Called (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

When disaster strikes, where do we find hope—and how does God call us to respond?In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with civil engineer Tracy Kijewski-Correa, Director of the Pulte Institute for Global Development at the University of Notre Dame. Tracy shares her journey from building some of the world's tallest skyscrapers to studying structural disasters and helping vulnerable communities rebuild after catastrophic events. From the streets of Haiti to disaster zones across the globe, Tracy explains how local wisdom, authentic accompaniment, and listening for God's voice can transform devastation into agency and resilience. Tune in to discover how ordinary skills can be used in extraordinary ways when we step back, quiet the noise, and ask God: "What is my next right step?" To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].

In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to “walk with the poor.” Kerry shares her remarkable lifelong journey of service — shaped by her family’s legacy of Catholic philanthropy, her early encounters with heroic witnesses of faith, and her vocational call to bring hope where it’s needed most. From her unexpected path into fundraising at Yale, to her leadership with Catholic Charities USA, Kerry reveals how answering God’s call often begins with simply refusing to look away from human suffering. Together, she and Fr. Mike explore: ✨ What “vocational living” means and why it changes everything ✨ How Catholic Charities serves millions with dignity, mercy, and the heart of the Gospel ✨ The power of accompaniment and why presence matters as much as service ✨ How ordinary Catholics can begin helping the poor right where they are ✨ Why collaboration between clergy and laity is essential for the Church’s mission ✨ The deeper joy found in giving your life away in love To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].

When thousands of parishes are closing and fewer people identify with any faith, how can the Church not only survive—but thrive? In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks with Kevin Doyle, president of the Catholic Initiative, about a bold new approach to sustaining vibrant parishes and schools for generations to come. From restoring Detroit’s historic St. Anne’s Basilica to supporting under-resourced communities, the Catholic Initiative is reimagining what it means to invest in the future of the Church. Discover how one man’s generosity sparked a movement of faith, service, and renewal—and how we’re all called to build something that lasts. You can learn more about the Called podcast at: https://ascensionpress.com/pages/called. To learn more The Catholic Initiative, please visit https://thecatholicinitiative.org/. To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].

What does it look like to turn a paycheck into purpose? In this episode of Called, Fr.Mike Schmitz sits down with Chris Green, President of Humanitarian Hotels, to explore how the hospitality industry can become a mission field. With over 35 years of experience, Chris shares how true leadership is about seeing people, creating meaningful culture, and using every gift for something greater. Discover how entire hotels are giving 100% of their profits to charity, why authentic service transforms both staff and guests, and how you, too, can step fully into the person God made you to be. To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].

In this episode of Called, Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Fr. John Riccardo, executive director of ACTS XXIX, to talk about how we can accompany and support those who are brokenhearted. Drawing on Psalm 23, they reflect on God’s promise to be close to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. Fr. John shares insights from his decades of ministry, offering practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to bring Christ’s compassion into places of pain, grief, and loneliness. To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].

Called (with Father Mike Schmitz) brings you powerful stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives of service. Hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and brought to you by The Catholic Initiative in partnership with Ascension, each episode features conversations with individuals who have answered God’s call to serve others—from highly successful entrepreneurs to industry executives and community leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or looking for practical ways to live your faith, Called will challenge you to see service not as obligation, but as invitation. To receive updates on the podcast text CALLED to 33777. If you have a question or a story of someone living out their calling to serve others, email [email protected].