Always Hope
Always Hope provides solutions to a better life that are anchored in faith and psychological science. Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT, brings his years of counseling experience to the table and welcomes experts and friends to tackle challenging topics related to dating, marriage, gender, mental health, and the spiritual life. Started in 2018, the show has garnered a worldwide audience and is one the best podcasts that blends Catholicism with mental health and personal development. For more information, visit drmariosacasa.com
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161: Navigating Intimacy as a Newlywed Couple | Mary Bruno
11/20/2024
161: Navigating Intimacy as a Newlywed Couple | Mary Bruno
In this episode, Dr. Mario Sacasa sits down with Mary Bruno, author of Missing Pieces: Perspectives on Sex for Catholic Women, to explore the realities of intimacy in marriage. Mary opens up about her personal journey with vaginismus and endometriosis, shedding light on the challenges newlyweds face in building emotional and physical connection. They discuss setting realistic expectations for the wedding night, the importance of open communication, and practical tips for navigating intimacy challenges. Whether you're newly engaged or have been married for years, this conversation offers hope, insights, and actionable advice to deepen your relationship. Don't miss this candid and heartfelt discussion! Purchase Mary’s Book: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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160: Ask Her Out: A No-Nonsense Guide for Catholic Men
11/13/2024
160: Ask Her Out: A No-Nonsense Guide for Catholic Men
In this episode, Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT speaks directly to men about how to approach dating with confidence and tact. Through years of working with Catholic singles, Dr. Sacasa has seen a common struggle: good, faithful men often feel intimidated or unsure about how to talk to women in a way that feels natural. So, today he is sharing a simple, three-step approach to help you start conversations, keep them going, and ultimately ask someone out—without cheesy pickup lines or awkward moments. Whether you're a seasoned dater or just starting out, this episode is all about building the skills to make meaningful connections and find the courage to take that next step! Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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159: Margaret Sanger vs. John Paul II: A Battle for Women’s Freedom | Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio
11/06/2024
159: Margaret Sanger vs. John Paul II: A Battle for Women’s Freedom | Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio
What if Margaret Sanger (Founder of Planned Parenthood) and St. John Paul II (Papal Juggernuat) sat down and debated their divergent ideas about personal freedom, choice, and women's dignity? That's the provocative question posed by today's guest, Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio, theologian and bioethicist. We unpack Sanger’s drive and reasoning, the birth control movement, and why she’s such a divisive figure (e.g. racism and eugenics). Then, we look at John Paul II’s powerful alternative: a view of freedom rooted in dignity, mutual respect, and honoring the differences between men and women. Together, we imagine what a “third way” in sex education could look like—one that blends awareness of our bodies with the values of respect and responsibility. Now that the election is over, it's important to maintain a spirit of dialogue with those who disagree with over values and that's the aim of this episode. This conversation will leave you rethinking what true freedom means for women and men today! Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio Instagram: @dr.sarahdennylorio See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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158: Holy Ghosting: Surviving the Catholic Dating Scene | Maria Mitchell
10/23/2024
158: Holy Ghosting: Surviving the Catholic Dating Scene | Maria Mitchell
With Halloween just around the corner, let’s talk about humorously frightening online dating experiences. In this episode, I sit down with Maria Mitchell, the mind behind the hilarious Instagram account "Catholic Dating Nightmares." We dive into the wild world of Catholic dating, where unrealistic expectations and cringe-worthy profiles meet the need for humor and hope. Maria shares the story of how her Instagram started as a joke with friends and quickly became a community of people laughing through their dating struggles. (Laugh or cry right?) Not only does she share some highlights of her feed, but we also get into very clear practical advice about how to “market” yourself on dating apps, best practices for first dates, and knowing when to pull back from the dating scene should it become too discouraging. If you’re navigating the ups and downs of modern dating (or just need a good laugh), you won’t want to miss this one! Catholic Dating Nightmares Instagram: @catholicdatingnightmares Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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157: Getting Unstuck: A Practical Approach to Therapy and Medication
10/16/2024
157: Getting Unstuck: A Practical Approach to Therapy and Medication
In this solo episode of the Always Hope Podcast, I dive into a question I often hear: "When should I seek counseling, and when is it time to consider medication?" As a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience, I want to provide you with practical guidance on this important topic. We'll explore the differences between depression and anxiety, how to recognize when you're feeling "stuck," and what it means to draw on your natural resources like community support, exercise, and prayer. But what happens when those aren’t enough? I'll walk you through the benefits of professional counseling and how medication can play a role in your healing journey—without being the whole answer. If you've ever wondered if it's time to take that next step in caring for your mental health or just need a bit of hope and encouragement, this episode is for you. Tune in, and let’s tackle these challenges together with faith, wisdom, and a balanced approach to finding peace. Buy Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: Use coupon code Sacasa25 to get 25% off! See the links below to offer financial assistance: To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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156: Catholic Feminism and Gender Studies | Dr. Kevin Stuart
10/09/2024
156: Catholic Feminism and Gender Studies | Dr. Kevin Stuart
I consider Catholicism to be a reasonable faith. One that doesn’t exist in extremes and by doing so can speak to all sides of an issue. And yes, that includes modern feminist theory. So today, I sit down with Dr. Kevin Stuart to discuss the creation of a new Catholic Women's and Gender Studies program at the University of St. Thomas. We dive into the tension between traditional Catholic views and the secular discourse on gender studies. Dr. Stuart explains the goals of the program, which integrates faith, scientific literature, and a Catholic perspective on feminism, gender, and the role of women in society. Rather, than outright rejecting feminism, they are engaging in intellectual dialogue with its leading theorists. We further discuss why this program exists, the appropriate use of the term ‘gender,’ how technology has changed the landscape for male-female relations, and what we can to do continue pushing against a utilitarian/transactional view of sexuality. Websites Mentions in the Show: See the links below to offer financial assistance: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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155. Walking on the Chaotic Waters of Life
10/02/2024
155. Walking on the Chaotic Waters of Life
We all know what it feels like to be drowning under a pile of work or overwhelmed by difficulties beyond our control. Those moments when our emotions become overwhelming, and we lose a reference point to keep us stable. That feeling of being out-of-control is encapsulated by the symbolism of water in scripture, and that’s what we are diving into in today’s episode. Through stories from the Old and New Testaments, Dr. Mario Sacasa explores how faith can guide us through life's storms. See how these biblical images offer us hope, comfort, and a path forward through God’s grace. Mario emphasizes the importance of trust as a developmental milestone and explains how spiritual truths can anchor our emotional well-being. He also reflects on how faith helps us navigate suffering, chaos, and uncertainty, offering a firm foundation in God's presence. The episode closes with an invitation to prayer for communities affected by Hurricane Helene, and ways to support relief efforts for those impacted by natural disasters. See the links below to offer financial assistance: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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154. Dating Solutions for Catholic Young Adults
09/25/2024
154. Dating Solutions for Catholic Young Adults
Why do most people feel like the dating scene has become a dumpster fire? What are the unique challenges faced by Catholic young adults? What is the #1 complaint by women? What is the #1 complaint by men? And what can we do make this whole things a little more enjoyable? Joining me on the show is Rachel Hoover Canto, author of the book “Pretty Good Catholic: How to find, date, and marry someone who shares your faith.” We have a wonderful conversation where we discuss ways men can round out their interests beyond just Catholic things, the importance of meeting people, the value of non-exclusive dating, ways that women can show their interest, and how to start a conversation with people you are attracted to. Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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153. The Importance of Failure
09/18/2024
153. The Importance of Failure
Have you ever tried pursuing a dream only for it to blow up in your face? Have you followed God's call only to encounter hardships beyond anything you could have previously imagined? What do you do afterward? How do you pick up the pieces and keep going? That's what we are unpacking in today's episode of Always Hope. In today's show, I explore why God allows us to fail, offer four steps for responding to failure, discuss mindset shifts that need to happen, and encourage you to begin again. This is my first video episode, too. Check it out on YouTube: Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at Follow me on the socials: Instagram: Facebook: Full Courses: Dating Well: Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.
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[REPOST] 073 - Are you healthy enough to discern a vocation? | Sr Josephine Garrett, CSFN
09/11/2024
[REPOST] 073 - Are you healthy enough to discern a vocation? | Sr Josephine Garrett, CSFN
Have you struggled discerning God's plan for your life? Not sure how your emotional health impacts discernment? Do you know if you are healthy enough to start a relationship? If that's you, then stay tuned becuase you are going to get some great recommendations in this conversation. Joining me on the pod today is Sr Josephine Garrett, licensed profressional counselor and all around super-mega-dope nun. In this episode, Sister shares her vocation story, we discuss some of the errors we’ve heard in young people’s discernment questioning, define basic principles of what is healthy enough, discuss qualities in life that aid good discernment, and share things that get in the way. It's a lively conversation, where we share great stories and offer practical principles to help you grow in your capacity to discern God’s will. Don't miss it! This is my final repost episode. I've been working hard behind the scenes these past couple of months and next week will launch the first episode post Willwoods. Thank you for the prayers and support. I'm looking forward to sharing the new things that are coming and continually serving you through Always Hope. Learn more about the podcast and the work I offer by visiting: Or join the conversation on the socials: Facebook: Instagram:
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[REPOST] 051 - Dating in your 30's with Dr. Roy Salgado
09/04/2024
[REPOST] 051 - Dating in your 30's with Dr. Roy Salgado
Dating in your 30’s can be tough. Finding someone who matches your values, that you find attractive, and that is still single is a challenge. What should you be looking for? Where should you be looking? How do you find the balance between pursing career goals and dating? Joining me on the show today is Dr. Roy Salgado, counseling professor at the University of Holy Cross, in New Orleans, LA. Roy openly shares his personal experiences of dating in his 30’s, getting married at age 41, and draws upon his counseling knowledge to offer some guidance on the topic. In today’s episode, we discuss the importance of assessing your priorities and life circumstances, practical ideas on how to find a quality person to date, how your thoughts influence your expectations when dating, ideas for how to properly evaluate the person you are dating, and how to date again following a divorce. Want to learn how to get a conversation started with a girl you're interested in? Then head over to drmariosacasa.com and download the free Dating Toolkit. It'll teach you what to say to get a wonderful conversation up and running. Have questions about this episode? DM me on Intsagram @drmariosacasa
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[REPOST] 095 – Dr. Brant Pitre on The Introduction to the Spiritual Life
08/28/2024
[REPOST] 095 – Dr. Brant Pitre on The Introduction to the Spiritual Life
How do you know if you are growing in the spiritual life? How do you know if your prayers are doing anything? What are the markers of spiritual growth? Joining me on the show today is Dr. Brant Pitre, Research Professor of Scripture at the Augustine Institute, Graduate School of Theology, to talk about his new book “The Introduction to the Spiritual Life.” In today’s episode, we discuss the foundations of prayer, why the Ten Commandments are not just rules but a path of love and growth, why our will is important as we conform to the Will of God, how to know if we are making progress in our spiritual lives, and why growth in virtue is a key sign. But we also talk about the hardships of faith, the uniqueness of this journey, what to do with unanswered prayers, and in-depth reflections on the biblical story of Jacob wrestling the angel and the parable of the persistent widow. If you find this episode helpful, please leave a rating or write a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, share it on the socials, or simply tell a friend about it. Spread the word and the love found on Always Hope. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on , , or . Websites mentioned in the show:
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[REPOST] 040 – Self-Forgiveness with Dr. Everett Worthington
08/21/2024
[REPOST] 040 – Self-Forgiveness with Dr. Everett Worthington
Dr. Mario Sacasa welcomes Dr. Everett Worthington to the show to talk about the process and mechanisms of self-forgiveness. Dr. Worthington has over 30 years of research on forgiveness and his REACH model is one of the leading models in forgiveness therapies. They discuss the steps to take if you struggle with self-condemnation, how self-compassion is needed, and the difference between forgiving others vs yourself. Websites Mentions in Show:
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[REPOST] 076 – Dr. Donald Songy on Attachment Theory and Dating
08/14/2024
[REPOST] 076 – Dr. Donald Songy on Attachment Theory and Dating
I welcome Dr. Donald Songy to discuss the ways attachment needs impact dating. We start by giving a brief recap of attachment theory (hint: relationships are key to our mental health) and we dive into its application to dating, online dating, and the process of allowing a serious relationship to meet our needs for “felt security.” Websites mentioned in the show:
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[REPOST] 024 – The Risk and Rewards of Free Will with Dr. Tom Neal
08/07/2024
[REPOST] 024 – The Risk and Rewards of Free Will with Dr. Tom Neal
Why did God give us free will? Think about it. All the poor judgments made by humans, the evils we have committed, the collective sins of history… wouldn’t creation have been better off without free agency? By the end of this show, you’ll know why the answer to that question is an unequivocal “No.” I bring back my good friend Dr. Tom Neal, and his patience, as he allows me to wrestle with these deep and troubling questions. Once again, his wisdom shines through in his answers. In this episode, we go after why God gave us free will, how without we could not love, the problem of moral evil, how we are not mere puppets in the hand of capricious God, why we need to cherish this supreme gift endowed on us, and glimpse of what our free will may look like in heaven. I know I say this with all my episodes, but this truly is another gem of a show. At times, we get philosophical but hang it there, because it is worth it. You’ll walk way cherishing the gift of your freedom. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, share with friends, and hit me up on Facebook or Instagram, . Websites mentioned in the show:
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[REPOST] 049 – God’s Plan with Fr Timothy Gallagher
07/31/2024
[REPOST] 049 – God’s Plan with Fr Timothy Gallagher
Dr. Mario Sacasa welcomes back Fr Timothy Gallagher, popular author and sought-after lecturer on the discerning God’s will. In today’s show, they discuss whether or not God has a specific plan for our lives, what freedom do we have to forge our own direction, reframing discernment as a skill that needs to be developed, dealing with perceived failed discernments, and always choosing to “begin again” afterward. When the show is done, please find me on Facebook or Instagram, @drmariosacasa, to offer your thoughts about today’s episode. Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 151 - Goodbye Willwoods
07/25/2024
Episode 151 - Goodbye Willwoods
Hey everyone! Today, I am announcing the biggest update to the show since its inception: I’m leaving Willwoods and stepping out on my own. I will soon be launching my own platform, allowing me to focus and expand the work of Always Hope and Dating Well. I’m working hard on a new website, Always Hope YouTube channel, weekly episodes, Hope Club Membership, and Dating Well: Mastermind Coaching Groups. I’m incredibly grateful for my six years at Willwoods and their support of this show, I wouldn’t have gotten this far without them. I will still lead a few marriage retreats a year for them, but it’s time to move forward and take a leap of faith. The show’s about hope, right? Please continue to subscribe to the podcast and follow me on Instagram to stay up-to-date with the changes that are coming. I’ll be leaning on your support to make the show grow. Now more than ever, please leave a review on Apple or rate the show on Spotify. It’s time for Always Hope to fly and I can only do that with your help! Over the next few weeks, you will see a number of reposts from years past. I’ve been doing the show since 2018, so these will feel like brand new episodes. Please enjoy! This will give me some breathing room as I work on the aforementioned enhancements and new offerings. Let us pray and encourage one another! Fr. Walter Ciszek, pray for us! St. Albert the Great, pray for us! Mother Cabrini, pray for us! Mario Sacasa, Ph.D., LMFT 704-444-0670 Want to learn more about dating? Check out
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Episode 150 - Gender Identity, Middle School, and the Theology of the Body | Colin and Aimee MacIver
07/02/2024
Episode 150 - Gender Identity, Middle School, and the Theology of the Body | Colin and Aimee MacIver
Join us on the Always Hope Podcast as Dr. Mario sits down with Colin and Aimee MacIver to discuss their groundbreaking program, "Envision Theology of the Body for Middle School." This episode delves into the revitalization of the original Theology of the Body for Teens, tailored to address contemporary issues faced by today’s youth. Colin and Aimee share insights into the comprehensive overhaul of the curriculum. In this episode, we examine how JPII’s catechizes answers questions about gender identity even though that wasn’t explicitly mentioned, why this message is still pertinent for today’s youth. The MacIver’s also share from their experiences of sharing this message to youth, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, personal witness, and creating "zones of freedom" where young people feel safe to explore their faith and ask questions without fear of judgment. We also address critiques that the Theology of the Body has an overly romanticized view of human sexuality. With a focus on meaningful engagement and real-life applicability, this episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about youth ministry. Discover how "Envision Theology of the Body" is helping shape a generation of young people grounded in faith, identity, and purpose. Tune in now to be inspired and equipped with new tools to support the spiritual growth of middle schoolers. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Please leave a rating and write a review! Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 149 - Dedicated Singlehood | Luanne Zurlo
06/20/2024
Episode 149 - Dedicated Singlehood | Luanne Zurlo
In today’s episode, I welcome Luanne Zurlo for an engaging discussion about dedicated singlehood in the Catholic Church. We explore the nuances between dedicated singlehood, consecrated virginity, and the secular world's concept of single life. Luanne shares her personal journey of discerning her vocation, the importance of deep prayer, and how she found peace and joy in her dedicated single life. We also delve into how one's vocation is a personal call from God and the significance of building a deep relationship with Christ. The episode touches on the challenges and blessings of this vocation and offers practical advice for those discerning a similar path. Throughout the conversation we explore the dynamic between vocation and state of life, the importance of trust and humility, and the hope and joy found in embracing God's call. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Please leave a rating and write a review! Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 148 - Letting Go of Dating Pressure
05/30/2024
Episode 148 - Letting Go of Dating Pressure
The pressures of dating are real! But how do we let them go? Is there a way to date intentionally but without the intensity? This conversation originally appeared on the Thriving in the Space Between podcast, and I am grateful for Maria and Meghan for letting me drop it on my show, too. You may remember them from an episode last year when we talked about dating advice from single women, and we pick up where we left off last time around. In today’s episode, I’m the one answering the questions, not asking them. They fielded questions from the women they serve in their Intentional Single community. So, we have a wide-ranging conversation on balancing dating and marriage intentions, the role of physical attraction, how social media and dating apps impact relationship dynamics, navigating pornography struggles of potential partners, healing from past relationships, how to be vulnerable, and the importance of play in dating.
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Episode 147 - The Four Levels of Happiness | Fr. Robert Spitzer
05/15/2024
Episode 147 - The Four Levels of Happiness | Fr. Robert Spitzer
Happiness is an elusive ideal. What contributes to it? Why does it feel like happiness is a Game of Whac-a-Mole? When we feel it in one place, somewhere else gets misaligned. But how does having faith and living a moral life aid in the quest for achieving happiness? To discuss these questions and more, I welcome Fr. Robert Spitzer, host of Fr. Spitzer’s Universe on EWTN and President of the Magis Center for Faith and Reason, to talk about his new book, “The Four Levels of Happiness: Your Path to Personal Flourishing.” In today’s episode, we discuss how happiness is the fulfillment of desire, but that there are multiple desires within us, and they are sometimes competing with each other. Which is all part of God’s crazy plan for us. Fr. Spitzer explains his concept of the four levels of happiness and how we can pursue them. We discuss why faith is connected to the highest level of happiness and that living a moral life is integral to the pursuit of happiness. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Please leave a rating and write a review! Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 146 - At Peace but not at Rest: Mother Cabrini | Kristen Theriault
05/01/2024
Episode 146 - At Peace but not at Rest: Mother Cabrini | Kristen Theriault
Let’s talk about Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini! In today’s episode, I welcome back Kristen Theriault, spokesperson for Sophia Institute Press, to discuss all things related to Mother Cabrini, including the new Cabrini movie by Angel Studies, and two books by Sophia: The World is Too Small: The Life and Times of Mother Cabrini and The Mother Cabrini Companion: A Spiritual Journey with a Courageous Woman of God. We discuss the life of Mother Cabrini, what the movie got right and where it took creative liberties, and the critiques to the film. We also dive deep into Mother’s unwavering faith, her unprecedented apostolic activity, how she expanded her outreach to 67 missions all over the world, and how her active life flowed from her contemplative one. Kristen also shares anecdotes and prayers she learned from Mother Cabrini. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Please leave a rating and write a review! Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 145 - How Reclaiming Sunday Can Revive Our Human Nature | Danny Fitzpatrick
04/16/2024
Episode 145 - How Reclaiming Sunday Can Revive Our Human Nature | Danny Fitzpatrick
In today’s episode, I welcome back Danny Fitzpatrick to discuss his new book released by Sophia Institute, titled "Restoring the Lord's Day: How Reclaiming Sunday Can Revive Our Human Nature." We discuss the importance of the Sabbath, how it is crucial for restoring our human nature, and how culture has shifted away from recognizing its significance. We also talk at length about the surprising ways Acedia (slothfulness) manifests in our lives and how it leads to a sadness about Divine goods. We end the episode by offering practical ways of reclaiming the Sabbath in your life and family. This episode is a call to integrate these principles into daily life, while emphasizing the transformative power of dedicating time to God, especially on Sundays. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Further Information: For more about Danny Fitzpatrick’s work and his book, “Restoring the Lord’s Day,” visit Follow Danny on Instagram: Contact Danny via email for further discussion or inquires:
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Episode 144 - Unlocking the Secrets to Marital Intimacy | Dr. Sarah Bartel
04/02/2024
Episode 144 - Unlocking the Secrets to Marital Intimacy | Dr. Sarah Bartel
As a marriage therapist that integrates my faith into my work, it is often difficult to find resources I can share about marital intimacy that are appropriate for Catholic and Christian couples, because what is generally out there is overly explicit and reductionistic. What can faithful couples do who want to improve their physical intimacy? Listen to this episode and share with their friends. I’m excited to welcome back to the podcast, Dr. Sarah Bartel, Catholic moral theologian, to discuss her new online course: My Delight for Catholic Wives. This episode is a comprehensive discussion on the topic of enhancing marital intimacy within the context of faith. We focus on common challenges faced by Catholic Christian wives regarding physical intimacy. We discuss the differences between men and women’s anatomies, arousal curves, and experiences of lovemaking. The conversation covers various aspects such as dealing with emotional challenges, physical challenges, misconceptions around 'obligation sex,' and other hinderances to healthy sexual expression in marriage. We cover many practical suggestions for improving intimacy that will help your marriage: the need for transition time, seeing intimacy as an important part of your relationship, the significance of foreplay, and embracing novelty while staying connected to each other. I am giving the caveat that this is a detailed conversation, so you may want to listen to this one with your headphones on. And I strongly encourage that this episode be listened to by folks who are already married or engaged couples preparing for marriage. It’ll help you reclaim joy in the bedroom. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 143 - Leaving Loneliness Behind | Regina Boyd
03/19/2024
Episode 143 - Leaving Loneliness Behind | Regina Boyd
Are you experiencing loneliness and not quite sure what to do about it? Then this episode will be of great benefit to you. Today, I welcome Regina Boyd, licensed marriage and family therapist and author of the new book Leaving Loneliness Behind: 5 Keys to Experiencing God’s Love and Building Healthy Connection with Others. In this episode, we have an in-depth conversation exploring themes of loneliness, the importance of connection, and strategies for developing healthier relationships. It covers a range of topics from setting healthy boundaries to understanding the impact of past experiences on current behavior. Regina also shares insights into her book along with practical advice for fostering meaningful connections in today’s society. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Websites mentioned in the show:
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Episode 142 - Overcoming Scrupulosity | Rebecca Martin
03/06/2024
Episode 142 - Overcoming Scrupulosity | Rebecca Martin
Do you struggle with scrupulosity or know a loved one who does? If so, this episode will provide great insights and solutions for you. Today, I welcome Rebecca Martin, editor of the book “Scrupulosity: Heal Your Mind, Unbind Your Soul, and Let God Work.” The book was written by the late Dr. Kevin Vost, who we honor in the show. In this episode, we examine scrupulosity through a moral, spiritual, and psychological lens, offer insights from the saints, detail the difference between temptation and sin, share how growth in the virtues are crucial, and describe therapeutic interventions that aid the process of healing. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Websites mentioned in the show: Use coupon code: Sacasa25 Other episodes to consider:
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Episode 141 - Navigating Gender Differences in Marriage and Relationships | Dr. Brett Salkeld
02/20/2024
Episode 141 - Navigating Gender Differences in Marriage and Relationships | Dr. Brett Salkeld
How often do men and women feel at odds with each other in relationships, dating, marriage, and parenting? What if those differences we there by design and ignoring them only creates more frustration? What if equality didn’t equal sameness? Joining me on the show to talk about how we can navigate these differences more effectively is Dr. Brett Salkeld, host of the Thinking Faith! Podcast. I love talking with Brett, so grateful to have him back on the show. In today’s episode we discuss the importance of acknowledging the inherent differences between men and women, how that leads to deeper connection and intimacy, and how evolutionary psychology provides some context to these questions. Throughout the episode we share insightful analogies and real-life examples illustrating how these pricniples play out in everyday life. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on . Websites mentioned in the show:
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140 - Save Marriage, Save the Faith | JP De Gance
02/06/2024
140 - Save Marriage, Save the Faith | JP De Gance
How does the decline in marriage impact the decline in faith practice and affiliation? What has contributed to the rise in “none’s”? Can scientific research and inquiry help us understand the connection between marriage and faith? To have this important conversation, I welcome JP De Gance, founder and president of Communio, which is a nonprofit ministry that trains and equips churches to share the Gospel through the renewal of healthy relationship, marriages, and the family. In today’s episode, we discuss loneliness in America, marriage and divorce statistics, how the perception of marriage has changed from a cornerstone to capstone venture, how the decline in marriage correlates with the decline in faith practice, how dads play a key role in their children’s faith practice, and strategies that parishes and communities can implement to serve better serve marriage. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on , , or . Websites mentioned in the show:
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139 - The Middle-Aged Marriage | Damon Owens
01/23/2024
139 - The Middle-Aged Marriage | Damon Owens
Calling all couples married around 15-20 years! This episode is for you! Today, I welcome Damon Owens, internationally acclaimed speaker and co-founder of Joyful Ever After, to talk about how to thrive in a middle-aged marriage. We discuss how to overcome long-held resentments and negative patterns of communication with your spouse; how to express unmet needs; the importance of having a supportive community and friends who care about your marriage; maintaining curiosity, wonder, and delight in your spouse; planning intentional moments of connection, date nights, and retreats; and what physical intimacy looks like at this stage of marriage. We share stories throughout and it’s a great episode. Episode recorded on Oct 13, 2023. If you find this show helpful, please leave a rating or write a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on , , or . Websites mentioned in the show:
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138 - What are Rights? | Katy Faust
01/09/2024
138 - What are Rights? | Katy Faust
Have you noticed that many debates in our society center around the term “rights”? But what exactly is a right? Is it possible to define it? And should adults make sacrifice for the rights of children? Today I welcome Katy Faust, the founder of Them Before Us, a global educational and advocacy group on behalf of children’s rights. She offers clarity about the importance of rights being anchored in natural law. This leads us into an in-depth conversation about a wide variety of topics including marriage, the impact of reproductive technologies, adoption, why conservative arguments fall on deaf ears, and what we can do to communicate a better story. We end the episode with a brief conversation about her involvement in Alliance for Responsible Citizenship. If you find this show helpful, please leave a rating or write a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on , , or . Websites mentioned in the show:
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