Practicing Catholic Show

What does it look like to live faith boldly in today’s world? Peter and Rachel Herbeck join us to share stories of transformation and insights on discipleship that make a real difference in daily life. Then Nicole Bettini introduces the Miriam Dinner, a special evening for young women discerning consecrated life. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social m...

How can discomfort and self-denial draw us closer to God? Fr. Jim Livingston explains the true purpose of mortification and how healthy spiritual discipline leads to freedom and holiness. Then, Zach Jansen explores the Catholic themes beneath the movie, Wake Up Dead Man , uncovering questions of truth, conscience, guilt, mercy, and redemption. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subsc...

What does it mean to honor God through every season of life? Sara Bertram reflects on faith in the face of unimaginable loss, and Paul Sadek shares the beauty of music lifted in praise. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  Facebook⁠⁠   ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠  ⁠YouTube⁠

Three months after a devastating school shooting, Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis held a Rite of Reparation to restore its sacred space and support a grieving community. Archbishop Bernard Hebda joins us to discuss the significance of the ritual, the role of faith in healing, and how resilience is helping the parish move forward. Then, Jamie Verbrugge, new president and CEO of Catholic...

In a culture obsessed with comfort and convenience, true joy can feel elusive. Bishop Kevin Kenney joins us to explore the difference between fleeting happiness and the deep, lasting joy found in God. Plus, go behind the scenes of Vatican Unveiled , the largest collection of papal artifacts outside of Rome, coming soon to Mall of America®. Fr. Richard Kunst, curator of the exhibit, shares exclusiv...

How do bishops make decisions that affect parishes nationwide? Archbishop Hebda explains the work of the USCCB, while Father Koop unpacks the Church’s new document, Mater Populi Fideli . Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  Facebook⁠⁠   ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠  ⁠YouTube⁠  

What happens when you give past the point of comfort? Marci Franzen reveals the surprising impact of donor generosity across the archdiocese. Then Linda and Don Olson share their moving path from heartbreak to hope through adoption.  Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  Facebook⁠⁠   ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠  ⁠YouTube⁠  

Bishop Izen joins us to reflect on the freedom that comes from childlike trust in God and the role of gratitude in deepening our faith. He shares personal stories and practical wisdom for cultivating a thankful, open heart. Then, Paul Iovino and Randy Gray recap the first-ever SMIG Conference, offering insights on how Catholic parishes and schools can stay safe while remaining welcoming and ground...

In this episode, Bishop Andrew Cozzens shares the remarkable story of Sister Annella Zervas, whose humility, devotion, and unwavering faith are guiding her cause for canonization. Then, Mary Verrill reflects on the joyful, courageous life of Sister Thea Bowman, a teacher, singer, and Franciscan Sister whose legacy continues to uplift communities today. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review,...

In this episode, we explore stories of faith, resilience, and transformation. Emily Sullivan shares her family’s journey through her mom’s battle with breast cancer, reflecting on how hope, grief, and God’s presence shaped their lives. Later, Joe Masek, founder of the Freedom Group, discusses practical steps for men seeking healing and freedom from porn addiction, highlighting how faith can restor...

As we look ahead to National Vocation Awareness Week, Archbishop Bernard Hebda joins Practicing Catholic to talk about the many ways God calls each of us to holiness. Then, co-hosts Leah Heselton and Fr. Tom Margeviciüs share their first conversation together on the heart of our worship — the Mass and the Eucharist — and how God continues to call and feed us through it. Like what you're hearin...

What does it mean to be a missionary today—and how does Natural Family Planning (NFP) reflect God’s vision for love and life? Bishop Kenney joins us to explore the Church’s call to mission for every baptized Catholic—not just overseas, but right here at home. Then we’re joined by Renee Oakes, FCP, DHS, Associate Director of Marriage Ministry for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. A seaso...

What does it mean to tell stories through the lens of faith—and what does quiet resistance look like in the face of evil? Journalist Dave Hrbacek shares how nearly 30 years at The Catholic Spirit have shaped his mission to glorify God through storytelling, even amid tragedy. Then, digital content producer Zach Jansen unpacks Terrence Malick’s A Hidden Life , exploring its moral depth, poetic style...

In a world shaped by screens, how do we share the Gospel and protect the hearts and minds of the next generation? This episode explores both the opportunities and challenges of faith in the digital age. Mackenzie Hunter, creator of @acaffeinatedcatholic, shares how she brings the Catholic message to life on social media in ways that are creative, relatable, and grounded in truth. Then Catholic the...

What does it look like to trust God when the stakes are high, such as when caring for patients or protecting kids? This episode shares real stories of spiritual surrender, sacred calling and the peace that comes from letting go of control. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠   ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠  ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠  

What does holiness look like in today’s world? Archbishop Bernard Hebda explores the lives of newly canonized saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati—two powerful witnesses for young Catholics. Then, Pam Baker of Abria Pregnancy Resources shares how her team is offering life-affirming support to women and families in need Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us...

In this episode, Monsignor Martin Schlag discusses the enduring relevance of Catholic social teaching in today’s divided world, exploring themes of work, justice, and society in his upcoming lecture. Then, Paul Iovino from the Archdiocese’s Safe Environment office shares how Catholic schools and parishes are working to keep families safe following the recent tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School...

How can Mary’s faith inspire us to face fear and uncertainty with courage? Bishop Michael Izen shares powerful insights for families and disciples today. Plus, Pat Millea from the Martin Center for Integration offers hope and healing strategies for those coping with grief and trauma in our community. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practic...

In this episode, Archbishop Bernard Hebda reflects on the Archdiocese’s response to the tragic shooting at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis. Discover how faith, hope, and community provide comfort and leadership during times of grief and fear. The conversation addresses how to support children and families, improve safety, and find meaning in suffering through Catholic teaching. Plus,...

How do we hear—and respond to—God’s call in our lives? Archbishop Hebda reflects on saying “yes” to the Lord, even when fear and doubt stand in the way. Then, Dr. Kate Walsh Soucheray joins us with practical wisdom for weaving faith into family life as the back-to-school season begins. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  F...

Change is here—and it’s a good one. Meet our new hosts, Leah Heselton and Fr. Tom Margevicius, as they share their hopes, hearts, and a few surprises in this special transition episode. Get to know their vision, their faith, and what they’re bringing to the mic as they lead the conversation forward. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingca...

Before we move forward, we take a moment to look back. In this heartfelt segment, our former producers return to share favorite memories, lessons learned, and farewell messages as they pass the torch. It’s a tribute to the voices behind the scenes who helped shape the journey. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  Facebook⁠⁠...

We celebrate the voice that helped shape the heart of the show. In this special farewell conversation, longtime host Patrick Conley reflects on his journey, shares favorite moments, and opens up about what’s next. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow!  Facebook⁠⁠   ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠  ⁠YouTube⁠  

Who shapes a child’s faith? While parents play a central role, many young hearts are formed by a much wider circle: grandparents, godparents, mentors and spiritual elders. In this episode, Bishop Izen joins us to explore the quiet but powerful influence of these often-overlooked guides. As modern life pulls families apart, how can we rekindle their role in passing on the faith? Like what you're he...

What happens when a school is built around Christ—not just academics, but the formation of souls? In this episode, Dr. Gerlach, Headmaster of Chesterton Academy, joins us to reflect on a school year rooted in faith, virtue, and classical learning. From daily life in the classroom to the mission that shapes it all, we explore how Chesterton Academy is forming hearts and minds for Christ. Like what...