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Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuận spent 13 years imprisoned by the communist regime in Vietnam—nine of them in solitary confinement. In this moving conversation, his sister Elizabeth shares intimate family memories, the roots of his priestly vocation, and the crucible of prison where the Eucharist became his lifeline. She recounts how the meditations that became The Road of Hope were written and smuggled out, the small miracles that sustained him, and the day he was told simply to “be free… today.” We also trace his later service in Rome under St. John Paul II and the enduring lessons of dignity, forgiveness, and hope.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear

• Family & Vocation: A promise to God after the death of the family’s first child; nightly rosary in a home chapel; formation that set the course for a priest and future cardinal.
• Seminary & History: Entering minor seminary at 13; formation amid the Indochina War and the influence of French missionaries; appointed bishop at 39.
• Arrest on a Marian Feast: The Assumption of 1975; immediate house arrest; writing 1,001 meditations that became The Road of Hope.
• Isolation & Interior Battle: The temptation to hatred in a windowless cell; the turning point—recognizing Christ’s crucified face in suffering and choosing charity.
• The Eucharist in the Camp: Clandestine Mass with “medicine” (wine and hosts) smuggled in; the re-education camp as his “new cathedral.”
• Release & Aftermath: The tea-and-banana meeting with a minister—“What do you want?” “To be free.” “When?” “Today.”—followed by house restrictions, exile, and service in Rome.
• Rome & Universal Witness: Vice President and then President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace; preacher of the 2000 papal Lenten retreat; created cardinal in 2001.

This Episode Is For You If You’ve Ever Asked

• How can faith transform suffering into hope—concretely?
• What does it mean to embrace brokenness without losing your dignity?
• How does Mary lead us to Christ in trials—especially when everything seems lost?
• Where can I find a modern witness who lived the Gospel under persecution?

Memorable Moments

• Providence and timing: The 50th anniversary of the arrest falling again in a Jubilee Year—just as in 1975.
• “Medicine” for priests: The code among the faithful to send wine and hosts under the guise of stomach medicine and a flashlight battery tube.
• A simple act of mercy: Addressing a harsh prison cleaner with respect—watching her demeanor soften and charity begin to break chains.
• Freedom in one sentence: “I want to be free… today.” And the door opened.

Resources Mentioned

• Biography: Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan: Man of Joy and Hope — Ignatius Press
• Cause of Canonization: Official site — cardinalvanthuan.org

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In this episode, I am joined by Kevin Matthews, legendary Chicago radio personality and author of Broken Mary.

For nearly two decades, Kevin was the voice millions tuned in to hear every morning. Known for his unforgettable characters, sold-out comedy shows, and larger-than-life presence, he seemed to be living at the peak of success. But in 2008, Kevin was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis—a diagnosis that reshaped his life and faith.

Out of that brokenness came an unlikely encounter: a discarded statue of Mary found beside a dumpster. That moment became a turning point, leading Kevin to a deeper relationship with Christ, a renewed sense of hope, and a mission to help others find healing in their own brokenness.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear:

• Kevin’s journey from comedy clubs and radio stardom to the challenges of MS
• The story of how a broken statue of Mary became a vessel of grace and healing
• What Kevin learned about humility, faith, and the dignity of women
• How suffering can lead us to discover true joy and hope
• Kevin’s message to anyone who longs for healing in their own life

This Episode Is For You If You’ve Ever Asked:

• How can faith transform suffering into hope?
• What does it mean to embrace brokenness as part of our journey?
• How can Mary, the Mother of God, draw us closer to her Son in times of trial?

Resources Mentioned:

• Broken Mary: A Journey of Hope (Book & Movie) — Watch the film here
  
  

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• Instagram: @gottabesaints

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In this episode, I am joined by His Eminence, Cardinal Marc Ouellet, former Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops and author of Word, Sacrament, Charism: The Risks and Opportunities of a Synodal Church.

Drawing on decades of leadership within the Church—including his roles in seminary formation, global episcopal appointments, and multiple synods—Cardinal Ouellet brings a deeply theological and pastoral lens to one of the most debated processes in the modern Church: synodality.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

• The theological and spiritual roots of the Synod on Synodality
• Cardinal Ouellet’s reflections on why synodality must begin in faith, not function
• The risks of reducing the Church to NGO logic
• How Mary, Mother of the Church, is the true archetype of synodality
• The need for both hierarchical leadership and charismatic creativity
• What lay people can do to live out the Church’s mission with fidelity and joy

This Episode is For You If You’ve Ever Asked:

• What exactly is synodality—and why is the Church talking so much about it?
• How do we walk together without compromising truth?
• What role do lay people play in a “synodal” Church?
• How can we discern the Holy Spirit in communal dialogue?

Resources Mentioned:

• Word, Sacrament, Charism: The Risks and Opportunities of a Synodal Church — Available at Ignatius Press
  
  

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• Instagram: @gottabesaints
  
  
• Website: gottabesaints.com
  
  

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help others discover the call to holiness through the voices of the Church.

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In this powerful and vulnerable episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I’m joined by Dann Aungst, a certified addiction counselor, Catholic speaker, and founder of Road to Purity. Dann shares his courageous journey of recovery after more than 30 years of battling sexual addiction — and how God's grace, the sacraments, and healing from inner wounds led to freedom and a life of mission.

💥 Whether you struggle with addiction or want to better support those who do, Dan’s story reveals the truth: you are not alone, and there is hope.

In this episode, Dann shares:

• The pivotal moment that led him to finally seek help
• How one unexpected retreat letter changed his life
• Why pornography and sexual sin are often symptoms of deeper wounds
• The role of the Eucharist and frequent confession in lasting recovery
• How authentic accountability and community can lead to real transformation
• Why healing our false identities is essential for freedom
• How his ministry, Road to Purity, is changing lives through books, programs, and small groups

If you're asking…

• Is healing even possible after decades of addiction?
• How can I support a loved one struggling with pornography?
• What role does the Church play in recovery?
• What does it mean to be a gift of self rather than a taker?

…this episode is for you.

Learn More:

📖 Order Dann’s book Winning the Battle: A Pocket Guide for Achieving Sexual Purity

Follow Gotta Be Saints:

📱 Instagram: @gottabesaints

⭐️ Subscribe and leave a review to help others discover the call to holiness!

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I’m joined by Sister Betty Ann McNeil, D.C., the foremost expert on Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, to explore the life, legacy, and spiritual depth of the first native-born American saint.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of her canonization, Sister Betty Ann shares powerful insights into Mother Seton’s conversion, suffering, motherhood, and the founding of the Sisters of Charity — all rooted in a deep love for Christ and the Eucharist.

In our conversation, Sister Betty Ann shares:

• Why Elizabeth Ann Seton’s story still matters today
• The pivotal moment of her conversion in Italy
• Her devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother
• The challenges she faced as a Catholic convert in early America
• How she became a pioneer in Catholic education and women’s religious life
• What’s planned for the 50th anniversary celebration in Emmitsburg, Maryland
• Why her newly updated book Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: A Spiritual Portrait is a must-read

Whether you’re new to Mother Seton’s story or already devoted to her, this episode will deepen your appreciation for her holiness and inspire you to answer your own call to sainthood.

Learn More:

• Order the book Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: A Spiritual Portrait from Ignatius Press or setonshrine.org
• Explore events and the anniversary celebration at: setonshrine.org

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• Instagram: @gottabesaints
• Subscribe and leave a review to help others discover the call to holiness!

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In this special episode, I share my recent conversation on BBC Radio where I had the chance to talk about the Jubilee for Digital Missionaries in Rome. Joining me for the discussion was fellow Catholic content creator Eliza Monts. Together, we reflect on what it means to evangelize in the digital space, the experiences we had during the Jubilee, and how events like this strengthen our mission to bring Christ to others online.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• How the Jubilee for Digital Missionaries came about and why it matters for today’s Church
• My reflections on attending the event in Rome and connecting with fellow missionaries
• Eliza Monts’ perspective on digital evangelization and the challenges we face online
• Practical ways we can all share the Gospel through our social media and digital platforms

Listen now and be inspired to take your mission to the next level!

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I’m joined by Jamie Baxter, founder of Exodus 90, to explore St. Michael’s Lent — a centuries-old devotion practiced by St. Francis of Assisi that still speaks powerfully to the challenges of our time.

We talk about why this devotion, which runs from the Feast of the Assumption to the Feast of the Archangels, is worth reviving, and how disciplines like night vigils, fasting, and fraternity can help men (and women!) grow in freedom and love of God.

Along the way, Jamie shares:

• The history of St. Michael’s Lent and St. Francis’ connection to it
• How Padre Pio and other saints embraced this devotion
• Why night vigils are such a powerful form of prayer
• The difference between Christian asceticism and stoicism
• How small, faithful practices can transform your spiritual life
• An unexpected connection between PGA champion Scottie Scheffler and the spiritual life

Whether you’re new to fasting and prayer or looking to deepen your walk with the Lord, this conversation will inspire you to make space for God and engage in the spiritual battle with confidence.

Learn More:
To join St. Michael’s Lent or explore the Exodus 90 fraternity, visit exodus90.com or download the Exodus 90 app.

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Instagram: @gottabesaints
Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help more people discover the call to holiness!

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, we dive into the remarkable life and legacy of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, one of the most influential Catholic voices of the 20th century. I’m joined by Sherry Hughes, author of the new book Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker, to explore the bold witness, deep spirituality, and evangelistic fire that marked Sheen’s life and ministry.

Known for his groundbreaking use of radio and television, Fulton Sheen reached millions with the truth of the Gospel—yet his most powerful work often happened one soul at a time. Sherry shares personal stories, historical insights, and moving examples of Sheen’s impact on the lives of countless converts—from New York streetwalkers to Protestant ministers, politicians, and beyond.

In this episode, we reflect on what made Sheen such a captivating figure—and how we too can become humble and courageous witnesses to Christ in our everyday lives.

🕊️ Topics Covered:

• Who was Fulton J. Sheen? A brief overview of his life and influence
• How Sheen became a “convert maker” through one-on-one evangelization
• His profound commitment to daily holy hours and Eucharistic adoration
• Stories of radical conversions sparked by his bold witness
• The balance of intellect, humility, and love in his approach to souls
• The role of suffering, grace, and timing in evangelization
• Lessons for modern-day missionary disciples

📖 Learn More:

To dive deeper into Sheen’s legacy, pick up a copy of Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker by Sherry Hughes, available through Ignatius Press and at your local Catholic bookstore. This powerful book shares the stories of over 20 individuals whose lives were forever changed through encounters with Archbishop Sheen.

🌍 Get Involved:

Inspired by Sheen’s witness? Spend time with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Begin your own commitment to a daily holy hour and let your life become a light to others. As Sheen himself said, “Unless souls are saved, nothing is saved.”

🎙️ Join the Conversation:

If this episode stirred your heart to evangelize with boldness and love, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement. How has Fulton Sheen impacted your faith journey? Let us know on Instagram @gottabesaints.

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In this special episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, we reflect on the life and legacy of Blessed Stanley Rother, the first U.S. born martyr. As we approach his feast day on July 28th, I am joined by Ennie Hickman, a missionary and speaker who has walked in the footsteps of Blessed Stanley in Guatemala. Ennie shares his deep connection to Stanley’s story and the inspiring lessons we can learn from his life.

Blessed Stanley gave his life in martyrdom for the people of Guatemala, standing in solidarity with the oppressed. His ordinary yet extraordinary life serves as a powerful reminder of the call to holiness and the heroic sacrifices that come from living out one's vocation with faith and love.

In this episode, we delve into Stanley's humility, hard work, and unwavering commitment to the people he served. From his early failures to his eventual mission in Guatemala, Ennie reflects on the real-life lessons that Blessed Stanley’s life can offer to us today.

Topics Covered:

• The inspiring story of Blessed Stanley Rother and his mission in Guatemala
• How Stanley’s ordinary life became an example of extraordinary holiness
• The importance of trust, submission, and love in answering God’s call
• The powerful example of Blessed Stanley’s martyrdom and the legacy it leaves
• Ennie’s personal connection to Stanley’s story and mission in Guatemala
• How we can all live our ordinary lives with great love and dedication to God

📖 Learn More:
Discover more about Blessed Stanley Rother's life and legacy. For those interested in exploring his story further, Ennie recommends reading this, a collection of his heartfelt letters home, showcasing his deep spirituality and devotion.

🌍 Get Involved:
If you feel called to learn more about Blessed Stanley’s mission, consider joining one of Ennie’s pilgrimages to Guatemala, where you can experience the place that shaped Stanley's heroic life. Visit Ennie Hickman’s website for more information.

🎙️ Join the Conversation:
If this episode has inspired you to deepen your trust in God’s plan for your life and to embrace the call to holiness, subscribe, share, and leave a review. We would love to hear how Blessed Stanley’s story has impacted your faith journey.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Father Robert Nixon, a translator and expert on St. Bonaventure's writings, to dive deep into the mysteries of the Mass through the lens of this great Doctor of the Church.

Father Nixon shares his insights from his newly translated work, Expositzio Mise — an English translation of St. Bonaventure's profound exposition on the Mass. This episode takes listeners on a journey through the rich symbolism and mystery of the Eucharist, drawing connections between the ancient rites of the Church and the living experience of faith today.

We discuss the significance of the Mass, not just as a ritual but as the source and summit of our Catholic faith. Father Nixon emphasizes how the Eucharist unites us with Christ's life, teaching, passion, death, and resurrection, and how this mystery elevates our daily spiritual lives.

This episode is an invitation to reflect on how deeply the Eucharist impacts us, not only during the Mass but in our everyday walk with God. Whether you're looking to deepen your devotion to the Eucharist or explore the timeless wisdom of St. Bonaventure, this conversation offers profound insights into the sacred liturgy.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to St. Bonaventure and his mystical insights into the Mass
• The Eucharist as a living encounter with Christ's entire life and mission
• How the Mass unites us with God and elevates our daily faith journey
• The role of reverence and devotion in experiencing the Mass
• Practical advice on how to deepen our awareness of the Mass and the Eucharist
• Father Nixon’s perspective on the continuity of the Mass through history, from the Tridentine to the Novus Ordo

📖 Get Involved:
Explore St. Bonaventure's Expositzio Mise: The Mysteries of the Mass Explained at Tan Books to deepen your understanding of the Mass and its profound mysteries.

📲 Join the Conversation:
If this episode inspired you to reflect more on the mysteries of the Mass or if you want to deepen your relationship with the Eucharist, subscribe, share, and leave a review. Let us know how this discussion has impacted your faith journey.

🎙️ Stay Connected:
For more episodes on deepening your spiritual life, subscribe to the Gotta Be Saints Podcast today!

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Brian Walsh — campaign spokesperson for Consecrate America and a member of Dynamic Catholic.

Brian joins me to discuss the powerful movement of consecrating America to the Eucharist, a grassroots initiative that invites the faithful to place the Eucharist at the heart of our national life. This conversation dives into the deep significance of this consecration for our country and for the individual believer, as well as how it ties into the ongoing Eucharistic Revival launched by the U.S. bishops.

But this conversation goes beyond the petition itself — it’s a call to action for families, communities, and individuals to strengthen their devotion to the Eucharist and take ownership of the spiritual renewal we all long for. Brian shares why this is such an essential time in history and how each of us can take part in consecrating ourselves, our families, and our nation to the greatest source of grace on earth.

This episode offers inspiring insights for anyone seeking to renew their relationship with the Eucharist, strengthen their family life, and actively participate in the spiritual revival of our nation.

Topics Covered:

• The origin story of Consecrate America and the grassroots movement behind it
• What it means to consecrate America to the Eucharist
• The spiritual impact of consecration on families and individuals
• How to engage with the Eucharistic Revival and deepen your devotion
• Why the Eucharist is the shield we need for the challenges of today’s world
• The importance of inviting others to experience the grace of the Eucharist
• What we can learn from the Eucharistic devotion of saints like Mother Teresa

📖 Get Involved:
Visit ConsecrateAmerica.com to sign the petition and learn more about how you can take part in this historic movement.

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🎙️ Join the Conversation:
Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode deepened your love for the Eucharist and inspired you to consecrate your life — and our nation — to Jesus.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Michael Lichens — author, editor, and one of today’s best storytellers on Catholic saints and forgotten holy witnesses.

Michael joins me to discuss I Killed Maria Goretti, a gripping true story about the life, martyrdom, and legacy of Saint Maria Goretti — and the stunning conversion of her murderer, Alessandro Serenelli. Originally written by Pietro Di Donato and newly republished by Sophia Institute Press, this book draws from firsthand interviews with Maria’s family, the friars who knew Alessandro, and Alessandro himself.

But this conversation goes far beyond history — it’s a powerful reflection on mercy, radical forgiveness, and how no soul is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Michael shares the details of Maria’s heroic witness, the unimaginable forgiveness shown by her mother, and how Alessandro’s heart was transformed from hardness to holiness.

This episode offers inspiring insights for anyone wrestling with sin, guilt, or the question: Can I really be forgiven? You’ll come away reminded that God’s mercy can heal even the most broken hearts and that we, too, are called to offer that mercy to others.

Topics Covered:

• The story behind I Killed Maria Goretti and why it’s so unique
• Who was Maria Goretti before her martyrdom — her devotion, daily life, and heroic virtue
• Alessandro Serenelli’s tragic background and what led to the crime
• The radical forgiveness Maria offered on her deathbed — and what it means for us
• How Alessandro’s life was changed through Maria’s intercession
• The importance of sharing stories of mercy in a world obsessed with outrage
• Why Michael believes Maria Goretti is a perfect saint for our time

📖 Get the Book:
I Killed Maria Goretti by Pietro Di Donato is newly republished by Sophia Institute Press — pick up your copy here.

📲 Try Truthly (Sponsored):
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🎙️ Join the Conversation:
Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode deepened your trust in God’s mercy and inspired you to become an agent of forgiveness in your own life.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with George Weigel — Catholic theologian, longtime papal biographer, and one of today’s most respected voices on faith, culture, and public life.

George joins me to discuss his newest book, Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice, a collection of commencement speeches and university lectures he’s given over the years. But this conversation isn’t just about academia — it’s a wide-ranging reflection on wisdom, holiness, mentorship, and what it means to live the faith boldly in today’s world.

Drawing from his years of experience, including his close friendship with Pope St. John Paul II, George offers both timeless advice and personal stories that challenge and inspire.

This episode offers engaging insights for anyone seeking to grow in holiness, embrace their Catholic identity, and navigate the world with clarity, courage, and conviction.

Topics Covered:

• How Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice came to be
• What makes a great commencement address — and why they still matter
• The best advice George ever received — and how it shaped his life
• Personal stories from his friendship with Pope St. John Paul II
• The role of humor, humility, and faith in offering guidance
• What young Catholics need to hear today as they step into an increasingly secular world
• How all of us, regardless of vocation, are called to holiness in ordinary life
• Why truth, reason, and faith remain inseparable in Catholic witness

📖 Get the Book:
Pomp, Circumstance, and Unsolicited Advice – Commencement Addresses and University Lectures is available from Ignatius Press here.

📲 Try Truthly (Sponsored):
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Use code gottabesaints for a free trial at truthly.ai

🎙️ Join the Conversation:
Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode deepened your appreciation for mentorship, truth, and the universal call to holiness.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Tess Livingstone—Australian journalist, longtime editor at The Australian, and author of the definitive biography of the late Cardinal George Pell.

Tess offers a powerful and deeply informed reflection on the life, legacy, and final years of one of the most consequential and controversial Catholic figures of our time. Drawing on years of firsthand reporting, personal interviews, and her new biography, she helps us see Cardinal Pell not just as a headline, but as a man shaped by faith, courage, and suffering.

This episode offers timely insights for anyone seeking to understand Cardinal Pell’s impact on the global Church, his wrongful imprisonment, and the future of Catholic leadership.

Topics Covered:

• What Cardinal Pell was really like behind closed doors
• How he handled media scrutiny and public backlash with faith and fortitude
• The truth behind his unjust imprisonment—and the global reaction to his exoneration
• Why Tess decided to write this biography and what surprised her along the way
• Cardinal Pell’s views on Church reform, tradition, and the modern world
• How he remained joyful and faithful even in the face of false accusations
• Lessons Catholics can take from his example today

📖 Pick up Tess Livingstone’s new biography Cardinal Pell through Ignatius Press or wherever books are sold.

📲 Follow Tess’s journalism in The Australian for continued insights on Church and society.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation gave you a renewed appreciation for truth, justice, and fidelity to the Gospel.

🙏 Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor, Truthly. Use code gottabesaints for a free trial at truthly.ai. 

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J.—Jesuit priest, founder of Ignatius Press, and longtime student and friend of Pope Benedict XVI—to discuss the significance of having the first-ever American Pope and what it means for the Church and for each of us as Catholics.

Drawing from decades of experience in theology, publishing, and spiritual mentorship, Fr. Fessio offers a rich and personal perspective on the papacies of John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Francis, and now Pope Leo XIV. With clarity, conviction, and humility, he explores the spiritual opportunity—not just the news headline—of this historic moment.

This episode is full of wisdom for anyone who cares about the Church’s future, who’s navigating questions of unity and tradition, and who seeks to grow in holiness amidst change.

Topics Covered:

• What makes this American Pope unique—and why his missionary background matters
• Reflections on Pope Leo XIV’s Augustinian spirituality and pro-life convictions
• How Fr. Fessio’s personal relationship with Pope Benedict shaped his understanding of Church renewal
• Why liturgy, beauty, and truth still matter in an age of artificial intelligence
• The lessons American Catholics can learn from the universal Church
• Why we can find peace—even joy—no matter who the Pope is
• What the enduring legacy of John Paul II and Benedict XVI offers for today’s Catholics
• The unexpected grace of failure—and how God builds through it
• Fr. Fessio’s encouragement for priests, missionaries, and the lay faithful alike

📖 Explore more from Fr. Fessio through Ignatius Press and check out the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, now available in full.

📲 Follow Ignatius Press on social media for more Catholic resources.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation gave you hope for the Church and challenged you to “follow Jesus” more faithfully—no matter the headlines.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Peter Kreeft—Catholic philosopher, longtime Boston College professor, and author of over 100 books—for a candid and moving conversation about his personal conversion story, told in his latest book, From Calvinist to Catholic.

Raised in a devout Calvinist household and educated at Calvin College, Dr. Kreeft’s journey to Catholicism was not a rebellion, but a pursuit of truth. With humor, humility, and deep clarity, he shares what drew him to the Church, what nearly kept him away, and how his love for Jesus only deepened along the way.

This episode is full of wisdom for anyone discerning the Catholic faith or seeking to understand the beauty of the Church more deeply.

Topics Covered:

• Why Dr. Kreeft initially resisted writing his conversion story—and what changed his mind
• The most difficult Catholic doctrine to accept—and how he came to embrace it
• The influence of C.S. Lewis, Church Fathers, and personal conscience
• How reading Church history challenged his assumptions about Protestantism
• Lessons from Boston College and years of teaching Catholic students
• The surprising role Calvin College played in leading him to Catholicism
• Why the Church’s sacramental system initially felt foreign—and how it became foundational
• Advice for anyone discerning conversion to Catholicism
• What Catholics can learn from Protestants—and vice versa
• Why joy, not just truth, is essential to the Christian life

📖 Pick up a copy of From Calvinist to Catholic by Dr. Peter Kreeft through Ignatius Press or wherever books are sold.

📲 Follow Dr. Kreeft’s work:

Website: peterkreeft.com

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation inspired you to seek truth with boldness and humility.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Rosemary McGuire Berry—Catholic author, pilgrimage leader, and storyteller—for a conversation that’s both practical and inspiring. Her new book, Piety and Personality: The Temperaments of the Saints, explores the ancient concept of temperaments and how understanding our personalities can lead us to holiness.

Together, we discuss how the saints lived out virtue through their unique temperaments, and how we can do the same in our homes, marriages, work, and spiritual lives. This episode is full of wisdom, saintly stories, and encouragement for anyone seeking to better understand themselves—and become the saint they are called to be.

Topics Covered:

• What the four classical temperaments are—and how to recognize them
• Why your temperament is not a weakness to fix, but a gift to develop
• How Jesus perfectly embodies all four temperaments
• Real-life examples of saints like St. Teresa of Ávila, St. Thomas More, St. Thomas Aquinas, and St. Francis de Sales
• Why understanding your temperament (and your spouse’s or child’s!) can radically improve relationships
• The battle against discouragement and how to push forward in the spiritual life
• How each temperament faces unique temptations—and paths to virtue
• What practical steps we can take to grow in holiness, right where we are

📖 Pick up a copy of Piety and Personality: The Temperaments of the Saints by Rosemary McGuire Berry through TAN Books or wherever books are sold.

📲 Follow Rosemary:

• Website: rosemarymcguireberry.com
• Substack: rosemarymcguireberry.substack.com 
• Instagram: @rosemarywriter

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation helped you understand yourself—or the saints—a little better.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I’m joined by Professor James Nolan, sociologist at Williams College and author of Atomic Doctors, for a powerful conversation on memory, martyrdom, and healing—centered on the Catholic history of Nagasaki and his work on the Nagasaki Bell Project.

James shares the remarkable story of his grandfather, Dr. James Nolan, who served as a physician on the Manhattan Project and later traveled to Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the immediate aftermath of the atomic bombings. What began as a family legacy of moral complexity became a personal mission for healing and reconciliation through the gift of a new bell—donated by American Catholics—to replace the one destroyed at Urakami Cathedral.

Together, we explore the deep Catholic roots of Nagasaki, the heroic endurance of the hidden Christians, and how their suffering bore fruit through forgiveness, faith, and restoration.

Topics Covered:

• The forgotten Catholic history of Nagasaki and its "hidden Christians"
• Why Urakami Cathedral was the ground zero for Japan’s Catholic faith
• The life and witness of Takashi Nagai and post-bomb theology of redemptive suffering
• Tensions faced by Catholic doctors during the Manhattan Project
• The story behind the Nagasaki Bell Project and how Catholics today can help
• Why the legacy of martyrdom still speaks to us in a divided and war-torn world
• How the new bell—named The Kateri Bell of Hope—will ring out once again on August 9, 2025

🔔 Learn more and support the Nagasaki Bell Project. 

📖 You can also check out Atomic Doctors by James Nolan, available wherever books are sold.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation moved you or helped you see the past—and your faith—with new eyes.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Fr. Donald Haggerty, priest of the Archdiocese of New York and renowned spiritual writer, for a sobering and deeply moving conversation on his newest book, The Hour of Testing: Spiritual Depth and Insight in a Time of Ecclesial Uncertainty.

With decades of experience in priestly ministry and a profound relationship with the Missionaries of Charity, Fr. Haggerty offers insight into the spiritual challenges of our time. In this episode, we reflect on the fading of faith, the rise of indifference to God, and how Catholics are called not to panic—but to go deeper into prayer, suffering, and redemptive love.

We explore what it means to live out union with Christ in the 21st century, how suffering can be offered for souls, and why this era—dark as it may seem—can still be a fertile ground for hidden saints and heroic virtue.

Topics Covered:

• Why the indifference to God may be the greatest evil of our time
• How prayer, sacrifice, and Eucharistic devotion sustain us
• The connection between holiness and the dark forces in every age
• How to find meaning in suffering and offer it with Christ
• Whether we may be entering a time foreshadowing the Passion of the Church
• What gives Fr. Haggerty hope in this “hour of testing”
• Why now is a time not for lukewarmness, but heroic sanctity

📖 Pick up a copy of The Hour of Testing by Fr. Donald Haggerty through Ignatius Press.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this conversation stirred something in your heart or helped you see the spiritual battle in a new way.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I share a talk I recently gave to a men’s group at my old parish, centered on The Secret of Holiness: Lessons from Our Lady.

On this special episode, released on the feast of St. Louis de Montfort—a saint who radically shaped my devotion to the Blessed Mother—I dive into the truth that Mary isn’t just a part of our Catholic faith... she’s essential to it. Through Scripture, personal stories, and practical guidance, I explore how Mary’s humility, docility, and courage offer us a model for growing in holiness today.

Holiness must be our primary goal, even before family, career, or comfort. And no one can guide us more surely to Jesus than His mother.

Topics Covered:

• Why Mary is the “safest, easiest, shortest, and most perfect” way to Jesus
• What the Annunciation, Wedding at Cana, and the Cross reveal about Mary’s role in salvation
• The power of her last recorded words in Scripture: “Do whatever He tells you”
• The importance of embracing suffering, obedience, and mission like Our Lady
• Practical ways to grow in holiness today—starting with the Rosary, the sacraments, and Scripture
• How men and women alike can model Mary’s yes in a world of distraction and indifference

📖 Want to grow in holiness? Start by taking Jesus at His word: Behold your mother.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode moved you or helped you see Mary—and your own path to sainthood—with fresh eyes.

🙏 Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor, Truthly. Use code gottabesaints for a free trial at truthly.ai

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A short reflection on how to enter into the Easter season without forgetting all the lessons from the Lenten season. 

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Josh McMullen, historian and author of The Glacier Priest, for an inspiring conversation about one of the most fascinating and overlooked Catholic figures of the 20th century—Father Bernard Hubbard, S.J.

Known as “The Glacier Priest,” Father Hubbard was a Jesuit geologist, adventurer, and missionary who explored the Alaskan frontier during the 1930s and 40s. A gifted lecturer and photographer, he brought the beauty of God’s creation and the Gospel message to thousands—both in person and through his extensive travels and publications.

Josh shares how he first encountered Father Hubbard’s story, what compelled him to write the biography, and how Hubbard’s deep faith, love for nature, and willingness to suffer for the Gospel remain deeply relevant today.

This episode is a powerful look at a priest who combined scientific curiosity with spiritual depth—and who used his unique calling to evangelize, educate, and inspire.

Topics Covered:

• Who was Father Bernard Hubbard and why his story still matters
• The Jesuit priest who became a national celebrity
• What it meant to say Mass in the wilds of Alaska
• How Hubbard’s work helped shape America’s view of Alaska
• The tensions between religious vows and public acclaim
• The beauty of redemptive suffering and the Sacred Heart
• Why creation drew him closer to the Creator
• What we can learn from Hubbard’s life about vocation, sacrifice, and mission

📖 Pick up a copy of The Glacier Priest: Father Bernard Hubbard and America's Last Frontier wherever books are sold.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode moved you or helped you see holiness in a new light.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints podcast, I sit down with Matthew Wiseman, convert to Catholicism and author of The Two Jerusalems, for a powerful conversation about his journey from the Messianic movement to the Catholic Church.

Raised in a devout Southern Baptist home, Matthew’s family began a home church that eventually led them into the Hebrew Roots movement, where they embraced the Mosaic Law and Old Testament festivals. But what began as a sincere desire to follow Scripture more faithfully soon revealed deep questions—especially about authority, unity, and interpretation.

Matthew shares how a hunger for truth and clarity led him to explore Jewish oral tradition, Anglicanism, and ultimately Catholicism. We discuss the need for a living authority in the Church, the flaws of sola scriptura, and the life-changing impact of discovering the Liturgy of the Hours. He also shares the role his family played in his conversion journey and how reading the Catechism of the Catholic Church helped lead his wife into the Church as well.

This episode isn’t just about one man’s conversion. It’s about the longing we all share for truth, unity, and a Church that reflects Christ fully.

Topics Covered:

• What it’s like growing up in the Hebrew Roots movement
• Why the Mosaic Law alone isn’t enough—and what that reveals about Scripture
• The role of tradition and authority in interpreting the Bible
• Matthew’s personal conversion story and how it affected his family
• The beauty and power of praying the Psalms and the Liturgy of the Hours
• Why unity in the Church matters and what drew him to Catholicism
• How reading the Catechism brought his wife into the Church

📍 Pick up a copy of Matthew's book, The Two Jerusalems, at ignatius.com or wherever books are sold.

Call to Action:
If this conversation moved you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone searching for deeper truth or considering the Catholic Church.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints podcast, I sit down with Michael Acaldo, National CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, for an inspiring conversation about what it really means to see Christ in the poor.

With over three decades of leadership in Vincentian ministry, Michael shares stories from his early days in Baton Rouge to his national role today—always with one central focus: growing in holiness through acts of love and service. We talk about how Vincentians are formed spiritually by serving, the transformational power of home visits, and why Catholic social teaching must be lived, not just studied.

This episode explores how the Society’s work isn’t simply about social services—it’s about encountering Christ in every person and every moment, especially in those who are vulnerable or forgotten. We dive into the unique Vincentian approach of loving through action, forming intentional community, and resisting political labels to focus purely on the Gospel.

Whether you’re already involved in your parish, searching for a way to serve, or just looking for a deeper spiritual grounding, Michael’s testimony is a powerful reminder that holiness is found in simple, faithful acts of love.

Topics Covered:

• The spiritual foundation of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul
• Why acts of service are vital for personal spiritual growth
• Catholic social teaching vs. political ideologies
• Homelessness prevention as evangelization
• How to get involved in the Society and grow in holiness

📍 Learn more at svdpusa.org

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or visit gottabesaints.com

Call to Action:
If this conversation moved you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone looking for a deeper way to live their faith.

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In this episode of the Gotta Be Saints podcast, I sit down with Fr. John Nepil to explore the profound spiritual lessons that come from journeying through the wilderness—literally and figuratively. A priest of the Archdiocese of Denver and member of the Companions of Christ, Fr. John shares stories from his 486-mile trek along the Colorado Trail and the reflections that led to his new book, To the Heights and Unto Depths: Letters from the Colorado Trail.

We talk about how pilgrimage shapes our understanding of faith, the beauty of silence and solitude, and how adventure in the outdoors can act as a powerful metaphor for the interior life. Fr. John explains why the wilderness is a privileged space for Catholic formation and how community, challenge, and even suffering are vital to encountering Christ in a deeper way.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, someone feeling spiritually restless, or just curious about the intersection of nature, faith, and discipline, this conversation will inspire you to consider the road less traveled—especially during this Lenten season.

Topics Covered:

• How pilgrimage cultivates hope and detachment
• Why the mountains offer a unique setting for formation
• The spiritual importance of silence, stillness, and solitude
• Navigating the tension between comfort and sacrifice
• Building authentic community on the journey to holiness

📚 Get the Book: To the Heights and Unto Depths is available through Ignatius Press and wherever books are sold.
🎧 Listen to Fr. John’s podcast: Catholic Stuff You Should Know

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a deeper sense of direction or renewal in their spiritual walk.

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