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In the final week of Opt Out October, host Jill Simons welcomes Claire Dwyer—author, writing coach, and host of the "Your Best Yes" podcast—to dive into how Catholics can make discerning, courageous choices rooted in their God-given calling! Together, they explore what it means to say "yes" to God authentically, the role of humility and magnanimity, and the practical steps to guard new spiritual and emotional space after decluttering. Claire shares her insights on battling fear, navigating others' expectations, and discerning between multiple good choices, drawing on wisdom from Catholic tradition and spiritual guides.  Whether you've participated in Opt Out October or are looking to refocus your priorities, this episode equips you to embrace your best yes and move forward in faith. 01:02 — Creating Space for Your Best "Yes" 03:49 — Why We Struggle to Make Progress 06:14 — The Blessed Mother's Fiat: Humility and Saying Yes 08:25 — Magnanimity: Daring Great Things with God 10:46 — Opting Out: Protecting Your Boundaries and Mission 15:06 — The Nehemiah Principle: Building Walls of Protection 22:50 — The Five C's of Discernment Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com and watch the full episode video at Many Parts Ministries Youtube

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons welcomes Ann Virnig, Director of Mission Relations at the Avila Institute, for the fourth week of Opt Out October. Together, they dive into the concept of "spiritual clutter"—what it means, how it impacts our interior lives, and why addressing it is essential for spiritual growth. Ann shares insights from her experience in spiritual direction and boundaries work, exploring how intentional boundaries can bring freedom, clarity, and deeper intimacy with God. The conversation also touches on discerning when to say yes or no, integrating boundaries into prayer life, and the role of emotions in our spiritual journey. This episode offers practical advice, reflection questions, and encouragement for anyone seeking to declutter their spiritual lives and grow in authentic relationship with Christ! 00:31 - Introduction to Spiritual Clutter & Boundaries 01:22 - Ann Virnig's Background and Journey to Avila Institute 03:03 - Discovering the Importance of Boundaries in the Spiritual Life 06:35 - How to Set Interior Boundaries in Your Prayer Life 09:05 - Purification of Relationships and the Pain of Saying No 14:24 - Discernment, Compulsive Yeses, and the Life of Pause 26:42 - The Role of Emotions in Spiritual Growth Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com and watch the full episode video at Many Parts Ministries Youtube Download the free guide to follow along with Opt out October here: Opt Out October

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons is joined by physician and coach Claudine Noel for Week 3 of Opt Out October, focusing on mental clutter. Together, they explore the challenges of constant anxiety, overwhelmed minds, and internal narratives that keep us disconnected from our bodies and God. Claudine shares practical insights on how Catholic women can reconnect with themselves through awareness, naming emotions, and allowing space for feelings—all from an integrative, faith-filled perspective. Whether you're struggling with feeling stuck, worried about being too self-focused, or seeking to pray more deeply, this conversation offers compassionate wisdom and actionable steps for moving toward greater wholeness and peace. 00:30 - Introduction to Opt Out October Week 3 01:51 - Claudine Noel's Background and Mission 04:05 - The Problem of Disconnection Between Mind and Body 06:30 - How to Begin Reconnecting with Your Body and Emotions 07:46 - The 90-Second Rule for Processing Emotions 16:26 - Faith, the Nervous System, and Red Flags for Catholics 24:06 - Can Regulation Practices Become Self-Centered? Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com and watch the full episode video at Many Parts Ministries Youtube Download the free guide to follow along with Opt out October here: Opt Out October

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons welcomes special guest Rachel Bulman as part of the Opt Out October series, focusing on the theme of emotional clutter. Together, they explore how emotional clutter accumulates in our lives, its impact on our ability to fully live out our charisms, and the importance of integrating our emotional and spiritual lives. Drawing from theology, philosophy, and personal experience, Rachel offers practical insights for recognizing and addressing emotional clutter, understanding the body-soul connection emphasized in Theology of the Body, and discerning healthy boundaries in our callings. Tune in for an outpouring of encouragement to approach your emotional life with honesty and self-awareness, seeking freedom and integration as a beloved child of God! 00:26 — Introduction to Opt Out October and Emotional Clutter   01:20 — Rachel Bulman Shares Her Background   02:21 — Connection Between Emotional State and Environment   04:02 — Theology of the Body and Emotional Integration   07:37 — Where Do Emotions Fit in Catholic Theology?   14:19 — Practical Discernment: Knowing Emotional Limits   18:20 — Getting Started: Journaling and Practical Self-Awareness Download the free "Opt Out October" guide at https://manypartsministries.com and watch the full video at Many Parts Ministries Youtube

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons kicks off Opt Out October with special guest Sterling Jaquith, author of "Not of This World: A Catholic Guide to Minimalism." Together, they dive into the relationship between physical clutter and inner peace, discussing how creating order in our homes can open more space for the Holy Spirit and a deeper embrace of our charisms. Sterling shares insights from her personal journey—growing up around hoarding, raising a large family, and developing practical systems for decluttering. The conversation offers actionable tips, spiritual encouragement, and real-talk about letting go, setting boundaries, and building a home that reflects faith-driven priorities. Whether you're overwhelmed by physical things or just curious about Catholic minimalism, this episode will inspire you to clear space—inside and out—for God's work in your life! 00:27 — Launching Opt Out October: A Month-Long Journey   01:39 — Introducing Sterling Jaquith: Decluttering for Internal Peace   03:40 — Facing Family Hoarding and the Minimalism Challenge   06:05 — Charisms and Clutter: Beyond "Does it Spark Joy?"   09:31 — The Real Cause of Clutter Stress: What's Stealing Your Peace?   13:34 — Letting Go of Aspirational Clutter and Woundedness   23:38 — Getting Started: Small Chunks, Lasting Results Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons explores how even "good things" in life—such as commitments, relationships, and daily clutter—can unintentionally crowd out the space needed to say yes to our spiritual gifts, or charisms. While sharing personal reflections and practical insights on making intentional space for God's work, especially as we look ahead to seasons like Advent, Jill introduces "Opt Out October," a focused initiative to declutter physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual areas of life, so we can better align with our unique gifts. Whether you're overwhelmed by your schedule or seeking deeper fulfillment, everyone is invited to examine what might be hindering their ability to serve and live from their charisms. 00:28 – Crowding Out Charisms with Other Good Things   01:30 – Charisms as a Penciled-in Footnote   03:25 – Making Space for Advent and Christ   04:46 – Five-Week Series Preview: Addressing Clutter and Saying Your Best Yes   06:35 – The Power of Self-Pruning: Choosing Your Yes   09:38 – Reorienting in Challenging Relationships   12:21 – Opt Out October Tiers: Dip In, Dive In, and All In Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this mini episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill announces the beginning of this year's Opt Out October, an annual event designed to help Catholics declutter their lives and make more space to say yes to what God is calling us to, especially in relation to our charisms! Jill explains the availability of the challenge at a free level, as well as new options for deeper support, such as guided resources, weekly videos, daily actionable steps, charism assessments, and opportunities for live group interaction and accountability.  This episode highlights the importance of creating room for discernment and growth, while Jill encourages listeners to join the community in this transformative journey, as a supportive environment is intended to bring greater clarity, peace, and openness to the movements of the Holy Spirit in participants' lives! 00:14 — Launching Opt Out October: An Annual Tradition   00:26 — Creating Space to Say Yes to God and Charisms   01:01 — Introducing New Support Levels for the Challenge   01:14 — What's Included in Opt Out Guided   01:50 — Features of the Opt Out Together Package   02:21 — Opportunities for Direct Support, Training, and Accountability   03:19 — Helping You Discern Charisms and Find Peace Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill reflects on "The Stakes of Charism Discernment," exploring why discerning your spiritual gifts matters not only for your own well-being but, even more urgently, for the good of others in the Body of Christ! Through compelling analogies and personal stories, she highlights how understanding and using our charisms can provide healing, encouragement, and transformation far beyond what we might realize, impacting families, parishes, and entire communities. Jill challenges listeners in this episode to see charism discernment as an essential, outward-facing part of Christian life, and urges everyone to share this awareness within their circles so that the unique gifts God has given each of us can fully bear fruit in the Church and the world! 00:44 – The Stakes of Charism Discernment   01:54 – The Gunshot Wound and Eczema Analogy   04:06 – How Charism Discernment Addresses Hidden Frustrations   06:01 – The Ripple Effect of Your Charisms on Others   10:53 – A Prophetic Word and Its Unexpected Impact   14:30 – Charisms in Action: Everyday Miracles   19:02 – Why We Need Each Other's Charisms Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores three unconventional ways to deepen intimacy with God, drawn from her personal prayer and insights received in adoration. Moving beyond the specifics of charisms, Jill focuses on cultivating greater receptivity to the Holy Spirit and nurturing a childlike relationship with God. She unpacks how embracing vulnerability, persistence, and authenticity in our spiritual lives can transform our awareness of God's presence and our ability to recognize opportunities to use our spiritual gifts. Whether you struggle with feeling like a "bother" in prayer, sanitizing your emotions before God, or fearing disappointment by asking for big things, this episode offers practical, off-the-wall inspiration for growing in trust and deepening your connection with the Father! 01:00 - Levels of Invitation to Use Your Charisms 01:39 - High Attunement and Whisper Nudges from God 04:42 - Embracing Our Role as Children of God 06:09 - What Childlike Trust Looks Like Spiritually 07:05 - Don't Worry About Being Annoying 10:10 - Lesson 2: Feel All Your Feelings with God 14:47 - Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Big Things Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill Simons explores the question, "Is identity always linear?" Drawing on insightful analogies between identity formation and physical fitness, Jill discusses how investing in your spiritual life can help you maintain and grow your sense of identity, but also acknowledges that setbacks and non-linear progress are common. She examines how personal struggles or injustices can impact our sense of self, the ongoing need for healing, and the vital role of divine grace in our journeys. Whether you're moving steadily forward or experiencing detours, you'll find encouragement and practical wisdom for embracing and strengthening your identity in Christ! 00:57 - Comparing Identity to Physical Fitness 02:15 - Exceptions and Nonlinear Identity Journeys 03:32 - Building "Mental Hygiene" for Identity Maintenance 04:09 - The Limitlessness of Growth in Identity 05:14 - How Pain and Injustice Affect Identity 12:45 - Encouragement for Continuing Your Identity Journey Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores the essential role that coaches and volunteers play in making charism discernment accessible within the Church! She delves into the different programs offered by Many Parts Ministries, from entry-level study groups to comprehensive volunteer and coach certifications, all designed to equip individuals to accompany others through their discernment journey. Jill also shares her personal experience in developing these resources, emphasizing the importance of local leadership and one-on-one accompaniment to help people identify their spiritual gifts. This episode also highlights how you can get involved, whether by becoming trained leaders or by advocating for charism discernment programs within their own parishes! 01:03 — Launch of "What You Carry" Study: Entry-Level Accompaniment 02:50 — Volunteer Training Programs and Small Group Accompaniment 04:16 — Jill Simons' Personal Journey: Learning and Informal Charism Accompaniment 06:44 — Impact and Role of Volunteers in Local Communities 10:04 — Volunteer Accompaniment Training Program Overview 11:13 — Spiritual Director and Coach Certification Program 14:51 — Benefits for Spiritual Directors and Coaches: Practical Application 16:14 — Grassroots Parish Engagement and Impact Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons is joined by Ginny Kochis, a neurodivergent parent coach and author, to discuss how the Church can better understand and welcome neurodivergent individuals! Ginny shares her personal journey as a mother navigating her children's diverse neurological needs, the gifts neurodivergent people bring to faith communities, and practical ways Catholic parishes can create more inclusive spaces. Together, they reflect on the importance of identity in Christ, overcoming judgment, and celebrating the unique contributions of all members of the Body of Christ. Ginny also introduces her book, "Quirky Catholic: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy," which lifts up saints who displayed neurodivergent traits and offers encouragement for families seeking holiness in every circumstance! 00:18 — Introducing Ginny Kochis: Neurodivergent Parent Coach   01:26 — Navigating Unexpected Parenting Challenges   02:53 — Processing Diagnosis and Grief   04:43 — Supporting Other Moms in Catholic Spaces   07:02 — Unique Strengths of Neurodivergent Children   13:39 — Overcoming Judgment and Embracing Accommodations   23:10 — Saints as Models for Neurodivergent Catholics Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons shares the story behind the new "Where the Spirit Is" resource, specially designed for prison ministry. Born from Jill's personal experiences and long-standing passion for charisms, this initiative aims to help incarcerated men and women discover their spiritual gifts and find purpose, even within prison walls. She discusses the challenges of creating an accessible, non-digital assessment tailored for the unique circumstances of incarceration, the desire to serve all denominations, and the hope that this tool will empower both prison ministers and those they serve.  This episode will encourage you to spread the word, pray for prison ministry, and join the movement to bring the freedom of the Holy Spirit to those most in need! 01:32 - Personal Struggle and the Role of Charisms 02:57 - Inspiration for Prison Ministry Resources 05:15 - Challenges Creating Charism Resources for Prisons 06:47 - Designing Accessible, Paper-Based Assessments 09:02 - Distribution and Application Process 12:46 - The Resource "Where the Spirit Is" and Closing Reflections Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons dives deep into the many different lists of charisms or spiritual gifts used across Catholic ministries! Drawing on her experience at Many Parts Ministries, Jill compares and contrasts seven popular lists—including biblical sources, the Catherine of Siena Institute's Called and Gifted program, diocesan inventories, and charismatic renewal approaches—to highlight why certain gifts are included or combined, and how these choices shape our understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in the Church. Focusing on clarity and practical discernment, she encourages listeners to find the resources that serve them best, emphasizing that diversity in charism frameworks is both expected and valuable within the Body of Christ. Whether you're new to charism discernment or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode provides a thoughtful look at how different models can help you discover and live out your God-given gifts! 00:39 — Introduction to Charism Lists and Models   03:20 — Overview of Seven Popular Charism Lists   04:49 — Distinguishing Isaiah Gifts from Charisms   06:02 — Grouping of Charisms: Romans and Corinthians   10:25 — Comparison with Catherine of Siena Institute's 24 Charisms   12:13— Diocese of Cleveland's Parish-Focused Charism List   22:01— Digital Communications and Contemporary Charisms Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons focuses on how Catholics can discern and test charisms—spiritual gifts—especially when they aren't sure how to do so. She discuses the unique challenge of testing "lifestyle" or "ways of being" charisms such as voluntary poverty and celibacy, which may not provide obvious external confirmation. She also discuses practical, approachable strategies, including using one's calendar to identify opportunities for discernment and offering upcoming life activities to the Holy Spirit for testing. Tune in to explore the importance of giving God space to move, attentiveness to His responses, and finding support through spiritual mentors when needed! 00:56 – Introducing the Challenge: How Do You Test a Charism You Don't Know How to Test?   01:38 – Hard-to-Test Charisms: Wisdom, Knowledge, Voluntary Poverty & Celibacy   03:15 – Fruits of Detachment: How Lifestyle Charisms Amplify Others   05:17 – Universal Guideline: Use Your Calendar for Discernment   06:45 – Trusting the Holy Spirit: Offering Upcoming Days for Testing   10:00 – The Key to Discernment: Pay Attention When Testing   13:03 – Real-Life Example: Discovering the Charism of Knowledge Over Lunch Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.