The Walk
The Walk

The Walk

Fr. Roderick Vonhögen

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A weekly walk with Fr. Roderick during which he shares his thoughts as a priest on the struggles and challenges as well as the joys and surprises of day-to-day life.

Recent Episodes

The Walk: Why Dreams Matter
DEC 10, 2024
The Walk: Why Dreams Matter

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself standing on the windswept Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.

During the bus ride, I had been listening to an audiobook about the life of Saint Patrick, and I was surprised to learn how dreams had played a significant role in his decision to return to Ireland. Those dreams changed the course of history.

Like many other saints that lived in Ireland, Patrick changed the world with nothing but faith and determination. I kept asking myself: How did he do it? No armies, no wealth—just stories and dreams.

That question stayed with me, and now it’s shaping how I approach my own work and goals.

Most people set goals, but many miss the deeper step: dreaming big. What if achieving your ambitions started with rediscovering your dreams?

Maybe this is why Saint Patrick made the most important decisions in his life after reflecting on the dreams he had at night.

In this episode of my podcast 'The Walk', I share how storytelling and dreaming transform how we connect with others—and ourselves.

☑ Why I traveled to Ireland for answers:
↳ The secret behind how ancient saints inspired entire nations.
↳ What their stories teach us about courage and purpose.
↳ Why their methods remain shockingly relevant today.

☑ The power of storytelling in your goals:
↳ How stories make your message unforgettable.
↳ Why data alone won’t inspire action.
↳ How I’m using storytelling to bring faith alive in a modern world.

☑ Why writing dreams down changes everything:
↳ A simple exercise to uncover what truly drives you.
↳ How visualizing your goals keeps you on track daily.
↳ Why combining prayer and planning creates unstoppable momentum.

This isn’t just about storytelling or faith—it’s about finding the "why" behind what you do. If you’ve felt stuck or uninspired lately, this episode is for you.

What’s one dream you’re ready to write down and pursue?

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47 MIN
The Walk: Why You Keep So Much Clutter
NOV 27, 2024
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39 MIN
The Walk: How I Calm My Mind
NOV 12, 2024
The Walk: How I Calm My Mind

Ever notice how some days the hum of a leaf blower or other background noise can be more aggravating than others? I explore how my own tolerance for these everyday sounds can fluctuate, and how it reflects my level of sensory regulation (or disregulation and overload).

The Impact of Overstimulation

In a world filled with constant distractions, it’s easy to find ourselves overstimulated, which can lead to irritability and stress.

Growing up, I was taught to be productive every moment, a habit that led to my own state of chronic overstimulation.

During my recent trip to Ireland, I experienced this firsthand as I adapted to new surroundings daily. Even sleeping in hostels brought sensory overload, with unfamiliar sounds, background music and social interaction.

Finding Relief Through Decompression Techniques

Coming home, I focused on winding down through sensory decompression techniques. Noise-canceling headphones, calming music, and scheduled time to reset became essential.

I also found that the Pomodoro Technique, paired with realistic prioritization, helps me manage my tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

Calming Activities: Audiobooks and Low-Effort Gaming

Reading is another outlet—particularly audiobooks, which I listen to at different speeds based on what I need. I also turned to cosy, low-effort videogames, which have become valuable ways to unwind without guilt. I've learned how much relaxation is crucial for mental well-being.

The Power of Social Connection

Although I’m more introverted, being around others—even without active interaction—brings a sense of calm. My running group has been a great help in maintaining that balance.

Rational vs Irrational Thoughts

I share some ideas from a particularly insightful book I read this weekend (check out my Goodreads review). I realized how I've already been applying the method described in this book for a while now, which helped me work through strong emotional reactions and catastrophizing thoughts and replace them with rational perspectives. This shift has had a profound impact on managing emotional overwhelm and staying grounded.

I hope that by sharing these experiences and the methods that helped me, this episode can help you reclaim calm amid life’s noise as well.

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47 MIN