In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor and Dr. Scott dive into one of the most overlooked—but richest—seasons of the Church year: Advent. From avoiding the mad dash to Christmas to rediscovering the beauty of anticipation, they share practical ways to make Advent more intentional, joyful, and spiritually fruitful.

Scott reflects on the Austrian traditions that transformed his own Advent experience, while Taylor discusses the challenges of feeling “aimless” during the season and the small commitments that finally brought it to life. Together they explore Advent practices such as the Advent wreath, Jesse Tree, calendars, family devotions, fasting, gratitude, and preparing for Christ by entering into the stories of Mary, Joseph, and Israel’s long-awaited hope.

They also tackle audience questions about Christmas music, decorations, parties, Santa vs. St. Nicholas, and the explosion of quirky secular Advent calendars. The episode wraps with their personal Advent challenges—concrete ideas you can adapt for your own home.

If you want a more meaningful Advent and a richer Christmas, this episode will help you reclaim the season with purpose.

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In this episode of Practicing Catholic, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger sit down with Solenne Santiago, a young Catholic from Gen Z, to explore the challenges of growing up in the age of social media, smartphones, and constant connection—yet feeling more isolated than ever. Solenne shares her personal story of faith, how her parents helped her stay rooted in the Church, and practical ways young Catholics can build authentic community and friendships.

The conversation dives into the balance between digital life and real presence, the art of conversation, and how faith and parish life can help counter the epidemic of loneliness. Plus, the team previews the Augustine Institute’s new series, How to Advent, with a sneak peek at what’s to come this season!

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Most Catholics hear the Bible at Mass—but how should we personally read Scripture to grow in faith? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor and Scott share their own journeys with the Word of God, how to make Scripture a source of renewal, and practical ways to pray with the Bible every day.

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In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp, Dr. Scott Hefelfinger, and Emily take on one of the most common spiritual questions: How do we hear God’s voice?

They explore Scripture, prayer, providence, and the peace that comes from true discernment. You’ll hear stories of how they’ve recognized God’s voice in major life decisions—from career changes to moving across the country—and learn how to cultivate silence, freedom, and trust when clarity seems out of reach.

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What does it mean to bring the Gospel to the internet? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger sit down with John Donohue, founder of Truth Charting, to talk about digital evangelization — how Gen Z consumes faith content, the temptations of pride in online work, and how to discern whether God is calling you to be a “digital missionary.”

John shares his journey from youth ministry to filmmaking to reaching millions online, his inspiration from Blessed Carlo Acutis, and practical ways to stay grounded in faith while creating content that connects.

Whether you’re a Catholic content creator, youth minister, or simply trying to use social media with virtue, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.

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Preparing for marriage—or trying to strengthen yours? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger share heartfelt and practical insights on what it means to live out the Sacrament of Marriage.

From learning to not count the cost to seeing marriage as a sacrament of service, they dive deep into how couples can truly love one another as Christ loves the Church. Whether you’re engaged, newly married, or decades in, this honest and hope-filled conversation will encourage you to see marriage as an adventure of love, sacrifice, and grace.

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Struggling to stay consistent in prayer? Taylor Kemp & Dr. Scott Hefelfinger share practical ways to deepen your daily prayer life and make time for God—no matter your season of life.

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Why is prayer so difficult—even when we know it’s important? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Heffelfinger dive into the struggles we all face in prayer: distraction, busyness, pride, and dryness. Drawing from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the wisdom of the saints, and personal experience, they explore why prayer often feels like a battle and how humility, trust, and perseverance help us grow in friendship with God.

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What can the lives of the Saints teach us about following Christ today? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, we explore why the Saints are more than distant historical figures—they are models, guides, and spiritual “big brothers and sisters” who show us how to grow in holiness.

Have a question or an idea for a future episode? We’d love to hear it! Click here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com/

Mentioned in today's episode:

• Explore the "Based on a True Saint" documentaries: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1138316 
• Watch "Littlest Saints" on Formed: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/801622 
• Listen to the Catholic Saints Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-saints/id1597828386

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Work isn’t just a paycheck — it’s a path to holiness. In this episode ofPracticing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger dive deep into the Catholic understanding of work: why it’s fundamentally good, how Scripture and Church teaching frame it, and how simple practices like the morning offering can transform your daily routine.

They discuss real-world struggles like distraction, burnout, and the temptation to see work as “just drudgery,” and offer practical ways to see your labor as a way to glorify God.

If you’ve ever wondered How should Catholics approach work? or How can I find purpose in my daily job? — this episode is for you.

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