That Orthodox Mama’s Show

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• Ep. 21: Faithful Marriage in Today’s World with Father Panteleimon Papadopoulos 27.06.2026 49Min.

  The strongest marriages aren't the ones without problems...They're the ones that face them with Christ ☦️In this episode, I sit down with Father Panteleimon Papadopoulos of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Resurrection in Brookville, New York to discuss what faithful marriage looks like in today's world.We discuss what happens spiritually when a husband and wife are married in the Orthodox Church, the "secret" to a long-lasting marriage, whether compatibility is overrated, and the common traps couples fall into during conflict.Whether you're newly married, have been married for decades, or hope to be married one day, I pray this conversation encourages you to keep Christ at the center of your marriage and your home 🙏And if this conversation resonated with you, please consider sharing it with a friend or family member who may be encouraged by it ❤️Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️#OrthodoxMarriage #ChristianMarriage #OrthodoxChristian #MarriageGodsWay #FaithAndMarriage 
• Ep. 20: Discipline in the Orthodox Christian Life 20.06.2026 25Min.

  Why is discipline harder than ever?In this episode, my husband and I sit down to discuss discipline in the Orthodox Christian life and the challenges Christians face in a world filled with distractions, technology, and instant gratification.We share some of the spiritual disciplines that have most impacted our faith, including prayer, fasting, reading the Scriptures, church attendance, confession, and family prayer. We also discuss areas where discipline can be difficult and why growth often comes through consistency rather than perfection.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by this conversation 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️#OrthodoxChristianity #OrthodoxFaith #SpiritualDiscipline #ChristianLiving #ThatOrthodoxMama
• Ep. 19: The Proverbs 31 Woman 06.06.2026 31Min.

  “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” — Proverbs 31:30 ☦️In this episode, I’m sharing a conversation about the Proverbs 31 woman and what this passage has personally meant to me throughout different seasons of my life.This passage isn’t meant to be a checklist of perfection or a reason to feel like we are falling short. It’s an image of wisdom and a source of spiritual encouragement.Most importantly, I reflect on how this chapter gives me spiritual fuel and reminds me that becoming a godly woman is not about perfection, but about faithfully growing in Christ day by day.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with a friend who may be encouraged by this conversation 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️RESOURCESThe Orthodox Faith - Volume I - Doctrine and Scripture - Old Testament - Wisdom - Orthodox Church in America  https://www.oca.org/orthodoxy/the-orthodox-faith/doctrine-scripture/old-testament/wisdom#Orthodoxy #OrthodoxChristian #GodlyWomen #Proverbs #Proverbs31
• Ep. 18: Living Alcohol-Free as an Orthodox Christian 30.05.2026 25Min.

  Today, I’m sharing a more personal conversation about my journey living alcohol-free as an Orthodox Christian. I open up about my own past with alcohol, why I ultimately decided to stop drinking, and the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes I experienced throughout that journey. Most importantly, I reflect on what the Lord has shown me through it all. This episode is in no way meant to condemn anyone. It’s an account of my personal experience, and perhaps an invitation for you to self-reflect on your relationship with alcohol and how it impacts your spiritual life.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️RESOURCES— Ephesians 5:18 “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”— Proverbs 20:1 “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”— Proverbs 23:21 “For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”— 1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.”— Psalm 103 (104):15 “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.”https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.70435
• Ep 17: Orthodoxy FAQs: Wedding Edition 23.05.2026 24Min.

  Have you ever wondered why Orthodox couples wear crowns during the wedding ceremony? Why they walk around the table three times, hold candles, or don’t exchange vows?In this episode of my Orthodoxy FAQs series, I explore some of the most meaningful traditions within the Orthodox wedding ceremony and the spiritual symbolism behind them.This episode is especially beneficial for newly engaged and married couples, but I think also is insightful for Orthodox couples who have been married for a while to appreciate the significance of their blessed wedding day.Learning the meaning behind these traditions has helped me appreciate the depth, beauty, and intentionality of Orthodox marriage even more.A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish Priest.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️RESOURCESExplanation of Wedding — Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation https://www.atlgoc.org/explanation-of-weddingStefana (Wedding Crowns and Candles) — St. George Greek Orthodox Church https://stgeorgegreenville.org/our-faith/marriage/stefana-wedding-crowns-and-candles“Crown them with glory and honor.” Marriage in the Orthodox Church — Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/crown-them-with-glory-and-honor-marriage-in-the-orthodox-churchWhy Orthodox Churches Face East — Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-orthodox-churches-face-east/What to Expect in an Orthodox Church — Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/things-to-expect-orthodox-church/#OrthodoxChristianity #OrthodoxWedding #GreekOrthodox #ChristianMarriage 
• Ep. 16: Navigating Difficulties As An Orthodox Couple 25.04.2026 37Min.

  In this episode, I’m joined by my husband Polydoros as we have an honest and heartfelt conversation about navigating the difficulties of marriage through our Orthodox faith.We reflect on what it means to remain a team in Christ, especially in challenging seasons, and learning to let struggles refine our marriage rather than harden it. We talk about expectations vs. reality, extending grace to one another, and cultivating gratitude in both the joyful and the difficult moments.Marriage isn’t always easy, but with Christ guiding us, every challenge can shape us into stronger, more loving spouses.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️RESOURCESConversation starters  for couples:1. What’s one thing you’ve appreciated about me lately?2. What’s a favorite memory of ours that always makes you smile?3. What’s something small I do that makes you feel loved?4. What’s something you’re proud of in our marriage?5. When have you felt most supported by me?
• Ep. 15: The Power of a Praying Mother 18.04.2026 40Min.

  “When mothers pray, hell trembles…”-Saint Paisios the AthoniteThis episode is a personal reflection on prayer in motherhood, during the busyness, long days, good and hard times, and all the moments in between.I share with you some encouragement from Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Paisios, as well as some of my own experiences so we can try to stay faithful everyday as strong mothers in Christ.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with a mother who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️RESOURCESThe Power of a Mother’s Prayer - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Americahttps://www.goarch.org/-/the-power-of-a-mother-s-prayerAdmonitions for Parents: Lessons by Our Holy Father John Chrysostomos on Raising Childrenorthodoxinfo.com/praxis/parenting.aspxSpiritual Counsels, Volume IV: Family Life, Saint Paisios the Athonitehttps://www.athoniteusa.com/products/saint-paisios-the-athonite-spiritual-counsels-volume-iv-family-lifeExcerpts from the book Family Life, by Elder Paisios the Athonite orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/elder-paisios-on-family-life.aspxOrthodox Christian Parenting - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Americahttps://www.goarch.org/-/archpastoral-reflections-july-2005
• Ep 14: Orthodoxy FAQs: Fasting Edition 02.04.2026 23Min.

  Have you ever wondered why we fast from certain foods? Why we abstain from meat and dairy on Wednesdays and Fridays?In this episode of my Orthodoxy FAQs series, I walk through some of the most common questions about fasting as an Orthodox Christian and the meaning behind these sacred practices.Whether you’re a new convert, an inquirer, or have been Orthodox your entire life, this conversation offers deeper insight into the why behind what we do.Understanding the significance of these practices has deepened my spiritual life, helping me become more present, attentive, and prayerful.A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish priest.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Introduction10:39 - Orthodoxy FAQs12:57 - Why do Orthodox Christians fast from certain foods?13:46 - Why can’t we have foods that contain blood?14:09 - Why are olive oil and wine sometimes restricted?17:00 - Are there different levels of fasting?18:58 - Why do Orthodox Christians fast on Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year?20:07 - What do you do at parties and social events if you’re fasting?RESOURCESGreat Lent - A Week by Week Meaning - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/great-lent-a-week-by-week-meaningAnd When You Fast - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/when-you-fastOrthodox Fasting - Questions & Answers - Orthodox Church in America https://www.oca.org/questions/dailylife/orthodox-fastingFasting - Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Denver https://www.denver.goarch.org/fasting#OrthodoxChristianity#Orthodoxy101#Orthodoxy#LearningOrthodoxy#OrthodoxFaith
• Ep 13: The Real Work of Lent with Father Demetrios Kazakis 14.03.2026 32Min.

  When many people think about Lent, the focus immediately goes to food… what we’re giving up, what’s on our plate, and whether we’re “keeping the fast.”But the fast was never meant to stop there.In this episode, I sit down with Father Demetrios Kazakis of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Paul in Hempstead, NY, for a thoughtful conversation about the deeper purpose of Lent and what the Church is actually inviting us into during this season.We talk about why fasting is about far more than diet, how repentance and spiritual guidance shape the Lenten journey, and what it really means to move forward when we stumble along the way.Whether you’re fully keeping the fast, struggling through it, or just trying to understand what Lent is really about, I know this conversation will encourage you as it did me.If this episode blessed you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who might need this reminder during Lent 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first.
He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction
01:51 – What Is the Real Goal of Lent?
05:40 – Why the Fast Is More Than Food
10:26 – What Fasting Teaches Us Spiritually
12:30 – The Connection Between Fasting and Repentance
15:47 – The Role of a Spiritual Father During Lent
20:55 – How Do We Know We’re Moving in the Right Direction?
24:04 – Common Pitfalls People Experience During Lent
28:14 – What a Fruitful Lent Should Produce by Pascha#GreatLent #OrthodoxChristianity #LentenJourney #OrthodoxFaith #Orthodoxy
• Ep 12: Spiritual Encouragement for the Emotionally Burnt Out 21.02.2026 30Min.

  Are you exhausted… but not just physically?In this episode, my husband Polydoros and I are talking about burnout — what it actually is, why so many of us (especially young adults and parents) are feeling it, and how it’s quietly affecting our relationships, our homes, and even our walk with Christ.While the term originally described workplace stress, many of us are experiencing it in parenthood, marriage, ministry, and daily life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you’re running on empty, this episode is for you.You don’t have to carry it alone. And Christ is the only true treatment and prevention plan for burnout in our lives.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction00:47 – What is Burnout?04:29 – Signs of Burnout14:33 – How Burnout Impacts Our Relationships17:14 – How Burnout Impacts Our Relationship with Christ20:33 – Bible Verses on Burnout24:06 – How to Navigate Burnout Through ChristRESOURCESMatthew 11:28-30Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.Isaiah 40:28-31So then, have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the God who created the ends of the Earth, neither hungers nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives strength to the hungry, and sorrow to those who do not grieve. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the elect shall be without strength. But those who wait on God shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not hunger.Jeremiah 31:25I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.Psalm 72 (73): 26-28My flesh and my heart may fail, O God of my heart; and God is my portion forever. For behold, those who keep themselves far away from you shall perish; you destroy away from you all who act unfaithfully. But as for me, it is good to cling to God, to put my hope in the Lord, that I may proclaim all your praises in the gates of the daughter of Zion.Galatians 6:9And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
• Ep 11: Finding a Godly Spouse 14.02.2026 36Min.

  What’s guiding your dating decisions right now? We talk a lot about finding “the one.” But we don’t talk enough about discernment.Why don’t we think about this when we’re dating? Because dating culture tells us to go with the flow, not overthink it, follow the butterflies and see where it goes.In this episode, I share my personal experience and the moment I realized I needed to stop “going with the flow” and start looking for a strong man rooted in Christ. But most importantly, to prepare myself to be a godly spouse, not just to find one.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction10:47 – Why Don’t We Think About This When We’re Dating15:25 – My Moment of Realization17:58 – The List26:39 – Encouragement In The Preparation SeasonRESOURCES-Bible Chat App (features a daily Bible verse widget for your smartphone lock screen): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible-chat-daily-devotional/id6448849666-The Bible In A Year (with Father Mike Schmitz): https://open.spotify.com/show/4Pppt42NPK2XzKwNIoW7BR?si=xgmRO7CVTdObd4fp5GPB9A#OrthodoxChristianity#ChristianDating#OrthodoxFaith#ChristianPodcast#ChristianSingles#FaithAndRelationships
• Ep 10: Why Church Matters More Than Ever with Father Nikiforos Fakinos 24.01.2026 37Min.

  In a world where we’re more connected than ever, so many people are quietly struggling with loneliness, exhaustion, and a loss of meaning.Why is that? And what does the Church offer that nothing else can?In this episode, I sit down with Father Nikiforos Fakinos of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Merrick, NY for an insightful conversation about faith, community, and why the Church still matters, especially today.We talk about the deeper struggles people are facing emotionally and spiritually, why church life is essential (even when we pray at home), and what truly keeps people rooted in the faith for the long haul.Whether you’re a lifelong Orthodox Christian, a parent raising children in the faith, someone who’s drifted away or standing on the fence about coming back, or are an inquirer of the faith, I pray that this conversation blesses you like it did me.If this episode encouraged you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may need this reminder today.Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction00:58 – Fr. Nikiforos’ Journey to the Priesthood05:01 – Loneliness in a Hyperconnected World08:49 – Where People Are Struggling Most Right Now (Emotionally & Spiritually)12:21 – The Reading of the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:12-19)14:21 – Can We Believe in God Without the Church, and Why Does Church Still Matter?16:04 – “We Pray at Home. Why Do Our Kids Still Need Church?”20:49 – Staying Rooted in the Church for the Long Haul22:06 – The Question Fr. Nikiforos Is Asked Most Often23:36 – A Message for Anyone on the Fence About Coming Back to Church28:46 – One Common Misconception About the Orthodox Church31:14 – Why the Greek Language Remains Part of the Divine Liturgy34:03 – A Greek Phrase You Hear Often, and Its Deeper Meaning
• Ep 9: Orthodoxy FAQs: Liturgy Edition 10.01.2026 22Min.

  Have you ever wondered why we kiss the priest’s hand, light candles when entering the church, or stand throughout the Divine Liturgy?In this episode (the first in my Orthodoxy FAQs series), I walk through eight commonly asked questions about Orthodox Christian liturgy and the meaning behind these sacred practices.Whether you’re a new convert, an inquirer, or someone who has been Orthodox your entire life, this conversation offers deeper insight into the why behind what we do.Understanding the significance of these traditions has profoundly changed how I experience the Divine Liturgy, helping me be more present, attentive, and prayerful.A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish priest.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction04:51 – Why do we kiss the priest’s hand07:26 – Why do we light candles?11:53 – Why do we use beeswax candles13:12 – What are icons?13:45 – Why do we kiss icons?15:53 – Why do we stand for liturgy?19:48 – Why do we do our cross with three fingers?20:40 – Why do we do our cross right to left?RESOURCESWhy do we kiss the priest’s hand?-Kissing the Priest’s Hand – Greek Orthodox Christian Society https://lychnos.org/kissing-priests-hand/-First Time Visitors - Transfiguration https://transfiguration.org/first-time-visitor/-Why do Orthodox Christians kiss the hand of a bishop or priest? | Church Blog https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2017/08/why-do-orthodox-christians-kiss-hand-ofWhy do we light candles?-Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/-Why Do Orthodox Christians Light Candles? » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-do-orthodox-christians-light-candles/-Light a Candle - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/chapel/lightacandle-The Candles & Their Symbolism - St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church https://www.sthermansoca.org/orthodox-christianity/the-candles-their-symbolism/Why do we use beeswax candles?-Why Do Orthodox Christians Light Candles? » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-do-orthodox-christians-light-candles/Why are icons and why do we kiss icons?-Why Orthodox Christians Kiss Icons » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-orthodox-christians-kiss-icons/Why do we stand for liturgy?-First Time Visitors - Transfiguration https://transfiguration.org/first-time-visitor/-Why Orthodox Christians Stand During Services » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/standing-orthodox-church/-Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/Why do we do our cross with three fingers?-Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/Why do we do our Cross right to left?-Sign of the Cross Direction - Questions & Answers - Orthodox Church in America https://www.oca.org/questions/teaching/sign-of-the-cross-direction-The Reason Orthodox Christians Cross Themselves from Right to Left – St. John the Merciful Orthodox Church https://johnthemerciful.org/the-reason-orthodox-christians-cross-themselves-from-right-to-left/
• Ep 8: Building Healthy Spiritual Habits 03.01.2026 33Min.

  How do you build spiritual habits that actually last? In this episode, we share five Orthodox Christian practices shaping our faith and family life. The New Year often feels like a fresh start. While many of us focus on fitness or financial goals, our spiritual life deserves our attention first and foremost.For this episode, I sit down with my husband, Polydoros, to talk about five spiritual habits we’re actively working toward and what our journey with each has looked like.These are foundational Orthodox Christian spiritual practices that have shaped our faith and family life. We also speak honestly about the discipline, consistency, and grace it takes to remain faithful when life gets busy, especially as a married couple and parents.We’re not experts, and we’re certainly not perfect. We’re a Greek Orthodox husband and wife striving to follow Christ faithfully, one day at a time.And remember: you don’t need a New Year to recommit your life to Christ. He opens His arms to us at any moment, and we just have to open our hearts to Him.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction06:58 – Habit 1: Church Every Sunday14:22 – Habit 2: God’s Word First Thing19:56 – Habit 3: Evening Prayers22:58 – Habit 4: Prayer at Meals27:19 – Habit 5: Fasting Wednesdays & FridaysRESOURCESGreek Orthodox Daily Readings Sign-Up  LISTSERV - Subscribe (DAILYREADINGS) - LISTSERV.GOARCH.ORGDaily Readings App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/daily-readings/id516000464Morning Prayers - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleepPrayers At Mealtime - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-at-mealtimePrayers Before Sleep - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleep
• Ep 7: Why The Dinner Table Shapes Faith 20.12.2025 30Min.

  In this episode, I reflect on the importance of family meals through the lens of Orthodox Christianity. The dinner table is not just a place where we eat. It can become a place of prayer, gratitude, and spiritual transformation, especially for our children.I share why family meals matter spiritually, how the Orthodox practice of praying before and after meals shapes a child’s (and even adult’s) awareness of God, and why this helps build our faith in the ordinary moments. For many families, the dinner table may be the only time during the day when God is acknowledged or prayer is practiced together.I also speak honestly about our own family meals journey. We did not always prioritize eating together, but over time we began to implement family meals with more intention. I share what changed for us and offer practical tips for making family meals more realistic and meaningful, even in busy seasons.If this episode resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with another family who may be encouraged.Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the way, the truth, and the life. ☦️#FamilyMeals #OrthodoxChristianity #MealtimePrayer #FaithAndFamily #ChristianParenting #PrayerAtHome #FamilyTraditions #OrthodoxFaith #SpiritualParenting #ParentingWithFaith #FamilyTime #RaisingKidsInFaith #FaithInDailyLife #FamilySpirituality #ThatOrthodoxMama TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction07:17 – Family Meals and My Upbringing10:00 – Benefits of Family Meals for Children and Parents16:42 – Why We Pray Over Our Food as Orthodox Christians18:06 – Being Present in Your Prayer21:43 – What to Pray at Mealtime23:40 – Practical Tips for Implementing Family MealsRESOURCES:Prayers At Mealtime: https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-at-mealtimePraying Before Meals (Everyday Orthodoxy - Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Grand Rapids Michigan): https://youtu.be/RzOKD0wZSV4?si=zyIR3esgCx3vf7AQBenefits of Family Meals - Family Dinner Project: https://thefamilydinnerproject.org/about-us/benefits-of-family-dinners/Family Meal Tips from the AAP: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/family-meals-eat-together-thrive-together.aspx
• Ep 6: The Spiritual Life Today: Marriage, Social Media & Prayer with Father John Vlahos 11.12.2025 34Min.

  Feeling distracted, stretched thin, or unsure how to keep Christ at the center of your life and marriage?I had the privilege of sitting down with Father John Vlahos of St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Shrine Church in Greenlawn, NY for a much-needed conversation on keeping our hearts anchored in Christ in a noisy world.Father offers practical, pastoral wisdom on prayer, marriage, spiritual burnout, and even how to navigate social media while staying grounded in our Orthodox faith. His words brought me so much clarity and peace, and I know they will bless you too.I also share how Father’s social media pages have been a blessing in my own life. You can follow him on Instagram (@frjohnvlahos @stparaskevi_greenlawn) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/fr.vlahos). Please like, subscribe, comment, and share this episode with a friend!Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the way, the truth, and the life. ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Father John’s Journey to the Priesthood & Early Orthodox Faith Influences04:25 – The Church’s Healing Role as a Spiritual Hospital08:58 – Navigating Social Media as Orthodox Christians14:29 – Practical Advice for Avoiding Spiritual Burnout & Stress18:44 – Loving Your Spouse & Praying for Their Spiritual Journey25:01 – Spiritual Alignment: Why It Matters When Dating & Marrying27:01 – Cultivating Christ-Centered Growth
• Ep 5: The Case For Christian Music 04.12.2025 19Min.

  What did your Spotify Wrapped summary look like this year? It’s always fascinating to see not just how much music we listen to, but the kinds of songs and themes that fill our playlists.I absolutely love and adore our Orthodox liturgical music, it is truly one of the most beautiful gifts of our Church and pillar of our services!But day to day, I (and I think most of us) listen to other genres of music. And the reality is that secular music has shifted. Lyrics have become more explicit, themes more harmful, and so much of it quietly pulls our hearts away from Christ. In this episode, I share how I slowly started to listen to contemporary Christian music, the artists who have uplifted me, and how this simple change has brought more peace into my daily life. I also dive into how secular music shapes our minds more than we think. And yes… I made you a playlist! 🎧MY FEEL GOOD CHRISTIAN MUSIC PLAYLIST: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3jo4OuvkK35Plf56L5E9hv?si=9x4IFuoYRyqz29Jfm_24KA&pi=qSXPXdWlQDeXiPlease like, subscribe, comment, and share this episode with a friend!Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the way, the truth, and the life. ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction01:54 – Rise of Contemporary Christian Music02:51 – My Music Background & Orthodox Liturgical Music04:13– How I Started Listening to Christian Music06:12 – How Music Themes Shape Us Subconsciously08:10 – Five Reasons to Listen to Christian Music11:05 – Thoughts on Television Themes13:18 – My Favorite Christian Artists16:45 – Playlist DetailsRESOURCESSome of my favorite artists include:✅ Forrest Frank – indie pop, feel-good✅ Hulvey – Christian rap, introspective✅ Lecrae – hip hop, faith-driven✅ Brandon Lake – worship rock, raw✅ CAIN – country pop, joyful✅ Tauren Wells – pop, inspirational✅ Elevation Rhythm – EDM-pop, vibrant✅ Josiah Queen – acoustic, storytelling✅ Maverick City – gospel collective, raw✅ Phil Wickham – modern, emotional✅ Jordan Feliz – pop soul, upbeat✅ Terrian – R&B, soulful✅ Jamie MacDonald – soulful, pop
• Ep 4: The Spiritual Power of Gratitude 27.11.2025 28Min.

  In this Thanksgiving episode, you’ll get to meet my husband, someone I am deeply grateful for!Together we talk about gratitude as a spiritual discipline, the moments we struggle with it, and the small, everyday practices that help us stay rooted in thankfulness.We also explore how gratitude looks in different seasons of life, including the challenging ones, and how it can reshape the way we see God, ourselves, and the world.And most importantly, I want to say how grateful I am for you, our listeners. Thank you for being here!Please like, subscribe, comment, and share this episode with a friend!Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the truth, and the life. ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction00:55 – Gratitude & Thankfulness as a Pillar of Our Faith03:10 – Gratitude as a Spiritual Discipline07:10 – Finding Gratitude in Challenging Times12:20 – What Scripture Teaches About Gratitude13:29 – Gratitude and the Brain14:59 – Why One Day a Year Isn’t Enough to Thank God15:45 – God Is Not a Vending Machine17:37 – Praying Out of Fear21:07 – Thanksgiving in All Circumstances24:27 – Gratitude for the People Around UsRESOURCESThe Three Stages of the Spiritual Life - Patristic Nectar App - Lecture 9 - GratitudeThe Discipline of Gratitude - Father Luke Veronis - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America The Orthodox Faith - Volume IV - Spirituality - The Virtues - Gratitude - Orthodox Church in AmericaA Deeper Level of Thanksgiving - Orthodox Christian Fellowship - OCFThe Neuroscience of Gratitude & Its Effects on the BrainThe Science of Gratitude - Mindful
• Ep 3: A Modern Miracle & Raising Orthodox Teens: A Conversation with Father Demetrios 24.11.2025 12Min.

  A miraculous tearing icon… and yes, I’ve witnessed it with my own eyes.In this episode 3, I had the blessing of sitting down with Father Demetrios Kazakis of St. Paul Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Hempstead, NY. Father shares the powerful story of this modern-day miracle connected to the Panagia, along with the history of the special shrine inside the cathedral.We also dive into a deeply needed conversation for families on how to raise Orthodox teens and tweens in today’s world.Father’s words spoke to my heart as a mother, and I know they will bless you and your family as well.A heartfelt thank you to Father Demetrios, and to St. Paul’s Cathedral for welcoming me into their church for this interview, as well as for the previous Episode 2 with Father Flavianos.Like, subscribe, comment, and share this episode with a friend 🙏Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the way, the truth, and the life ☦️TIMESTAMPS00:34 – Introduction & Father Demetrios’ Journey to the Priesthood02:26 – The Miraculous Tearing Icon of the Panagia04:25 – Why The Orthodox Venerate Icons07:25 – Raising Orthodox Teens & Tweens in Today’s Society08:27 – Guidance for Every Orthodox Family09:34 – Supporting Teens Who Feel Disconnected from the Faith
• Ep 2: Grief, Hope & The Call To Priesthood with Father Flavianos 20.11.2025 9Min.

  I was honored to have the opportunity to interview Father Flavianos Katerinakis of St. Paul Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Hempstead, NY for this very special video.In this episode, Father speaks about losing both of his parents and how that impacted his path toward the priesthood.He also touches upon grief and faith, discerning God’s presence during tough times, and how St. Nektarios shaped much of his journey.I was greatly moved by his words and I know you will be too.A sincere thank you to Father and St. Paul’s for welcoming me into their church to film this video.Like, subscribe, comment and share this episode with a friend! 🙏Always remember that He is the way, the truth and the life ☦️TIMESTAMPS:00:20: Introduction02:13: Iconography in St. Paul Greek Orthodox Cathedral03:05: Father’s Upbringing03:17: Father’s Comments on Inspiring Young Men to Pursue the Priesthood04:24: Father’s Journey to the Priesthood05:20: Comments on Grief and Faith07:07: Discerning God’s Presence In Challenging Times08:17: Reflections on St. Nektarios