EquipCast - Episodes Tagged with “Vocations”

Episode 198: The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish

Archdiocese of Omaha — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0600

*Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? *

Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care.

In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you.

[01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story
[05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth
[08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith
[14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V
[18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment
[21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis
[23:33] Discerning Your Vocation
[24:24] Community and Evangelization
[25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives
[28:30] Engaging Young Kids
[30:06] Middle School and High School Faith
[32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment
[34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders
[39:47] Encouraging Vocations
[42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out OmahaVocations.org!

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)

Episode 160: When to Listen and When to Advise: Lessons from a Live Coaching Conversation

Archdiocese of Omaha — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Have you ever been asked for help but then felt like you were just giving unwanted advice? It’s tough to know how to make your words count. On my team, we use an approach called coaching that focuses on active listening to really support and empower the clergy and lay leaders we work with. We’ve also found that this method can make you a better friend.

Today, I bring you a live coaching session with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We explore how coaching principles like active listening, asking the right questions, and encouraging growth can transform not only professional roles but also personal friendships. You will also hear Fr. Schilmoeller share his experiences and strategies for promoting vocations. Whether you’re interested in coaching, vocations, or simply becoming a better friend, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to support and uplift those around you more effectively.

[02:34] Coaching Session Overview
[03:45] Identifying Priorities and Vision
[06:54] Understanding Vocation Hotspots
[14:33] Accompanying and Supporting Leaders
[24:07] Encouraging Active Listening
[27:24] Creating a Concrete Format
[28:07] Naming Next Steps
[34:23] Benefits of Coaching
[36:17] Distinguishing Coaching from Other Disciplines
[43:05] Finding the Right Coach

Resources mentioned in this episode:

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)