The NFP Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily welcome Jessica to share an intimate look into her love story with Shea—her high school friend turned lifelong partner. Jessica reflects on the beautiful journey of their relationship, the intentional choices they made as a couple, and their decision to remain virgins until marriage. She also opens up about the reproductive health challenges that marked the early years of their marriage. After years of frustration and inadequate treatment from mainstream medicine, Jessica finally found real answers and compassionate care through a medical professional practicing restorative reproductive medicine. Jessica and Shea’s story continues with the gift of adoption—welcoming a beautiful little girl into their family—and the joyful surprise of later conceiving their handsome baby boy. Their journey is one of faith, perseverance, healing, and the profound ways God grows a family. This episode is a testament to hope and the transformative power of trust—in each other, in authentic healthcare, and in God’s timing. Resources: 1. Dallas Whole Life Authentic Care: https://www.wholelifeac.com/ 2. Creighton/NaPro: https://www.fertilitycare.org/creighton-model-system/

In this inspiring episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Kevin and Connie to share their powerful journey back to the Catholic faith. During their dating and engagement years, both felt a deep tug on their hearts—one that ultimately led them to a renewed relationship with God and His Church. Kevin and Connie open up about how their growing convictions shaped not only their spiritual lives but also their understanding of marriage, family, and the gift of fertility. When they later faced infertility, they followed their well-formed consciences to seek answers that aligned with their faith. Their path led them to restorative reproductive medicine and NaPro Technology, where they finally found compassionate, root-cause treatment and real healing. Together, they offer a witness of hope, perseverance, and trust in God’s plan—an episode sure to encourage any couple navigating questions of faith, fertility, or the beauty of God-centered marriage. Resources: 1. The Bible in a Year- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bible-in-a-year-with-fr-mike-schmitz/id1539568321 2. Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body- https://a.co/d/7LmVys9 3. Theology of the Body for Beginners: Rediscovering the Meaning of Life, Love, Sex, and Gender- Theology of the Body for Beginners: Rediscovering the Meaning of Life, Love, Sex, and Gender 4. The Medical & Surgical Practice of NaPro- https://saintpaulvi.com/product/npt/ 5. The Saint Paul VI Institute- https://saintpaulvi.com/ 6. Inito Fertility Tracker- https://www.inito.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoobWAyRNmrVo-MXNhImRp2O-8UEH-qDYtDFUccQ6sbO9O7urynk

In this heartfelt episode, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Dan and Mary to explore the beauty, challenges, and grace-filled surprises that come with practicing Natural Family Planning within marriage. Dan and Mary open up about their journey of being radically open to life, welcoming children close together in age, and navigating the joys and trials that shaped their family story. They share how the Lord gently expanded their hearts—one baby at a time—and how NFP deepened their communication, strengthened their marriage, and continually invited them to trust in God’s timing. This conversation is a moving witness to faith, sacrificial love, and the abundant ways God works through family life. Resources: 1. Christian Courtship in an Oversexed World: A Guide for Catholics- https://a.co/d/einVtsg 2. Theology of the Body for Beginners: Rediscovering the Meaning of Life, Love, Sex, and Gender- https://a.co/d/gnVgDiZ 3. The Sinner's Guide to Natural Family Planning- https://a.co/d/cnXOEMI 4. Interior Freedom- https://a.co/d/5XkOdsv

In this powerful and grace-filled episode, hosts Amy and Emily welcome Fr. Mark Yavarone, OMV, for a conversation that will both convict and comfort listeners seeking God’s will in their marriages. Drawing from the rich tradition of Ignatian Spirituality, Fr. Mark offers practical guidance for how couples can prayerfully discern God’s invitations—especially when it comes to decisions about family size and living out the Church’s vision for marriage. Together, they explore how to recognize the movements of the Holy Spirit, distinguish authentic peace from false consolation, and cultivate a discerning heart that remains open to God’s loving plan. Whether you’re newly married, navigating the beautiful chaos of family life, or simply seeking deeper spiritual clarity, this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and a renewed sense of purpose rooted in trust and faith. Tune in to be strengthened, challenged, and inspired to follow God more wholeheartedly within your vocation. Resources: 1. Humanae Vitae- https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html 2. "What is 'discernment' anyway?"- https://www.discernment.institute/what-is-discernment-anyway 3. Discerning the Will of God- https://www.discernment.institute/product-page/discerning-the-will-of-god-an-ignatian-guide-to-christian-decision-making 4. Discernment of Spirits in Marriage- https://www.discernment.institute/product-page/discernment-of-spirits-in-marriage 5. Overcoming Spiritual Discouragement- https://www.discernment.institute/product-page/overcoming-spiritual-discouragement 6. The National Bioethics Center- https://www.ncbcenter.org/

In this week’s episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy pick up where they left off in their series on Responsible Parenthood. After last week’s deep dive into responsible motherhood, the conversation now turns to the vital role of fathers. What does responsible fatherhood look like in today’s world? How can men embrace their vocation to lead with love, sacrifice, and presence within their families? Join Emily and Amy as they explore practical insights, personal stories, and timeless wisdom on what it means for fathers to live out their calling with intentionality and faith. Whether you're a dad, a mom, or simply someone interested in family life and Natural Family Planning, this episode offers encouragement and inspiration to grow together in the beautiful, sometimes messy journey of parenthood. 🎧 Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation! Resources: 1. Humanae Vitae- https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html 2. Letter to Families- https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/letters/1994/documents/hf_jp-ii_let_02021994_families.html 3. Fathers’ Irreplaceable Role in Welcoming Life- https://www.usccb.org/prolife/fathers-irreplaceable-role-welcoming-life#:~:text=Fathers%20have%20a%20vital%2C%20unique,virtues%20of%20humility%20and%20courage

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Jennifer to explore her transformative journey from the messages she received in public-school sex education to discovering the truth, depth, and beauty of human sexuality as taught by the Catholic Church. Jennifer shares candidly about growing up with a fragmented understanding of sex, fertility, and womanhood—an understanding that left her unprepared for the challenges she would later face in trying to conceive at an older maternal age. Through her struggle with infertility, she found not only greater knowledge of her body but also a renewed appreciation for the Church’s life-giving vision of marriage, openness to life, and the dignity of the human person. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever questioned the messages they’ve received about their body, fertility, or purpose—and for those seeking a deeper, more holistic understanding of what it means to be created for love. Resources: 1. Creighton Model- https://www.fertilitycare.org/creighton-model-system/ 2. NaPro Technology- https://naprotechnology.com/ 3. St. Pope Paul VI Institute- https://saintpaulvi.com/ 4. St. Gerard Prayer- https://themotherssaint.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/StGerardNovena_digital.pdf 5. Catholic Healthcare- https://www.dioceseoflansing.org/news/read-rise-new-catholic-healthcare-inspired-saint-padre-pio

In this thought-provoking episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily dive into the heart of what it means to live out a Christian call to responsible motherhood. Drawing from key Church encyclicals and weaving in the lens of current cultural conversations, they explore how a woman’s sexual choices carry profound spiritual, relational, and generational significance. Amy and Emily challenge listeners to reconsider the modern narrative around sexuality—reminding women that intimacy is never just about momentary pleasure or personal preference. It is also about the man they choose, the virtues he embodies, and the father he may one day become. With compassion, honesty, and a deep grounding in Catholic teaching, they offer a fresh perspective on discernment, dignity, and the sacred responsibility of nurturing future life. Whether you're navigating dating, marriage, or broader questions about vocation and family, this episode invites you to reflect more deeply on the beauty and weight of choosing not just a partner, but someone’s future father. Resources: 1. Humanae Vitae- https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html 2. Pope Francis's Reflection on the Demanding Role of Motherhood- https://www.foryourmarriage.org/blogs/pope-francis-reflects-on-a-mothers-demanding-role/ 3. Persona Humana- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_19751229_persona-humana_en.html

In this wrap-up episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily bring their series on the Catholic document The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality to a thoughtful and heartfelt close. Join them as they read through and unpack the conclusion of this influential encyclical, reflecting on its core themes—parental responsibility, authentic love, moral formation, and the Church’s vision for guiding young people toward a life rooted in truth. Amy and Emily explore what the document’s final guidance means for families today, how its teachings can be lived out within real homes, and why the Church’s wisdom on human dignity and sexuality remains both countercultural and deeply liberating. Whether you’ve followed the entire series or are tuning in for the first time, this closing conversation offers a clear, encouraging, and faith-centered summary of the encyclical’s most important insights. Listen in for: A direct reading of the conclusion Honest discussion and practical reflections Encouragement for parents navigating the formation of their children A renewed vision of the beauty of the Church’s teaching Grab your coffee, settle in, and join Amy and Emily as they conclude this meaningful journey with clarity, compassion, and hope. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Dr. Julia Sadusky- https://www.juliasadusky.com/books 3. Pearl and Thistle- https://pearlandthistle.com/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily continue their exploration of the 1995 Catholic document The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality. This week, they dive into the Church’s guidance on authentic methods of sexual education—what the Church recommends, what it cautions against, and how parents can faithfully form their children in truth and love. Amy and Emily discuss how the Church envisions sexual education as a lifelong process of formation, rooted in virtue, chastity, and respect for the human person. They also unpack the ideologies and methods the Church warns against, including those that separate sexuality from love, life, and moral responsibility. Resources: 1.Encyclical-https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Pearl & Thistle Courses- https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy continue their deep dive into Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, reflecting on the Church’s timeless wisdom about family, love, and responsibility. This week’s discussion centers on the parents’ sacred role as the primary educators of their children, especially in matters of human sexuality and moral formation. Emily and Amy explore what this calling looks like in real life—how parents can cultivate open communication, form their children in virtue, and model authentic love in a culture that often sends mixed messages. They also share practical resources, faith-based programs, and creative ways families can integrate this education naturally into daily life. Whether you’re a parent, catechist, or simply passionate about the Church’s teaching on human dignity, this conversation offers encouragement, insight, and inspiration to live out this beautiful responsibility with confidence and grace. ✨ Listen now to be inspired, informed, and equipped to lead your family in truth and love. Resources: 1. Encyclical-https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Pearl and Thistle Programs- https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily continue their reading and discussion of The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. This week, they explore the Church’s wisdom on the formation of children during the adolescent years—the delicate transition from childhood into adulthood. Join them as they reflect on how parents can guide their teens with love, truth, and patience, helping them navigate growth, identity, and virtue in a culture that often confuses authentic maturity with independence from moral foundations. Resources: Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily continue their reading and discussion of the Catholic encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. This week, they focus on the practical formation of youth during the sensitive and transformative years of puberty. Together, they explore how parents can nurture virtue, modesty, and a true understanding of love while navigating the challenges and beauty of this stage of life. Tune in for encouragement, wisdom, and practical guidance rooted in faith and family. Resources: Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html

Join hosts Amy and Emily on The NFP Podcast as they continue reading and reflecting on the 1995 Catholic encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. In this episode, they unpack the Church’s vision for authentic love, the formation of virtue, and the sacred role of parents in shaping their children’s understanding of human sexuality. With heartfelt conversation and practical insight, Amy and Emily explore how these timeless teachings can guide families today in forming hearts rooted in truth, love, and the dignity of the human person. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Dr. Sadusky- https://www.juliasadusky.com/books 3. Beyond the Birds & Bees- https://a.co/d/6Dl7f0K 4. Our Lady of the Rosary Family Catechism- https://olrfamilycatechism.com/

On this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy continue their reading and reflection on the 1995 encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality. This week, they turn to Section V: Paths of Formation Within the Family. Together, they explore how the family serves as the first school of love, faith, and virtue, and how parents are called to guide their children in the gradual and holistic formation of their hearts, minds, and character. Emily and Amy discuss the timeless wisdom offered in this section and consider how these teachings can be lived out amidst the unique challenges facing families today. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Fr. Mike- https://youtu.be/qyceLmJnO5o?si=2NB5BYXcey8A_ARU 3. Good Pictures, Bad Pictures- https://a.co/d/iGXq2EQ 4. The Temperament God Gave Your Kids: Motivate, Discipline, and Love Your Children- https://a.co/d/9a8T9Oj

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy welcome Ben Rowse, a seasoned pro-life advocate, for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation. Together, they take a close look at the current abortion landscape—examining where things stand today and what it means for families, communities, and the wider culture. Ben shares insights from his years of pro-life work, offering both practical information and heartfelt encouragement. The discussion also highlights how everyday citizens can become more informed, engage in meaningful dialogue, and take concrete steps to help build a culture of life. Resources: 1. Abby Johnson's Book Unplanned- https://a.co/d/98OCy2Q 2. Overpopulation Myth- http://www.overpopulationmyth.com/ 3. Live Action- https://www.liveaction.org/ 4. Secular Prolife- https://secularprolife.org/ 5. National Right to Life- https://nrlc.org/ 6. Life News- https://www.lifenews.com/ 7. USCCB- https://www.usccb.org/prolife#recentitems 8. Catholic Vote- https://catholicvote.org/ 9. 40 Days for Life- https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/ 10. Family Council- https://www.frc.org/abortion

On this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy continue their reading and reflection on the 1995 encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality. In this discussion, they dive into Section IV: Fathers and Mothers as Educators. Together, they unpack the Church’s vision for parents as the primary educators of their children, especially in the delicate and vital area of human sexuality. Emily and Amy explore how this teaching applies in today’s culture, the challenges parents face, and the encouragement the Church offers for fostering open communication, trust, and formation in virtue within the family. Register for the 2025 FACTS Virtual Conference with our code, NFPSHOW10 for a 10% discount!! https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/2025-facts-virtual-conference/ Resources: Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html Pearle & Thistle- https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/ Chastity Project- https://chastity.com/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily continue their series on the 1990 encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. Together, they dive into Section 3, exploring its wisdom through the lens of vocation. What does it mean to be called to love in truth and freedom? How does vocation—whether to marriage, priesthood, or consecrated life—shape our understanding of human sexuality? Join Amy and Emily for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about how this teaching speaks into our everyday lives, families, and faith journeys. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. BirthGap Documentary- https://youtu.be/J2mSKhA4Y_s?si=JArT3xHKHYeft1wZ

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy continue their reading and reflection on the 1995 encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. Picking up in the second section, True Love and Chastity, they explore the Church’s wisdom on forming children and young people to recognize authentic love, the dignity of the human person, and the call to chastity as the foundation for flourishing relationships. Join them as they share their insights, practical applications, and encouragement for parents striving to pass on a vision of sexuality rooted in truth, beauty, and God’s plan for love. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Pearl & Thistle Education Programs- https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/ 3. Theology of the Body- https://ascensionpress.com/collections/an-introduction-to-the-theology-of-the-body?srsltid=AfmBOooQiSgCIHdvrWDJhX6X5pLiFlUP3SOzIwURI1xJ5UWY7LjgkKds

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy begin reading through the 1995 encyclical The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family. Diving into Part I, they share their first impressions, reactions, and reflections on the Church’s wisdom for parents and families. Together, they discuss how these teachings can be lived out in everyday family life—whether through parenting, forming children in the truth of love, or teaching the beauty of human sexuality in a culture that often distorts it. Join Emily and Amy for an honest, encouraging, and faith-filled conversation as they connect timeless guidance to today’s challenges of raising children and passing on a vision of authentic love. Resources: 1. Encyclical- https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html 2. Forgiveness Prayer- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lj1FfPTuAK-WdpapmyuSw9AUYY-SxsVq/view?usp=drive_link

In this episode, Emily and Amy discuss the passing of Amy's older sister and her encounter with the Lord through the grieving process, finding peace in the sadness. Resources: Divine Mercy Chaplet- https://www.thedivinemercy.org/message/devotions/pray-the-chaplet