Episode Summary: "Welcome to the Called Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz"

Podcast: Called (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Ascension
Date: August 21, 2025

Overview

In this inaugural episode, Father Mike Schmitz introduces listeners to Called: a new podcast dedicated to sharing powerful stories of ordinary people who live extraordinary lives of service. The episode sets up the main purpose and vision for the show, emphasizing the importance of not just believing in Christianity, but actively living it through tangible acts of faith and love. Fr. Mike invites listeners to embark on this journey of discovering and responding to God’s call in their own lives.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Introduction to the Podcast’s Mission

• Fr. Mike enthusiastically announces the launch of Called, explaining its foundation in both the Catholic tradition and his own passion for lived faith.
• The show is a collaboration between The Catholic Initiative, Ascension, and Fr. Mike himself.

2. Living Christianity Boldly

• Key Insight: Christianity is described not as a passive belief system, but as something that must be “lived in the real world in real, bold ways.”
  • [00:13] Fr. Mike: "Christianity is not simply to be believed. It is to be lived in the real world in real, bold ways."
• The podcast will feature stories meant to inspire listeners to push beyond routine or obligation and enter a life of courageous service.

3. Invitation to All Listeners

• Fr. Mike addresses both long-time churchgoers and those who may be exploring the intersection of faith and service for the first time.
• The unifying thread is stories of “mercy, courage, and love,” chosen for their potential to "stir your heart."
  • [00:24] Fr. Mike: "...stories of mercy, of courage, and of love will undoubtedly stir your heart."

4. Personal Challenge and Shared Journey

• Fr. Mike shares his hope that, through this podcast, both he and the listeners will feel motivated to say "yes" to God's call in unique and personal ways.
• Emphasis is placed on each person’s vocation to impact the world in God’s name—not just hearing others’ stories but considering their own.

5. Call to Subscribe and Connect

• Fr. Mike gives listeners practical steps to join the journey: subscribe on their favorite platform or text the word “CALLED” to 33777 for more resources and connection.
• The first full episode is announced for release next month.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "Christianity is not simply to be believed. It is to be lived in the real world in real, bold ways."
  — Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:13]

• "These stories of mercy, of courage, and of love will undoubtedly stir your heart."
  — Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:24]

• "Called is not just to hear other people's stories, but also about asking the question, God, how are you calling me to impact your world in your name?"
  — Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:40]

• “Remember, we've all been called. You've been called, and I've been called. Let's start answering that call today. God bless.”
  — Fr. Mike Schmitz [01:03]

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:02 – Fr. Mike introduces himself and the new podcast
• 00:13 – Podcast mission: Living Christianity boldly
• 00:24 – Promises of inspiring stories
• 00:40 – The invitation to personal reflection and action
• 01:03 – Closing message and challenge to listeners

Conclusion

This debut episode of Called lays out a compelling vision: to move listeners from spectators to participants in God’s ongoing story of service and love. Father Mike’s hopeful tone and clear invitation set the stage for a series that promises both inspiration and practical guidance. Whether you’re eager to deepen your faith or discover new ways to serve, Called intends to accompany you on that journey from hearing to doing.