Sharing Our Marianist Stories is a podcast that examines the lived experiences of individuals within the Marianist Family who are asked to share about their journey with the Marianist Family and how the Marianist Charism has impacted their life. On occasion individuals may share about specific events or topics that are pertinent to Marianist History and Spirituality. This podcast also offers the opportunity for periodic reflection relevant to liturgical seasons within the Catholic Church. Follow…
This year, 2026, is an abundant year for the Marianist Family. Across the United States and reaching as far as Bogotá, Colombia, the three branches of the Marianist Family in North America are gathering to pray, plan, and "forge the future." In this special preview episode, we hear from leaders from across the Family about the upcoming Marianist Family Congress, a Common Bond Reunion, the Society…
While history often focuses on the “visionary spark” of Father Chaminade, the Marianist charism was equally forged in the practical, gritty leadership of two remarkable women: Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon and Marie Thérèse de Lamourous. In this episode, Sr. Laura Leming, FMI, and Jessica González Uhlig return to discuss how these women embodied a “relational leadership” that still speaks to our…
While Father William Joseph Chaminade provided the visionary spark for the Marianists, the full story comes to life through the incredible partnership he shared with two remarkable women. In this episode, Sr. Laura Leming, FMI, and Jessica González Uhlig discuss the foundational partnership between Father Chaminade, Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon, and Marie Thérèse de Lamourous. Sr. Laura and…
"I'm still here, Matt." Those four words, spoken during a moment of profound challenge, changed everything for Matt Naveau. In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories , Matt shares his deeply personal journey of encountering Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon—not as a distant historical figure, but as a living companion through some of the most challenging years of his life. At age 33, Matt was…
In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories , Bro. Esteban Reyes, SM, shares his inspiring journey as a Marianist Brother--from Mexico to serving in the United States--and details the profound role Our Lady of Guadalupe and a miraculous sign during prayer played in confirming his vocation. After serving in administrative roles in Mexico, he transitioned to missionary work in the US, which led…
In our 50th episode, we sit down with Fr. Jim Fitz, S.M., a man with much to celebrate. He recently marked his 50th Jubilee of ordination in 2024 and recently celebrated his 60th Jubilee of first vows in the summer of 2025. On top of that, he's preparing for his semi-retirement from his significant role as Vice President for Mission and Rector at the University of Dayton. Don't miss this…
What happens when students from three Marianist Universities come together for a powerful service-immersion experience? In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories, Sarah McLeeson (University of Dayton), Esmeralda Lopez ("Esme," St. Mary's University), and Isaiah Atalig (Chaminade University) dive into their journey of building community and grappling with the complexities of immigration.…
Kelli Kinnear’s connection with the Marianist Family dates back to her mom’s employment at the University of Dayton. After attending UD and working at Chaminade Julienne High School in Dayton, Ohio, for 32 years, Kelli began her new role as Executive Director of Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning in late June 2024. In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories , Kelli reflects on her…
When he traveled to Rome for the Society of Mary’s General Chapter of 2024, Brother Dennis Bautista, SM, did not anticipate being elected to the Society of Mary’s General Administration. In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories, Brother Dennis recounts his initial reactions to his election, the challenges and reflections in his transition period, his emotional farewells with various…
Over 75 years ago, in October 1949, three Marianist Sisters arrived in Somerset, Texas to establish the first foundation of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (Marianist Sisters) in the United States. Roughly 21 years after that foundation, Sr. Gretchen Trautman, FMI professed first vows with the Daughters of Mary Immaculate. In this episode of Sharing Our Marianist Stories , Sr. Gretchen describes…