web01.fireside.fm Tue, 19 May 2026 03:52:24 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Draw Near - Episodes Tagged with “Spirituality” https://drawnear.fireside.fm/tags/spirituality Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 -0500 At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace. en episodic Helping each person to draw near to Christ and to one another. Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace. no Faith; Christ; Podcast; Catholic; Friends; Draw Near Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell drawnear.me@gmail.com Real Ministry is Personal https://drawnear.fireside.fm/242 76b651e9-e092-41f8-ab1b-945b62c4cf14 Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this "roadside reflection" on 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9, Kara discusses authentic discipleship, vulnerability, and why real ministry can be deeply personal. She also share updates on Draw Near's recent writing project with Ascension Press, and where God led the mission over this past Lent. 15:45 no <p>Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves.</p> <p>In this roadside reflection episode, Kara finally shares what Fred and her recent writing project has been (with Ascension Press) and reflects on a personal passage from St. Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9:</p> <p>“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…” </p> <p>This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.</p> <p>Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.</p> <p>Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.</p> <p>For reflections, formation, and community, <strong>FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:</strong> <br> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">YouTube</a> <br> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a><br> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)</p> <p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! <br> Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Catholic podcast, Car podcast, Catholic discipleship, Christian vulnerability, authentic ministry, 1 Thessalonians 2, sharing the Gospel, Catholic reflection, roadside reflection, Christian leadership, Catholic spirituality, ministry and relationships, Catholic evangelization, discipleship podcast, St. Paul reflection, authentic faith, Catholic content creator, Christian encouragement, pastoral ministry, relational ministry, Draw Near podcast Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves.

In this roadside reflection episode, Kara finally shares what Fred and her recent writing project has been (with Ascension Press) and reflects on a personal passage from St. Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9:

“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…”

This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.

Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.

Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves.

In this roadside reflection episode, Kara finally shares what Fred and her recent writing project has been (with Ascension Press) and reflects on a personal passage from St. Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9:

“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…”

This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.

Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.

Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Friend Day: Want to Join? https://drawnear.fireside.fm/229 f9a662b0-a0af-48bd-8f00-fa09cd94a429 Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell New Draw Near Episode! When life gets heavy, sometimes you just need a Friend Day. Fred & Kara pour some coffee, ask each other fun (and deep) questions, and invite you to join the conversation. 45:06 no <p>Sometimes, we all just need a friend day! Grab your favorite drink and join us today for <em>our</em> much needed friend day chat. In this relaxed episode of Draw Near, let's cut throught the stresses and weariness. Fred and Kara catch up, asking each other questions that spark joy, honesty, and laughter. Want to join us? </p> <p>Help us grow by <strong>following</strong> the Draw Near podcast on your favorite platform. </p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br> "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! </p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Draw Near, Fred and Kara, friend day, draw near podcast, catholic podcast, christian friendship, faith and friendship, catholic spirituality, authentic friendship, prayer and community, catholic conversation, catholic encouragement, catholic ministry, real life faith, catholic marriage, christian discipleship, spiritual growth, catholic relationships, faith and laughter, christian podcast conversations, joy and faith Sometimes, we all just need a friend day! Grab your favorite drink and join us today for our much needed friend day chat. In this relaxed episode of Draw Near, let's cut throught the stresses and weariness. Fred and Kara catch up, asking each other questions that spark joy, honesty, and laughter. Want to join us?

Help us grow by following the Draw Near podcast on your favorite platform.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Sometimes, we all just need a friend day! Grab your favorite drink and join us today for our much needed friend day chat. In this relaxed episode of Draw Near, let's cut throught the stresses and weariness. Fred and Kara catch up, asking each other questions that spark joy, honesty, and laughter. Want to join us?

Help us grow by following the Draw Near podcast on your favorite platform.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Finding God in the Least Likely Movies https://drawnear.fireside.fm/223 c3bda484-dc26-45be-844c-f5a7b816700b Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:30:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell Join us for a lighthearted conversation on discovering Christian themes in the most unexpected movies and shows. From wizards to zombies to fantasy adventures, we’ll show you how faith can shine through the movies we love in this Draw Near podcast episode. 1:14:45 no <p>What do Dungeons &amp; Dragons, Harry Potter, the Walking Dead, and A Quiet Place have in common? </p> <p>In this episode, we have some fun exploring how even the most unlikely movies and shows can open doors to deeper conversations about faith. From unlikely heroes and the battle of good and evil, to themes of sacrifice, friendship, and courage... we discover that God can shine through stories we never expected.</p> <p>This isn’t about forcing a religious lens where it doesn’t belong. It’s about learning to see with eyes of faith, and enjoying the creative ways truth, beauty, and goodness can break through, even in secular media.</p> <p>Pull up some popcorn and join us for this lighthearted conversation where we share some of our favorite shows and movies, laugh a little, and give you new eyes for the next time you hit “play.”</p> <p><strong>What You’ll Hear in This Episode:</strong><br> How secular stories can echo the Gospel when we learn to look deeper<br> Why Christian themes show up in unexpected places (and why that matters)<br> The power of sacrifice, courage, and friendship on screen<br> A few of our favorite movies and shows (and why we like them!)</p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br> "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! </p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> God in movies, Christian themes in film, faith and pop culture, Harry Potter, Christian, dungeons and dragons, Stranger Things, faith, A Quiet Place, spirituality, Dungeons and Dragons, Christian, finding God in culture, secular movies, faith, faith in film, pop culture and faith What do Dungeons & Dragons, Harry Potter, the Walking Dead, and A Quiet Place have in common?

In this episode, we have some fun exploring how even the most unlikely movies and shows can open doors to deeper conversations about faith. From unlikely heroes and the battle of good and evil, to themes of sacrifice, friendship, and courage... we discover that God can shine through stories we never expected.

This isn’t about forcing a religious lens where it doesn’t belong. It’s about learning to see with eyes of faith, and enjoying the creative ways truth, beauty, and goodness can break through, even in secular media.

Pull up some popcorn and join us for this lighthearted conversation where we share some of our favorite shows and movies, laugh a little, and give you new eyes for the next time you hit “play.”

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How secular stories can echo the Gospel when we learn to look deeper
Why Christian themes show up in unexpected places (and why that matters)
The power of sacrifice, courage, and friendship on screen
A few of our favorite movies and shows (and why we like them!)

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> What do Dungeons & Dragons, Harry Potter, the Walking Dead, and A Quiet Place have in common?

In this episode, we have some fun exploring how even the most unlikely movies and shows can open doors to deeper conversations about faith. From unlikely heroes and the battle of good and evil, to themes of sacrifice, friendship, and courage... we discover that God can shine through stories we never expected.

This isn’t about forcing a religious lens where it doesn’t belong. It’s about learning to see with eyes of faith, and enjoying the creative ways truth, beauty, and goodness can break through, even in secular media.

Pull up some popcorn and join us for this lighthearted conversation where we share some of our favorite shows and movies, laugh a little, and give you new eyes for the next time you hit “play.”

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How secular stories can echo the Gospel when we learn to look deeper
Why Christian themes show up in unexpected places (and why that matters)
The power of sacrifice, courage, and friendship on screen
A few of our favorite movies and shows (and why we like them!)

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> "In the Desert, I Praise You:" Gratitude Reflection https://drawnear.fireside.fm/198 9df3bf86-a3dd-40bc-9ead-2af52cf612ed Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:30:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of? In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude to God in the midst of difficulty. 37:37 no <p>Do you praise God in EVERYTHING?... the Good AND the Pain? With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of? <br> In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude to God in the midst of difficulty. </p> <p><strong>Scripture passages mentioned this episode</strong>: <br> Fred's Passage: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20103&amp;version=RSV" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Psalm 103</a><br> Kara's Passage: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2012%3A5-10&amp;version=NRSVUE" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">2 Corinthians 12: 5-10</a></p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br> "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! </p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Lectio Divina, Scripture, Prayer, Reflection, 2 Corinthians 12, Psalm 103, St. Paul, Suffering, Praise, Gratitude, Thanksgiving, Catholic, Podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Scars Do you praise God in EVERYTHING?... the Good AND the Pain? With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of?
In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude to God in the midst of difficulty.

Scripture passages mentioned this episode:
Fred's Passage: Psalm 103
Kara's Passage: 2 Corinthians 12: 5-10

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Do you praise God in EVERYTHING?... the Good AND the Pain? With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of?
In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude to God in the midst of difficulty.

Scripture passages mentioned this episode:
Fred's Passage: Psalm 103
Kara's Passage: 2 Corinthians 12: 5-10

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

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