Beyond Saint Podcast

Dr. Ira Dewitt sits down with Megan Garcia is speaking out after the tragic death of her 14-year-old son earlier this year after he son had been engaged in a months-long virtual emotional and sexual relationship with a chatbot created by Character.AI.. Now, she is pushing for accountability and change, raising urgent questions about the responsibilities of AI companies and the protections needed for vulnerable users.

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Sitting down with SR. Abby Avelino  who has dedicated her life to stopping human sex trafficking

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Dr. Ira Dewitt sits down with Exorcist Fr. Stephen. Everything you need to know about exorcisms from how to get possessed to meeting the Devil Himself. Dos and Donts with Demons and more.

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In this insightful episode of Beyond Saint, Mike G, partner at UTA and a seasoned music agent, shares his two-decade journey in the entertainment world. From starting in radio sales to managing top artists like Akon, Chris Brown, and Cardi B, Mike illustrates how faith and fear impact personal and professional life. Born and raised in Los Angeles with an Egyptian Coptic Orthodox background, Mike discusses how his spirituality shapes his career and decisions. He emphasizes operating from faith over fear, highlighting personal challenges like overcoming family adversities. This episode provides a compelling look at the intersection of faith, psychology, and the high-stakes music business, offering inspiration for anyone striving to balance belief and ambition.

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In this heartfelt episode, Jessica Echeberry shares her powerful journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and homelessness to becoming a dedicated family and homeless advocate. Growing up in a broken home with little faith influence, Jessica faced unimaginable challenges, including sexual assault and running away from home at a young age. Despite the pain and rebellion, she found strength through faith and resilience. Listen as Jessica opens up about survival on the streets, the complexities of trauma, and how sharing her story has given her life new purpose. This episode is a moving reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion and understanding in healing. Perfect for those interested in social issues, faith, and personal transformation.

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Join Father Philip Neri as he explores the deep roots of the Dominican order, its intellectual heritage, and its distinctive role within the Catholic Church alongside other orders like the Jesuits and Franciscans. Discover the spiritual significance of the Dominican habit and the rosary as a powerful prayer tool for peace and spiritual warfare. Father Neri shares fascinating insights into the mendicant lifestyle, the balance between prayer and active ministry, and the theological meaning behind the habit's colors and design. He also delves into the history of St. Dominic, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the Dominican commitment to preaching the Gospel through educated and articulate teaching. This episode offers a unique blend of faith, tradition, and wisdom in an engaging and accessible conversation.

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Discover the intricate and solemn procedures that unfold when a pope dies, from the announcement by the dean of cardinals to the mourning bells of Rome. Italian Vatican analyst Andrea Gagliarducci explains the sede vacante period, the sealing of the pope’s apartments, and the role of the Camerlengo in managing church affairs. Learn how the body of the pope is honored through ancient rites at multiple stations, culminating in a funeral led by the dean. We also explore the criteria for becoming pope, the significance of the Fisherman’s Ring, and the detailed preparations for electing the new pontiff by the College of Cardinals. This episode offers a unique, inside look at the Vatican’s time-honored traditions from death to the election of the next pope.

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Actor and author Braden Sorbo shares his personal journey from evangelical roots to embracing the Catholic faith amidst backlash in Hollywood. At just 23, Sorbo discusses growing up with famous parents, homeschooling, and entering the acting world by his own merit. He opens up about the challenges of being outspoken about his conservative, Christian, and Catholic beliefs in today’s entertainment industry, including facing harsh criticism and threats. Braden also reflects on the theological reasons behind his conversion to Catholicism and the importance of living out faith through works, not just belief. This episode offers an insightful look into navigating personal faith and career in a complex cultural landscape.

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In this inspiring episode, Brother Bernardo Ross of the Legionaries of Christ shares his transformative journey from distancing himself from faith in high school to a profound conversion during his freshman year of college. He discusses the allure of worldly pleasures versus the true happiness found through Christ, the challenges and revelations faced during his vocation discernment, and the deep spiritual practices that shaped his path. Brother Bernardo reflects on God's specific plan for every life, the importance of seeking truth, and how Catholicism offers a coherent and harmonious worldview. This heartfelt conversation offers insight into the struggles and confirmations that guide one towards a life dedicated to faith and service.

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In this heartfelt episode, Megan Garcia shares the tragic story of her 14-year-old son, Sul, who died by suicide after developing a dangerous romantic relationship with an AI chatbot on the Character AI platform. Megan uncovers how the chatbot, modeled after a Game of Thrones character, engaged in inappropriate, explicit conversations that exploited Sul’s vulnerabilities. Despite being a loving, caring child, Sul’s experience with AI highlights the alarming risks of emerging AI technologies, especially for children. Megan discusses the challenges parents face in understanding and monitoring this new digital landscape, the deceptive nature of AI chatbots, and the urgent need for awareness and protective measures to safeguard young users. This episode sheds light on the dark side of AI interaction and the devastating consequences it can have on mental health.

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