Reeling It In with Collin Bass

What does it take to build a lasting spiritual life and help a new generation encounter the Catholic faith? For Fr. Henry Finch, it begins with discovering the beauty of the Church, embracing a consistent life of prayer, and allowing God to bring order and purpose to our daily lives.

Fr. Henry Finch is the rector and chaplain of St. Peter Catholic Student Center at Baylor University, where he serves students from Baylor and other colleges in Waco, Texas. A former Baptist who became Catholic through his study of Church history, sacred music, and the witness of...

What does it take to build a life of greatness without having everything figured out? For Silas Mähner, it starts with having the courage to pursue what God has placed before you, embracing uncertainty, and recognizing that even ordinary moments can shape an extraordinary life.

Silas is an entrepreneur, recruiter, and founder of Roosevelt Talent and Catholic Founders, a community helping Catholic entrepreneurs live out their faith through business and cultural influence. Drawing from his journey from rural Wisconsin to New York City and eventually building his own ventures, Silas shares how mentorship, ambition, and faith h...

Peter Cooney is a 21-year-old economics student at the University of Dallas and the co-founder of ACUDIS AI, a Catholic technology platform designed to provide families with a safer, more transparent alternative to mainstream AI. Peter shares how his Catholic upbringing, homeschooling, entrepreneurship, and encounter with Carlo Acutis shaped his approach to work, technology, and faith. We also dive into the moral challenges of AI, protecting young users, building responsible technology, parental controls, and why keeping the Eucharist at the center of his life is essential to the mission.

Cynthia Schmidt is the executive director of the Catholic Pro-Life Community in Dallas, bringing her experience as a lawyer, wife, and mother to a mission of serving women, babies, and families. Cynthia shares how marriage, motherhood, grief, prayer, and years in big law shaped her journey from corporate law to pro-life leadership. We also dive into discerning God’s call, supporting women through pregnancy care and healing after abortion, welcoming those in need without shame, and building a broader culture that recognizes the dignity of human life at every stage.

Tyler Ward is a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling, podcast host, online evangelizer, and endurance athlete whose Catholic faith shapes his approach to psychology, vocation, and daily life. Tyler shares how his experiences with athletics, family suffering, apologetics, and Catholic formation led him toward counseling and a deeper understanding of faith and science. We also dive into the parallels between counseling and confession, Victor Frankl’s work on meaning, redemptive suffering, anxiety, prayer, discipline, and how he hopes to integrate faith and spirituality into his future work as a counselor.

Joe Henkels is the founder of Knights Coffee, a Catholic coffee company built around quality, transparency, and supporting the Church. Joe shares how a simple habit of roasting coffee at home grew into a mission-driven business sourcing from Catholic farmers in Nicaragua, supporting seminarians, and partnering with Knights of Columbus councils. We dive into making work a form of witness, pursuing excellence, discerning your next step, and the lessons Joe has learned about entrepreneurship, trust, and putting faith and family at the center of your life.

Rickie Jacobs went from seminary to the therapist's chair and hasn't looked back. In this conversation, we dig into why we wait so long to ask for help, what addiction really is, and what it looks like when faith and counseling meet.

(0:00) Introduction to Rickie Jacobs(5:52) The Transition from Seminary to Counseling(15:08) Understanding the Need for Therapy(21:22) The Role of a Therapist: Tools for Self-Discovery(23:45) Understanding Sin and Brokenness(29:03) The Role of Therapy in Healing(31:29) Faith and Counseling: A Unique Intersection(34:20) Maintaining Peace Amidst Heavy Burdens(35:20) Integrating Faith in Secular Counseling(43:44) Encouraging a Wild and Adventurous Faith(46:55...

In this episode, Collin welcomes RJ Finley to discuss the power of aligning wealth with personal values. RJ shares his journey from a finance student at TCU to a career in wealth management, emphasizing the importance of making intentional decisions that reflect one's true purpose. He highlights the role of community, faith, and personal growth in shaping a fulfilling life. RJ also illustrates how wealth can be a tool for meaningful impact rather than just accumulation. Listen for more!

Chapters

 (0:10) Introduction to RJ Finley

(2:32) The Journey to TCU 

(11:12) Internships and Early Ca...

Collin Bass sits down with Baylor senior Ethan Wiley to reflect on his college journey, from basketball and campus leadership to his Trellix internship. Ethan shares lessons on balancing pressure, staying present, and leaning in on his faith in all things! He closes with a reminder that your worth isn’t built on achievement, but rooted in being created by God. Tune in for more!!

Chapters(0:00) Introduction of Ethan Wiley 

(1:21) College Journey 

(8:26) Role of Faith and Reflection 

(12:19) Mentorship

(50:47 - 53:31) Advice for the Future 

Collin shares a talk he led at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dallas, focusing on living out faith in the workplace.

The episode is divided into two parts: the first highlights a personal encounter with Alan Barnhart, who transformed his business into a mission field, and the second explores the life of Saint Zélie Martin, emphasizing the ordinary call to holiness.

Through these stories, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own vocations and how they can integrate faith into daily life.

(00:00) Introduction to Lachlan's Journey

(01:38) Navigating Post-College Life

(04:29) Recognizing Divine Guidance in Career Choices

(06:23) The Importance of Thinking Outside the Box

(15:03) Transitioning into the Professional World

(22:03) Integrating Faith into the Workplace

(28:14) Setting Goals and Quotas

(30:35) Advice for the Future

(41:01) Pursuing Dreams and Growth

Summary

In this conversation, Lachlan shares his journey from Baylor to his first full-time job, emphasizing faith, outside-the-box thinking, and the power of conversations. Discover how faith influences his work, the importance of listening...

In this conversation, Audrey Knoll shares her journey to Texas A&M, reflecting on faith, community, and personal growth. She talks about leadership challenges, lessons from rejection, and finding joy in daily life. Her internships at Hershey and PWC show how she strives to be a light in the workplace. Audrey’s story is about resilience, faith, and embracing change. Listen here for more!!

Chapters

(00:00) Intro to Audrey Knoll

(01:19) Transition to Dallas

(04:08) Making THE College Decision

(09:32) College Challenges

(15:35) Leadership Growth + Rejections

(20:02) Personal Fa...

(00:00) Introduction to Nick Hendrix

(02:50) Faith & Identity in College Athletics

(08:26) Integrating Faith with Professional Life

(11:12) Navigating Community Post-Grad

(16:36) Balancing Family & Life

(24:58) Faithfulness in Work

(30:00) Inviting God into Daily Tasks

(33:06) Living Out Faith in the Workplace

(38:27) Balancing Work and Family Life

(47:28) Advice to Young Nick

(00:00) Introduction to Mary Turner

(02:40) Transitioning from Corporate to Nonprofit Work

(05:46) Support Raising and Its Challenges

(08:29) The Impact of the Therefore Gathering Conference

(11:35) Joy: Its Central Role in Mary's Life

(14:24) Writing the Book: A Journey of Self-Discovery

(20:26) Overcoming Doubts & External Criticism

(23:07) The Power of Sharing Your Story

(24:52) Mentorship and Personal Growth

(31:18) Launching a Podcast and Apparel Brand

(38:08) Surrendering to God's Plan

(42:17) Advice to Young Mary 

(02:12) Discerning a Call to the Priesthood w/ Josiah Virnig

(08:21) Building Success on Surrender w/ Chris DeLeenheer

(17:40) Operating with Purpose w/ Dr. Stuart Spitzer

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Dr. Stuart Spitzer

(01:32) Shifting Careers: From Surgeon to Addiction Treatment

(07:12) The Impact of Faith in Medicine

(16:33) Mission Work: A Life-Changing Experience

(25:35) Navigating Life After Mission Work

(34:53) Entering Politics: A New Challenge

(44:24) Reflections on Political Career and Integrity

(53:10) The Journey of a Marathon Runner before MS 

(58:48) Living with MS and Embracing Life

(01:09:30) Marriage, Family, and Legacy

(01:20:44) Lessons Learned and Advice for the Future

(00:00) Introduction to Chris DeLeenheer

(06:15) Resilience: Aiming for the D1 Roster

(11:54) Faith Transformation

(18:02) Entrepreneurial Ventures in India

(24:14) Wilderness Experience as Calling

(30:17) Business as Ministry

(36:03) Using Spiritual Practices in Business

(44:08) Embracing Fasting

(54:41) Avoda: Work as Worship

(56:58) Restoration in Relationships

(01:00:15) God's Grace in Failure

(01:03:48) Teaching Kids About Surrender & Discipline

(01:11:20) The Role of Service in Marriage

(01:18:39) Advice for Young Dreamers

(00:00) Introduction to Josiah

(04:53) High School Foundations of Faith

(10:27) Transitioning to College Life

(14:54) Mission Year: Lessons in Humility

(19:22) Discovering the Call to Priesthood

(33:26) The Love of Celibacy

(38:59) The Role of Faith in Relationships

(47:09) Hearing God's Voice in Rome

(58:40) Embracing the Cross: A Journey of Surrender

(01:01:43) Life in Seminary: Surprises and Realities

SPLASH: A series of reflecting every 3 episodes to touch on the takeaways from each guest!

(1:54) Harrison Tognela: Faith x Big Tech

(7:34) Joe Dunikoski: To The Heights

(14:51) Cade Pinalto: Redefining Victory

(00:00) Introduction to Cade Pinalto

(10:23) Identity Crisis

(18:24) Life's Unexpected Turn

(24:59) Starting a Nonprofit

(33:04) College Experience @ Baylor

(47:28) Applying Faith in Corporate America

(57:24) Sales and Faith: A Unique Perspective

(01:05:35) Balancing Marriage & Career

(01:12:03) Advice for the Future Self

In this episode, Joe shares how his faith, shaped by the legacy of Thomas More and a life of prayer, drives his work as a founder. He unpacks the mission behind his most recent venture Verso Jobs, the pursuit of meaningful work, and the value of building teams rooted in shared values. For young entrepreneurs, Joe offers clear, grounded advice: stay open to input, but never lose sight of your core mission.

(00:00) Introduction to Joe Dunikoski

(02:05) Joe's Background and Early Influences

(06:23) The Impact of Thomas More

(16:32) The Launch...

In this conversation, Harrison Tognella shares his journey from a promising D1 soccer career to a successful path in technology and personal growth. Harrison shares how pivotal moments, including a serious injury and the impact of COVID-19, shaped his faith and career choices. He discusses his experiences at Baylor University, internships at Tesla & Amazon, and the importance of community and faith in navigating life's challenges. The conversation culminates in Harrison's vision for a running club that fosters community and spiritual growth. Listen for more!

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Harrison Tognela

(01:12) Journey to...

SPLASH: A series of reflecting every 3 episodes to touch on the takeaways from each guest!

In this conversation, Dean Yeck shares his journey from growing up in Lincoln, Nebraska, to founding the Phi Kappa Chi at Baylor University. He discusses the pivotal moments in his life, including his acceptance of Christ during Welcome Week at Baylor, the formation of a faith-based fraternity, and the lessons learned throughout his career in leadership. Dean emphasizes the importance of faith in both personal and professional life, the balance between work and family, and the significance of being bold in one's faith. He offers valuable insights for young believers navigating their own journeys.

Chapters

(00:00...

In this conversation, John Egan takes us through his journey from youth ministry to leading a camp, then stepping into corporate America highlighting the role of faith, family, and community in shaping his path. He shares personal reflections on marriage, the dreams he and his wife pursued, and how they navigated life's challenges together. John also delves into the transformation of the camp under his leadership, the power of prayer in his decision-making, and the profound moments of conversion he has witnessed among campers and staff and how it all translates into his role at Lucid Private Offices.

In this conversation, Greg Barnes centers on the question, "What would you dedicate the next 10 years of your life to, if you were guaranteed success?"

He argues that this is the most important question any leader can ask in order to discover their deepest passion in work. Touching on the Halftime movement, Greg encourages successful professionals to seek purpose beyond their careers and explore how businesses can serve as platforms for their background of beliefs. The conversation concludes with insights on the importance of the triple bottom line in business, focusing on commercial success, employee well-being, and...

SPLASH: A series of reflecting every 5 episodes to touch on the takeaways from each guest!

Chapters

(00:00) What are these Splash Episodes?

(01:52) #11 - Fulfillment Beyond Fortune w/ Ron Bass

(09:09) #12 - An Entrepreneur's Journey w/ Stone Davis

(14:47) #13 - Hooked on Bass Bros w/ Evan Bass

(18:40) #14 - The Barber's Chair w/ Luke Spitzer

(24:16) #15 - Thriving > Balancing w/ Dr. Eric Swan

(29:46) BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

In this conversation, Eric Swan shares his journey from D1 College Football Player to College Sales Professor, highlighting the importance of family, balance, and purpose in life. He reflects on his experiences in college football, the transition into a sales career, and the pursuit of a doctorate while managing family responsibilities. Eric emphasizes the significance of a strong partnership in marriage and the necessity of making sacrifices to achieve personal and professional goals. Tune in for more insightful thoughts from Eric!

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Eric Swan

(01:38) Family Life

(06:20...

In this conversation, Collin interviews Luke Spitzer, a barber and videographer, who shares his journey from college to establishing a successful barbering career in Dallas. Luke discusses his initial struggles with career choices and how he found his passion for barbering. He reflects on his college experience, the importance of mentorship, and the growth he has experienced in his new role as a barber, as well as his future plans. The conversation highlights themes of personal growth, the challenges of navigating life choices, and the fulfillment found in pursuing one's passion.

Chapters

(00:00...

In this conversation, Collin interviews his brother Evan about his journey as a young entrepreneur and his struggles with ulcerative colitis. They discuss Evan's small business ventures and his decision to pursue holistic health over medication. Evan shares insights on the importance of advocacy, awareness, and the impact of personal health on one's life and ambitions. Listen in for more! Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Evan's Journey (02:55) The Birth of an Entrepreneur (06:07) Navigating Business Challenges (08:48) Evan's Health Journey (12:05) The Shift to Holistic Health (14:53) Overcoming Health Obstacles (30:01) The Role of Diet in Healing (39:23) Transitioning to College Life (46:11) Dreaming of Legacy

In this conversation, Collin interviews Stone Davis, a serial entrepreneur with a diverse business background. Stone shares his journey from flipping lawnmowers in high school to navigating the complexities of Amazon FBA, launching a swim suit company, and managing a transportation business. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, risk-taking, and learning from failures. He discusses the loneliness of working independently, the thrill of discovering new products, and the significance of building a personal brand. Tune in for more!

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Stone Davis

(02:00) Taking Baby Steps

(07:11) Lessons from...

In this conversation, Ron Bass shares his journey through a successful career in wealth management, emphasizing the importance of hustle, relationships, and servant leadership. He reflects on his early career choices, the significance of mentorship, and the balance between work and family life. Ron discusses the impact of giving back to the community and creating memorable experiences with his family. He concludes with thoughts on legacy, communication, and the importance of being present in both personal and professional relationships. Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Ron Bass

(02:52) Mowing Lawns to Wealth Management

(09:05) The Importance of Relationships...

SPLASH: A series of reflecting every 5 episodes to touch on the takeaways from each guest!

Chapters

(00:58) Episode 6: Tommie Moy

(08:08) Episode 7: Paola Chadwell

(14:02) Episode 8: Moses Uvere

(20:01) Episode 9: Austin Staats

(26:07) Episode 10: Fr. Knott

Summary

In this conversation, Father Ron Knott shares his journey as a priest, educator, and leader, reflecting on his career through the lens of ecumenism and ministry challenges. He discusses revitalizing parish communities, embracing love, and navigating generational shifts in faith. Together, Collin and Fr. Knott explore personal reinvention, societal challenges, and leaving a legacy rooted in unconditional love.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Father Ron Nott

(02:48) Father Knott's Early Calling

(05:56) Life as a Priest

(08:49) Ecumenical Perspectives & Interfaith Relations

(14:27) Revitalizing the Cathedral

(17:27) The Power of...

In this conversation, Austin Staats shares his journey as a VP of Sales, balancing a demanding career with family life and mission work. He discusses the value of time management, innovative sales strategies, and the lasting impact of mentorship. Reflecting on his experiences in third-world countries, including his time in India, Austin highlights the role of compassion and understanding in leadership. He wraps up with insights on building diverse teams and standing firm in your beliefs while staying open to learning from others.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Austin Stats

(01:49) Balancing Work...

Summary

In this episode, Moses Uvere shares his story of becoming a ministry leader, community advocate, and award-winning Christian rapper. Born to Nigerian parents in America, he navigated a dual cultural identity and overcame challenges, including his parents' divorce and time in foster care. After reconnecting with his devout father, Moses found his own faith in college and pursued Christian rap, later becoming a pastor and church planter. His ministry now focuses on mentoring the youth in public schools and supporting their families, emphasizing the power of mentorship and community involvement. Check out this episode for more!<...

Summary

In this episode, Collin speaks with Paola Chadwell, an executive with nearly two decades of experience in customer success. We discuss Paola's journey of balancing her career with motherhood, the importance of being in service to others, and the challenges of finding authenticity in a world of expectations. Paola shares deep & personal insights on navigating the unexpected, the role of faith in her life, and the significance of community and support in achieving balance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trusting the process and being open to change, while also highlighting the true gift in every "...

Summary

In this conversation, Tommie Moy, a dedicated UPS driver for over 36 years, shares his journey from a small town in Louisiana to becoming a beloved figure in his community. He discusses the importance of relationships, the large impact of his simple work on people's lives, and the lessons learned throughout his career. Tommie emphasizes the significance of faith, perseverance, and maintaining a positive outlook. His legacy is one of kindness, encouragement, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Moments that made a Splash

(00:00) Introduction...

SPLASH: A series of reflections on every 5 episodes to go back and touch on the takeaways from each guest!

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Reeling It In

(00:28) Hunter Anderson: The Power of Genuine Relationships

(09:22) Langley Cerovich: Pursuing Passions Beyond Music

(13:59) Alejo Molina: Living a Life of Service

(24:00) Andrae Rainey: Leadership Lessons from Corporate America

(30:05) Benj Nopper: The Importance of Fun and Authenticity

Summary

In this episode of SPLASH on Reeling It In, Collin reflects on...

In this episode, Benj Nopper reflects on his journey from a quiet, reserved kid to a young professional who values fun, humor, and authenticity. Through stories of mentorship and personal growth, Benj emphasizes the importance of embracing joy in both work and life. He honors his grandfather, Paw Paw, whose lessons on hard work and gratitude continue to influence him. Benj’s experiences highlight the significance of focusing on what you have, building genuine connections, and giving back to others.