The New Woman: Why Formation Is the Missing Key to Renewal, Freedom & Flourishing with January Donovan

The New Woman: Why Formation Is the Missing Key to Renewal, Freedom & Flourishing with January Donovan

A powerful conversation with January Donovan on Catholic Feminine Formation, spiritual motherhood, human flourishing, and why the renewal of culture begins with formed women. What if the greatest crisis facing women today is not a lack of information—but a lack of formation? In this rich and deeply personal conversation, Angela sits down with her dear friend, January Donovan, founder of The Woman School and the newly launched Catholic Feminine Formation initiative. Together they explore why so many faithful women are growing spiritually yet still feel overwhelmed, exhausted, lonely, and stuck in survival mode. They discuss the critical difference between spiritual formation and human formation, the role of Our Lady as the model of the "New Woman," and why reclaiming feminine genius may be one of the most important missions of our time. January shares the story behind her 30-year journey developing The Woman School, the vision behind Catholic Feminine Formation, and her conviction that the renewal of families, parishes, and culture begins with one formed woman at a time. If you've ever felt called to more but lacked the skills, confidence, clarity, or support to step into that call, this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways: * Why formation is different from information * The four dimensions of Catholic formation * Human formation as the missing piece for many women * Our Lady as the model of the New Woman * Why faithful women still struggle with overwhelm and anxiety * The connection between formation and flourishing * The role of spiritual motherhood in cultural renewal * Healing, accompaniment, and personal transformation * The loneliness epidemic among women * Raising confident daughters through apprenticeship and formation * The future of Catholic Feminine Formation * How formed women can transform families, parishes, and society Resources Mentioned: https://www.viriditasliving.com/catholic-group-intensive-coaching [https://www.viriditasliving.com/catholic-group-intensive-coaching] https://catholicfeminineformation.com/new-woman-masterclass-preview [https://catholicfeminineformation.com/new-woman-masterclass-preview] http://Catholicfeminineformation.com [http://catholicfeminineformation.com/] https://catholicfeminineformation.com/the-new-woman [https://catholicfeminineformation.com/the-new-woman] #IntegratedWholeness #JanuaryDonovan #TheWomanSchool #CatholicFeminineFormation #NewWomanMasterclass #FeminineGenius #CatholicWomen #CatholicMotherhood #SpiritualMotherhood #HumanFormation #WomenOfHope #CatholicLeadership #OurLady #FormationMatters #CatholicPodcast #FaithAndFormation #CultureOfLife #WomenWhoFlourish #ViriditasLiving #ForSuchATimeAsThis Reclaim the vibrant life you were created for! Sign up for our newsletter here [https://bit.ly/VL_emails] To book a free coaching session with Angela Schnieders or learn more visit viriditasliving.com [http://viriditasliving.com/]

Busy, Successful, and Spiritually Starving: A Path Back to Love, Presence, and Wholeness with Nisrine El Choueifati

In this deeply moving conversation, Angela welcomes Nisrine El-Choueifati, a speech pathologist, communications consultant, international speaker, and student of Theology of the Body, for a profound reflection on communication as a path back to love, presence, identity, and communion with God. Drawing from 20 years of experience working with children, families, and professionals, Nisrine reveals how children are often mirrors of the culture around them—and how their struggles can become invitations for parents and adults to return to safety, presence, wonder, and relationship. Together, Angela and Nisrine explore how technology, busyness, productivity, and fragmentation have weakened our capacity to truly see, hear, and love one another. At the heart of the episode is Nisrine's Courageous Communication [https://talkingtriumphs.com.au/coeur-ageous-communication/] approach: restoring communication to its God-given design as something deeply relational, embodied, healing, and rooted in the heart. This conversation is an invitation for parents, spouses, professionals, and all who feel disconnected to slow down, listen again, and rediscover the sacred space where love speaks. Key themes include: communication as relationship, children as teachers, technology and disconnection, the body as made for communion, restoring family culture, Theology of the Body, spiritual childhood, and the healing power of presence. A beautiful final invitation from Nisrine: watch what your child loves—and let that become the doorway back into the relationship. Key Takeaways: * Authentic communication starts from the heart and is rooted in love and safety. * Children mirror society and are the best teachers of our true human nature. * Technology can distort our connection to the body and emotions, leading to fragmentation. * Restoring communication involves wholeness, presence, and listening to the heart. * Our deepest identity and mission are unveiled through relationships with God, others, and ourselves. Resources Mentioned: Nisrine El Choueifati, Child and Family communication therapist Founder and Director of Talking Triumphs Speech and communication consultancy services Our mission is to restore communication to its heart - life-giving, relational and human Working with children and families, professionals and communities www.talkingtriumphs.com.au [http://www.talkingtriumphs.com.au/] www.nisrineelchoueifati.com.au [http://www.nisrineelchoueifati.com.au/] #communication#theology#wholeness#family#relationships#God#love#presence#speech pathology#courage Reclaim the vibrant life you were created for! Sign up for our newsletter here [https://bit.ly/VL_emails]

St. Hildegard's Daily Health Secrets: 6 Simple Ways to Fortify Body, Mind, and Soul with Maria Iwinska

In this rich and deeply practical conversation, Angela welcomes back Maria Iwinska of Hildegard's Way [https://hildegardsway.com/] to explore the timeless wisdom of St. Hildegard of Bingen and the daily lifestyle she believed restores harmony in the human person. Maria explains why St. Hildegard must be understood not only as a mystic, but as a Benedictine shaped by order, rhythm, and sacred balance. From that foundation, she highlights six core daily pillars of Hildegardian nutrition and healing: spelt [https://hildegardsway.com/products/whole-spelt-flour], galangal [https://hildegardsway.com/products/galangal-alipinia-officinarum-100-g-3-5-oz], bertram [https://hildegardsway.com/products/bertram-anacyclus-pyrethrum-powdered-root-100-g], diptam [https://hildegardsway.com/products/diptam-100-g-3-5-oz], fennel [https://www.amazon.com/Traditional-Medicinals-Organic-Fennel-Herbal/dp/B015OGE4JM/ref=asc_df_B015OGE4JM?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80745595096020&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=109993&hvtargid=pla-4584345072960440&msclkid=64c78aedfc4618a2d728e3209766368d&th=1], and chestnuts [https://hildegardsway.com/collections/chestnuts]. Together, Angela and Maria discuss why not all spelt is created equal, how to identify authentic ancient spelt, and how these foundational foods and remedies can support energy, digestion, immune resilience, mental clarity, and overall vitality. They also reflect on a theme central to both Hildegard's wisdom and integrated healing: the body is always speaking. Symptoms are not merely inconveniences to suppress, but invitations to deeper awareness, greater harmony, and more faithful stewardship of the life God has given us. This episode is a beautiful invitation to slow down, pay attention, and begin asking a life-changing question: Is what I am consuming fortifying me—or depleting me? In this episode, Angela and Maria discuss: * why St. Hildegard's Benedictine roots matter for understanding her lifestyle teachings * the connection between order, harmony, and health * Hildegard's six foundational daily nutrition pillars * why authentic ancient spelt is different from modern hybridized grains * how to source true spelt and the questions to ask your farmer or supplier * the role of digestion in whole-person health * the connection between gut health, mood, and mental clarity * galangal as "the spice of life" * bertram for cleansing, digestion, and overall vitality * diptam for circulation, cholesterol support, and internal cleansing * fennel as a daily anti-inflammatory support and gentle source of energy * chestnuts as a source of steady energy and support for attention and liver health * why icy foods and drinks can weaken the body over time * the importance of gentle consistency over perfection * the relationship between physical health, emotional health, and spiritual harmony * how symptoms can point to deeper imbalance rather than simply needing to be covered over Practical takeaways: * begin reading labels and asking better sourcing questions * look for authentic, ancient spelt varieties rather than assuming all spelt is the same * consider incorporating spelt slowly and consistently into daily meals * explore simple Hildegardian supports like fennel, galangal, and chestnuts * reduce reliance on stimulants and begin replacing depletion habits with fortifying ones * pay attention to recurring symptoms as signals, not just annoyances * start small—one degree shifts practiced daily can become a lifestyle Resources Mentioned: * Hildegard's Way→ Website: HildegardsWay.com [http://hildegardsway.com/] * Follow Hildegard's Way on social media for recipes, teachings, and practical ways to incorporate St. Hildegard's wisdom into daily life * At the time of this podcast release many products are currently sold out at Hildegard's Way. That's been hard, but also very encouraging. It means more people are returning to these simple, foundational ways of caring for the body. If you would like to be notified when things are back, please sign up for Hildegard's Way newsletter on their website. Justyna and Maria share restock updates there first, along with recipes, education, and practical ways to live this hildegardian lifestyle." Chapters: 00:00 Welcome back + why this conversation continues 01:10 St. Hildegard as Benedictine: order, harmony, and the rule of life 05:45 Hildegard as teacher: nutrition as part of a sacred lifestyle 07:15 The six foundational pillars of Hildegardian nutrition 08:10 Why not all spelt is created equal 10:00 How to source authentic ancient spelt 13:45 Why spelt is foundational in Hildegard's teachings 14:40 Spelt, immunity, and the integrity of the cell 18:20 Why the benefits of spelt compound over time 21:20 Modern wheat, hybridization, and gluten sensitivity 22:05 Digestion, gut health, and mental well-being 23:15 Celiac, gut healing, and gradual restoration 24:45 Autoimmune issues, anger, and deeper healing 26:45 Galangal: "the spice of life" 31:10 Bertram and detoxification 32:20 Diptam and support for blood vessels, stones, and cleansing 34:45 Fennel: anti-inflammatory support, digestion, and joyful energy 38:40 Chestnuts: steady energy, attention, and liver support 43:30 Daily fortification: are your habits energizing or depleting you? 45:20 Consistency beats perfection 47:00 Where to find Hildegard's Way + closing encouragement Reclaim the vibrant life you were created for! Sign up for our newsletter here [https://bit.ly/VL_emails] To book a free coaching session with Angela Schnieders or learn more visit viriditasliving.com [http://viriditasliving.com/]

Why Fulton Sheen Matters Right Now More Than Ever with Dr. Peter Howard

In this deeply timely conversation, Angela Schnieders sits down with Dr. Peter Howard— founder of the Fulton Sheen Institute [https://www.fultonsheen.institute/], and one of today's leading voices on the life and message of Venerable Fulton Sheen—to explore why Sheen's long-awaited beatification comes at such a decisive moment for the Church, America, and the family. Together they unpack Sheen's prophetic warnings about the collapse of Christian civilization, the spiritual roots of today's cultural confusion, the significance of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the approaching 500th anniversary of her apparitions, and the urgent call to respond not with fear but with holiness. Anchored in Sheen's essential spiritual remedies—a daily Eucharistic Holy Hour, deep devotion to Our Blessed Mother, and renewed courage in marriage and family life—this episode offers both sobering clarity and profound hope for Catholics who want to understand the signs of the times and live with greater faith, mission, and integrated wholeness. Key Topics: * Fulton Sheen's beatification process and its significance * The connection between Our Lady of Guadalupe and prophecy * The importance of daily Holy Hour and Eucharistic devotion * Fulton Sheen's prophetic insights on modern civilization and spiritual warfare * The role of Mary as Mediatrix of All Graces and its theological basis Quotes from the Show: "Fulton Sheen will be part of the new America 2.0." "Mary is the Mediatrix of All Graces." "Divine Mercy precedes divine justice." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Peter Howard and Fulton Sheen 05:23 The Significance of Fulton Sheen's Message Today 12:11 The Philosophical Battle of Our Time 20:35 Connecting Fatima and Our Lady of Guadalupe 28:27 The Role of Fulton Sheen in Modern Times 40:27 The Revolutionary Act of Truth 48:08 Personal Holiness as the Answer 56:07 Mary as Mediatrix of All Graces 01:06:58 The Urgency of Spiritual Preparation 01:12:13 The Power of Retreats for Couples #Fulton Sheen #beatification #Marian devotion #Eucharistic adoration #spiritual warfare, #prophecy #Catholic faith #end times #divine mercy #Holy Hour #marriage retreat #fortifyyourmarriage Resources Mentioned: * The Fulton Sheen Institute [https://www.fultonsheen.institute/] * Ascend Marriage Retreat [https://ascend-experience.com/] June 10-14, 2026 Lakeside, Montana Reclaim the vibrant life you were created for! Sign up for our newsletter here [https://bit.ly/VL_emails] To book a free coaching session with Angela Schnieders or learn more visit viriditasliving.com [http://viriditasliving.com/]

Living an Integrated Life: St. Hildegard's Vision for True Flourishing with Maria Iwinska

What does it really mean to flourish—not just physically, but spiritually, emotionally, and relationally? In today's conversation, we welcome Maria Iwinska, a Hildegardian practitioner who brings together over a decade of experience in the corporate and consulting world with a deeply personal journey of healing and restoration of body, mind, and soul. Maria's work is rooted in the writings of St. Hildegard of Bingen, who understood nutrition, virtue, music, beauty, emotional healing, and the sacraments not as separate disciplines—but as one unified path toward wholeness. Through Hildegard's Way [https://hildegardsway.com/], Maria offers more than an online store of Hildegardian remedies. She has cultivated a living community—one that goes far beyond spelt and spices—to help modern individuals rediscover ancient wisdom in deeply practical ways. In this episode, Maria shares how seasons of crisis—whether illness, menopause, autoimmune challenges, major life transitions, or spiritual dryness—can become invitations to integration and healing, rather than obstacles to holiness. Maria is currently a second-year student of Hildegardian Sciences at the Pontifical Faculty of Theology at the University of Wroclaw, where she continues to study and live the wisdom of St. Hildegard in its full theological and anthropological depth. Together, we explore how St. Hildegard's vision invites each of us to begin living an integrated, flourishing life—right where we are. Curious to begin your own journey? Visit hildegardsway.com [http://www.hildegardsway.com/] and use VIRIDITAS10 to receive 10% off your first order. In This Episode, We Explore: * What true flourishing looks like through a Hildegardian lens * Why healing must address body, mind, and soul together * How beauty, music, virtue, and the sacraments participate in restoration * Why crisis can become a sacred doorway rather than a dead end * Practical ways to live St. Hildegard's wisdom in modern life Resources: Hildegard's Way Online Store Link HERE [https://hildegardsway.com/]. "At Hildegard's Way, we empower individuals to reach wellness through the healing wisdom of St. Hildegard of Bingen. We promote natural nutrition, a balanced lifestyle, and herbal remedies to achieve harmony with oneself, God and all creation. Shop all [https://hildegardsway.com/collections/all]. Use the code VIRIDITAS10 to receive 10% off your first order." Reclaim the vibrant life you were created for! Sign up for our newsletter here [https://bit.ly/VL_emails] To book a free coaching session with Angela Schnieders or learn more visit viriditasliving.com [http://viriditasliving.com/] Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Integrated Wholeness and St. Hildegard 02:49 Maria's Journey: From Poland to Hildegard's Way 06:03 The Impact of Nature on Health and Well-being 09:08 The Dichotomy of Urban Life and Natural Living 12:11 Hildegard's Cosmic Theology and Natural Healing 13:58 The Role of Nutrition and Homemaking in Health 18:08 The Journey into Medicine and Personal Transformation 20:54 The Influence of St. Hildegard on Personal Healing 23:59 Navigating the Medical System: A Personal Perspective 26:47 The Importance of Individualized Healing Approaches 30:07 Conclusion: Embracing the Gifts of Creation 36:47 The Journey of Transformation 38:12 Hildegard's Theological Works and Divine Revelations 40:48 Trusting Divine Guidance in Health Choices 44:28 The Importance of Sleep and Rest 49:31 Practical Tips for a Hildegardian Lifestyle 56:52 Hydration and the Healing Power of Water 01:02:02 Understanding Anger and Autoimmune Diseases 01:04:59 The Importance of Emotional Well-being 01:09:01 The Healing Power of Touch 01:11:30 Understanding Wormwood and Its Benefits 01:19:02 Holistic Health and the Connection Between Body and Soul 01:26:59 Movement as a Natural Remedy 01:34:01 The Role of Kidneys in Health 01:35:18 Exploring the Hildegard Diet 01:47:11 The Power of Herbal Teas 01:58:10 Micro Changes for Lasting Transformation