In this episode of Practicing Catholic, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger welcome Dr. Michael Barber, Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology at the Augustine Institute, for a rich and accessible conversation on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, early Christian testimony, and historical reasoning, Dr. Barber explains why the Resurrection is a real event rooted in history—and why it remains the foundation of Christian faith. From the witness of Mary Magdalene to the doubts of the disciples, from St. Paul’s bold proclamation to the surprising spread of Christianity among the Gentiles, this conversation shows how faith and reason work together.

The episode also explores how Catholics can live the Resurrection today through prayer, the sacraments, bold trust in God, and renewed hope during the Easter season.

-Listen to Dr. Barber’s talk about the Resurrection here: https://app.formed.org/app/videos/2091418  

-Dr. Barber’s Book on the Anointing of the Sick: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540960993_the-bible-and-the-anointing-of-the-sick

-Check out Dr. Barber’s social media below!

- X (formerly, Twitter): @MichaelPBarber (https://x.com/MichaelPBarber)

- TikTok: @michaelpbarber (https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpbarber)  

- YouTube: @Michael.Patrick.Barber (https://www.youtube.com/@Michael.Patrick.Barber)

- Instagram: michaelpatrickbarber (https://www.instagram.com/michaelpatrickbarber/)

- Facebook: ProfMichaelBarber (https://www.facebook.com/ProfMichaelBarber)

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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In this Easter episode of Practicing Catholic Podcast, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger explore the pattern of death and resurrection—not just in Christ, but in our own lives. From small daily frustrations to life-altering trials, they share personal stories of loss, conversion, identity shifts, and healing—and how God brings new life out of each one.

You’ll hear:

How “death moments” show up in ordinary life  

Powerful personal stories of conversion, family brokenness, and career change  

Why suffering can actually lead to deeper joy and identity  

Practical ways to navigate difficult seasons with faith  

How to recognize God’s providence even when you can’t see the outcome  

If you’re in a hard season—or coming out of one—this episode will help you hold onto hope and recognize how God is working in the midst of it all.

Christ’s resurrection isn’t just something we celebrate—it’s something we live.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Scott Hefelfinger explore the beauty of the Eucharist and simple, practical ways to deepen your relationship with Christ. From powerful stories of late-night adoration to the reality of distracted prayer, this conversation meets you where you are.

Whether you're coming into the Church, rediscovering your faith, or just trying to be more consistent, you'll learn:

Why simply “showing up” matters more than you think  

How Eucharistic adoration transforms your spiritual life  

The connection between the Mass and personal prayer  

Practical ways to build Eucharistic devotion into a busy schedule  

Why dryness in prayer doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong  

As we enter Holy Week and Easter, this episode is an invitation to spend more time with Jesus—who is already waiting for you.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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They also discuss the importance of choosing content wisely in an age of endless information, the balance between input and silence, and how to integrate faith into everyday life—even in the middle of a busy schedule. Plus, they tackle listener questions on artificial intelligence and how young people can live out their Catholic faith in the chaos of high school and college.

Whether you're looking for new podcast recommendations or seeking to be more intentional with your time, this episode offers practical insights for living a faithful and focused life.

Check out Taylor and Scott’s favorite podcasts below!

Deep Questions: https://www.thedeeplife.com/listen/

Acquired: https://www.acquired.fm

Thomistic Institute Podcast: https://podcast.thomisticinstitute.org

Criteria: https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/category/criteria//

The Score: https://www.revivalmusicproject.org/podthescore/

Messy Family Podcast: https://messyfamilypodcast.org

At the Table with Pat Lencioni:https://www.tablegroup.com/at-the-table/

The Optimal Work Podcast: https://optimalwork.com/podcast

Catechism in a Year: https://app.ascensionpress.com/podcasts/catechism

Bishop Barron Sunday Sermons: https://www.wordonfire.org/videos/sermons/

Pints with Aquinas: http://pintswithaquinas.com  

The Lila Rose Show: https://www.lilaroseshow.com

The Pillar Podcast: https://www.pillarcatholic.com/s/the-pillar-podcast

Jimmy Akin’s Mysterious World: https://sqpn.com/podcasts/jimmy-akins-mysterious-world/

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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The hosts share personal stories of devotion to St. Joseph, discuss how his example speaks especially to men, fathers, and workers, and explore the virtues that made him the guardian of Jesus and Mary. They also tackle questions about devotion to St. Joseph, superstition, and even why Catholics believe in purgatory.

Whether you're deepening your Lenten journey or looking for a stronger model of discipleship, this conversation invites you to rediscover the quiet but powerful witness of St. Joseph.

Find the Glories of St. Joseph book here: https://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/the-glories-of-st-joseph/p/BKSNT00204?srsltid=AfmBOoq5OYlgy-_GDVrLImWHXG98ZknApPnEOJvR7KwzeX_efNLgJIIz

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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In this honest mid-Lent check-in, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger reflect on what happens when sickness, stress, family life, and temptation derail your carefully crafted Lenten commitments. From giving up sweets and alcohol to family prayer and creative almsgiving, they share practical wisdom on perseverance, flexibility, and beginning again.

They also tackle common questions:

Are almsgiving and tithing the same thing?

How do you structure a Catholic men’s group?

Are the three pillars of Lent equal in weight?

If you’ve struggled, compromised, or feel like you need a reset, this episode is your encouragement: don’t give up. Begin again. Charity is the measure.

This is the Practicing Catholic Podcast, where we explore the often arduous—but always fruitful—practice of holiness in everyday life.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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In this episode of the Practicing Catholic Podcast, Dr. Scott Hefelfinger and Taylor Kemp dive into the beauty, heartbreak, and moral tension at the heart of this modern musical. As we unpack the love story between Mia and Sebastian, we wrestle with a deeply human question: Is chasing your dreams worth the cost of love? Through the film’s unforgettable final montage, we explore sacrifice, vocation, hierarchy of goods, communication in relationships, and what true happiness really looks like.

This conversation is a reminder that Catholics don’t have to avoid “secular” films—we can engage them thoughtfully, find what is true and beautiful, and allow great storytelling to sharpen our understanding of faith, love, and the choices that shape our lives.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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From Genesis 1–4 to Deep Work, they reflect on how Scripture, the saints, and thoughtful reading can transform the intellectual life, spiritual life, and daily responsibilities of lay Catholics. They also discuss practical takeaways: creating a reading plan, committing to a prayer schedule, and developing a personal rule of life. If you’re looking for faithful book recommendations—or inspiration to grow in holiness—this episode is for you.

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Together, they explore the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—and share practical, lived examples of how these practices can shape family life, reorder desires, and make room for deeper intimacy with God. From navigating media and technology to forming children in generosity and prayer, this conversation offers a grounded, realistic approach to Lenten commitments.

Whether you’re discerning your Lenten plan or looking to reframe Lent as an invitation rather than a burden, this episode will help you enter the season with clarity, humility, and hope.

Want to go deeper this Lent? Check out these resources on Formed!

• How to Lent: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096760
• Foretold: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1096357
• The Heart of Prayer with Bishop Andrew Cozzens: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1473553

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here:  http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Together, they explore the dramatic threshing floor scene, the role of the kinsman-redeemer, and how Ruth and Boaz break destructive patterns from Israel’s past through freedom, courage, and moral clarity. Set against the chaos of the period of the Judges, Ruth reveals how God’s providence works through ordinary choices marked by fidelity, chastity, and self-giving love.

This conversation highlights why Ruth stands at the heart of salvation history — pointing forward to King David and ultimately to Christ — and why its message still speaks powerfully to modern Christians seeking holiness in family life, marriage, and everyday decisions.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here:  http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Together, we explore the historical and cultural context of Ruth, unpacking themes of loyalty, family, and redemption that often get overlooked. This conversation helps listeners see how Ruth fits into the larger story of salvation history—and why the Church continues to return to it as a source of wisdom and hope.

This is part one of our Practicing Catholic Bible study on the Book of Ruth, setting the foundation for a deeper dive in the next episode.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here:  

http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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The conversation unpacks how the virtues form our character, guide our decisions, and help us love God and neighbor more fully. Drawing from Scripture, philosophy, and Catholic tradition, the hosts explain how virtue is not about restriction, but about becoming the kind of person who can joyfully choose the good.

The episode also tackles practical and timely questions, including whether Catholics should have retirement accounts, how to live simply without fear or attachment, and how the living can help the souls in purgatory. This thoughtful discussion offers both spiritual depth and concrete guidance for everyday Catholic life.

Looking for more? Check out these resources:

• Watch the Art of Living series on Formed: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/1482207
• Buy the Art of Living book here: https://catholic.market/gifts/women/the-art-of-living-the-cardinal-virtues-and-the-freedom-to-love/?searchid=1413125&search_query=art+of+living 
• Purchase the Parish Program version of Art of Living with Leader and Participant Guides here: https://catholic.market/programs/the-art-of-living/

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here:

http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Raising faithful Catholic kids can feel overwhelming—especially when there’s no formula, no mute button, and no guarantee of outcomes. In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger reflect honestly on what they’ve learned as parents striving to hand on the faith in everyday family life.

From modeling prayer and making faith incarnational to building strong community, loving your spouse well, and learning not to over-spiritualize every parenting decision, this conversation offers grounded, hopeful wisdom for Catholic parents at every stage. The hosts also answer practical listener questions, including how to balance family life with service and when to take misbehaving kids out of Mass—all while trusting that our children ultimately belong to God.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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From audio drama to family storytelling, Paul explains why narrative is such a natural way to communicate faith, form virtue, and spark meaningful conversations between parents and children. The episode also introduces Welcome to Hope Springs, a newCatholic audio drama created to bring families together through engaging, faith-filled stories kids and parents can enjoy together.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

• Check out the new Hope Springs Audio Drama Series at HopeSprings.org!
• More audio dramas written by Paul McCusker and produced by the Augustine Institute - https://app.formed.org/app/collections/115518 
• Hope Springs Book Series by Paul McCusker - https://catholic.market/books/hope-springs/the-adventures-of-nick-sam/ 
• A Landscape with Dragons by Michael O’Brien - https://catholic.market/books/a-landscape-with-dragons-the-battle-for-your-childs-mind/ 

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The conversation focuses especially on Thérèse’s “Little Way”—doing ordinary things with extraordinary love—and how it offers a practical, challenging path to holiness in everyday life. From suffering and trust to family life, work, and prayer, this episode invites listeners to discover how St. Thérèse’s simple yet demanding spirituality can transform their daily practice of the faith.

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Using the Parable of the Sower, the conversation examines common obstacles to spiritual growth, including shallow faith, fear of difficulty, and anxiety rooted in attachment to material things. Listeners are invited to consider three practical commitments for the year ahead: deepening understanding of the faith, living with evangelical courage, and practicing generosity through detachment and almsgiving. Whether you love New Year’s resolutions or struggle to keep them, this episode reframes the new year as an opportunity to begin again with grace.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Along the way, they reflect on how Christmas takes on new depth as parents, how children naturally grasp the beauty of Christ’s birth, and why the season invites us to slow down, rejoice, and keep celebrating well beyond December 25. It’s a joyful reminder that the mystery of Christmas is best lived in community, gratitude, and faith.

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They discuss practical strategies for maintaining peace, communicating expectations with loved ones, fostering authentic joy, witnessing the faith without conflict, and keeping prayer at the center of a busy season. With humor, honesty, and pastoral insight, they help listeners enter Christmas prepared to love well – even when things get messy.

Plus: family traditions that keep Christ at the center, tips for praying while traveling, and the great Santa/St. Nicholas conversation.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

Be sure to check out The Art of Living video series, coming to Formed in January 2026. Buy The Art of Living here: https://catholic.market/gifts/women/the-art-of-living-the-cardinal-virtues-and-the-freedom-to-love/?srsltid=AfmBOorEU_8H0jDiFN_9f5zw3ktOL75XP-7R9sfRadrDP3IefzC9m4Li

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The conversation touches on common questions about the Rosary, the meaning of Marian intercession, and how Mary continues to guide believers toward her Son. With practical tips for deepening Marian devotion, recommended resources, and honest reflections on family life, this episode offers both clarity and inspiration for anyone seeking to grow closer to Christ through His Mother.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com
 

Retreats and Conferences at the Augustine Institute: https://www.augustineinstitute.org/about-pages/retreats-and-conferences

Lectio: Prayer on Formed: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/115705

ESV Catholic Edition on Catholic Market: https://catholic.market/bibles/?srsltid=AfmBOoq7H-MLGMFNpqKZA8X1BO8xBunNaqvcUQT1dd3J8i748tAvnihH

The Bible: What Every Catholic Should Know: https://catholic.market/books/the-bible-what-every-catholic-should-know/?searchid=1391521&search_query=the+bible%3A+what+every+

-Get a FREE 7 day trial of Formed  https://watch.formed.org/checkout/subscribe/purchase

-Check out the Augustine Institute: https://bit.ly/3i4kXcf

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

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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

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

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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

Mentioned in today's episode:

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

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

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

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

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From Auschwitz to the timeless call of Christ, discover why Catholicism doesn’t shy away from suffering, how art has always shaped the Church’s identity, and how beauty can emerge even from tragedy.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Catholic art embraces suffering and beauty together
• How St. Maximilian Kolbe’s sacrifice reveals the heart of the priesthood
• What Catholic creatives can learn about perseverance in their work
• How modern technology like film carries the Gospel today

🎬 Triumph of the Heart is in theaters now! Don’t miss this powerful Catholic film:

👉 Buy tickets on Fandango: https://www.fandango.com/triumph-of-the-heart-2025-241138/movie-overview

👉 Buy tickets on AMC: https://www.amctheatres.com/movies/triumph-of-the-heart-79988

If you’ve ever wondered why Catholic art can be so raw or how beauty saves souls, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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

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What does the “universal call to holiness” really mean? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger dive deep into this teaching from Lumen Gentium and Vatican II, breaking down what holiness looks like in everyday life. Is it about miracles and levitation—or the perfection of charity? Hear stories of struggle, perseverance, and adventure in the Christian life, plus answers to real listener questions about discouragement, discerning your vocation, and living holiness as a lay Catholic.

If you’ve ever wondered how to respond to Christ’s words “Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect”—this episode will help you see that holiness is both possible and personal.

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

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

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