the whole family serves one another, not just mom. Discipleship discipline — rooted in St. John Bosco; teach and practice skills rather than simply punish. 🕯️ Family Rituals ("the spark") Work together — bring kids alongside chores; make it connective, not just efficient. Play together — don't outsource all fun. Even 15 minutes of play daily builds connection and teaches kids how Christians have fun. Talk together — try "thorns and roses": best and hardest part of the day. Go deeper than homework check-ins. Pray together — formal prayers matter, but so does spontaneous prayer. Help kids see God in their everyday moments and talk to Him like a friend. 🌍 Reaching Out ("the fire") 9. Serve each other at home — home is where virtue is first practiced, not just performed in public. 10. Be mindful of others while at home — practice hospitality, care for your belongings to pass on to others, look for ways to bless neighbors, and discuss charitable giving as a family. 11. Be a godly family in the world — eye contact, kindness, holding doors, praying before meals. Simple witness wherever you go. 12. Serve in your community together — find ways to serve as a family unit rather than fragmenting into separate groups. Key Takeaways Faith should be the source of warmth in your home, not just an addition to it. It's NEVER too late — these habits can be applied at any age or stage. You don't need to add hours to your day; these habits can flow through your existing rhythms. Resources Mentioned 📱 Catholic HOM App (Households on Mission) — catholicHOM.com — monthly resources, Q&A with Greg & Lisa, podcasts 💬 CatholicCounselors.com — faithful Catholic telecounseling, available anywhere 📻 More2Life — EWTN Radio, Monday–Friday, 10am ET; also available as a podcast "The faith was the source of the warmth in their home."

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Is 'Health Maxxing' a New Religion? A Catholic Mom's Take

Annie Muller and Hailey Skinner tackle one of the loudest conversations in the cultural zeitgeist right now: health maxing, longevity obsession, and optimal health trends — and ask what a faithful Catholic response actually looks like. From sleep trackers to sourdough guilt, from perimenopause to postpartum, they explore how moms in every season of life can care for themselves without losing themselves in the process. Grounded in Scripture, St. Augustine, St. John Paul II, and hard-won personal experience, this episode is your permission slip to tune out the noise and tune in to what actually matters. What We Cover The "health maxxing" and longevity trend — where it comes from, what it gets right, and where it goes wrong St. John Paul II's concept of the "cult of the body" and why women are especially vulnerable to it The difference between selfishness and self-care — and why that distinction matters for moms Hailey's morning routine that changed everything (and how she got there) Why Annie became a certified health coach — and the statistic about healthy parents raising healthy kids The Church's feasting and fasting seasons as the antidote to both gluttony and restriction Why "guilty pleasures" is a phrase that needs to go — and what the Psalms say instead Timestamps 0:00 — Welcome & intro to the health maxing conversation 5:22 — Hailey's experience with social media comparison & why she deleted Instagram 10:00 — The cult of the body, fear of death, and the desire for control 15:11 — Reframing self-care as stewardship, not selfishness 17:00 — Hailey's morning routine: the one change that transformed her days 20:00 — Annie's health coach background & modeling health for your children 27:00 — Sleep: a hot commodity, a gift, and an offering 35:10 — Is there more to life than optimal health? Health as means, not end 41:00 — The Church's rhythm of feasting and fasting as a countercultural gift 42:01 — Hailey's theology of bread and wine (and the Eucharist) 45:00 — Self-knowledge, "guilty pleasures," and the goodness of creation 50:29 — Practical self-care: what Annie and Hailey actually do Mighty Is Her Call Prayer Requests Reach out to Annie - annie@mightyishercall.com Support our podcast!

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When Mothers Meet: What the Visitation Teaches Us About Motherhood and Holy Friendship

Discover the profound lessons from the Feast of the Visitation, reflecting on Mary's humility, Elizabeth's reception of grace, and how we can embody these virtues in our motherhood and daily lives. In this episode: How St. John Paul II describes Mary's faith and interior attitude during the Visitation The parallel between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant, based on Scott Hahn's insights Elizabeth's recognition of Christ's presence as a first Pentecost, emphasizing God's Holy Spirit at work The importance of community, service, and receptivity in motherhood, inspired by Mary's and Elizabeth's example Practical tips for embodying humility, gratitude, and trust in God's plan amidst life's challenges Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Feast of the Visitation and its significance 00:44 St. John Paul II's insights on Mary's faith and interior life 01:29 Mary's role as the Ark of the Covenant, parallels drawn by Scott Hahn 02:45 The humility and service exemplified in the Visitation 05:10 The gift of community and mutual service in motherhood 06:28 Mary's haste to serve and her response of praise and gratitude 07:52 The Holy Spirit's role in Mary's and Elizabeth's encounters 09:37 The importance of trusting God's timing and embracing life's seasons 11:26 Overcoming feelings of unworthiness through grace 13:41 Practical ways to serve in everyday motherhood 15:17 The significance of gratitude and praise in faith 18:34 Elizabeth’s recognition of Christ and the role of the Holy Spirit 21:15 Living as a “tabernacle” and embracing God’s presence in motherhood 24:45 The hope in waiting and trusting in God's perfect timing 26:33 Insights about waiting and trusting, even amid suffering 30:08 The scene as a prelude to Pentecost, highlighting God's ongoing work 31:23 Practical ways to live out the Visitation in daily motherhood 32:37 The importance of community, service, and receptivity 34:49 Trusting God's plan and timing, embracing surprises and unplanned blessings 36:04 Recognizing that God's ways are above ours, even in crisis 40:42 Embracing the miracle of life and community in our faith journey Resources & Links: Scott Hahn on Mary as the Ark of the Covenant https://angelusnews.com/voices/mary-ark-covenant/ Pope St. John Paul II Visitation is Prelude to Jesus’ Mission https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/visitation-is-prelude-to-jesus-mission-8820 Fulton Sheen The World’s First Love https://ignatius.com/the-worlds-first-love-2nd-edition-digital-wfl2e/ Mighty Is Her Call Prayer Requests https://mightyishercall.com/prayer-request/ Reach out to Annie - annie@mightyishercall.com Support our podcast! https://mightyishercall.com/podcast-support/

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Four Tactics of the Devil to Discourage You in Your Motherhood

Annie and Hailey explore four common tactics the enemy uses to discourage mothers, offering spiritual insights and encouragement rooted in Scripture and Tradition. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, dissatisfied, or tempted to compare, these reflections aim to bolster your faith and perseverance in motherhood. You're not alone — Christ and his saints walk with you every step. Spiritual warfare: recognizing the enemy’s tactics versus God’s truth Cultivating receptivity over grasping in motherhood and life Gratitude as a remedy to dissatisfaction and the importance of daily thankfulness Staying rooted in Christ’s identity rather than external measures of success or appearance The call to surrender perfectionism and control, embracing God's grace in the mess How Our Lady of Fatima's message encourages steadfast faith amid spiritual battles Practical tips for mothers to combat discouragement through prayer, community, and perspective shifts Resources & Links: Seven Weeks Coffee Psalm 139 Romans 8:14-17 Luke 12:22-34 Mighty Is Her Call - Prayer Requests: https://mightyishercall.com/prayer-request/ Reach out to Annie - annie@mightyishercall.com Support our podcast! https://mightyishercall.com/podcast-support/ 01:45 - Checking in with Mary’s pregnancy at seven weeks 05:52 - Connection to Our Lady of Fatima and her call for prayer, devotion, and sanctification of daily life 07:42 - Christ’s clarity versus the devil’s confusion: discernment in motherhood 09:03 - Tactic one: grasping versus receptivity 09:53 - How culture promotes grasping and encourages comparison, leading to unrest 11:49 - The trap of comparison: measuring ourselves against others’ external successes 12:19 - Cultivating gratitude instead of envy or dissatisfaction 13:41 - Controlling versus surrendering: letting go of perfection and embracing God’s plan 15:10 - Flexibility and being present amid interruptions: finding God in everyday moments 16:39 - Tactic two: Dissatisfaction versus gratitude 17:38 - How gratefulness shifts perspective and nurtures peace in the family 19:05 - The power of gratitude in appreciating daily blessings and small victories 24:11 - Tactic three: External appearances versus inner identity in Christ 26:56 - The importance of cultivating virtue and inner beauty over externals 28:52 - Scriptures emphasizing our identity as children of God 29:54 - The temptation of comparison and trusting in God's view of our efforts 34:00 - Tactic four: surrender over striving for worldly perfection 37:10 - The call to imitate God’s mercy and love 38:10 - Recognizing “thy will be done” as the path to peace and holiness 40:13 - Conclusion: You are equipped by Christ, and your work is blessed

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Perfectly Imperfect: Building a Domestic Church

In this episode of Fiat in the Mess, Annie Muller and Hailey Skinner explore the profound role of the Christian home as a domestic church. They share insights, stories, and practical tips on how mothers can nurture prayer, sacrifice, hospitality, and joy within their families, turning everyday moments into sacred encounters with God. Key Topics: The home as the first school of Christian life and divine worship The significance of everyday actions as sacred work The importance of model prayer and authentic relationship with God for children Practical ways to integrate prayer throughout daily routines Creating a prayerful environment with religious art, crucifixes, and feast day celebrations The virtue of hospitality and welcoming others as an extension of Mary’s example at the Annunciation The role of humility, gratitude, and laughter in cultivating a joyful domestic church Encouragement and inspiration for mothers to see their work as sacred, divine, and impactful Resources & Links: Catechism of the Catholic Church on the Domestic Church Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God Connect with Us! Instagram Facebook Mighty Is Her Call - Contact Us Mighty Is Her Call - Prayer Requests Reach out to Annie Support our podcast! Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and topic overview: the Christian home as domestic church 02:01 - The home as a school for human and Christian enrichment 03:25 - The significance of work in making the home a place to encounter God 08:18 - The parable of the mustard seed: small sacrifices building something beautiful 09:46 - The importance of levity, laughter, and hospitality in the home 12:20 - Praying for one's children and trusting God’s plan 14:56 - The home as a school of prayer, sacrifice, and love 17:16 - Practical tips: sacraments, prayers, saints, and holy living 18:38 - Modeling attitude and charity in family life 22:20 - Connecting daily tasks with prayer—laundry, gratitude, and intentionality 25:22 - Authenticity in prayer; making prayer a genuine act of love 29:43 - Prioritizing family prayer at mealtime and incorporating Scripture 34:21 - Creating sacred space with religious art, crucifixes, and holy water fonts 35:24 - Celebrating feast days and saints to enliven family culture 44:00 - Mary’s example of hospitality as model for our domestic churches 45:38 - Inviting Christ into our home and life with love and openness 48:29 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to live out the call of the domestic church

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Who Sets the Tone in Your Home? (Hint: It’s you!)

Join Annie and Hailey as they further explore the profound vocation of motherhood. This week, they talk about mothers as the heart of the home, and how the feminine genius shapes our families and domestic churches. Discover how your virtues (and vices), prayer, and self-gift transform everyday life into a sacred act of service and love, inspired by Mary, along with Sts. Pope John Paul II, Mother Teresa, and Elizabeth Ann Seton. Main Topics Covered: The significance of Mary as the heart of Christ’s earthly home and ours The distinct seasons of motherhood demonstrated through Mary, Joseph, and John How women’s unique gifts foster a nurturing and relational environment Practical ways to cultivate virtues like patience, joy, and peace in the home The concept of the domestic church and the power of prayer in daily life Embracing our identity as queen and servant through love and self-gift Resources: Motherhood, An Extraordinary Vocation by Dr. Rombs Letter to Women by St. John Paul II Dignity of Woman by St. John Paul II The Theology of Home Connect with the Hosts: Instagram Facebook Mighty Is Her Call - Contact Us Mighty Is Her Call - Prayer Requests Reach out to Annie Support our podcast! Timestamps: 02:54 - The reflections on Joseph’s and John’s homes with Mary at the center 06:06 - The safe and loving home Mary creates in every season 07:20 - Our call to bring Christ into the heart of our homes 08:53 - St. John Paul II on feminine genius and self-gift 11:33 - The physical and relational aspects of being the heart of the home 13:44 - The importance of nurturing virtue and environment in everyday life 15:41 - Embracing the beauty and significance of women’s inherent gifts 16:45 - Motherhood and the deep, spiritual vocation beyond reproductive capacity 17:41 - The example of Mother Teresa 19:07 - The sacredness of being needed 22:40 - How our virtues influence the culture of our homes 23:16 - The story of Elizabeth Ann Seton 26:17 - Transforming hardships into a place of domestic beauty and peace 28:30 - Focusing on virtues that align with our strengths 33:13 - Prayer and daily sacrifice as the heart of the domestic church 34:49 - Personal stories of exhaustion 36:40 - Mary as model for service, obedience, and reign through love 38:01 - Embracing our role as queen-mother of our families 39:05 - Resting in the love of Jesus to sustain us as the heart of our home

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Behold Your Mother

Join Annie and Hailey as they meditate on the profound spiritual significance of the events of Holy Week, especially through the lens of motherhood. Discover how Christ's Passion parallels the struggles and joys of maternal life, offering deep hope and purpose—even and especially in labor. Reflect on the beauty and gift of femininity made clearer in the light of the Blessed Mother, and see the place of women in the plan of creation as God sees. Key Topics: Holy Week and how to enter into its mysteries amid daily chaos The analogy of childbirth as a symbol of suffering and salvation, as expressed through Scripture Mary’s presence at the foot of the Cross and her role as model for mothers enduring suffering The connection between the Annunciation and the foot of the Cross, highlighting God's plan in creation and salvation history Practical ways to observe Holy Week in family life The significance of Holy Saturday as a day of silent reflection and victory over darkness How suffering in motherhood reflects Christ’s redemptive love and teaches children to suffer with purpose Resources & Links: Catechism of the Catholic Church - 964: https://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/index.htm Fulton Sheen’s reflections on the Passion: http://catholicsaints.mobi/ebooks/book-articles/seven-last-words-by-venerable-fulton-sheen.htm Scripture References: Luke 1:26-38, John 19:25-27, Matthew 26:26-29 Connect with the Hosts: Instagram Facebook Mighty Is Her Call - Contact Us Mighty Is Her Call - Prayer Requests Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Holy Week and motherhood amid life's obstacles 00:42 - Mary’s journey from Annunciation to the Passion - living in two sacred spaces 03:16 - Jesus’ analogy of labor pains and suffering during the Last Supper 04:42 - The promise of joy emerging through suffering, as shared by Christ 05:07 - Motherhood as Christ-like suffering leading to new life 10:30 - Entering into Mary’s scene at the foot of the cross: prayer and reflection 14:04 - Eucharistic nature of motherhood 17:01 - Venerable Fulton Sheen and the “second Annunciation” 20:44 - Our spiritual inheritance: Mary as Mother to all believers 23:50 - Recognizing the divine esteem for femininity and motherhood in salvation history 24:28 - Holy Week traditions to help families observe and honor the sacred days 31:24 - The hope and victory in Christ’s passion and resurrection—lessons for mothers and children 33:12 - Offering your heart to Christ amid life’s mess and trusting in His love Thank you for listening! Stay tuned for our Holy Week episodes and more reflections on giving God your fiat in the mess.

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We're Back! And Mary's Pregnant!

The conversation revolves around the theme of surrender in motherhood, particularly in the context of the Feast of the Annunciation. It explores the challenges, joys, and call to surrender in the journey of motherhood, drawing parallels with Mary's fiat at the Annunciation. The discussion reflects on the interruptions, doubts, and fears experienced in motherhood, and the invitation to surrender to God's plan. The conversation explores the journey of motherhood as a profound experience of surrender and fiat, highlighting the mystery and grace of this role. It delves into the Annunciation moments, the journey of surrender and fiat, and the acceptance of God's will in the context of motherhood. Takeaways Surrender in motherhood The Annunciation and the theme of surrender Motherhood as a journey of surrender The mystery and grace of motherhood Chapters 00:00 The Feast of the Annunciation 17:41 The Annunciation and Surrender 23:49 Becoming a Mother on My Wedding Day 30:54 The Post-Annunciation Journey 41:29 The Acceptance of God's Will

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Magnifying the Lord in Our Motherhood, feat. Kelsey Gillespy

Annie and Kathryn are excited to introduce you to Kelsey Gillespy in this season two finale of the Mighty Is Her Call Podcast. Kesley is a mother, athlete and writer. We will discuss her journey of motherhood, particularly how Kelsey found the balance between self-gift and self-care and the ways the Lord revealed more about his love, and love of his Mother, through her journey of motherhood. Check out Kelsey's First Book In the Trenches Kelsey's New Book, Life With Mary is available here and here. Learn more about Kelsey and what she's up to on her website: https://kelseygillespy.com/ Mighty Is Her Call is a Catholic mothers' ministry that encourages women who have embraced the call to openness to life by proclaiming the radically Christ-like nature of motherhood. Visit our website to learn more about our in-person and audio retreats as well as our blog, all created to fortify and encourage you in your daily call to holiness. https://mightyishercall.com/ Support Mighty Is Her Call Partner with us as we proclaim the radically Christ-like nature of motherhood and encourage women to continue raising up saints and find peace and joy on the road to holiness. https://mightyishercall.com/support-our-ministry

Motherhood Redeemed, feat. Kimberly Cook

Today, Annie and Kathryn welcome author, mother, and podcaster, Kimberly Cook. Kimberly grew up formed by the culture and the feminist narrative and did not see motherhood as a worthy life-calling. Now the mother of a large family, she tells us the beautiful story of how God changed her perspective and how her experience of motherhood led her to write Motherhood Redeemed. We discuss this beautiful work, which reminds us that the true nature of womanhood is maternal and inseparable from self-gift. We know you will love this episode! Learn more about Kimberly on her website: https://kimberlycook.me/ Kimberly's Book: Motherhood Redeemed Podcast Episode with Alice Von Hildebrand Check out Kimberly's book for middle-aged children: The Adventures of Lily Creek Mighty Is Her Call is a Catholic mothers' ministry that encourages women who have embraced the call to openness to life by proclaiming the radically Christ-like nature of motherhood. Visit our website to learn more about our in-person and audio retreats as well as our blog, all created to fortify and encourage you in your daily call to holiness. https://mightyishercall.com/ Support Mighty Is Her Call Partner with us as we proclaim the radically Christ-like nature of motherhood and encourage women to continue raising up saints and find peace and joy on the road to holiness. https://mightyishercall.com/support-our-ministry