This week, I’m bringing back a fan favorite episode—one that’s close to my heart because it features a very special guest: my husband, Dan Bean! Together, we dive into what it really means to have fun as a Catholic family.We talk honestly (and hilariously) about what has and hasn’t worked in our 26+ years of marriage and parenting our eight children. We share personal stories, lessons learned, and the surprising importance of not taking ourselves too seriously. From letting go of perfectionism to making space for joy, this episode will leave you smiling, nodding along, and maybe rethinking your next family outing.In this episode, you’ll hear:* The one thing every family should always do to make space for joy* Why trying too hard (yes, even with hot dog mummies) can ruin the moment* Dan’s surprisingly deep take on why families shouldn’t “fake it” when it comes to connection* Our take on Catholic family culture that’s fun, faithful, and free of guiltThis is a great one to revisit—or listen to for the first time if you missed it the first time around!Got a favorite way your family has fun together? I’d love to hear about it! Reach out to me on social media or via email and share your stories.🎧 Listen now and laugh along with us as we remember what really matters in Catholic family life.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Learn more about the Grace & Growth mentoring sessions beginning June 5 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe
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Offer It Up! What That Means and How to Do It
This week we sit down with Catholic author, speaker, and veteran Megan Hjelmstad for a powerful conversation about suffering, hope, and the redemptive power of “offering it up.” Together, we unpack this often misunderstood Catholic phrase and explore what it really means to unite our suffering with Christ—both in the everyday struggles and the life-changing trials.Learn more about the book: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/offer-it-up-discovering-the-power-and-purpose-of-redemptive-sufferingWhether you’re carrying a heavy cross or just facing daily frustrations, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged, understood, and spiritually equipped.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Learn more about the Grace & Growth mentoring sessions beginning June 5Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe
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You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Are you trying to do it all by yourself — the working, writing, launching, growing, and the spiritual journey? In today’s episode, I’m sharing why that “go-it-alone” mentality is holding you back and what changes when you invite others into your growth.Whether you’re pursuing a creative dream, leading in ministry, or simply trying to follow where God is calling you next, this episode is a gentle but firm reminder: You were never meant to do this alone.We’ll talk about:* The hidden cost of trying to figure it all out solo* Why mentorship is not just helpful — it’s essential* A behind-the-scenes look at my Grace & Growth Group Mentoring Sessions and how they can support you🌱 Ready to grow with us? Let’s get started!Subscribe to Grace & GrowthLearn more about the Grace & Growth mentoring sessions beginning June 5ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe
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Powerful Voices of Catholic Women (with Suzanne Bilodeau)
In this heartfelt episode, we welcome author, podcaster, and mom Suzanne Bilodeau to talk about her beautiful new book from Ascension, She Loved: Resting in the Beauty of Motherhood. Suzanne shares the inspiration behind the project—a deep desire to learn from seasoned Catholic moms—and how this collection of letters from 15 Catholic women offers wisdom, vulnerability, and hope for mothers in every season of life. We discuss the power of female friendship, overcoming comparison, staying grounded in your vocation, and what it really means to be both a contemplative and an evangelist in daily life. This is a life-giving conversation you won’t want to miss, especially as we approach Mother’s Day.🕊️ Order the book: She Loved by Suzanne Bilodeau🎙️ Learn more about Suzanne’s podcast: Latte & Laundry📩 Subscribe to the Girlfriends newsletter and live events at daniellebean.comANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe
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Finding Adventure in Life's Second Half (with Maria Johnson)
This week’s guest is Maria Morera Johnson, author, podcaster and a powerhouse of wisdom and joy. Her newest book is A Beautiful Second Act, an inspiring and fun collection of personal stories and stories from the saints who found adventure in the second half of life. What a joy it was to chat with her! I know you are going to love this conversation.Are you a Catholic creator? Let’s connect! My newest project is Grace & Growth, an online community of creator who encourage and support one another in the work God calls us to do.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daniellebean.substack.com/subscribe
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