By S.L. Hansen
for the Register
Southern Nebraska Register columnist and the development officer of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) have teamed up to present a new show on Spirit Catholic Radio: “In Layman’s Terms.”
Bob Sullivan, who by day is an attorney in Wahoo, has been writing a column called “In Layman’s Terms” since 2017. He is also author of numerous articles for various other Catholic publications, frequent guest on Spirit Catholic Radio (KVSS) and host of the podcast “Friday Afternoon Catholic.” Over the last few years, Sullivan developed a vision for a Catholic radio show tailored for men, by concentrating on content men find relevant.
“The need for a weekly resource for men became evident during discussions with other leaders, and I knew radio was a powerful way to meet that need,” he said.
Preparing to go to a men’s silent retreat in late 2023, Sullivan decided if he ran into longtime acquaintance John Soukup there, he’d pitch the idea of a radio show to him. Soukup has a long history in radio, as a news reporter, deejay and former KVSS-Lincoln station manager. He also produces and hosts the podcast “Hope in the Good Life,” which features stories from CSS clients, volunteers, donors, and staff.
Sullivan and Soukup ended up being assigned to rooms across the hall from one another at the retreat, so they had a chance to discuss the idea before their silent retreat began. When it ended, both were ready to collaborate on creating the program for Spirit Catholic Radio.
The pair did a couple pilot episodes as co-hosts, with Soukup also wearing all the other hats.
“I found that serving as producer, editor, and co-host was way too time-consuming, especially with the demands of my full-time job,” Soukup admitted. “Bob is a very talented and smart guy, so I told him that I would simply produce the show, and he could be the host.”
They tried a few more pilot episodes with Sullivan as sole host. However, Jeb Eschied, Spirit Catholic Radio’s program director, missed the chemistry between the pair.
“Co-hosting the show seemed to give it more depth and movement,” Escheid said, “so we told them that we would provide the producer if John returned to his co-host role. We were hoping Bob wouldn’t object.”
He didn’t. Co-hosting with Soukup was just the way he wanted it all along.
“I feel a lot more comfortable with John co-hosting. He has the perfect radio voice, years of experience, and a strong understanding of the faith,” Sullivan said.
Although the program is rooted in issues related to Catholic men, Soukup assures listeners that women will also get a lot out of it.
“Everyone is welcome to tune in and consider the insights, discussions, and encouragement offered on ‘In Layman’s Terms,’” he said.
Sullivan and Soukup have already interviewed an impressive range of guests with more to come. Upcoming guests include Dan Donaldson of Heroic Men, a national organization that strengthens men to become missionary disciples, and Father Ed Hopkins of Regnum Christi. Local guests such as Father Matthew Schilmoeller, who talked about men’s ministry at St. John the Apostle Parish in Lincoln, and Max Chapman of More Mercy round out the upcoming episodes.
“Each guest we meet has turned out to offer a unique inspiration,” Sullivan said.
Both Sullivan and Soukup are fans of radio, in part because of how immediately available it is to anyone. They say they are especially grateful to Spirit Catholic Radio as a local resource.
“When we hear our neighbor talking about our shared faith in a powerful and compelling way, we all grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ,” Sullivan said. “Our job is to bring in guests who inspire and challenge all men in the listening area.”
Soukup says he learns much from listening to others.
“There have been so many times when I turn on the station and hear something that I needed to hear at that moment. I like to call them Holy Spirit moments or God moments,” he revealed.
Now that “In Layman’s Terms” is on the air – Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m., rebroadcasting Sundays at 6 p.m. – Sullivan said he is modifying his Register column to be equally focused on reaching men.
“We’ve been blessed to have Catholic media as a powerful voice of truth in a sea of confusion,” he said. “I am confident that more people will return to truth due to Catholic media’s role in this important constitutional right and moral obligation. It is truly exciting to be part of it.”
“We just ask for prayers in our mission to do God’s will through “In Layman’s Terms” and always be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit,” Soukup requested.
“What a great time to be a Catholic!” said Sullivan.
