Episode Summary In this episode, we explore the profound mystery of the Eucharist through the lens of Heidi Saxton's new book, Stories of the Eucharist. As the Catholic Church continues its National Eucharistic Revival, Heidi's work offers timely insights into the importance of the Eucharist in the lives of the faithful. Join us for a rich conversa…

Episode Summary In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history of Francisco Garcés, as explored in Jeremy Beer's new book, Beyond the Devil’s Road: Francisco Garcés and the Spanish Encounter with the American Southwest. Join us for an enlightening discussion on Garcés' life, his legacy, and the unique role he played in shaping the history of…

This episode delves into the inspiring life of Father Edward J. Flanagan as portrayed in the new film "Heart of a Servant." We’re joined by Rob Kaczmark, director and producer, to discuss the making of this powerful movie. Episode Summary Father Edward J. Flanagan, founder of Boys Town, dedicated his life to serving at-risk youth and advocating for…

Gotta Date Well: A Podcast Series for Catholics This episode is part five of our dating series, where we explore the exciting and sometimes challenging journey of proposal and engagement. Guest Introduction In this episode, I’m joined by Kendra Tierney Norton, who shares her story of discerning marriage, the proposal, and the engagement process. Ke…

Gotta Date Well: A Podcast Series for Catholics This episode is part 4 of the Gotta Date Well Series, where we dive deep into how to date with Christ at the center. Guest Introduction In this episode, I’m joined by Bridget and Johnny O’Boyle (along with my wife Meredith). They share their journey and offer insights on how community plays a crucial …

Gotta Date Well: A Podcast Series for Catholics This episode is part 3 of the Gotta Date Well Series, where we dive deep into how to date with Christ at the center. Guest Introduction On this episode, I am joined by my wife, Meredith Gotta. We dive into why praying together is important, what it should look like, and how it can strengthen a relatio…

Gotta Date Well: A Podcast Series for Catholics This episode is part 2 of the Gotta Date Well Series, where we dive deep into how to date with Christ at the center. Guest Introduction On this episode, I am joined by Marie Mazzanti, who runs the Instagram account @CatholicCaritas. Episode Summary Boundaries and hard conversations are crucial element…

Gotta Date Well: A Podcast Series for Catholics This episode is part 1 of the Gotta Date Well Series, where we dive deep into how to date with Christ at the center. Guest Introduction On this episode, I am joined by Therese Bermpohl, Executive Director of the Office for Marriage, Family, and Respect Life in the Diocese of Arlington. Episode Summary…

On episode #182, I spoke with Fr. Boniface Hicks OSB about his new book focused on the Mass. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: How do silence and the Mass go hand-in-hand? What inspired you to write this book? What are you hoping are the main takeaways? Is our participation in the liturgy actually important? And much more.…

On episode #181, I spoke with David Fischer about the new movie, Sight. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Who is Ming Wang? What made David want to produce a movie based on his life The importance of Ming Wang's story And much more... Tune in for a great conversation! Links: David on LinkedIn Check out the movie here Our S…

On episode #180, I spoke with Anna Lulis about what it means to be pro-life as a Catholic. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Anna's own story What it truly means to be pro-life It's importance Catholic understanding versus protestant And much more... Tune in for a great conversation! Links: Anna on X Anna on Instagram Our …

On episode #179, I spoke with Jonathan O'Brien about the the Carmelite Martyrs of the French Revolution. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Jonathan's own conversion story Why he decided to write a book on these wonderful martyrs What we can all learn from their example The relevance of their story as the Olympics takes pla…

On episode #178, I spoke with Fr. Ken Geraci about the need for Divine Mercy. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Why Fr. Ken believes Jesus appeared to St. Faustina when He did The need for Divine Mercy today Divine Mercy Sunday. What is that? I should be praying the chaplet of divine mercy every single day. Why? And much m…

On episode #177, I spoke with Meredith Hinds about Eucharistic Saints. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Inspiration: What inspired Meredith to write "Eucharistic Saints: Twenty Stories of Devotion to Jesus Selection of Saints: How she choose which saints to include in the book Saints’ Stories: What saint story she enjoys …

On today's episode, I chatted with Danielle Bean about what lessons we can learn from Mary. Biography: I am a Catholic writer and speaker. I help struggling moms to know their dignity and worth so they can find peace, balance, and joy in family living. So many of us struggle, and too many of us feel alone in that struggle. I know what it’s like to …

Episode #125 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast On this episode, I spoke with Tanner Kalina, Eucharistic Missionary with the Eucharistic Revival. During our conversation, we spoke about: - Tanner's story -The significance of the Eucharist in the Catholic faith - How the Eucharist helps to make us Saints - How to respond to those who don’t believe Jesus…

On this episode, I chatted with Fr. Timothy Danaher, OP, about St. Paul. Our Sponsors: This is a Good Catholic Podcast. Use code GBS for 20% your order. Check out The Catholic Company for all your Catholic merchandise needs! Use code SAINTS for 20% off your next purchase! If you enjoyed this episode, please provide a review and make sure to subscri…

On episode #173, I spoke with Connie Marshner about Irish Christianity. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: Early Christians in Ireland: Who were the first Christians in Ireland, and how did Christianity initially arrive there? Egyptian Connection: How did materials like Egyptian papyrus find their way to Ireland? What does …

Based on his study of great theologians and philosophers dating back to Aristotle, eminent philosopher and physicist Rev. Dr. Robert Spitzer devised his Four Levels of Happiness, asserting that whichever level dominates our lives will dictate our actions and determine the depth and endurance of our happiness. On episode #172, I spoke with Fr. Spitz…

One of the most misunderstood — and misrepresented — elements of the Catholic Church is her social teaching. Today’s conversation hopes to fix that. On episode #171, I spoke with Dale Ahlquist about Catholic Social Teaching. Here are some key questions and topics from our discussion: What is the history of Catholic Social Teaching? What does it loo…

For most of us, Sunday is the day we attend Mass, setting it aside as our Sabbath. However, once we step out of the church, we often find ourselves caught up in the same rush as any other day. Whether it's catching up on work, running errands, or tackling household chores, we rarely allow ourselves a true day of rest. Travel, shopping, and the endl…

Seven months ago, Mariana Kulhman’s husband, Nathaniel, went home to be with the Father. I am blessed to have her with me today to discuss their story - how they met, how their love blossomed, the wedding day, tragedy, and of course, the gift of life. Read about their story here: https://www.ncregister.com/features/kuhlman-hope Our Sponsors: This i…

On episode #168, I spoke with Eric Groth about Flannery O'Connor and the new movie "Wildcat," which focuses on her life. Key points from our discussion include: - A snapshot about the life of Flannery O’Connor - Her importance to American literature - How her writing speak to Catholics - A synopsis of the movie, "Wildcat" - And much more... Biograp…

On episode #167, I spoke with Shaun McAfee about sacramentals. Key points from our discussion include: - What inspired Shaun to write this book - What is a sacramental? - How sacramentals are incorporated into the live of the everyday Catholic - Superstitions versus legitimate means of grace - The three groups of sacramentals - And much more... Bio…

On episode #167, I spoke with Dr. Julia Sadusky about gender identity through the lens of a licensed psychologist. Key points from our discussion include: - How Julia ended up in this field - How to approach the intersection of gender identity and faith - Clinical challenges - Complexities of working with clients navigating both gender identity and…

On episode #166, I spoke with Jason Jones about how to revive our culture from a Catholic perspective. Key points from our discussion include: - The biggest issue in today’s world - Catholic approach to the great reset - The need to strength families and communities through subsidiarity - What motivated Jason to write this book - And much more... B…

As Season 2 winds down, the action ramps up for Team Avatar. Never split up the party! 00:00:00 - Intro 00:09:42 - Episode recap 01:56:24 - Final thoughts "[ATLA] Comparing ATLA's animation studios (gallery in post)" from KenwaySaga on r/TheLastAirbender Special thanks to Jake Lester for our theme song. Brendan does our artwork- find him on Instagr…

On episode #165, I spoke with Dan LeRoy about the Rise and Fall of Western Thought. Key points from our discussion include: - The inspiration behind Leroy's sweeping exploration of Western thought and its critical relevance in contemporary times. - A pivotal detour in philosophy nearly a thousand years ago that significantly shaped Western society.…

On episode #164, I spoke with Kristen Theriault about the life and the legacy of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. Biography: Kristen Van Uden is the editor of Catholic Exchange and author spokesperson at Sophia Institute Press. She has degrees in History and Russian from Saint Anselm College and the College of William & Mary, and studies the persecution…

On episode #163, I spoke with the Fr. Timothy Danaher, OP, about effective evangelization. During our conversation, we covered: - De Montfort and his criticism of poor preaching - The role of the priest - The role of the lay faithful regarding preaching - And much more... Biography: Fr. Timothy Danaher, O.P. grew up in Steubenville, OH, where he at…

On episode #162, I spoke with the Michael Gotta about trusting God. During our conversation, we covered: - The need for radical trust - Why it is so hard to trust - The call that men have to lead - How comparison makes trusting God difficult - And much more... Biography: Michael Gotta teaches AP Biology and Environmental Science at a college prepar…

A man. A plan. A bear. Ba Sing Se. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:13:34 - Episode recap 01:45:44 - Final thoughts Special thanks to Jake Lester for our theme song. Brendan does our artwork- find him on Instagram. Follow us: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Have a question or comment about the show? Email us at gottarecap@gmail.com and we may read your message on …

On episode #161, I spoke with the Jem Sullivan about her book, "Sacred Art Every Catholic Should Know." During our conversation, we covered: - The various art work covered in her book - What inspired her to take on this project - How the Catholic Church has the role as a principal patron of the arts - How sacred art has evolved - Art's cultural sig…

On episode #160, I spoke with the Joe and Nicole McGivney about their new book, "You’re a Miracle!" During our conversation, we covered: - How Joe and Nicole Met - How alcoholism played into their marriage - The breaking point in 2020 - How God changed their lives - And much more... Biography: Joe is a devoted husband to his wife Nicole, a proud fa…

Nick and Brendan invite you to listen to this podcast episode. We are so back, baby. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:12:27 - Episode recap 01:40:31 - Final thoughts Special thanks to Jake Lester for our theme song. Brendan does our artwork- find him on Instagram. Follow us: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Have a question or comment about the show? Email us at got…

On episode #159, I did a Lenten check-in with Nick Sledge. Biography: Nick Sledge is the Founder of Catholic Manhood. He lives with his family in Louisville, KY. Our Sponsors: This is a Good Catholic Podcast. If you're interested in purchasing a Good Catholic digital series, use code GBS for 20% off your total order. Looking for the perfect Catholi…

On episode #158, I spoke about the need to date people who love the Lord instead of setting for someone who is just "good". During this conversation, I covered: - What makes a good spouse - Why so many people settle - Why the Devil tries to distort love - How scripture ties into all of this - Why heaven has to be at the forefront of every relations…

On episode #157, I spoke with the Steven Nelson about his recently book, The Magdalena Prayer Book. During our conversation, we covered: - What inspired Steven to focus on St. Mary Magdalene as the model for conversion in his book - The distinction between perfect and imperfect contrition - The importance of God's mercy - How to overcome sin - And …

On episode #156, I spoke with the Fr. Robert Nixon about his recently translated book, Solitude and Silence: The Cloister of the Heart, which was written by Thomas à Kempis. During our conversation, we covered: - Thomas à Kempis' writings and life - Why Fr. Nixon decided to translate his book - The importance of practicing silence in solitude for t…

On episode #155, I spoke with the Emily Malloy about the Theology of Home. During our conversation, we covered: - What Theology of Home is and means - Background information into the "Theology of Home" book series - How arranging the seasons help us grow in holiness - The connection between spirituality and home decor - And much more... Biography: …

On episode #154, I spoke with the Dr. Ray Guarendi about the need to discipline. During our conversation, we covered: - Dr. Ray's new book, Standing Strong: Good Discipline Makes Great Teens - What inspired him to write it - Why the teen years are not a negative - Why holy parents make holy children - And much more... Biography: Dr. Ray is a Cathol…

Our podcast returns to discuss a joyous celebration of Appa's romp through the Earth Kingdom. Guaranteed to make you smile! 00:00:00 - Intro 00:06:26 - Episode recap 01:36:00 - Final thoughts Special thanks to Jake Lester for our theme song. Brendan does our artwork- find him on Instagram. Follow us: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Have a question or …

On episode #153, I spoke with the Suzan Sammons about how to really grow this Lenten season with the Stations of the Cross. During our conversation, we covered: - Suzan's new book - What inspired her to create a 40-day Lenten meditation specifically focusing on the Stations of the Cross - The value of reflecting on each station for multiple days - …

On this episode, I spoke with the pastor of my home parish, Fr. John Putnam, on how to make a parish holy. During our conversation, we covered: - Fr. Putnam's story - Why St. Mark's offers confessions multiple times a day, every day - How St. Mark's ended up offering perpetual adoration - The importance of the Mass - Why altar servers are a big par…

Episode #151 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast On this episode, I spoke with Ennie Hickman about what the Catholic Church teaches about just wages and Catholic Social Teaching. During our conversation, we covered: - A tweet that inspired this conversation - A brief background on Catholic Social Teaching - How money is necessary, but it isn't everythin…

Episode #150 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast On this episode, I spoke with Dr. Gerry Crete about his new book and how it can help the listener recover from stress and anxiety. During our conversation, we covered: - His background as a licensed marriage and family therapist - An overview of his book, "Litanies of the Heart" - The effects of "original…

Episode #149 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast As you might have heard, Shia LaBeouf was recently confirmed, and is now a full member of the Catholic Church. On this podcast episode, I ask the question - should we care? Our Sponsors: This is a Good Catholic Podcast. If you're interested in purchasing a Good Catholic digital series, use code GBS for 20…

Episode #148 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast On this episode, I reflect on the last year and invite you to pick a saint to journey with in 2024. Our Sponsors: This is a Good Catholic Podcast. If you're interested in purchasing a Good Catholic digital series, use code GBS for 20% off your total order. Looking for the perfect Catholic gift? Check out …

Episode #148 of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast On this episode, I focus on the Christmas season and what we can learn from spending time with our Lord in the Eucharist. Our Sponsors: This is a Good Catholic Podcast. If you're interested in purchasing a Good Catholic digital series, use code GBS for 20% off your total order. Looking for the perfect Cat…

BONUS: The boys are back at it again, talking about another... Christmas special? We'll see about that! Join us as Brendan leads the charge in discussing a musical episode of one of his favorite shows! 00:00:00 - Intro 00:04:11 - Episode Recap 00:54:19 - Final Thoughts Follow us: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram Have a question or comment about the sho…