Together at Peace Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of Together at Peace, host Christine Marzullo sits down with Father Burke Masters—pastor of St. Isaac Jogues in Hinsdale, beloved Chicago Cubs chaplain, and author of A Grand Slam for God. Father Burke shares his powerful journey from the baseball diamond to the altar and opens up about the deep faith that carried him through the passing of his mother. With honesty and hope, he reflects on the healing grace of returning to painful memories—the “charcoal fire” moments—where Jesus was quietly present all along. Christine and Father Burke also discuss how signs from heaven, like the cardinal that reminds him of his mom, can bring comfort and connection to those we’ve lost. Together, they explore how grief can transform into peace when we lean on faith, community, and God’s eternal love. If you’ve ever walked through loss or wondered where God is in the middle of heartbreak, this conversation will remind you that hope always rises and that we are never alone.  Listen now, and share this episode with someone who needs a message of comfort and faith today.  You can find A Grand Slam for God online, or listen on Audible and the Hallow app.  Follow Father Burke for daily reflections, live streamed Masses, and inspiration to strengthen your faith journey.

On this episode of Together at Peace, we welcome Robbie Shoults, the third-generation leader of Bear Creek Smokehouse, a Texas legacy built on faith, family, and good food. Robbie shares how his grandparents, Hick and Nellie, began Bear Creek in 1943 and how that humble smokehouse has grown into a nationally known name without losing its roots. From expanding the family business to honoring his father’s memory, Robbie opens up about how food connects people through comfort, celebration, and even loss. You’ll also hear about his journey of staying grounded in faith while leading a growing enterprise—appearing on shows like Today, Rachael Ray, and Beat Bobby Flay—and why he still proudly calls himself the “Head Mop Pusher.” Join us for a heartfelt conversation about heritage, gratitude, and finding peace through the people and places that feed our souls.

In this heartfelt episode of the Together at Peace podcast, Christine Marzullo sits down with Kati Jaqua and her mother, Sherri, to honor the life and legacy of their beloved brother and son, Michael David Lee. Kati, who began working with Together at Peace behind the scenes before Michael’s passing, shares how her connection to the mission took on new meaning after her family’s loss. Now the Director of Finance at 10 West Real Estate Group, Kati speaks candidly about how grief has shaped her work, her heart, and her desire to help others heal. Together, Kati and Sherri reflect on: The Angels in the Outfield TAP Tag campaign inspired by Michael The powerful impact of giving and receiving Hope Stones engraved with “MDL” The everyday ways they keep Michael’s spirit alive What Together at Peace means to them as a family This episode is a moving tribute to the power of memory, community, and honoring the ones we love — both on and off the field.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Together at Peace podcast, host Christine Marzullo is joined by writer Jenny Robinson Clark and her husband, Travis Clark, lead singer of We The Kings. Together, they open up about Jenny’s grief journey after the loss of her mother, how a 3 a.m. moment of vulnerability became a children’s book and a song, and how signs from loved ones can carry us forward. You’ll hear: The story behind Are You Here?, the song and the book How grief shaped their marriage, family, and faith How they created space for healing through storytelling, music, and community A preview of what they’ll be sharing live at the Sparkle of Hope luncheon Whether you’ve experienced loss or want to support someone who has, this episode offers light, love, and a reminder that those we’ve lost are never really gone.   Listen now, and don’t forget to join us at the Sparkle of Hope Luncheon this Fall. 

In this episode of Together at Peace, Kandace Kalin shares her powerful story of love, loss, and legacy. After losing her father as a teenager, Kandace transformed her grief into purpose, founding O2 Sports Insurance to protect athletes’ futures. She reflects on a childhood shaped by her dad’s unwavering presence, the heartbreak of saying goodbye just one day after returning home from training, and how his memory continues to guide her life and mission. This conversation is a moving reminder that even through deep loss, we can find meaning, strength, and a way forward.

In this heartfelt episode of Together at Peace Podcast, Christine is joined by lifelong friend Kelly Clifford for a warm, honest conversation about love, loss, and friendship. They reflect on the deep connection between their families, the lasting impact of Christine’s father, and how Kelly supports others through grief—even without experiencing it herself. Kelly also shares the inspiration behind Blooming Bright with Kelly and her decision to turn her birthday into a fundraiser for Together at Peace. A moving reminder of how presence, kindness, and community help us heal.

In Episode 9 of the Together at Peace podcast, we were honored to be joined by Emily Sharratt. She discusses her heartfelt exploration of grief, resilience, and transformation with us. Emily recounts her profound journey through loss—from the long battle with cancer of her beloved mother, Jane, which upended her life and career plans at a young age, to the deep bonds formed with her neighbor and close collaborator, Mich. As she transitioned from a dedicated social worker conducting thousands of suicide assessments to a corporate wellness coach and entrepreneur, Emily learned to channel grief into purposeful action. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the enduring legacies of her loved ones through symbolic reminders like Monarch butterflies, gems, and cherished mementos, emphasizing that grief is love with nowhere to go. Her story is a testament to how embracing vulnerability and transforming pain into hope and service can heal personal wounds and empower others to build resilience in the face of life's challenges.

In this episode of the Together at Peace Podcast, we loved sitting down with musician and producer Creigh Riepe to explore his deeply personal journey through music, loss, and healing. Creigh reflects on growing up in a musical household, the impact of losing his father to cancer in 2007, and how grief shaped his path as an artist. He shares stories of his brief time with the band Chasing Crazy, his experience on the TV Show The Voice, and how music has been a powerful tool for processing emotions and honoring his father’s legacy. Through faith, family, and a commitment to creating meaningful songs, Creigh continues to inspire others by using music as a source of healing and connection. This is an episode you will not want to miss!

In this heartfelt episode, we are honored to welcome actress Laura Orrico as she shares her deeply moving story of resilience and hope. Laura opens up about her life’s challenges, from learning of her mother’s MS diagnosis at just 3 years old to the sudden passing of her father when she was 9 and the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Ryan, after his brave battle with a brain tumor. Through it all, Laura has found strength in the enduring presence of her loved ones and continues to feel their support, especially in her toughest moments. She candidly shares how she still speaks to Ryan, finding comfort and healing in their bond. This episode is a testament to the power of love, memory, and shared healing—a story that will inspire and uplift you.

In episode 6 of the Together at Peace Podcast, we are honored to welcome an extra special guest, Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. We loved talking with her about how her mother, Velma, influenced her decision to run for the Illinois House of Representatives and how caregiving for her mother with Alzheimer's inspired her to launch the Through Our Eyes initiative for caregivers and dementia awareness. Plus, what it was like running for public office while still dealing with the painful loss of losing a parent. Listen to hear about her little signs that remind her almost daily that her mom continues to be with her. Tune in for an episode full of love, loss, empowerment, and healing.