After a long break, Dan Hansen welcomes back Father Ron Hutchinson for a candid update on where he’s been—and what the last several months have looked like behind the scenes.

Father Ron shares how what he first assumed were “the blues” and simple fatigue turned into a serious health situation: atrial fibrillation (AFib). He describes noticing shortness of breath, a “fluttering” heart sensation, an Apple Watch warning, and the moment an ER nurse told him to get to the hospital immediately. From blood thinners to tests and scans, Father Ron walks through the medical process—culminating in a cardioversion procedure to restore sinus rhythm, and what it actually felt like.

But the heart of the episode isn’t just medical—it’s spiritual and deeply human. Dan and Father Ron talk about fear, mortality, and what it’s like when faith and anxiety take turns at the steering wheel. They discuss surrender as something real (and messy), the difference between “get over it” advice and genuine accompaniment, and why people who love you can’t always fix what you’re carrying—but they can walk with you.

The conversation also explores the power of prayer when words run out: the gift of memorized prayers, the Psalms, and the Litany of Trust, especially in seasons when you’re exhausted, scattered, or simply don’t have the energy to form big spontaneous prayers. Father Ron reflects on learning to let others pray for him, and why sometimes the most honest prayer is simply: “God, your will be done.”

A warm, honest return episode about health, fear, trust, and the grace to give yourself a break while you keep putting one foot in front of the other.

1. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) and cardioversion
2. Blood thinners (Father Ron notes he’ll remain on them long-term)
3. Prayer in crisis: Psalms, the Our Father, and the Litany of Trust
4. The importance of letting others pray for you
5. “Fixing” vs. accompanying someone who is suffering
6. Jesus in Gethsemane: “Just stay awake with me”

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In this episode of Intentionally Catholic, hosts Dan Hansen and Father Ron Hutchinson reflect on the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary through the lens of the Advent season. Together, they walk through each mystery—the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Presentation in the Temple, and Finding of Jesus in the Temple—exploring both their theological depth and their relevance to everyday life.

Along the way, Dan and Father Ron share personal insights on trust, fear, vulnerability, and what it means to recognize God at work in ordinary and unexpected moments. This conversation invites listeners to slow down, pray more intentionally, and rediscover the Joyful Mysteries as a meaningful guide during this season of waiting, hope, and preparation.

00:00 — Welcome to Intentionally Catholic

00:17 — Introducing the Joyful Mysteries

00:51 — The Annunciation: Trust, Fear, and Saying Yes

09:29 — The Visitation: Embracing the Impossible

15:44 — The Nativity: Finding God in Unlikely Places

20:36 — Understanding God’s Love and Care

22:15 — The Presentation in the Temple

23:22 — Fulfillment, Obedience, and Hope

26:56 — The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

30:40 — Parenting, Faith, and Letting Go

35:26 — Advent and the Joyful Mysteries

36:48 — Final Reflections and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Intentionally Catholic, hosts Dan Hansen and Father Ron Hutchinson dive into one of the most challenging questions for any believer: How do we discern God’s will in the decisions that shape our lives?

Together, they talk through the emotional ups and downs that often come with big choices and offer practical ways to recognize God’s gentle guidance. Their conversation includes personal stories about discerning marriage, choosing a career, and navigating life after college.

Along the way, Dan and Father Ron explore: how regular prayer forms our hearts; why trusted friends and mentors are essential; the surprising ways God speaks through circumstances; and the deep peace that comes from aligning our desires with His.

They also challenge the idea that God has “one perfect plan” we’re constantly at risk of missing, instead highlighting a God who works creatively and lovingly with us through every step.

It’s an honest, encouraging conversation for anyone standing at a crossroads—or simply trying to be faithful in everyday decisions.

00:00 – Introduction to Intentionally Catholic

00:15 – Understanding God’s will in daily decisions

01:32 – Discernment in marriage and personal choices

02:56 – The role of prayer and patience

03:51 – Hearing God’s voice through other people

04:55 – Evaluating relationships and personal growth

11:17 – Seeking objective advice and spiritual direction

20:30 – Navigating the seasons of a relationship

21:01 – Pressure-cooker dynamics

21:53 – The power of open communication

22:40 – Personal growth and honest self-reflection

23:53 – Finding contentment in life’s transitions

27:53 – The myth of the “perfect” plan

36:04 – Learning to listen for God’s will

41:10 – Final thoughts and encouragement