The NFP Podcast

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

This week on The NFP Podcast, Amy and Emily crack open a brand-new series as they begin reading The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality: Guidelines for Education within the Family, a 1995 Church document that offers wisdom for parents and families. In this episode, they read through the introduction and share their first impressions—what stands out, what challenges them, and why it still matters today. Pull up a chair and join the conversation as they explore how this teaching can speak into our lives, marriages, and families right now. Resources: The encyclical: https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html. Pearl & Thistle Programs: 1. The Catholic Mom's Guide to First Period Prep: https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/the-catholic-mom-s-guide-to-first-period-prep/zjhqb 2. Mother-Daughter Prep Package: https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/mother-daughter-prep-package/zjhqb 3. Family Education Package: https://pearlandthistle.podia.com/3e29b565-4564-4370-810d-11cf27b10e84/zjhqb

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily welcome Dr. Julia Sadusky—licensed clinical psychologist, author, consultant, speaker, and adjunct professor. Dr. Sadusky brings her extensive research and clinical expertise in sexual and gender development, along with her passion for trauma-informed care, to the conversation. With degrees from Ave Maria University and Regent University, she has dedicated her career to helping families navigate complex topics with clarity and compassion. She joins Amy and Emily to discuss her most recent two-book series: Start Talking to Your Kids about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics (2023) and Talking with Your Teen about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics (2024). Tune in for a thoughtful and faith-filled discussion on how to foster open, age-appropriate, and values-driven conversations about human sexuality in the home. Resources: 1. Julia's Practice: https://www.juliasadusky.com/ 2. Julia's Books: https://www.juliasadusky.com/books

In this inspiring episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Shannon Leach—wife, mother, nurse practitioner, and former IVF patient—who shares her deeply personal journey from pursuing in vitro fertilization to embracing fertility awareness. Shannon opens up about the challenges, lessons, and hope that shaped her path, and why she is now passionately dedicated to educating women and couples about fertility awareness charting. With a heart for empowering others, Shannon is moving full steam ahead to bring this life-changing knowledge to as many people as possible. Resources: 1. FACTS- https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/what-is-charting/ 2. Shannon's Everett Practice- https://www.cascadewh.com 3. Shannon's Seattle Practice- https://www.3wmedical.org/ 4. FEMM Health- https://femmhealth.org/ 5. Shannon's FACTS Blog- https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/my-journey-through-infertility-to-restorative-reproductive-medicine/

In this inspiring episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Haley Yeager — a patient, Natural Family Planning teacher, and fellow podcaster — to hear her powerful story of hope and healing. Haley opens up about her journey from struggling with PCOS and irregular cycles to experiencing restored reproductive health, regular ovulation, and, ultimately, the joy of achieving pregnancy. Along the way, she shares the science, faith, and perseverance that made her transformation possible, as well as practical insights for women walking a similar path. Whether you’re navigating your own fertility challenges or simply seeking encouragement, Haley’s testimony will uplift and remind you of the body’s God-given capacity for restoration. Resources: 1. Connect with Haley: https://truthandfertility.com/ 2. Truth & Fertility Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1cR3m3Uiss19pDaFiUOiee?si=70bb083de0cd44e0 3. BOOK This is Your Brain on Birth Control by Sarah E Hill PhD https://www.amazon.com/This-Your-Brain-Birth-Control/dp/0525536035 4. BOOK NaProTechnology Revolution https://www.amazon.com/NaPro-Technology-Revolution-Unleashing-Womans-ebook/dp/B08N39QLDY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.1STUUMtU2hWNXzIUfQb6iS3IdhluiEKlp2oauWWICYE.rj9ha_QrdljjCc6WMCgrnJ6UGLD6ozq3txcjI7lsu60&qid=1753663992&sr=8-1 5. FACTS Blog: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/fabms-in-pcos-management-a-patients-perspective/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy sit down with Dr. Tracey Parnell and Dr. Monica Minjeur to explore the mission and impact of the International Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine (IIRRM). Together, they unpack what restorative reproductive medicine (RRM) is, how it differs from conventional approaches to women’s health, and why more women are seeking out this integrative and evidence-based model of care. Dr. Parnell and Dr. Minjeur share their personal journeys into RRM and how their work through the IIRRM supports both medical professionals and patients in identifying and addressing the root causes of reproductive health concerns—rather than simply masking symptoms. They discuss the importance of cycle tracking, individualized care, and collaborative, multi-disciplinary methods for managing conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, infertility, and more. Whether you're a woman looking for answers about your health, a medical provider interested in alternative approaches, or simply curious about what “restorative” medicine really means, this episode offers a hopeful and empowering look into a growing field that respects the complexity and dignity of the female body. Learn more about IIRRM and how to find or become a provider at www.iirrm.org.

This week on The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Jacob and Mikayla, a young Catholic couple and parents to four beautiful little ones. In a culture saturated with hookup culture and distorted messages about sex, Jacob and Mikayla share their powerful love story—how they met, dated, and entered into marriage while choosing to honor each other and their faith by abstaining from sexual intimacy until their wedding day. With honesty, humor, and grace, they talk about the challenges they faced, the intentional boundaries they set, and the joy that came from putting God at the center of their relationship. This conversation is a hopeful witness to the beauty of chastity, the strength of authentic love, and the freedom found in trusting God’s design for relationships. Whether you're single, dating, or married, this episode will inspire you to seek love that is faithful, sacrificial, and deeply rooted in truth. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on countercultural love, marriage, and the grace to live with integrity and joy. References: Jason Everet: https://chastity.com/speakers/ Creighton Model FertilityCare System: https://www.fertilitycare.org/creighton-model-system/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Mikayla Dalton, a certified instructor of the Boston Cross Check Method of Natural Family Planning. Together, they dive into what makes the BCC method unique, how it integrates multiple biomarkers, and why it might be a great fit for women and couples seeking clarity and confidence in their fertility journey. Mikayla shares her insights on who the Boston Cross Check method is designed for and how it can be tailored to meet a variety of family planning goals. The conversation places special emphasis on the postpartum season—often one of the most confusing and challenging phases for NFP users. Whether you're looking to postpone pregnancy, conceive, or just better understand your body during this transitional time, this episode offers practical guidance and heartfelt encouragement. If you've ever wondered whether BCC might be the right method for you—or if you're simply curious about how different NFP methods support women through postpartum—this interview is full of helpful wisdom and real-world application. Tune in and learn how the Boston Cross Check method can offer clarity, flexibility, and support when you need it most. Resources: Boston Cross Method: https://www.bostoncrosscheck.com/ USCCB NFP Website: https://www.usccb.org/topics/natural-family-planning

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily are joined by Fr. Cassidy Stinson of the Diocese of Richmond for a rich and down-to-earth conversation on family prayer. Together, they explore what family prayer truly is—and what it’s not. Fr. Cassidy offers insight into how prayer can look different from family to family and encourages listeners to embrace the diversity of personalities and spiritual styles within their homes. The discussion touches on the common struggles families face when trying to pray together, such as mismatched expectations, kids' ages and attention spans, or even spouses having very different approaches to prayer. Fr. Cassidy shares practical wisdom and pastoral encouragement for finding unity amidst the differences, fostering a family culture rooted in peace, love, and prayerful connection. Whether your family prays the Rosary nightly or is still figuring out how to start praying together at all, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful, seen, and inspired to take one step closer to a more intentional family prayer life. Tune in and be encouraged—your family’s prayer life doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Follow Fr. Cassidy on Social Media Instagram and X....@thehappypriest Resources: Fr. Cassidy Recommendations.... 1. In The Trenches - Finding God Through Parenting Littles Kelsey Gillespy....https://a.co/d/8oydoUX 2. Real Life with Mary: Growing in Virtue to Magnify the Lord by Kelsey Gillespy...https://a.co/d/dkeDvjp Vatican Document....Familiaris Consortio....https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_19811122_familiaris-consortio.html#:~:text=The%20Precious%20Value%20of%20Marriage%20and%20of%20the%20Family&text=The%20Church%20is%20deeply%20convinced,of%20the%20People%20of%20God.

In this heartwarming episode of The NFP Podcast, host Amy shares some deeply personal and joyful news—she's pregnant! With honesty and gratitude, Amy opens up about discovering she's expecting and the emotional, physical, and spiritual journey of early pregnancy. She reflects on the awe of new life, the power of saying “yes” to God’s plan, and the beautiful, sometimes challenging realities of those first weeks—from the surprise, the symptoms, and the support she’s received, to the quiet moments of surrender and trust. This episode is a tender invitation into Amy’s journey as she shares how Natural Family Planning continues to shape her understanding of fertility, motherhood, and the gift of life. Whether you're in a season of waiting, parenting, or hoping, Amy’s reflections offer encouragement, connection, and a reminder that each “yes” to life is a step toward love. Tune in for a beautiful testimony of faith, joy, and the beginnings of new life.

n this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, host Emily Appeldorn sits down with certified nurse midwife Brennan Straka for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about midwifery, vocation, and the sacred journey of motherhood. Brennan shares how she first felt called to the midwifery profession, what that journey has looked like over the years, and how becoming a mother herself has profoundly shaped the way she walks with women through pregnancy and birth. Brennan opens up about what it means to return to midwifery with a renewed perspective, balancing her professional calling with her role as a mother and wife. This episode offers a beautiful blend of clinical wisdom, personal testimony, and the heart behind midwifery care that honors the dignity of both mother and child. Whether you're curious about birth, discerning a vocation in women's health, or simply love hearing stories of faith and purpose, this episode will encourage and uplift you. Tune in for a rich dialogue about the intersection of natural family planning, holistic women’s care, and the powerful witness of women supporting women. Resources: Hope Mommies: https://hopemommies.org/ Mend Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/Mendnwa/ Book: Naming the Child: Hope-Filled Reflections on Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Death by Jenny Schroedel Eden Birth and Wellness: https://www.edenbirthandwellness.com/ BreastCare is the state program to provide free coverage of pap smears and mammograms - we help people enroll at Community Clinic: https://healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/prevention-healthy-living/breastcare-program/ Community Clinic: https://www.communityclinicnwa.org/ American College of Nurse-Midwives - About Midwifery: https://midwife.org/about-midwifery/ American College of Nurse-Midwives - Find a midwife (kinda dumb because no one in our area is on here!): https://ams.midwife.org/web-directory/1?_gl=1*1k8b1gg*_ga*NzQ5MTE2MjkxLjE3NDg2NDA5MjQ.*_ga_7V4BFHR9VL*czE3NDg2NDA5MjMkbzEkZzEkdDE3NDg2NDA5OTAkajU1JGwwJGgw*_ga_YTJD6NM3NH*czE3NDg2NDA5MjMkbzEkZzEkdDE3NDg2NDA5OTAkajU1JGwwJGgw*_gcl_au*MTQzNTIxOTA4NS4xNzQ4NjQwOTI0 NARM - the registry organization for Professional Midwives (also not very good place to find a midwife!): https://narm.org/ Link to a beautiful explanation of the Nativity Icon. I'm sure you could use that thumbnail I have included below as well: https://www.orthodoxroad.com/nativity-icon-explained/

In this thoughtful and heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily take on a sensitive yet important topic: conjugal rights within the context of a Christian marriage. Prompted by a recent YouTube video from Timothy Gordon, the hosts reflect on the content and tone of his presentation—addressing what they found to be a crude and uncharitable handling of an issue that deserves care, nuance, and compassion. With grace and honesty, Amy and Emily unpack the concept of conjugal rights from a Catholic perspective, highlighting the beauty and dignity of marital intimacy as a mutual, loving gift—not a demand or entitlement. They gently offer an alternative view grounded in Scripture, Church teaching, and the lived reality of Christian marriage, aiming to speak truth in love while fostering understanding and unity. Whether you’ve seen the video or not, this episode invites listeners into a deeper reflection on how we talk about marriage, sex, and mutual respect in the light of faith. Resources: 1. Tim Gordon Video: https://www.youtube.com/live/SwNqGm35FHE?si=nm3R5WauOsmrfVEs 2. Examine: https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/sacraments-and-sacramentals/penance/sacrament-reconciliation-married-persons-examination-of-conscience 3. Catechism: https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_two/chapter_two/article_6/iii_the_love_of_husband_and_wife.html

In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily sit down with Kari and Rob, a lovely couple from New England whose love story is a moving testament to the beauty and depth of vocation. From their first meeting to the winding road of marriage and family life, Kari and Rob open up about the joys, sorrows, and sanctifying moments that have shaped their journey together. With vulnerability and grace, they share how God has led them through seasons of laughter, loss, hope, and healing—revealing a vocation that is as much about carrying the cross as it is about celebrating the gift of love. Whether you're discerning marriage, living it, or walking through your own valleys and victories, this conversation will encourage you to trust in God’s faithful plan. Tune in for a powerful story of vocation, love, and the grace found in both sunshine and storms.

In this episode of the NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy sit down with Laura Forrest, the founder and facilitator of The Body Literacy Collective, a UK-based non-profit organization. Laura takes us through the innovative Read Your Body app, a groundbreaking tool designed to help individuals better understand and track their body's signals. Whether you're seeking to manage your health or gain a deeper connection to your own physical well-being, the app offers a personalized approach to body literacy. Laura shares the story behind the app’s creation, who it is for, and how it can be used to foster greater self-awareness, manage symptoms, and empower users in their health journey. Join us for an insightful conversation about body literacy, self-care, and the future of wellness technology. Tune in and learn how the Read Your Body app can transform the way you listen to your body! Laura Forrest is the founder / facilitator of The Body Literacy Collective, the UK non-profit company that has developed and delivered the Read Your Body app in collaboration with the fertility awareness charting community. With a professional background in public health and experience as a certified fertility awareness educator herself, Laura is passionate about supporting and advancing body literacy for all. Resources: https://readyourbody.com/ https://readyourbody.com/educator-sign-up/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, Emily and Amy take listeners back to the basics of Natural Family Planning. Whether you're brand new to NFP or looking for a refresher, this conversation lays the foundation for understanding both the why and the how behind NFP. First, they explore the essential sexual worldview needed to authentically live out NFP—one rooted in respect for the dignity of the human person, the meaning of the marital act, and the call to love freely, totally, faithfully, and fruitfully. Then, they shift gears into the daily practice of NFP, breaking down the biology and physiology of the female cycle and how that intersects with charting methods, fertility signs, and practical applications for couples. From mucus and temperature tracking to apps and charting systems, Emily and Amy review popular NFP methods and offer resources to support couples in their journey. Whether you're trying to conceive, space children, or just better understand your body, this episode is packed with clarity, encouragement, and a call to see human sexuality as a gift that points us to something greater. Tune in for a thoughtful review, practical tips, and helpful resources to grow in knowledge and love. Resources: 1. https://www.usccb.org/topics/natural-family-planning 2. https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_two/chapter_two/article_6/iii_the_love_of_husband_and_wife.index.html 3. https://saintpaulvi.com/ 4. Creighton- https://www.fertilitycare.org/creighton-model-system/ 5. Sympto-Pro- https://symptopro.org/ 6. Marquette- https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/institute-natural-family-planning/model.php 7. Billings Ovulation Method: https://www.billings.life/en/ 8. Boston Cross Check- https://www.bostoncrosscheck.com/