Things I Wish I Knew

How can we find God in the midst of suffering? In this episode, Julia is joined by Noah Lawson from Pray As You Go , who shares how experiences of suffering became the turning point in his journey from atheism to Christian faith. Together they explore why pain doesn't have to be the end of the story, and how God can meet us in our darkest moments. Noah also reflects on the importance of community,...

In this episode, Julia chats with Andy Cassidy about his transformative journey from a life far from faith to recognising God in everyday moments. He shares his struggles growing up in a sectarian environment and his initial doubts about Catholicism, revealing the key experiences that brought him to embrace his faith. Through touching personal stories, including insights into family dynamics and b...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Emma Walton, a Catholic artist and mother of two, who shares her transformative journey from a conventional Christian upbringing to a profound encounter with Catholicism.  As she recounts her spiritual nudges, including a life-changing trip to Kefalonia, Emma dives into the challenges and joys of navigating her faith, art, and motherhood. This episode highlights...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Dallya Alhorri, an inspiring member of the Jesuit Refugee Service team, as she shares her poignant journey from Sudan to the UK. Dallya reflects on the challenges she faced when she arrived, including navigating a new culture and language while grieving the loss of her homeland. Through her story, we explore the significance of community and connection, and how s...

In this episode, Julia is joined by Massimo Di Muccio, who shares his some of his journey from a traditional Italian Catholic upbringing to a more personal relationship with Jesus.  Massimo explores the evolution of his faith, from a cultural understanding to a more intentional practice, emphasising the importance of dialogue with God and the role of Ignatian spirituality in his life. He shares in...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Patricia Tahirindray, Programme Coordinator at the Centre Arrupe in Madagascar, about the real-life impact of climate change in her country. Patricia shares her journey into environmental advocacy, the growing challenges communities face - from stronger cyclones to disrupted farming - and the role of faith, education, and collective action in building resilience....

What do you wish you knew before turning 30? In this episode, Julia sits down with Pippa Fletcher, a lay missionary in the Catholic Church, to reflect on the lessons she learned in her twenties. From moving to London and building a career in advertising to discerning a call to leave it behind for ministry, Pippa shares the unexpected journey that shaped her faith and vocation. Together they talk a...

In this episode, Julia continues her conversation with Antonia Sobocki from LOUDfence, a passionate advocate for victim-survivors of childhood abuse, as they delve deeper into the vision of a truly healing church. Antonia reflects on her journey and the importance of creating a safe environment within the Church that acknowledges the pain of survivors. She discusses the significance of being seen...

In this episode, Julia sits down with Antonia Sobocki, a courageous victim-survivor of childhood abuse, who shares her profound journey of healing and the role faith played in her life. Antonia reflects on her experiences growing up in the Church, the challenges she faced, and how her faith was both tested and ultimately restored through community. She introduces the concept of 'Loudfence', a move...

In this episode, Julia and producer Ethel return for another reflective conversation, delving into the profound and often subtle ways that God shows up in our lives. They revisit themes from previous episodes, including the impact of addiction, the importance of community, and the difference between 'boom moments' and the quieter, everyday instances of God's presence. Find out more at: www.thinkin...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Edwin Fawcett, a Catholic therapist and music minister, about the vital relationship between therapy and faith. Edwin shares his journey from music ministry to therapy, highlighting the importance of healing and thriving in our lives. He discusses how therapy can be a beneficial tool for personal growth and how it intertwines with faith, especially within the Cat...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Dr Nicolete Burbach, a Catholic theologian from the London Jesuit Centre, about her journey as a trans woman and her work on trans inclusion within the Church. Nicky shares her unique path to theology, revealing how her experiences of transitioning and converting to Catholicism intertwined. She discusses the importance of community for trans individuals within th...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Lauren Heithaus, the founder of Hidden Catholic, about her journey of faith and the joy of sharing it with others. Lauren reflects on how travel, history, and pilgrimage shaped her love for the Church, and how leaving a corporate career required trust in God amid uncertainty. Through personal stories, she explores discernment, vocation, and the quiet courage of s...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Veronica, a member of the Jesuit young adult community at Farm Street Church, about learning to recognise God’s presence in the midst of change and uncertainty.  Reflecting on her move to London from Canada, Veronica shares how moments of isolation, community life, and worship gradually became places where she noticed God at work. Find out more at: www.thinkingfa...

In this episode, Julia chats with Naoise Grenham about his journey from Dublin to London and the moment he decided to live his life faithfully. Naoise opens up about growing up in a big, tight-knit family, the importance of community, and the struggles of keeping faith alive in a secular world. He shares some honest moments of doubt and the powerful experiences that have shaped his understanding o...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Christine Allen, the director of CAFOD, about her remarkable journey in faith and leadership, as well as the importance of authenticity in her role. Christine shares her experiences growing up in a cradle Catholic family, and reflects on her unexpected path from studying philosophy and international relations to becoming a leader in the Church, highlighting the c...

Julia Corcoran continues the conversation with Lauren Windle, who opens up about the tough realities of addiction and the struggle to stay sober in a world that often normalises drinking. Lauren reminds us that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of background. She talks about the importance of having a solid support system, setting boundaries when out with friends, and the exciting new alcoho...

In this powerful conversation, Julia sits down with Lauren Windle to explore her inspiring journey from addiction to over 11 years of sobriety. Lauren shares how alcohol and drugs once felt like an escape from social anxiety and a way to fit in, until they took a devastating toll on her life. She opens up about the turning point that led her to seek help, the challenges of early addiction recovery...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Reverend Jonathan Aitken, a former MP who shares his transformative journey from a life of politics to an 18-month prison sentence for perjury, and ultimately to becoming an ordained minister. Reverend Jonathan reflects on his time in prison, discussing the challenges he faced, the unexpected sense of community he found among fellow inmates, and the profound role...

In this reflective episode, Julia is joined by producer Ethel as they pause to consider the journey of the podcast and the themes that have emerged so far.   Together, they discuss the importance of community, the unexpected paths life can take, and the power of gratitude in their personal and spiritual lives. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

In this episode, Julia speaks with Jean Kabasomi, a freelance consultant with a background in banking and theology. They delve into the realities of growing up in a world that feels very different from the one previous generations knew. Jean shares her insights on the pressures of home ownership, career expectations, and the influence of social media, as well as the evolving role of the Church for...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Charlie Bennett, a passionate teacher who shares his journey from the charity sector to the classroom. He reflects on how his experiences shaped his vocation and the profound impact of faith on his teaching philosophy. Charlie discusses the joys and challenges of teaching, the importance of social justice in education, and how he navigates the highs and lows of w...

In this episode, Julia chats with Sarah Barber about her journey through over 30 years of marriage. They look back on how it all began, the ups and downs along the way, and how faith has played a big role in their story. Sarah shares what she's learned about communication, commitment, and growing together over time.  Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org .

In this episode, Julia chats with Ruth Holgate, Director of St Beuno’s retreat centre in Wales, about prayer as a simple and personal conversation with God. Ruth shares her journey from growing up Catholic to deepening her faith through retreats, theology studies, and spiritual direction. She talks about the impact of her first 30-day silent retreat and why it’s important to find your own way to p...

In this episode, Julia speaks with Maria Christian, who works at St. Beuno's Jesuit retreat centre. Maria shares about her  journey into the world of Islamic studies and inter-religious dialogue. She recounts her initial misconceptions about Islam, shaped by her upbringing in a predominantly white, Catholic environment, and how her experiences at a diverse sixth form challenged those views. She re...