Gotta Be Saints

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 their rights. "Heart of a Servant" brings his story to life, showcasing his unwavering faith and compassion. In this episode, we cover:

• The Inspiration Behind the Film: What drew Rob to Father Flanagan’s story and why he believes it’s important to share this message with the world.
• Portraying Father Flanagan’s Life: How Rob and his team balanced depicting both the well-known and lesser-known aspects of Father Flanagan’s life, and the challenges of staying true to history while making a compelling film.
• Promoting Canonization: The role of the film in promoting Father Flanagan’s cause for canonization and spreading his message of service and compassion.
• How to Watch the Film: Information on where and how listeners can see "Heart of a Servant."

Rob’s passion for telling stories that inspire faith and action shines through in this conversation, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in Catholic media, history, or the life of Father Flanagan.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re inspired by stories of faith, resilience, and service, this episode will provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of "Heart of a Servant." Learn more about Father Flanagan’s life and legacy, and discover how this film aims to promote his cause for canonization.

Resources & Links

Buy tickets to the film here.
Check out Rob's organization, Spirit Juice, here.
Follow Rob on Instagram.

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might be inspired by Father Flanagan’s story. Stay tuned for more episodes where we highlight impactful Catholic stories and the people bringing them to life!

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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. Kendra offers insights and advice for couples navigating this pivotal stage in their relationship.

Episode Summary

Deciding to get engaged is one of the most significant steps in a relationship. In this episode, we cover:

• Journey to Engagement: Kendra shares her experience leading up to her engagement and how she and her spouse discerned their call to marriage.
• The Proposal: A look at how Kendra’s spouse proposed and what that moment meant for them as a couple.
• Challenges in Discerning Marriage: The biggest challenges they faced during their discernment process, and how they worked together to address and overcome these obstacles.
• Faith in the Relationship: The role of faith in their relationship and decision to get married, including specific prayers and spiritual practices that were helpful during their discernment.
• Practical Advice: Kendra offers advice for couples currently dating and discerning marriage, emphasizing the importance of discussing key topics like family, finances, and faith before getting engaged.

Kendra’s story is full of practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone who is in the process of discerning marriage or preparing for engagement.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re in a serious relationship or contemplating engagement, this episode provides valuable guidance on how to approach these big decisions with faith and clarity. It’s perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of what it means to discern marriage and prepare for a lifelong commitment.

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Stay tuned for the next part of our series as we continue to explore how to date and discern well with faith at the center!

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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 role in discerning a relationship.

Episode Summary

Dating isn’t just about spending time together—it’s also about building a relationship within the context of community and friendships. In this episode, we discuss:

• Starting the Dating Journey: Bridget and Johnny share their story of how they began dating, and how they saw signs early on that their relationship could be something more.
• Making Time for One Another: Advice on how to prioritize time for your relationship, even with busy schedules, and how to handle jealousy or frustration around time management.
• The Role of Community: The importance of involving each other in your respective communities and balancing your relationship with friendships. They also discuss how community can be a powerful tool for discernment.
• Sticky Questions: Navigating challenging scenarios like when your partner doesn’t get along with your friends, or vice versa, and how to handle these situations with grace and faith.
• Practical Advice: Encouragement for singles who feel discouraged about finding the right person and tips on using community and prayer as tools for discernment.

Bridget and Johnny offer practical wisdom and share their personal experiences, providing valuable guidance for anyone looking to date well and discern God’s will for their relationship.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re in a relationship or thinking about entering one, this episode provides thoughtful insights on how to integrate community into your dating life and use it as a tool for discernment. It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to build a relationship on a solid foundation of faith and friendship.

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it. Stay tuned for the next part of our dating series as we continue exploring how to date with faith and purpose!

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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 relationship.

Episode Summary

Praying together while dating is an essential practice for couples who want to grow spiritually and discern their relationship with God at the center. In this episode, we discuss:

• Before Dating: The importance of having a personal prayer life before entering a relationship, and how that foundation set the tone for our dating journey.
• Early Stages: We share how our mutual faith made it easier to pray together early in our relationship, and how natural (or not) it felt at the beginning.
• Discernment: How prayer helped us discern throughout our relationship and led to greater vulnerability.
• Sticky Questions: We address what a healthy prayer life should look like within a relationship and how to navigate preconceived notions about praying together.
• Practical Advice: Guidance for couples who don’t share the same faith, and advice for those in relationships where one person may not have a faith life at all.

Through our personal story, we hope to provide encouragement and practical steps for couples looking to strengthen their relationship through prayer.

Why You Should Listen

Whether you’re in a relationship, preparing for one, or seeking guidance on how to incorporate prayer into your dating life, this episode offers faith-filled insights and practical advice. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to grow spiritually alongside their partner and discern God’s will for their relationship.

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from it. Stay tuned for the next part of our dating series!

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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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 elements of a healthy dating relationship. In this episode, we discuss:

• Personal Experience and Background: Marie shares her own dating journey and how she and her spouse approached boundaries and difficult conversations.
• Boundaries in Dating: Essential boundaries every couple should establish, including physical and emotional boundaries, and how to have these conversations.
• Communication and Hard Conversations: Strategies for handling difficult topics, especially those concerning faith, values, and future goals.
• Discernment and Red Flags: How to know if you’re ready for marriage, recognizing red flags, and the role of cohabitation.

Marie provides practical tips and thoughtful advice for couples who are navigating the dating world with faith at the forefront.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re in a relationship or preparing for one, this episode offers essential guidance on how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries while navigating difficult conversations. It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to date intentionally and align their relationship with their faith.

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it. Stay tuned for the next part of our dating series, where we’ll continue to explore the journey toward finding a spouse.

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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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

Dating can often feel daunting, but with the right mindset and approach, it can be a positive experience. In this episode, we discuss:

• Starting the Dating Journey: What signs indicate someone is ready to start dating, and what qualities should be sought in a potential partner?
• How to Meet Someone: Explore the best places and methods for meeting other Catholic singles, including thoughts on dating apps, setups, and events.
• Dating Well vs. Dating Poorly: Learn the hallmarks of a healthy dating relationship and how to address concerns early on.
• Practical Advice: Therese offers encouragement for those feeling discouraged about dating and advice on balancing the desire for a relationship with trusting in God’s timing.

Therese brings her experience and wisdom to help listeners approach dating with confidence and faith.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re navigating the dating scene or preparing to start, this episode offers valuable guidance on what to look for in a partner, where to meet like-minded individuals, and how to maintain a healthy relationship. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to date with Christ at the center. 

Call to Action

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it. Stay tuned for the next part of our dating series, where we’ll continue to explore the journey toward finding a spouse.

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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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... 

Tune in for a great conversation!

Links:

Fr. Boniface's website

Buy the book here

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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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 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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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 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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

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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 place

And much more... 

Tune in for an insightful conversation!

Links:

Prayer for the canonization of the Carmelite Martyrs

Book:

Called to Compiegne

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 The Catholic Company and find it today! Use code SAINTS20OFF for 20% off your next purchase!

Support the show