The Brooke Taylor Show

By Brooke TaylorReligion & Spirituality Christianity Kids & Family Religion

The Brooke Taylor Show episodes

October 14 TBTS #274: Survival Mode & New Seasons: Faith, Family, and Caregiving
Episode Summary

In this short episode, Brooke reflects on a season of “survival mode” as her family navigates new challenges with her daughter Karolina’s autism, the rapid pace of life, and the emotional weight of constant vigilance.
She shares how prayer, the Rosary, and the Little Way have steadied her through exhaustion, even as joyful milestones: a wedding, a new daughter‑in‑law, and an engagement, filled the summer.
With autumn settling in, she turns toward functional strength, self‑care, and the spiritual invitation to notice the extraordinary hidden inside the ordinary, recalling the timeless message of Our Town as the Church moves from the month of the Rosary toward All Souls.

Quotes Mentioned

• St. Thérèse of Lisieux — “It is in my weakness I find my strength.”
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
• St. Thérèse of Lisieux — “Our fulcrum is God: our lever, prayer; prayer which burns with love. With that we can lift the world.”

Resources & Mentions

• The Little Way
• Functional strength and caregiving
• Prayer journaling
• Our Town by Thornton Wilder
• October: Our Lady of the Rosary
• November: All Souls
16 min
June 01 TBTS #273: The Power of the Sacred Heart for Our Nation with Bishop John E. Keehner
In this episode, we explore the historic moment in our nation's history: the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. With Bishop John E. Keener from the Diocese of Sioux City, we delve into the spiritual implications as we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The Sacred Heart of Jesus represents profound love and compassion, serving as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice for humanity. In this episode, we discuss:
*The tradition of the Sacred Heart and its relevance in today's society.

*Bishop Keener's personal journey with devotion to the Sacred Heart and its transformative power.
*Resources for homes and families to prepare for the solemnity and consecration.
*The aspect of spiritual reparation in the Sacred Heart devotion.

Important Links:
Join us on pilgrimage! Click here for details on the Danube River Cruise.
Resources for the Consecration of the U.S. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Bishop Keehner pastoral letter 2026.

29 min
May 11TBTS 272: The Poetry of May: A Marian Doorway with Br. Richard Hendrick, OFM, Cap.
In this episode, we explore the profound connection between nature, poetry, and Marian devotion, focusing on the significance of May as a month dedicated to Our Lady. Brother Richard Hendrick shares insights on how ancient traditions and modern practices can deepen our relationship with Mary, helping us find grace amid life's challenges. Poem shared by Br. Richard:
Maid that wed Divinity
Clay that shaped Infinity
Lady of the Trinity.
Keep me in your heart.
Key Topics:
Reflection on Seamus Haney’s poem "May" and the sacramentality of seasons
The importance of May and October for Marian devotion in the Church
Personal and familial traditions of honoring Mary in May, including altars, processions, and garden customs
The theological significance of Mary as Theotokos, the new Eve, and divine maternity
The importance of slowing down and being present to recognize God's marvels
Practical ways to incorporate Marian devotions into daily life, especially for weary mothers
The harmony of faith and science in understanding Mary’s maternity through maternal chimerism
Mary as a model for authentic femininity, balancing service, love, and divine calling
44 min
April 27 TBTS #271: Major Developments in the Sheen Beatification: Update with Dr. Peter Howard
In this episode, Brooke shares a short recap of her son’s recent wedding and a quick visit to Missouri, including details about the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.
The second half of the show focuses on major developments in the beatification cause of Venerable Fulton Sheen. Dr. Peter Howard, founder of the Fulton Sheen Institute, joins Brooke to discuss the latest updates, Sheen’s legacy, and why his teachings on the Eucharist and Marian devotion remain important today.
Click here for the Fulton Sheen Institute. Learn more about the Sheen pilgrimage, and more.
Click here for Celebrate Sheen, for tickets to the beatification.
Click here for TBTS #259 with Br. Richard Hendrick about Catholic wedding traditions, and much more.
Click here for TBTS #264 with Catholic wedding photographer Jo Schnitzer.

In your kindness, please consider leaving a positive review and/or sharing this episode with others. Reach out to Brooke at [email protected]

41 min
March 23TBTS #270 The Mission of Men: Lessons from St. Joseph with Devin Schadt
March is the month the Catholic Church dedicates to Saint Joseph. In this episode, Devin Schadt, co‑founder of the Fathers of St. Joseph joins Brooke to explore biblical masculinity, the mission of men, and St. Joseph as a model for fatherhood. Devin shares powerful insights on humility, suffering, and embracing our God‑given identity to become true warrior‑heroes in today’s culture.
Key Topics:
The spiritual role of St. Joseph as a model for fathers
The importance of humility and silence in masculinity
The internal battle between worldly promises and divine peace
The significance of divine sonship and identity in manhood
The role of suffering and perseverance in spiritual growth
Click here for the Father of St. Joseph.
38 min
March 16 TBTS #269: Saint Patrick: From Slave to Shepherd of Ireland - featuring Br. Richard Hendrick OFM. Cap.
On this episode: Excitement for the Christ in Her Conference and preparing for Total Consecration to the Holy Face. Plus, special guest Richard Hendrick returns to explore the life and spiritual journey of St. Patrick, Ireland's patron saint. Discover how Patrick's experiences of slavery, prayer, and land shaped his mission and spirituality, offering timeless lessons on trust, presence, and divine grace.
36 min
March 09TBTS #268: Quirky Catholic Kids: Raising Neurodivergent Saints with Ginny Kochis
In this episode, Ginny Kochis shares her inspiring journey as a Catholic mom and author of Quirky Catholic Kids, offering insights on supporting neurodivergent children through faith and community. We explore challenges, saintly intercessors, and prayer strategies.
We cover:
Understanding neurodivergence: autism, ADHD, OCD, PDA, and more
The spiritual approach: integrating saints and prayers like the litany of humility
Embracing the spectrum: development versus discipline in raising neurodivergent children
Practical tips for Mass attendance
Personal stories of meltdowns, acceptance, and community support
Saints as intercessors: Therese, Zellie, Louie, and others, inspiring perseverance and patience
Creating sensory-friendly Mass environments and advocacy within parishes
The importance of surrender and trust in God's plan for our families
Resources & Links:
Quirky Catholic Kids: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy
Sophia Institute Press
Zellie Society coaching program
Sensory-Friendly Mass in Burke, VA
Saint Therese of Lisieux
St. Dymphna — Patron Saint of mental health
Prayer Resources
Connect with Ginny Kochis:
Quirky Catholic Kids Website
Facebook Group for Catholic Parents of Neurodivergent Kids
Instagram
36 min
March 02 TBTS #267: Sustained by God: Health, Strength, and the Grace to Keep Moving with Maria Gari
In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Maria Gari explore the integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, especially during Lent. They discuss the importance of movement, hormonal health, and the transformative power of faith and community.
Key Topics:
The integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health
The role of movement and exercise in holistic wellbeing
Hormonal health and menopause management for women
The significance of faith, prayer, and community during Lent

Chapters
00:00 Brooke shares a personal story about her son Gus and Lent
01:21 Gus' surprising journey into running and spiritual growth
03:12 Lent as a time for honest self-assessment and growth
04:04 Introducing Maria Gari and her work with women’s health and fitness
04:58 Patterns in women’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health
06:11 Practical ways to speak kindly to ourselves during struggles
07:01 Maria shares her personal Lent journey and reliance on God's sustenance
08:25 The importance of journaling God's faithfulness during Lent
09:44 Approaching fasting and discipline with kindness, not punishment
11:10 The significance of falling and getting back up in faith
11:59 Hormonal health and menopause: practical tips for women over 40
14:10 Strength training and its benefits for long-term health
15:17 Bioidentical hormones and holistic approaches to menopause
17:00 Natural family planning and its role in marriage preparation
19:24 Empowering women through knowledge of their bodies and health
20:52 The shift away from artificial birth control and its health implications
23:30 The importance of holistic care and natural family planning in marriage
23:57 Reframing movement as honoring the body, not punishment
26:43 The spiritual and mental health benefits of running
28:10 Adapting exercise routines for aging bodies and hormonal health
30:39 Encouragement for women feeling tired but eager to grow spiritually and physically
31:49 Connecting with Maria Gari and her resources for women’s health and faith
Guest Links:
Website - https://runningmyselftogether.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/runningmyselftogether/

27 min
February 23 TBTS #266: Fasting from Financial Chaos: Reclaiming Financial Habits with Sam Fatzinger
Lent invites us to slow down, simplify, and take an honest look at the habits that shape our lives, including the way we handle money. In this episode, Brooke welcomes Sam Fatzinger for a conversation on financial discipline, generational challenges, and the spiritual renewal that can come from reordering our priorities.
Sam reflects on how money habits are formed in childhood, the power of mentoring within families, and the importance of unity and communication for couples preparing for marriage.
The discussion also highlights the role of community support, the freedom that comes from delayed gratification, and the deeper peace that emerges when finances are properly ordered with faith and purpose.
Click here for Sam's book.
Click here for the Joyful Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.
Click here for the Christ in Her event in Beaumont, Texas.
51 min
February 16 TBTS #265: Feasting and Fasting: The Work of Lent with Fr. Leo Patalinghug
In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Father Leo Patalinghug explore the themes of Lent, fasting, and the importance of family meals. They discuss the significance of Shrovetide, the relationship between fasting and spiritual growth, and the impact of technology on modern life. Father Leo emphasizes the need for intentionality in family meals and the sacredness of cooking. The conversation also touches on the value of pilgrimage as a means of spiritual renewal and concludes with reflections on approaching Lent with clarity and sobriety.

Links
Join Fr. Leo, Bishop John E. Keehner, and Brooke Taylor on pilgrimage!
Click here for details.

Click here for the sermon from Saint John Henry Newman on Fasting as a Source of Trial.

Click here for Fr. Leo's Plating Grace
25 min

About The Brooke Taylor Show

From the publisher's feed

Brooke Taylor hosts a Catholic lifestyle show for all ages and stages of life. Featuring guests on the topics of faith, culture, mental health, special needs, fitness, travel always pointing back to truth, beauty, goodness.