Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with Fr. James Kubicki, S.J., to discuss the importance of saying “yes” to God each day and embracing the call to daily conversion. Fr. Kubicki shares practical insights on how to choose God above all else, even when life’s challenges make it difficult. Drawing from Scripture and his own spiritual wisdom, he helps us understand how to begin anew each day with prayer at the forefront of our lives.

About Fr. James Kubicki, S.J.

Fr. James Kubicki, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, spiritual director, and author dedicated to helping people grow closer to God through daily prayer and intentional living. His work has inspired countless individuals to embrace the beauty of daily conversion and say “yes” to God in both small and significant ways.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Introducing Fr. James Kubicki: Fr. Kubicki shares his background and vocation as a Jesuit priest.
• Why Choosing God Is So Hard: Exploring why it can be difficult to prioritize God in our daily lives.
• Scripture and the Cross: How Scripture provides wisdom and encouragement for taking up our cross each day.
• The Challenge of Starting Small: Drawing an analogy to the messy kitchen, Fr. Kubicki explains the importance of beginning, even when long-term goals feel overwhelming.
• The Power of Morning Prayer: Fr. Kubicki discusses his book and its focus on starting each day with prayer.
• The Inspiration Behind the Book: What motivated Fr. Kubicki to write a guide to daily conversion and prayer.

Why You Should Listen

If you’ve ever struggled to make prayer a daily habit or felt overwhelmed by the challenges of choosing God in a busy world, this episode is for you. Fr. James Kubicki offers relatable advice and spiritual insights to help you embrace the call to daily conversion with joy and hope.

Resources & Links

• Learn More About Fr. Kubicki
• Get the Book: Link to Purchase

Call to Action

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone seeking to deepen their daily commitment to God. Join us for more conversations that inspire and strengthen your walk of faith!

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Episode Summary

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Father Joseph Fessio, S.J., with Fr. Robert Buckley, who offers a personal and insightful look into this remarkable Jesuit priest. Known for his profound intellect and deep faith, Fr. Fessio has inspired countless people through his work as an educator, theologian, and founder of Ignatius Press. Together, we uncover the story behind Fr. Fessio’s incredible contributions to the Church and why his legacy continues to resonate.

About Fr. Robert Buckley

Fr. Robert Buckley is a Jesuit priest and scholar who has closely followed and admired the life of Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J. He brings unique insights into the man behind the profound legacy, sharing stories and lessons from Fr. Fessio's remarkable journey.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Who Is Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J.?: The story of Fr. Fessio's life, his mission, and his impact on the Church.
• A Future Saint?: Discussing the extraordinary virtues and characteristics that set Fr. Fessio apart.
• What Makes Fr. Fessio Special: Exploring his unique contributions to Catholic theology and education.
• The Story Behind the Book: How Fr. Fessio’s life story was documented and brought to life.
• Lessons from Fr. Fessio: What we can learn from his example of faith, humility, and dedication to the truth.
• Key Attributes of Fr. Fessio: Fr. Buckley highlights 2-3 traits that define Fr. Fessio as a man of God.
• Where to Find the Book: Information on how listeners can get their own copy.

Why You Should Listen

If you’ve ever been inspired by Catholic intellectuals or wondered about the stories behind some of the Church’s most influential figures, this episode is for you. Fr. Robert Buckley offers an intimate portrait of Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J., showcasing why his life and legacy matter now more than ever.

Resources & Links

• Learn More About Fr. Fessio: Ignatius Press
• Get the Book: Link to Purchase

Call to Action

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who would be inspired by the life of Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J. Join us for more conversations celebrating the saints, scholars, and leaders of our Catholic faith!

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Episode Summary

In this episode, we dive into the profound wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas with Fr. Gregory Pine, one of the creators of the Aquinas 101 series. Known for his intellectual rigor, Aquinas can sometimes feel daunting to those new to his teachings. Fr. Gregory shares how Aquinas 101 makes his thought accessible and relevant for modern audiences. Through this conversation, listeners will uncover the beauty of Aquinas’ work and learn practical ways to deepen their understanding of faith and reason.

About Fr. Gregory Pine

Fr. Gregory Pine is a Dominican priest, theologian, and author with a deep passion for Thomistic philosophy and theology. As a member of the team behind Aquinas 101, Fr. Gregory has helped bring the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas to life for countless Catholics worldwide. He is the author of several works, including Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly, and is a sought-after speaker on faith and reason.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Introducing Fr. Gregory Pine: Fr. Gregory shares his background and his journey to becoming a Dominican priest and Thomistic scholar.
• The Inspiration Behind Aquinas 101: What led to the creation of the series, and its goals for the Church today.
• Why Aquinas Matters Today: The relevance of St. Thomas Aquinas’ teachings in our modern world.
• Making Aquinas Accessible: How Aquinas 101 simplifies Aquinas’ systematic style for beginners.
• Misconceptions About Aquinas: Common misunderstandings about Aquinas’ teachings and how the series addresses them.
• Practical Impact of Aquinas 101: Real-life stories of how the series has transformed people’s understanding of faith.
• Engaging Faith and Reason: How young adults and professionals can integrate Thomistic thought into their lives.
• Favorite Teachings from Aquinas: Fr. Gregory’s personal favorite concept from Aquinas and how it has shaped his own faith journey.
• Advice for Beginners: Tips for starting to explore St. Thomas Aquinas and the broader Thomistic tradition.

Why You Should Listen

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the works of St. Thomas Aquinas or are curious about the intersection of faith and reason, this episode is for you. Fr. Gregory Pine offers practical and relatable insights that will inspire you to dive deeper into the rich intellectual tradition of the Church.

Resources & Links

• Explore Aquinas 101: Click Here to Begin

Call to Action

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone eager to explore the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas. Join us for more conversations that deepen your understanding of our Catholic faith!

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Welcome to the fourth and final episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series!

In partnership with Exodus 90, this special four-part series has explored how to break free from distractions and idols to live as sons and daughters of God. Together, we’ve uncovered the beauty of true freedom and the steps we can take to embrace the life Christ offers us.

In this episode—Part Four of our series—we’re focusing on Fraternity: The Journey and Making a Choice.

I’m joined by Adam Minihan, a husband, father, and passionate leader who understands the transformative power of brotherhood in the spiritual journey. Adam brings personal insights and practical advice on how fraternity and community support can help men grow in holiness and freedom.

Summary

The Power of Fraternity

Adam shares how fraternity is central to the Exodus 90 experience, providing men with a supportive community that holds them accountable and strengthens their resolve to grow closer to God. Fraternity equips men to resist Satan’s attacks by offering them a brotherhood committed to the same ideals.

Accountability and Spiritual Growth

We discuss how accountability is a cornerstone of spiritual growth for both men and women. Adam explains how the fraternity model of Exodus 90 creates a safe space for men to practice vulnerability, detachment, and reliance on God.

Stories of Transformation

We highlight inspiring stories of men who have experienced profound transformation through the fraternity model of Exodus 90. These stories demonstrate the unique strength that comes from walking the path to freedom alongside a supportive community.

Making the Choice

Exodus 90 is a challenging program that requires a deliberate choice to commit. Adam shares practical steps for men to take the first step toward freedom and encourages women to support their husbands, boyfriends, or brothers in this journey.

Key Discussion Points

• Fraternity provides a foundation of accountability and support, helping men resist Satan’s attacks and stay on the path to freedom.
• Community is vital for spiritual growth, not just for men but for women as well.
• Vulnerability and detachment, discussed in previous episodes, thrive within a supportive brotherhood.
• Satan thrives on isolation; fraternity combats this by fostering connection and mutual support.
• Transformation is possible for everyone—men and women alike—as they journey toward freedom and holiness.

Call to Action

Men: Take the next step toward freedom by joining Exodus 90 and experiencing the strength of fraternity. 

Visit https://get.exodus90.com/gottabesaints to learn more and take the first step today.

Final Thoughts

Adam reminds us that true freedom is worth the effort and that fraternity is a powerful tool to help us resist Satan’s attacks. By making the choice to pursue freedom and holiness, we open ourselves to God’s transformative grace.

Links and Resources

• Exodus 90 Website
• The Exodus 90 App
• Solid Virtue by Rev Father Bellecius SJ

Thank you for joining us for this episode and the entire Finding Freedom Podcast Series! If this series has inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share these episodes with ot

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Welcome to the third episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series!

In partnership with Exodus 90, this special four-part series explores how to break free from the distractions and idols that prevent us from living as sons and daughters of God. Together, we’ll uncover what it means to embrace the true freedom Christ offers.

In this episode—Part Three of our series—we’re focusing on Detachment.

I’m joined by Doyle Baxter, a passionate advocate for spiritual growth and freedom. Doyle brings wisdom and practical insights on the discipline of detachment, sharing how it allows us to live more fully for God and experience the joy of relying on Him above all else.

Summary

What Is Detachment?

We begin by defining detachment not as rejecting the goodness of the world but as the freedom to live without being ruled by desires for comfort, status, or material possessions. Doyle explains how detachment shifts our priorities toward God’s love, freeing us to live with trust and openness to His will.

The Spiritual Practice of Detachment

Doyle walks us through the practical applications of detachment within Exodus 90, such as fasting from digital media or other comforts, as tools to reorient our hearts toward God. These practices help participants break free from distractions and develop a deeper relationship with Christ.

Transformative Power of Detachment

We highlight stories of men who have found joy and peace in letting go of worldly attachments, discovering a renewed sense of purpose and freedom. Doyle also shares how these practices can inspire women to reflect on their own attachments and pursue spiritual growth.

The Role of Detachment in Trusting God

Letting go of control and comfort isn’t easy, but it’s essential to trusting God fully. Doyle discusses how practicing detachment strengthens our reliance on God and deepens our faith, leading to a life of greater peace and joy.

Key Discussion Points

• Detachment is about prioritizing God’s love above all else, not rejecting the good in the world.
• Fasting from comforts, like technology, reveals areas where distractions hinder our relationship with God.
• Detachment helps identify and resist the subtle traps Satan uses to keep us enslaved.
• For women, reflecting on comparison, body image struggles, or societal pressures can lead to spiritual growth.
• Saying “no” to the world enables us to say a deeper “yes” to God, embracing His will with trust and surrender.

Call to Action

Doyle invites men to take the next step by joining Exodus 90 to embrace detachment and discover true freedom. For women, he encourages prayerful reflection on areas of life where detachment could foster spiritual growth and offers support for the men in their lives as they embark on this journey.

Final Thoughts

Detachment isn’t just about letting go—it’s about growing closer to God and experiencing His freedom. Doyle reminds us that by surrendering our attachments, we make room for God to work more deeply in our lives.

Links and Resources

• Exodus 90 Website
• The Exodus 90 App

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 3 of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series! If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others. Don’t miss the final episode in the series, coming soon!

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Welcome to the second episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series!

I’m so excited to partner with Exodus 90 to bring you this special four-part series on finding true freedom. Over the next four episodes, we’ll explore how to break free from the distractions and idols that keep us from living as the sons and daughters of God. Together, we’ll uncover what it means to embrace the life of freedom Christ offers us.

In this second episode we’re diving into The Power of Prayer and Vulnerability.  

I’m joined by Dr. Jared Staudt, Director of Content for Exodus 90 and an instructor for the St. John Vianney Seminary Lay Division.

Links and Resources

• Exodus 90 Website
• The Exodus 90 App

Call to Action

Thank you for joining us for this second episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series! If you found this conversation meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others who might need it. Stay tuned for the next episode in the series!

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Welcome to the first episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series!

I’m so excited to partner with Exodus 90 to bring you this special four-part series on finding true freedom. Over the next four episodes, we’ll explore how to break free from the distractions and idols that keep us from living as the sons and daughters of God. Together, we’ll uncover what it means to embrace the life of freedom Christ offers us.

In this first episode—Part One of our series—we’re diving into The Call. 

I’m joined by Jamie Baxter, the founder and CEO. Jamie brings his expertise and passion for helping men and women find freedom through a life centered on faith and discipline.

Summary

What Is True Freedom?

We begin by exploring what it means to live in true freedom as sons and daughters of God. Jamie explains how this freedom differs from the world’s view of freedom as “doing whatever I want” and instead focuses on the freedom to live out our God-given identity.

The Origins of Exodus 90:

Jamie shares the inspiring story behind Exodus 90—how it began and the mission that drives it. Rooted in the journey of the Israelites in the Book of Exodus, the program calls participants to break free from the “Egypts” of their lives.

Recognizing Our Identity as Children of God:

Understanding our identity as beloved sons and daughters of God is foundational to breaking free from societal pressures and idols. Jamie explains how this awareness transforms our approach to freedom and strengthens our resolve.

The Role of Prayer, Asceticism, and Fraternity:

Jamie outlines the three pillars of Exodus 90—prayer, asceticism, and fraternity—and how these disciplines work together to help participants find lasting freedom in Christ.

A Call to Take the First Step:

We close by encouraging listeners to take the first step toward true freedom. For men, it might be joining Exodus 90. For women, it could mean identifying areas in their lives where they feel enslaved and seeking Christ’s liberation.

Final Thoughts

Jamie reminds us that true freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want but about living fully as God’s children. He encourages men and women alike to lean on prayer and discipline as tools for breaking free from the world’s distractions and embracing a life of purpose and faith.

Links and Resources

• Exodus 90 Website
• The Exodus 90 App

Call to Action

Thank you for joining us for this first episode of the Finding Freedom Podcast Series! If you found this conversation meaningful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others who might need it. Stay tuned for the next episode in the series!

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Enjoyed the Gotta Marry Well Podcast Series?

Check out this bonus episode with Eduard Habsburg-Lothringen, a relative of Bl. Karl of Austria and ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta.

Summary

Drawing from his family’s 850-year legacy and deep Catholic faith, Ambassador Habsburg offers practical advice, timeless wisdom, and a hopeful vision for cultivating strong family bonds.

Episode Highlights:

1. Habsburg Heritage and Family Life
   Ambassador Habsburg reflects on how his family’s rich history has shaped his approach to marriage, parenting, and family values.
2. Finding the Right Spouse
   With humor and wisdom, he shares the essential qualities to seek in a spouse to foster a lifelong, fulfilling relationship.
3. The “Spouse Bucket List”
   Learn how this unique concept can help couples grow closer and create shared goals that strengthen their marriage.
4. The Role of Prayer in Marriage
   Inspired by Blessed Charles and Empress Zita, the Ambassador emphasizes how prayer serves as the cornerstone of his family’s life and decision-making.
5. Core Values and Faith Formation
   Practical insights on choosing and passing on core family values, ensuring they take root in children’s lives despite cultural challenges.
6. Parenting and Raising a Large Family
   From juggling responsibilities to creating meaningful traditions, the Ambassador shares advice for navigating the joys and challenges of parenting.
7. Family Traditions and Faith
   Discover the Habsburg family traditions that continue to deepen their faith and strengthen their family bonds today.
8. Guiding Children in a Countercultural World
   How to equip children with faith and resilience in a society that often opposes traditional family life.
9. Caring Through Sickness and End of Life
   A moving reflection on lessons learned from family history about love, care, and sacrifice during life’s most difficult moments.

This bonus episode is a heartfelt conclusion to the Gotta Marry Well series, reminding us that building a wholesome family, though challenging, is a beautiful and transformative journey worth pursuing. Tune in for timeless advice, powerful stories, and encouragement to embrace the gift of family life.

Links and Resources

• Bl. Karl of Austria
• Follow Ambassador Habsburg on Social
• Purchase the book here

Call to Action

Thank you for joining us for this conversation. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit!

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Welcome back to the final episode of the Gotta Marry Well Podcast Series!

In this episode—Part Four of our series—we’re tackling a vital but often challenging topic: Hard Conversations. I’m joined by Dr. Mario Sacasa, a Catholic counselor, speaker, and host of the Always Hope podcast. Dr. Mario has worked extensively with couples, helping them navigate the tough topics that can arise in marriage while fostering deeper connection and understanding.

Summary

Why Hard Conversations Matter:
We discuss why addressing difficult topics is essential for the health of a marriage. Dr. Mario explains how avoiding these conversations can lead to unresolved issues that undermine trust and intimacy.

Approaching Tough Topics Without Defensiveness:
Dr. Mario offers practical advice for initiating challenging discussions with your spouse in a way that minimizes defensiveness. He emphasizes the importance of using “I” statements, staying calm, and focusing on shared goals.

Common Issues Couples Struggle to Address:
We explore some of the most common topics that couples find difficult to discuss, such as finances, parenting, intimacy, and differing expectations, and why these issues often become sources of conflict.

Developing Better Listening Skills:
Dr. Mario provides strategies for becoming a better listener during tough conversations. He highlights the importance of active listening, validating your spouse’s feelings, and avoiding the temptation to immediately offer solutions.

The Role of Forgiveness in Marriage:
Forgiveness is a key part of healing after difficult discussions. Dr. Mario explains how forgiveness fosters trust and allows couples to move forward after past hurts.

Maintaining Intimacy During Tough Conversations:
We discuss how couples can stay emotionally connected, even when addressing sensitive or painful topics. Dr. Mario shares tips for balancing vulnerability with empathy.

Timing and Setting for Difficult Conversations:
Dr. Mario offers advice on choosing the right time and place for tough discussions, emphasizing the value of a calm, private, and distraction-free environment.

Dealing with Differences in Communication Styles:
We explore how couples can navigate differences in communication styles, such as one partner being more direct while the other prefers a gentler approach. Dr. Mario suggests ways to adapt and meet each other’s needs.

The Role of Faith in Tough Conversations:
Faith can be a powerful tool for navigating hard topics in marriage. Dr. Mario shares how prayer, Scripture, and the sacrament of reconciliation can bring peace and clarity to difficult moments.

Rebuilding Trust After a Hard Conversation:
When a discussion becomes particularly heated or painful, rebuilding trust is critical. Dr. Mario explains how couples can apologize, clarify misunderstandings, and recommit to working together.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Mario closes by encouraging couples to see hard conversations as opportunities for growth, intimacy, and trust. He reminds listeners that marriage is a journey and that God’s grace is always available to help couples through challenging times.

Links and Resources

• Dr. Mario Sacasa’s Website
• Always Hope Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Dr. Mario’s YouTube Channel

Call to Action

Thank you for joining us for the Gotta Marry Well Podcast Series! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with s

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Welcome back to Gotta Marry Well Podcast Series!

In this episode, we’re diving into Part Three of our marriage series: Growing Your Family. I’m joined by Danielle Bean, a mother of eight, writer, and podcaster who brings incredible wisdom and faith-based insight to the joys and challenges of growing a family.

Outline

Danielle’s Story:
Danielle shares her and her husband Dan’s journey of deciding to grow their family. 

Faith and Family Planning:
We discuss how faith shaped Danielle’s family planning journey, including trusting in God’s timing and staying open to His will, even when plans didn’t go as expected.

Balancing Work, Family, and Marriage:
Danielle shares her approach to balancing a growing family with work and marriage. 

Advice for Couples Considering Parenthood:
Danielle offers practical advice for couples discerning whether they are ready to grow their family. She highlights the importance of communication, prayer, and mutual support.

Maintaining Your Marriage Amidst Parenthood:
We reflect on how Danielle and her husband keep their marriage a priority while raising children. She shares strategies for staying connected and nurturing the marital bond, even during the busiest seasons.

Challenges in Growing a Family:
Danielle discusses some of the unexpected challenges she faced as her family grew, from financial pressures to emotional struggles, and how she and her husband leaned on faith and each other to overcome them.

Involving Children in the Faith:
Danielle shares practical tips for fostering a faith-filled home, including making prayer a regular part of family life and finding ways to engage children in their faith journey.

The Rewards of Raising a Family:
Danielle reflects on the most rewarding aspects of family life.

Practical Advice for New Parents:
As a final takeaway, Danielle offers actionable advice for couples embarking on the journey of parenthood, encouraging them to trust in God, lean on each other, and embrace the adventure ahead.

Final Thoughts

Danielle closes with words of encouragement for couples considering or beginning their journey of growing a family, reminding listeners to trust in God’s plan and to cherish the beautiful chaos of family life.

Links and Resources

• Danielle Bean’s Girlfriends Podcast on Apple Podcasts
• Danielle’s Substack Newsletter

Call to Action

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Don’t miss the final episode in this series, where we’ll tackle the topic of hard conversations in marriage.

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