Hey Everybody! It's Fr. Edward
Fr. Edward Looney is a Catholic priest who hosts conversations with guests about faith, life, and culture. Episodes include discussions of new books, film industry guests such as producers, directors, and actors, and other topics relevant to Catholic life. He has been podcasting since 2019, previously under the titles "How They Love Mary" and "Cup of St. Joe," and has conducted over 300 interviews. Each episode opens with his greeting "Hey Everybody!" and aims to offer inspiring conversations about faith, film, and everyday life.
Episodes
Episode 391: Fr. Bartunek's Book The Better Part Is Now an App!
Fr. John Bartunek, LC, spent time on the set of Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ. In this episode, he begins by sharing memories from that experience before turning to a book that has profoundly influenced Fr. Edward's spiritual life and preaching: The Better Part.
Why did Fr. Bartunek write The Better Part? How is the book organized, and what makes its reflections on the Gospels s
Episode 390: Meet the Deacon Creating Homes for Mothers in Need
October is Respect Life Month, a time when Catholics are invited to reflect on what it truly means to be pro-life—not only in what we believe, but in what we do.
Fr. Edward Looney welcomes Deacon Kevin Cummings, a permanent deacon from Kansas who is doing remarkable pro-life work through Deacons of Hope and St. Mary’s Home for Mothers.
Deacon Kevin shares his journey to the diaconate, i
Episode 389: Could Your Box Be the Millionth Box of Joy?
A simple shoebox can make an incredible difference in the life of a child.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney talks with Michele Sagarino of Cross Catholic Outreach about Boxes of Joy, a ministry bringing Christmas gifts—and the love of Christ—to children living in poverty around the world.
This year, Boxes of Joy is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: the delivery of its one millio
Episode 388: From John Paul II to John Wayne: Bear Wozniak’s 365-Day Catholic Guide for Men
What do St. John Paul II, John Wayne, the saints, cowboys, classic novels, Westerns, and even Clint Eastwood have to teach Catholic men?
Bear Wozniak joins Fr. Edward Looney to discuss his new book, Men of Grit and Grace: 365 Days with the Saints, Scripture, and the Wisdom of Men. Designed as a daily meditation book specifically for men, it brings together Scripture, Catholic tradition,
Episode 387: Get Ready for Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s Beatification with Allan Smith
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be beatified on September 24, and in this episode Fr. Edward Looney welcomes author and Sheen devotee Allan Smith to help us prepare for this historic moment.
Allan shares what is happening in Peoria during Sheen Week and discusses his book The Soul of a Disciple, which helps readers encounter the spirituality and wisdom of Fulton Sheen. He also tells the
Episode 386: Deacon Joe Knew Father Kram: Remembering a Texas Priest on the Way to Sainthood.
Fr. Charles Kram lived a remarkable priestly life marked by suffering, perseverance, and a deep desire to serve God’s people.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney talks with Deacon Joe Machacek, who personally knew Fr. Kram and shares memories of his life, illness, vocation, ordination, and ministry. Despite significant physical challenges, Fr. Kram persevered in his call to the priesthood
Episode 385: She Left America to Follow Padre Pio: The Story of Mary Pyle
Who was Mary Pyle, the American woman remembered as one of Padre Pio’s closest spiritual daughters?
Author Susan De Bartoli, whose book Padre Pio’s American Daughter: The Story of Mary Pyle tells her remarkable story, joins Fr. Edward Looney to introduce us to this fascinating—and often overlooked—woman in the life of St. Padre Pio.
Born into wealth and raised Protestant, Mary Pyle conv
Episode 384: From Divorced Mother to Prison Nun: The Incredible Story of Mother Antonia Brenner with Sr. Anne Marie Maxfield
Mother Antonia Brenner’s vocation story is anything but ordinary.
She wasn’t someone who dreamed of becoming a religious sister from childhood. She was married. She was a mother. She experienced divorce. She raised a family and spent years serving others—at one point helping send medical equipment to people in need around the world.
And then God led her somewhere almost unimaginable: in
Episode 383: Where Coffee Meets Catholicism: St. James Coffee in Rochester, Minnesota with Melissa Scaccio
St. James Coffee in Rochester, Minnesota, is more than a place to grab a cup of coffee—it is a creative work of Catholic evangelization. In this episode, Fr. Edward talks with Melissa about her relationship with St. James Coffee, including the amusing story of how she learned to enjoy coffee despite not being much of a coffee drinker when she first began working there.
They discuss some
Episode 382: What Was Our Lady Trying to Say During Her Silent Apparition at Knock? with Patrick O'Hearn
What message did Our Lady communicate through her silent apparition at Knock alongside St. Joseph, St. John the Evangelist, and the Lamb of God?
Fr. Edward Looney welcomes author Patrick O’Hearn to discuss his latest collaboration with Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC—a beautifully illustrated book about Our Lady of Knock.
Patrick shares how he first learned about the apparition and describes t
Episode 381: From Homeschooling to Catholic Filmmaking: The Bowen Family Story and Industrious Family Films
Can a homeschooling family make Catholic movies, bring inspiring stories from history to the screen, and even create its own streaming service?
Kathleen, Mary, and Faustina Bowen of Industrious Family Films join Fr. Edward Looney to share how their family transformed a love of faith, history, and storytelling into a growing Catholic film ministry.
Fr. Edward recalls how he first discove
Episode 380: Blessed Stanley Rother’s Martyrdom, Mission, and Growing Devotion | Ed Jeep
Blessed Stanley Rother refused to abandon his people, even when remaining with them placed his own life in danger. In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Ed Jeep, whose family has a fascinating personal connection to the Oklahoma priest and martyr.
Ed’s father was a Catholic priest who knew and served alongside Fr. Stanley Rother before later leaving active ministry. That family
Episode 379: Netflix's Little House on the Prairie Reboot: What Fans Should Expect- An Interview with Jocko Sims
Netflix is bringing Little House on the Prairie back to television—but what should longtime fans expect?
In this interview, we discuss Netflix's upcoming reboot of Little House on the Prairie, including:
Why the series is based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's original books rather than the classic Michael Landon television adaptation.
Whether longtime fans are likely to embrace—or reject—the
Episode 378: The Shreveport Martyrs: Five Priests Who Chose to Die with Dr. Cheryl White
In 1873, a devastating yellow fever epidemic swept through Shreveport, Louisiana. As thousands fled the city, five Catholic priests made the extraordinary decision to stay behind. One after another, each knowingly entered the fever wards to care for the sick, administer the sacraments, and accompany the dying—fully aware that doing so would almost certainly cost them their own lives.
In
Episode 377: How Rwanda's Spiritual Father (Fr. Ubald) Taught a Nation to Forgive
Who was Fr. Ubald Rugirangoga, and why do so many people believe they encountered a saint?
In this episode of Hey Everybody! It's Fr. Edward, I speak with Katesy and Amy about the remarkable life and ministry of Fr. Ubald, often called the spiritual father of Rwanda.
In our conversation, we discuss:
Who Fr. Ubald was and his ministry in Rwanda.
Why the Rwandan government feared hi
Episode 376: Oprah, Larry King & Jimmy Carter Knew This Kid's Name. You Should Too: Mattie Stepanek
Fr. Edward Looney welcomes Kathy Dempsey to discuss the remarkable life and legacy of Mattie Stepanek, a young poet, peace ambassador, and inspirational figure whose life touched millions. Though Mattie died at just fourteen years old, his message of hope, peace, and love captured the attention of some of the most influential people in America, including Oprah Winfrey, Larry King, and Jim
Episode 375: The Priest Who Bought a School Bus and Drove It: The Story of Fr. Charles R. Carroll
Why would a Catholic priest buy a school bus and drive it himself?
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney introduces listeners to Fr. Charles R. Carroll, a beloved West Virginia priest whose extraordinary ministry left a lasting impression on generations of Catholics.
Fr. Carroll served one parish, six mission churches, a Catholic school, and several mission territories from 1933 until 198
Episode 374: She Went to Harvard an Atheist. Now She Could Be a Catholic Saint. Meet Ruth Pakaluk
Who was Ruth Pakaluk?
A wife, mother, Harvard graduate, pro-life leader, and faithful Catholic whose inspiring life is now being examined by the Church as a possible future saint.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Meghan Tallarita, Vice Postulator for the Cause of Ruth Pakaluk, about the remarkable life and legacy of this extraordinary woman. Meghan shares how she became in
Episode 373: Abbot Bradley Vanden Branden on Becoming the New Abbot of St. Norbert Abbey
Abbot Bradley R. Vanden Branden, O. Praem., was elected the eighth abbot of St. Norbert Abbey in De Pere, WI on January 15, 2026, and received his abbatial blessing on April 18, 2026.
In what may be his first longform sit-down interview outside of print media, Abbot Brad joins Fr. Edward for a wide-ranging conversation about his vocational discernment, Norbertine spirituality, and the mi
Episode 372: How to Find the Graves of Saints (And Why Visiting Them Changes You) with Brian O'Neel
Fr. Edward sits down with Brian O’Neel, founder of the website dedicated to locating the burial places of saints, blesseds, and holy men and women, to explore a question many Catholics have never thought to ask: Where are the saints buried—and how can I find them?
Brian shares how his passion for the saints led him to document their tombs and create a resource for pilgrims seeking these s
Episode 371: “God Doesn’t Hate Me After All” — How St. Louis de Montfort Changed Greg Willits’ Life
Fr. Edward sits down with Catholic speaker and author Greg Willits to explore the life and spirituality of one of the Church’s greatest Marian saints, St. Louis de Montfort—a figure Greg warmly calls “our dear friend Montfort.”
While many know St. Louis de Montfort for True Devotion to Mary, this conversation turns to a lesser-known but deeply powerful work: Love of Eternal Wisdom, the s
Episode 370: The Perfect Catholic Summer Series for Kids? | Chime Travelers with Lisa Hendey
Years ago, Lisa Hendey created her beloved multi-volume series Chime Travelers. Today, that vision has expanded beyond the page into a new episodic video series.
In this conversation, Lisa joins Fr. Edward Looney to discuss both formats—who they’re for, how they differ, and how they complement one another. What age group are the books intended for? Who is the video series best suited for
Episode 369: Get the Scoop Behind the Sugarcreek Amish Mysteries on UPtv & UP Faith & Family
Fr. Edward sits down with film producer and entrepreneur Chevonne O'Shaughnessy for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the movie and television industry. As the force behind ACI On the Go and producer of the new Sugarcreek Amish Mysteries series, Chevonne offers insight into what it takes to bring meaningful, family-friendly stories to the screen.
In this conversation, they explore
Episode 368: Divine Mercy Is More Than St. Faustina’s Diary with Vinny Flynn
Fr. Edward Looney has long admired Vinny Flynn, having first encountered his books many years ago. In this episode, he finally has the opportunity to sit down with him to discuss his latest work, A Year with Divine Mercy.
Vinny begins by sharing how he developed a close relationship with the Marians of the Immaculate Conception and his deep connection to the message of Divine Mercy. The
Episode 367: Allyson Visits Cemeteries, Cleans the Headstones and Researches Their Stories and Shares Them
Why would someone spend their time cleaning graves of complete strangers?
In this episode, Fr. Edward sits down with Allyson—better known as the “Crzy Cemetery Lady”—who has captured attention online for restoring forgotten headstones and uncovering the stories of the people buried beneath them.
She shares how it all began, what draws her to cemeteries, and why these places are far more
Episode 366: On the Road to Sainthood: The Story of Mother Tallon and the Parish Visitors
Fr. Edward Looney looks ahead to a meaningful trip to New York, where he will visit the Parish Visitors of the Immaculate and pray at the tomb of the Servant of God Mother Tallon. Along the way, he will also honor the memory of his priest mentor, Fr. Fred Miller, whose buried in the religious order's cemetery.
In this episode, Fr. Edward speaks with Mother Maria Catherine, whom he met th
Episode 365: A Priest and a Surgeon Talk about Independent Film
Dr. George Ellis is a surgeon by profession—but his creative pursuits have led him into the world of independent film through his company, Coronado Beach Productions.
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Ellis joins Fr. Edward to explore the intersection of vocation and creativity. Together, they discuss what it’s like to navigate two very different worlds—medicine and filmmaking—while pur
Episode 364: Is Christian Hip Hop Really Different? With Trig Rosseau
Trig Rosseau joins Fr. Edward Looney to discuss the world of Christian hip hop and the mission behind Holy Culture Radio, the station dedicated to faith-centered hip hop that can be heard on SiriusXM.
In this conversation, they explore the place of hip hop within Christian evangelization and how artists are using the genre to proclaim the Gospel. Fr. Edward asks questions many listeners
Episode 363: Are Priests Thriving? What a National Study Reveals About Bishops, Trust, & Healing w/Stephen White
In this episode, I sit down with Stephen P. White to discuss a major new national study on Catholic priesthood published in Rebuilding Trust: The State of the Catholic Priesthood in the United States.
What is the real state of the Catholic priesthood in America today?
Are priests flourishing—or barely surviving?
How has the abuse crisis shaped their ministry and morale?
Is there truly a
Episode 362: Following Jesus the Leader: Christ’s Ultimate Leadership Model with Fr. Brandenburg, LC
What if Jesus is the greatest leadership model of all time—and modern leadership theory has been overlooking Him?
Fr. Daniel Brandenburg, LC joins Fr. Edward to discuss how his academic study of leadership led him to a surprising realization: at Catholic institutions, Jesus was rarely studied as a leadership model at all. Yet no leader has shaped history more profoundly.
In this convers
Episode 361: A Priest and a Funeral Director Talk About Death, Funerals, and What Happens After We Die (with Victor Sweeney)
What do priests and funeral directors have in common? According to Bishop Robert Barron, “The priest goes where most don’t want to go”—and the same could be said of funeral directors.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with funeral director Victor Sweeney for a candid and thoughtful conversation about death, funerals, and what lies beyond this life. Fr. Edward shares stories fr
Episode 360: Who Was St. Valentine—Really? A Priest, Love, and Miracles with Anthony DeStefano
Fr. Edward Looney welcomes author Anthony DeStefano back to the podcast to discuss his new children’s book, Your Valentine, which reclaims the true Christian meaning of Valentine’s Day.
Anthony shares the real story of St. Valentine—a 3rd-century priest and martyr whose witness to Christian marriage and sacrificial love reminds us that love is stronger than death. They explore how Valent
Episode 359: The Holy Face of Jesus: A Forgotten Devotion for Our Time with Fr. Lawrence Carney
Devotions in the Church often rise and fall in popularity, but some are providentially renewed for a particular moment in history. In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney and Fr. Lawrence Carney explore the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus—its origins, spiritual depth, and relevance today.
Fr. Edward shares how he was first introduced to the Holy Face devotion after leaving seminary in 2008
Episode 358: More Than a Travel Show: David Henrie on New EWTN+ Show Seeking Beauty
In this conversation, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with actor and filmmaker David Henrie about his new EWTN+ series, Seeking Beauty, a show that invites viewers to rediscover the meaning of beauty through art, history, and faith.
David shares his understanding of beauty as something deeply misunderstood in today’s culture, and explains the purpose behind Seeking Beauty, which he describes as
Episode 357: Meet Fr. Rich Kunst: Priest and Curator of the Vatican Unveiled Exhibit at the Mall of America
Fr. Edward Looney interviews Fr. Rich Kunst, the priest and curator of the Vatican Unveiled exhibit currently on display at the Mall of America in Minnesota. Part of the 175th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Vatican Unveiled features rare Catholic artifacts, Vatican documents, relics of saints, papal items, and historical manuscripts — all drawn from Fr. Rich
Episode 356: What Does Jesus Have to Say to Us Today? Apparitions of Jesus — with Michael Lichens
Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Michael Lichens, spokesperson for a new book by Wincenty Laszewski, published by Sophia Institute Press, which examines the apparitions of Jesus to mystics and visionaries throughout history.
The conversation explores how apparitions of Jesus brought hope to people imprisoned or sent to work camps, especially through the witness of Maria Teresa Carloni. Toge
Episode 355: What’s Behind America’s Catholic Comeback Among Gen Z? — with John Krueger
Fr. Edward Looney speaks with John Krueger about Gen Z and the surprising resurgence of Catholic faith and devotion among young people today — what John calls America’s Catholic Comeback.
John shares his own testimony of returning to the practice of the faith and how a Newman Center community helped draw him back. The conversation explores how the digital landscape and social media are a
Episode 354: The St. Cuthbert Pilgrimage: Holy Island, the Cave, and a New Documentary
Join Fr. Edward Looney in a conversation with executive producer Daniel Catone, whose forthcoming documentary follows the ancient St. Cuthbert Pilgrimage Route — a spiritual journey beginning in Scotland and ending on Holy Island (Lindisfarne).
St. Cuthbert, one of the most beloved saints of Northern England, inspired centuries of devotion — but a recent attempt by American Catholic pilg
Episode 353: The Journey from Christmas to Epiphany: Christmas Continues with One Star, Three Kings | Rebecca Grabill
Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Rebecca Grabill to discuss her new children’s book, One Star, Three Kings: The Journey to Epiphany. Together, they explore Advent and Christmas traditions and remind us that Christmas does not end on December 25, but continues through the days that lead to (at least) the Feast of the Epiphany.
In this conversation, you’ll learn:
Why the Church celebrates
Episode 352: From Hallmark to Great American Family: A Catholic Couple Goes Viral Reviewing Christmas Movies with Mary and Jerry Lenaburg
Father Edward sits down with Mary and Jerry Lenaburg, the Catholic couple behind some of the most popular Christmas movie reviews on social media this year. Since 2018, the Lenaburgs have been watching, reacting to, and reviewing Christmas movies from Hallmark, Great American, and Netflix — always with an eye toward family-friendly storytelling and Catholic values.
In this conversation,
Episode 351: Real Priests React to Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery with Fr. Scott Bailey
What happens when Hollywood calls a real priest for advice?
In this episode, Fr. Edward is joined by Fr. Scott Bailey, who—quite unexpectedly—became a consultant for Wake Up Dead Man, Rian Johnson’s third Knives Out film. Through parish connections, Fr. Scott met Johnson during a visit, which led to extended conversations about priesthood, Catholic customs, and even a production-time pho
Episode 350: Mary the New Woman: A Judeo-Christian Look at the Immaculate Conception with Diego Passadore
In this episode, Fr. Edward speaks with author Diego Pasadore about his new book Mary, the New Woman, a fresh Judeo-Christian exploration of the Immaculate Conception. Diego shares how an unexpected inspiration during Mass led him into three years of biblical research, studying Jewish texts, the Church Fathers, and even private revelations such as those of Anne Catherine Emmerich.
Togeth
Episode 349: One Widow’s Journey Through Loss and the Holidays — with Wendy Forest
In this moving conversation, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Wendy Forest, a widow who has walked a profound journey of grief, healing, and rediscovering hope through Jesus and Mary. Wendy shares the story behind her book Currents of Water, reflecting on how water became a powerful image for her emotions, her faith, and the early years of widowhood.
Together, they explore:
💧 How grief come
Episode 348: Monica Experienced a Healing in Lourdes
While studying abroad in Europe, Monica lived with chronic pain in her legs, knees, and feet—often relying on a cane, walking stick, or even a wheelchair. During a one-day visit to Lourdes with friends, she found herself wondering what a healing might feel like. After praying at the shrine, she set aside her walking sticks and discovered she could walk without support.
In this episode, M
Episode 346: It’s Time to Meet the Catholic Miss Rachel — Mrs. Faith with Anthony and Tara Bonna
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with his good friends Anthony and Tara Bonna, creators of Raising Saints TV. You’ll hear how one of Fr. Edward’s books played a role in their engagement—and how one of their children ended up being named thanks to his recommendation!
Anthony and Tara are on a mission to create joyful, faith-filled content for Catholic families, producing child
Episode 346: Finally! A Catholic Story Bible Done Right – The Story of All Stories with Emily Chapman
Word on Fire has released a beautifully illustrated and excellently written Catholic Story Bible for young readers — The Story of All Stories by Emily Stimpson Chapman.
Seeing the need for a high-quality Catholic story Bible, Word on Fire and Stimpson Chapman teamed up to create a resource that tells not just individual Bible stories, but the one great story of salvation — from Genesis t
Episode 345: Anthony DeStefano’s Spooky Catholic Story for Kids: All Hallows’ Eve
Author Anthony DeStefano joins Fr. Edward Looney to share a delightful and faith-filled take on Halloween through his newest children’s book, All Hallows’ Eve.
In this conversation, Anthony discusses the inspiration behind the story, including the memorable character Hulga May, and how he skillfully weaves Catholic tradition into a tale that helps reclaim Halloween for the faith. Togethe
Episode 344: What Cardinal Marc Ouellet Thinks About Synodality
Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Cardinal Marc Ouellet about his new book from Ignatius Press, Word, Sacrament, Charism. Their conversation explores a word that’s become central in Catholic dialogue — synodality.
What exactly is synodality? Is it an effort to modernize the Church, or something deeper? Cardinal Ouellet shares what he believes is the key to authentic synodality, what he wishe
Episode 343: Meet Kevin Matthews: The Radio Legend Behind the New Documentary Broken Mary | In Theaters Oct 7
In this episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward, Fr. Edward Looney welcomes radio legend Kevin Matthews, whose incredible journey is featured in the new documentary Broken Mary: The Kevin Matthews Story, coming to theaters October 7.
Fr. Edward and Kevin share stories from their longtime friendship, and Kevin gives a glimpse into his conversion story — including the powerful moment he
Episode 342: What to Expect from Bernadette The Musical in U.S. Theaters (Sept 28–29)
On September 28 & 29, 2025, Bernadette The Musical comes to U.S. theaters for a special two-day release. But how did this French production about St. Bernadette make its way to American screens?
Fr. Edward Looney talks with Thierry Fontaine, the international distributor who brought the musical to the U.S. Thierry shares his personal journey — growing up near Lourdes but knowing litt
Episode 341: A Priest & Influencer React to New Movie Bau: Artist at War (In Theaters Now)
Join Fr. Edward Looney and Liv Harrison as we react to the new movie Bau: Artist at War, now in theaters. Liv attended the film’s red carpet premiere and shares her first-hand experience, including what the daughters of Joseph and Rebecca Bau told her that night.
In this conversation we discuss:
*Liv’s experience at the red carpet premiere
*Insights from the Bau family
*Her biggest takea
Episode 340: Padre Pio Appeared to Mary O'Regan, Now She Shares Stories and Insights About the Saint
In this episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward, I speak with Mary O’Regan, author of the new Sophia Institute Press biography of Padre Pio. Mary shares the incredible story of how Padre Pio appeared to her in a mystical experience that changed her life and set her on the path of researching and writing about one of the Church’s most beloved saints.
We discuss:
How Padre Pio mystical
Episode 339: Pope Leo’s Chicago Roots | Rob Kaczmark of Spirit Juice Studios on Faith, Film, and Catholic Art
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Rob Kaczmark, CEO of Spirit Juice Studios, to talk about his unique connection to Pope Leo XIII’s Chicago roots and how Catholic media continues to inspire today. Rob shares his experience visiting the Chicago neighborhood where Pope Leo grew up, filming on location, and reflecting on how Catholic art and media may be entering a new renais
Episode 338: Behind the Kolbe Film: Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio on New Movie Triumph of the Heart
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio, executive producer of the new Catholic film Triumph of the Heart and father of the film’s director, Anthony D’Ambrosio. He shares the story of his family’s influence on Anthony, the journey from a short film on St. Maximilian Kolbe to a full-length feature, and what they hope this project will contribute to Catholic cinema.
Topics w
Episode 337: He Battled Fires and Culture: A Catholic Firefighter’s Story with Benjamin O'Brien
I sit down with Benjamin O’Brien, Catholic firefighter and author of The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17.
In our conversation, Benjamin shares:
🔥 Why he chose firefighting and how he discerned leaving the profession
🔥 The ways he integrated his Catholic faith into the firehouse
🔥 What inspired him to write The Proving Grounds and the reaction from former coworkers
🔥 The role of c
Episode 336: Country Music Meets Catholicism: Bradley Banning’s Faith-Filled Songs
Country music and Catholicism come together in this inspiring episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward! Fr. Edward sits down with country music singer and songwriter Bradley Banning, whose songs are infused with faith and storytelling. Bradley shares how St. Paul inspired one of his tracks, and unpacks the spiritual depth behind his popular song “Be a Kid”, which reflects the spiritual c
Episode 335: Fr. Robert Bradley’s “Love Letter” to Mary – Dr. Betty Bosarge on Our Lady’s Psalter
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Dr. Betty Bosarge to explore the life, legacy, and writings of Fr. Robert Bradley, S.J., with a special focus on Our Lady’s Psalter (Angelico Press).
Dr. Bosarge, who served as Fr. Bradley’s editor, offers a behind-the-scenes look at his writing process—often on a simple yellow notepad—and shares how his meditations on the Rosary can rene
Episode 334: St. Michael’s Lent Explained: From St. Francis to Exodus 90 with Dr. Jared Staudt
Did you know that St. Francis of Assisi observed a special season of prayer, fasting, and penance starting on the Feast of the Assumption and ending on the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel? It’s called St. Michael’s Lent, and it’s making a powerful comeback among Catholics seeking spiritual renewal.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Dr. Jared Staudt, theologian and formati
Episode 333: A Sister Remembers — Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan Through the Eyes of Élisabeth Nguyen
Servant of God Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan is remembered for his unwavering faith in the face of years of imprisonment. In this moving conversation, I speak with his sister, Élisabeth Nguyen, who shares intimate stories about their family upbringing, his path to the seminary, and his early years in the Church.
She recalls his arrest and long years in prison—and a moment invo
Episode 332: Bl. Stanley Rother, Satanists on the Highway, A Mormon in Nauvoo, & a Slovakian Marian Apparition
In this episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward, I take you along on my recent pilgrimage to the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City. I share how I first came to know his story, my regret in missing his martyrdom site while studying in Guatemala, and what this modern-day priest-martyr teaches us.
Along the way, I recount an unsettling moment when I followed a car boldly adve
Episode 331: Catholic Shrine Road Trip & Chastity Mission | Eve Rosemary of The Everyday Saint Shares Her Story
Eve Rosemary, host of The Everyday Saint Podcast, joins Fr. Edward Looney to share her inspiring journey of faith—from working at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion to visiting major Catholic shrines across the country.
In this episode, Eve opens up about her ministry as a chastity speaker, her favorite shrine experiences (including the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine and Mother C
Episode 330: How “Fighting Spirit” Can Make You More Patriotic and Faith-Filled — A Conversation with Fr. Thomas Gibbons
In this episode, Fr. Edward welcomes Fr. Thomas Gibbons, executive producer of the new documentary Fighting Spirit, now available on VOD. This powerful film explores the heroic lives of military chaplains—both Catholic and non-Catholic—who served with courage, conviction, and deep faith.
🎖️ Topics include:
• Why so many military chaplains are now being considered for sainthood
• The insp
Episode 329: Everyday with Jesus, Mary & Joseph: How Daily Prayer Transforms Your Life with Dr. Mary Amore
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney speaks with Dr. Mary Amore of Mayslake Ministries about the spiritual power of daily devotionals and the importance of spiritual direction in the Christian life. They discuss three of her devotional books—Everyday with Jesus, Everyday with Mary, and Everyday with Joseph—and how these can help believers grow in faith one day at a time.
Topics include:
W
Episode 328: Is The Life of Chuck Worth Seeing? A Catholic Priest’s Honest Reaction
Is The Life of Chuck worth seeing? Catholic priest and film reviewer Fr. Edward Looney gives his honest reaction to this mind-bending, deeply human film based on Stephen King’s short story.
Fr. Looney had early access to a pre-screening but still went to the theater to watch it again—and in this video, he explains why. He shares why this film struck a deep emotional chord and why he thin
Episode 327: Desperate for Friendship? How to Be a Better Friend – with Kristen Strong
What is real friendship—and why is it so hard to find today? In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Kristen Strong, author of Desperate Woman Seeks Friends (Thomas Nelson Books), to talk about the beauty, complexity, and spiritual depth of friendship in the modern world.
Together they explore:
Why Kristen begins her book with the simple phrase, “hell
Episode 326: Two Catholic Priests React to New Exorcism Movie The Ritual
What happens when a Catholic priest lets a horror movie be filmed in his church? 🎬 Fr. Aaron Williams from Mississippi joins me to talk about hosting the filming of The Ritual, a new exorcism thriller set in the 1920s. We dive into why exorcisms continue to fascinate audiences, whether the movie is historically accurate, and what Catholics should know before watching.
In this powerful co
Episode 325: Travel Updates, Health Journey, the Billy Graham Library, and Hopes for Pope Leo XIV
Fr. Edward Looney shares personal and spiritual reflections while on the road—offering an update on his latest travels, the academic paper he's presenting, and his new commitment to better health through diet and exercise. He recounts his visit to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, drawing parallels between evangelical reverence for Graham and Catholic devotion to saints and shrines.
Episode 324: Mountain Grace: Fr. John Nepil on Hiking, Prayer, and His New Book
Join Fr. Edward as he interviews Fr. John Nepil from the Archdiocese of Denver about his new book To Heights and Unto Depths: Letters from the Colorado Trail. In this powerful conversation, they explore the deep spiritual lessons Fr. Nepil learned while hiking the 500-mile Colorado Trail—from mountain beauty and solitude to failure, fatherhood, and faith.
🏔 Topics covered include:
Why F
Episode 323: Go to Joseph in Detroit: The Story Behind the St. Joseph the Worker Mural with Daniel Egan
During the Year of St. Joseph, Fr. Edward Looney discovered a crowdfunded project aiming to honor St. Joseph with a powerful public mural in Detroit. After supporting the project himself, Fr. Edward recently had the chance to visit the mural in person—and in this inspiring episode, he speaks with Daniel Egan, the man who helped bring this tribute to life.
Together they discuss:
🎨 The ori
Episode 322: Mary on the Big Screen: Supporting IMRI’s Marian Film Project with Dr. Neomi DeAnda
In this episode of Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Dr. Neomi DeAnda, director of the International Marian Research Institute (IMRI), to discuss the powerful connection between Mary and the movies. They dive into IMRI’s exciting "Movies with Mary" crowdfunding project, which runs through April 9, 2025.
The conversation spans everything from mainstream depi
Episode 321: The Parallel Passion of Mary in the Writings of Maria of Agreda and Anne Catherine Emmerich
Fr. Edward Looney was invited by the Centre for Marian Studies in England to give a virtual zoom presentation on his studies of Maria of Agreada and Anne Catherine Emmerich. This video is the recorded presentation reflecting on the passion accounts.
Episode 320: The Making of a Movie: Behind the Scenes of Searching for the Elephant
How does a movie go from an idea to the screen? In this episode, Fr. Edward sits down with David Alford and Joseph Stam of Cross Purpose Productions to discuss their film Searching for the Elephant, now streaming on Tubi, Amazon Prime, and more. They dive into the entire filmmaking process—story development, screenwriting, casting, production, and marketing. Get an exclusive behind-the-sc
Episode 319: Do Catholics Believe in Near-Death Experiences? With Scott L. Smith
Near-death experiences (NDEs) captivate people across religious and secular backgrounds, but how do they align with Catholic teaching? In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Catholic author Scott L. Smith to explore NDEs from a faith-based perspective. They discuss the seven medical stages of NDEs—disembodiment, tunnel experiences, the Being of Light, life reviews, and more—whi
This Past Week #8 | Social Media Truths, Airport Insights, and Movie Reviews
In this week’s episode of This Past Week, Fr. Edward Looney reflects on recent events, thought-provoking reads, and intriguing films:
🔹 What he saw – A viral photo from Cardinal McElroy’s installation sparked controversy. Was the church really empty, or was the image misleading? Fr. Looney discusses the importance of fact-checking social media claims before sharing them.
🔹 What he read
Episode 318: Archbishop Fulton Sheen: The Convert Maker Who Brought 42,000 Souls to the Catholic Church
At a time when many are preparing to enter the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil, we explore one of the most influential evangelists of the 20th century—Archbishop Fulton Sheen. Known as a convert maker, Sheen helped bring an estimated 42,000 people into the Church.
In this episode, Dr. Cheryl Hughes joins Fr. Edward Looney to discuss her book on Fulton Sheen and his lasting impact on
This Past Week #7 | Mocking Faith, Wisdom from St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and The Oscars
In this episode of This Past Week, Fr. Edward Looney reflects on recent cultural trends, his Lenten writings, and spiritual insights:
🔹 What He Saw – From comedians mocking Christianity to concerning book covers, Fr. Edward questions why society tolerates such disrespect toward faith. He also reacts to the Oscars and expresses dismay over Anora winning Best Picture due to its explicit co
Episode 317: How a Priest, Confession, and the Eucharist Saved Kevin & Krista Wells’ Marriage from Addiction
Can the power of a priest and sacramental grace truly heal addiction and restore a marriage? In this compelling conversation, author Kevin Wells joins Fr. Edward Looney to share the deeply personal story behind his latest book, The Hermit. After chronicling The Priests We Need to Save the Church and the life of Venerable Aloysius Schwartz, Kevin now opens up about his own marriage—one mar
This Past Week #6 | Living as Saints, Sharing the Gospel, and the Power of Scripture
In this episode of This Past Week, Fr. Edward Looney reflects on the inspiring life of Joe Reali, a young man from New York who passed away at 25 and is remembered for his holiness—could he one day be a saint? Fr. Looney shares how Joe’s life challenges us to live as saints now and boldly share our faith.
He also explores a powerful insight from St. Bernard of Clairvaux’s Sermons on the
BONUS: An Invitation to Pray with the Church through Lent
Fr. Edward introduces readers to the collect prayer and his new Lenten devotional, Praying with the Church through Lent. In this episode you will hear how he didn't want to write this book, what is the collect prayer, a few reflections about a few different collect prayers, and why he thinks it's important to pray and meditate on the collect.
Buy the Book: https://sophiainstitute.com/pr
Episode 316: The Sinner’s Guide to Holiness – Fr. Basil Cole on Venerable Louis of Granada’s Spiritual Wisdom
We are all sinners—but Venerable Louis of Granada offers a roadmap to holiness in his classic spiritual work, The Sinner’s Guide. In this powerful interview, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with Fr. Basil Cole, O.P., a Dominican scholar, to explore the wisdom of this TAN Books "Book of the Year."
🔹 Who was Venerable Louis of Granada? Discover his life, influence, and why his writings remain
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