Helping each listener to draw near to Christ, his infinite love, and to one another.
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.
Listen below to the most RECENT EPISODE:
Washed and Chosen: Living Out Our Baptismal Call
In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ. Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy. This episode offers not only spiritual depth but also actionable ways to deepen your relationship with God in the midst of life’s busyness. You’ll be inspired to embrace your identity, rediscover your mission, and live as a light in the world.
Advent Reflection: Already… and Not Yet
In this Lectio Divina Advent Reflection, Fred and Kara talk about preparing for the coming of Jesus! He was born of a virgin so has ALREADY come. BUT also... not YET, because Jesus will come again. Are we preparing ourselves for Jesus to return? What if Jesus returned tomorrow? Are you ready?
200th Episode Special: “Best of Guests”
To celebrate the 200th Episode of the Draw Near Catholic Podcast, we are spotlighting some "Best of Guests" moments. We have Catholic Speakers and friends: Matthew Leonard, Sonja Corbitt, Sister Fidelis Marie, Julie Storr, and Father Patrick Behm. ENJOY!
“In the Desert I Praise You:” Gratitude Reflection
Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude to God. We are thankful for the goodness 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?
An Inside look at our Catholic Friendship: Fred and Kara Interview one another
In this fun light-hearted episode of the Draw Near Catholic podcast, hosts, Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell decided to interview one another and give listeners an inside look at our Catholic friendship. There are serious faith-driven questions as well as goofy opinion questions. Grab some coffee and join us as friends, as you listen to this highly caffeinated interview episode of Draw Near!
One Boat: Are We a Church Divided?
There is so much division in the world... but also in the Church! The Church has been described in the image of a "Boat" since the Early Church Fathers. We are all ONE BOAT. ONE Church. Why do our opinions divide us? In this episode of Draw Near, Fred and Kara touch on what causes division in the Church and how it can be healed.
Coping with Anxiety
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression? How do we reconcile the faith, God's will, and Scripture with feelings of anxiety and depression?
A Future & A Hope
In this surprisingly personal episode, Fred and Kara share how the words of Jeremiah 29 can change hearts. “A Future & A Hope.” “Seek me and YOU WILL FIND me.” “I will be found by you.”
Apologetics Part 4: HOW TO share your faith
In this final episode of the Draw Near "Apologetics series," Fred and Kara share practical tips to defending your own Catholic faith while sharing Truth with Love!
Apologetics PART 3: the Pope, Bible ALONE, Rapture, & Resurrection
What do Catholics ACTUALLY believe? Enjoy part 3 where Fred & Kara, of Draw Near, continue to defend the Catholic Church and correct any misconceptions or misunderstandings! This episode talks about the pope (papacy), Sola Scriptura, Authority, the Rapture, and the Resurrection.
Apologetics PART 2: Creation, Aliens, & Purgatory
In the 4-part apologetics series, we take up more difficult Catholic questions like: creation, aliens, the Eucharist, Confession, and Purgatory.
Apologetics PART 1: Answering Common Catholic Questions
Who loves Q&A? We do! Fred and Kara answer common Catholic questions, among Catholics, Protestants, or even atheists. Enjoy part 1 of this extended series and tune in to the additional episodes to come!
Ask and I Will Do It
"Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it." Just like that... no questions asked? Does he need anything from us? In this episode, we reflect on the words of Jesus in John 14:12-14 as we look for answers to these questions.
How to “Friend”
We were made for relationship and friendship. Yet, so many of us often feel alone; lost in a sea of acquaintances, with few "real" friends. How are we to overcome this? How are we to actually "Add Friend" in real life?
Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?
As we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus at the beginning of this Easter season, we revisit the topic of suffering and reflect on its relationship to the Resurrection; and the experience of resurrection in our own lives. Why do we suffer? What purpose does it serve? How should we approach it? Why does the Lord allow it? And can anything good come from it? In this episode we pull ALOT from Scripture, get a little personal and honest, and reflect suffering in our own lives, and the life of Job, in reflecting on the answers to these questions.