Listen to learn how Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is bringing HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE to our southern Nebraska neighbors!
Meet podcast host JOHN SOUKUP
With more than two decades of broadcasting experience, Hope in the Good Life podcast host John Soukup has interviewed hundreds of people. When following God’s plan to be development officer for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, he heard many stories of “hope” from those connected to CSS…stories from clients, volunteers, supporters, and staff. Those stories now have a voice and we hope you will be inspired by Hope in the Good Life.
If you have an idea for a podcast segment, we'd love to connect with you! Reach out to John at 402.327.6235 or by clicking here.
Click to listen and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform!
Episode 54: A Work of Mercy and Hope Behind Bars
The Diocese of Lincoln’s new Prison and Reentry Apostolate (PARA) focuses on bringing Christ’s love to incarcerated individuals and supporting their journey back into society. The apostolate is directed by Levi Baus, who is also the Volunteer Coordinator for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS). Hear Levi talk about this Work of Mercy and how it’s bringing Hope in the Good Life.
Episode 53: CSS Helped Vietnamese Refugees Find Hope in the Good Life
In the aftermath of the fall of Saigon in 1975, Lincoln was designated a "Refugee Friendly" city. This designation marked the beginning of a thriving Vietnamese community that continues to leave a lasting impact on Lincoln and the state. CSS helped resettle 257 Vietnamese refugees within the Diocese of Lincoln that year, mainly in Lincoln but also in Hastings. Among those first arrivals was Alex Tran, who was around 10 years old when his family, along with more than 20 relatives, arrived in Lincoln. Alex reminisces with us about that escape from his home country and what that experience was like through the eyes of a child.
Episode 52: Sustainable Solutions on Display
You’re invited to join CSS for a Sustainability Open House on April 24, 2025! CSS Director of Sustainability Jamie Carson tells us this engaging event aims to highlight CSS’s ongoing sustainability efforts, foster community feedback, and promote environmental stewardship, with a special focus on youth, families, and teachers.
Episode 51: Giving Back in Gratitude
Bill and Staci Hooks have always believed in the importance of giving back as a way to show gratitude for the blessings in their lives. As the owners of Slim Chickens restaurants in Lincoln, they have been dedicated supporters of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska for years. This year, their generosity continues as they proudly serve as the silent auction sponsor (events.handbid.com/lp/celebration-of-hope-auction) for the Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction on March 15. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and the impact they’re making in the community!
Episode 50: An Award Winning Servant Leader
At this year’s 38th Annual Celebration of Hope Gala, we are privileged to honor a true example of servant leadership. Mike Hosek has been named the recipient of the CSS Heart of Christ Award, and in this podcast, you'll hear how his early experiences shaped his commitment to leadership and service. Discover how Mike has brought more Hope in the Good Life to those served through the CSS Food Market and Meal Services Program. His story is a powerful reminder that living out the Gospel doesn’t require changing the whole world at once—it simply calls us to keep saying yes to the opportunities before us.
Episode 49: Finding Hope in a New Home with Refugee Resettlement
While the potential impact from the Trump administration on refugee programs is still uncertain, CSS remains committed to serving the needs of all vulnerable individuals within our community. In this podcast, we hear about the hope provided by CSS to people who we have served through our Refugee Resettlement program. Once they are “welcomed home,” CSS does much to provide a real home.
Episode 48: Need a tax break in 2025?
Hear how supporters of the St. Gianna Program at CSS and other Pregnancy Help Organizations can earn more than just a tax deduction thanks to recently enacted legislation called the Nebraska Pregnancy Help Act that creates a win-win for all involved.
