Episode 163: Last Week of Lent: Finish Strong with Oscar Rivera
As we enter the final week of Lent, host Oscar Rivera reminds us that it’s not the time to dwell on any shortcomings in our almsgiving, fasting, and prayer. Instead, it’s a moment to refocus, recommit, and finish strong. Whether your Lent has gone exactly as planned or felt a bit off track, these last few days offer a powerful opportunity to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and spiritual growth. In this episode, Oscar shares encouragement and practical wisdom to help you make this final stretch count—so you can prepare your heart for the joy and renewal of Easter.
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Episode 162: Faithful Surrender: Adoption, Marriage, and Bold Prayers with Allison Gingras
In this episode, Oscar sits down with Catholic author and media evangelist Allison Gingras to talk about marriage, family, and the boldness of saying "yes" when God calls you into the unexpected. Allison shares her powerful journey of surrender and trust, which led her all the way to China to adopt a specific child. We also explore the beauty of the Sacrament of Marriage, how God guides couples, and the importance of open communication in following his lead.
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Episode 161: From Struggles to Strength: Real Talk on Marriage and Faith feat. Mary Bruno
In this episode, Oscar sits down with Mary Bruno to unpack the quirks, challenges, and joys of marriage. From humorous food debates to deep struggles with infertility and faith, they share raw and uplifting stories of love, loss, and transformation. Mary opens up about her journey through infertility, the adoption of her daughter, and the powerful moment she encountered Jesus in her pain. Together, they explore the beauty of intimacy, the importance of vulnerability, and how God’s light shines through even the darkest moments. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on embracing love, suffering, and purpose in marriage.
We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends!
Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Episode 160: Faith, Vulnerability, and the Messy Beauty of Married Life with Renzo and Monica Ortega of Two Become Family Podcast
In this episode of Ave Spotlight, Oscar chats with Renzo and Monica Ortega—podcast hosts, authors, and speakers—for a candid and lively conversation about the beautiful, messy, and unexpected sides of married life. From navigating cultural differences to tackling faith struggles, they open up about what it really takes to build a strong, Christ-centered marriage. And they don’t shy away from the tough stuff—emotional infidelity, societal pressures, sex, and even the Church’s blind spots in marriage formation? It’s all on the table. Want to know the secret to not just surviving marriage but thriving in holiness? Tune in and find out!
We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends!
Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Episode 159: Weights, Wisdom and Social Emotional Learning in Ministry featuring Rhyan Ramirez
Join Oscar and Bro Rhy (Ryan Ramirez) as they dive into their personal stories, cultural traditions, and compare Olympic lifting with powerlifting. They explore the importance of social emotional learning (SEL) in ministry, how self-awareness and introspection help manage stress and emotions, and the role of faith in overcoming life’s challenges. Throughout the conversation, they share their spiritual journeys and highlight how Jesus plays a central role in every aspect of life. Tune in for an engaging discussion on fitness, faith, and personal growth!
We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends!
Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
Want to hear more about life from a Catholic perspective? Listen to host Oscar Rivera as he talks with special guests about culture, current events, and all things Catholic. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of your faith and how to live it in the world today.
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