Épisodes

  • Episode 340:

    Episode 340:
    Sep 23 2025
    In this episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward, I speak with Mary O’Regan, author of the new Sophia Institute Press biography of Padre Pio. Mary shares the incredible story of how Padre Pio appeared to her in a mystical experience that changed her life and set her on the path of researching and writing about one of the Church’s most beloved saints. We discuss: * How Padre Pio mystically visited Mary O’Regan and what it meant for her vocation. * Why we affectionately call him Padre Pio rather than St. Pio. * Padre Pio’s promise not to enter Heaven until all his spiritual children are with him. * The healing Our Lady of Fatima received through Padre Pio’s intercession. * John XXIII, the Third Secret of Fatima, and connections to Padre Pio. * Why Padre Pio, as the first priest to bear the stigmata, remains so significant. * Practical ways to grow in devotion to Padre Pio today. Whether you’re just learning about Padre Pio or already have a devotion to him, this conversation will inspire you to discover anew the life, miracles, and message of this extraordinary saint. 👉 Find Mary O’Regan’s book through Sophia Institute Press, and be sure to subscribe for more conversations on saints, faith, and devotion. Buy her book: https://www.sojolk8trk.com/B72FJ8/2B99BFK/ Visit her blog: http://thepathlesstaken7.blogspot.com
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    43 min
  • Episode 339: Pope Leo’s Chicago Roots | Rob Kaczmark of Spirit Juice Studios on Faith, Film, and Catholic Art

    Episode 339: Pope Leo’s Chicago Roots | Rob Kaczmark of Spirit Juice Studios on Faith, Film, and Catholic Art
    Sep 17 2025
    In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Rob Kaczmark, CEO of Spirit Juice Studios, to talk about his unique connection to Pope Leo XIII’s Chicago roots and how Catholic media continues to inspire today. Rob shares his experience visiting the Chicago neighborhood where Pope Leo grew up, filming on location, and reflecting on how Catholic art and media may be entering a new renaissance. 👉 Topics discussed: The moment Rob realized Pope Leo was from Chicago Behind the scenes of Spirit Juice’s videos on Pope Leo’s favorite Chicago spots What it was like filming at Pope Leo’s childhood home (and is the neighborhood safe?) The story of losing press credentials for the White Sox Stadium Mass—and making it work anyway Whether Pope Leo’s family has seen the videos Is Catholic art leading the way again, like in the Renaissance? 📌 Perfect for those interested in Catholic media, Church history, and the inspiring story of Pope Leo’s Chicago connection. Watch the videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpaknCv107Y https://youtu.be/QtZhoRP8uPY?si=CtktB0B16YF3cWlO
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    27 min
  • Episode 338: Behind the Kolbe Film: Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio on New Movie Triumph of the Heart

    Episode 338: Behind the Kolbe Film: Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio on New Movie Triumph of the Heart
    Sep 12 2025
    In this episode, I talk with Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio, executive producer of the new Catholic film Triumph of the Heart and father of the film’s director, Anthony D’Ambrosio. He shares the story of his family’s influence on Anthony, the journey from a short film on St. Maximilian Kolbe to a full-length feature, and what they hope this project will contribute to Catholic cinema. Topics we discuss include: • How family life shaped Anthony’s vocation as a filmmaker • The transition from short film to feature-length story • Hopes for the future of Catholic films and evangelization • Will Triumph make an impact at the box office? • How the movie may foster devotion to St. Maximilian Kolbe and Mary • Reflections on the cast, Catholic identity, and how film can become a channel of grace Dr. D’Ambrosio also shares details on how to see Triumph of the Heart in theaters and what makes this project unique in the landscape of faith-based films.
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    19 min
  • Episode 337: He Battled Fires and Culture: A Catholic Firefighter’s Story with Benjamin O'Brien

    Episode 337: He Battled Fires and Culture: A Catholic Firefighter’s Story with Benjamin O'Brien
    Sep 11 2025
    I sit down with Benjamin O’Brien, Catholic firefighter and author of The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17. In our conversation, Benjamin shares: 🔥 Why he chose firefighting and how he discerned leaving the profession 🔥 The ways he integrated his Catholic faith into the firehouse 🔥 What inspired him to write The Proving Grounds and the reaction from former coworkers 🔥 The role of chaplains, Sunday observance, and living as a Catholic man in a demanding environment 🔥 Why firefighters are teased for their good cooking and how camaraderie builds strength 🔥 The lasting impact September 11 had on the fire service This episode is both a reflection on service and sacrifice and a reminder of the deep connection between faith and vocation. 👉 Be sure to check out Benjamin’s book The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17 wherever books are sold. https://ignatius.com/the-proving-grounds-pgp/
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    26 min
  • Episode 336: Country Music Meets Catholicism: Bradley Banning’s Faith-Filled Songs

    Episode 336: Country Music Meets Catholicism: Bradley Banning’s Faith-Filled Songs
    Sep 2 2025
    Country music and Catholicism come together in this inspiring episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward! Fr. Edward sits down with country music singer and songwriter Bradley Banning, whose songs are infused with faith and storytelling. Bradley shares how St. Paul inspired one of his tracks, and unpacks the spiritual depth behind his popular song “Be a Kid”, which reflects the spiritual childhood of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. In this episode, you’ll hear: 🎵 How Bradley connects country music with Catholicism in a way that resonates with listeners 🎵 His journey building a devoted fan base while staying true to his faith 🎵 Fr. Edward’s “wish list” of country songs he wishes Bradley would write 🎵 Nostalgic reflections on musicians from Fr. Edward's childhood and the influence they had. Whether you’re a country music fan, a Catholic looking for faith-filled music, or simply love hearing powerful testimonies, this episode is for you. 📲 Listen and subscribe on Fireside, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and watch the full video episode on YouTube. 🎶 Find Bradley Banning’s music on your favorite streaming platforms! https://www.bradleybanning.com
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    32 min
  • Episode 335: Fr. Robert Bradley’s “Love Letter” to Mary – Dr. Betty Bosarge on Our Lady’s Psalter

    Episode 335: Fr. Robert Bradley’s “Love Letter” to Mary – Dr. Betty Bosarge on Our Lady’s Psalter
    Aug 13 2025
    In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Dr. Betty Bosarge to explore the life, legacy, and writings of Fr. Robert Bradley, S.J., with a special focus on Our Lady’s Psalter (Angelico Press). Dr. Bosarge, who served as Fr. Bradley’s editor, offers a behind-the-scenes look at his writing process—often on a simple yellow notepad—and shares how his meditations on the Rosary can renew the heart of anyone who prays them. Together, Fr. Edward and Dr. Bosarge discuss: Who Fr. Robert Bradley, S.J. was and his devotion to Mary How Dr. Bosarge came to know him and work as his editor The purpose and prayerful use of Our Lady’s Psalter Why the Rosary can transform and renew our spiritual lives Why Fr. Donald Calloway recommended this book for Lent Why this work has been called Fr. Bradley’s “love letter” to the Blessed Mother If you’re seeking a deeper way to pray the Rosary and draw closer to Mary, this episode will inspire you to pick up Our Lady’s Psalter and discover its timeless beauty. 📖 Learn more or get your copy: https://angelicopress.com/products/our-ladys-psalter-robert-bradley
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    40 min
  • Episode 334: St. Michael’s Lent Explained: From St. Francis to Exodus 90 with Dr. Jared Staudt

    Episode 334: St. Michael’s Lent Explained: From St. Francis to Exodus 90 with Dr. Jared Staudt
    Aug 5 2025
    Did you know that St. Francis of Assisi observed a special season of prayer, fasting, and penance starting on the Feast of the Assumption and ending on the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel? It’s called St. Michael’s Lent, and it’s making a powerful comeback among Catholics seeking spiritual renewal. In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Dr. Jared Staudt, theologian and formation leader with Exodus 90, about the history, spirituality, and modern revival of St. Michael’s Lent. Together they explore: • How St. Francis of Assisi first observed St. Michael’s Lent • Why it begins on August 15 (Assumption) and ends on September 29 (Michaelmas) • Whether other Catholic saints followed this tradition • How it compares to the Lenten season and whether feast days are penance-free • Practical ideas for living St. Michael’s Lent today • What Exodus 90 is offering to help men spiritually engage with this season Whether you’re looking for a way to deepen your Catholic faith, embrace penance and prayer, or just curious about this revived Catholic tradition, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for more Catholic insights and spiritual practices. 💪 Check out Exodus 90’s St. Michael’s Lent resources at https://exodus90.com/st-michaels-lent/
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    18 min
  • Episode 333: A Sister Remembers — Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan Through the Eyes of Élisabeth Nguyen

    Episode 333: A Sister Remembers — Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan Through the Eyes of Élisabeth Nguyen
    Jul 29 2025
    Servant of God Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan is remembered for his unwavering faith in the face of years of imprisonment. In this moving conversation, I speak with his sister, Élisabeth Nguyen, who shares intimate stories about their family upbringing, his path to the seminary, and his early years in the Church. She recalls his arrest and long years in prison—and a moment involving medicine for his stomach that meant more than it seemed. What could that mean? You’ll have to listen to find out. Hear a sibling’s unique insight into her brother’s sanctity, his cause for canonization, and why his story still inspires so many around the world today. 🎧 Listen now on Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward! wherever you get your podcasts. Buy the book- https://ignatius.com/cardinal-nguyen-van-thuan-cfntp/
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    32 min