Today, I sit down with Ennie Hickman, co-founder of the Delray Collective, an organization dedicated to equipping people to be ordinary missionary disciples in their everyday lives. We dive into the quiet power of everyday hospitality—those small, intentional acts that build trust, create belonging, and speak louder than any grand gesture ever could. We’ll chat about how simply opening your home, sharing a meal, or listening with your whole heart can spark something way bigger than you might expect.

It’s not about doing more—it’s about being present. We’ll explore how love and joy in the ordinary can be one of the most powerful ways to live out your faith and impact your community. So grab a cup of coffee and join us as we talk about the beauty of showing up, being real, and letting light shine through the simplest moments.

[01:08] Meet Ennie Hickman: A Journey of Faith
[04:35] The Call to Mission and Evangelization
[07:55] From Discernment to Family Life
[09:32] Challenges and Rewards of Youth Ministry
[18:01] The Importance of Genuine Curiosity
[34:29] Practical Steps to Loving Your Neighbor
[37:09] Overcoming Stranger Danger
[42:49] The Concept of Scruffy Hospitality
[51:12] Unlearning Misconceptions
[54:37] The Long Game of Neighborly Relationships
[01:00:33] Practical Tips for Hosting
[01:07:47] Introducing the Open Porch Network

Check out Del Rey Collective and EnnieHickman.com.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

People step up when they feel seen, invited, and part of something meaningful. That starts with personal relationships. Instead of generic announcements, we need to reach out individually, explain the impact of their involvement, and walk with them on their faith journey. When people feel valued and supported, they naturally want to serve.
In today’s episode, I talk with John Poitevent, founder of Great Catholic Parishes, about how personal invitations and a culture of belonging transform parish engagement. We discuss the power of clear roles, training, and encouragement—because when people know they matter, they show up.

Listen in and let’s build a parish where everyone has a role to play.

[02:38] John's Faith Journey
[05:39] State of Parishes Today
[07:16] Engaging the Emerging Generation
[18:32] Leadership and Parish Renewal
[27:36] Practical Tips for Engaging Volunteers
[30:54] Understanding the Discipleship Problem
[32:35] The Power of Relationships in Parish Engagement
[35:01] Addressing Disaffiliation and Scandals
[41:19] The Importance of Personal Invitation
[50:22] Rethinking Family Faith Formation
[01:00:37] Encouragement for Parish Leaders

Don’t forget to check out Great Catholic Parishes and their podcast!

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Today’s guest, Dave Runyon, author of The Art of Neighboring, shares how simple acts of loving and connecting with our neighbors can create a profound social safety net – stronger than governmental programs – and foster a deeper sense of community.

[01:59] Dave's Journey to Ministry
[10:29] The Power of Neighboring
[15:47] Practical Steps to Neighboring
[22:10] The Impact of Neighboring
[26:14] Spiritual Conversations Without Pressure
[28:54] Challenges and Realities of Neighboring
[30:56] The Importance of Mildly Awkward Moments
[32:07] Taking the Great Commandment Seriously
[32:51] Navigating Awkward and Dangerous Situations
[36:02] The Art of Receiving from Neighbors
[39:04] Evangelization and Genuine Neighboring

Also, check out Dave’s website, ArtOfNeighboring.com.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

In this episode, we explore the unique struggles and opportunities for young adults striving to remain connected to their faith after graduation. Today’s guest, Matt Keller, shares his inspiring journey of founding Arch O Young Adults, an apostolate dedicated to helping young adults navigate these transitions. Matt offers practical advice on creating meaningful relationships, staying rooted in prayer, and trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Whether you're a young adult or someone looking to support this age group, this conversation is full of insights and encouragement.

[02:50] The Role of Community in Faith Development
[06:10] Challenges and Transitions for Young Adults
[17:57] Building a Young Adult Ministry
[26:19] Creating a Vision for Young Adult Engagement
[31:58] Leadership Transitions and Identifying New Leaders
[39:10] Engaging Young Adults in Prayer and Community
[44:45] Connecting Young Adults to Their Parishes
[50:59] Balancing Family Life and Ministry
[54:37] Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

For more, check out archoyoungadults.org or email Matt at archoyoungadults@gmail.com.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Today, I chat with Michael Hall, author of Intentional Accompaniment and a seasoned leader with Catholic Christian Outreach of Canada. Michael has a wealth of experience building and sustaining healthy small group movements, and he’s here to share some of the strategies and mindsets that can transform your small group from a stagnant gathering into a dynamic, missionary force.

Whether you’re leading a small group, coordinating them for your parish, or simply a passionate member of one, this conversation is full of insights that can help you breathe new life into your small group ministry and make a real impact in your community.

Join us as we dive into:

• practical tips to identify and nurture potential leaders
• the power of adopting a missionary mindset
• structural models that can help your groups grow and thrive

Check out CCO!
Register for the Grow a Healthy Small Group Movement workshop.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Join me as I sit down with John Gencarelli, Director of Youth and Adult Evangelization at St. Phillip Neri-Blessed Sacrament & Holy Name Parishes in Omaha. John opens up about his experience with burnout and shares how setting boundaries transformed his approach to ministry. By tracking his work hours, taking regular days off, and weaving prayer into his daily routine, John discovered how to protect his well-being while still serving effectively. He also highlights the importance of balancing family time with ministry and how thoughtful planning plays a key role in this. Ultimately, John reminds us that it’s God who saves, not us, and setting boundaries allows us to trust in His plan, ensuring that we serve effectively without burning out.

Tune in and learn to:

• Prioritize Self-Care and Boundaries
• Foster Humility, Openness, Forgiveness and Healing
• Build and Maintain Community
• Take Rest Seriously

Mentioned in this episode: Revive Parishes.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)