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 children’s songs that teach the faith and a delightful monthly show called “Little Saints TV with Mrs. Faith.” Fr. Edward even has a recurring guest spot as the show’s priestly friend.
If you’re looking for wholesome, high-quality Catholic content for the littles in your life, you won’t want to miss this conversation!
Learn more: https://www.raisingsaintstv.org
Find them on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@raisingsaintstv
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 to Revelation.
In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney explores what makes this book unique, why it fills such an important gap for Catholic families, and how it can help children come to know and love the story of God’s love.
📖 Get your copy of The Story of All Stories today from Word on Fire! https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/the-story-of-all-stories?srsltid=AfmBOool0NoaJIZtsnxNBwVFwRMgQBkBmyIeXfk7zgUEZMdeTwnDorTV
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. Together, Fr. Edward and Anthony explore how this story can help children—and families—rediscover the Christian roots of All Hallows’ Eve, while remembering to pray for the holy souls in Purgatory.
👻 Whether you’re looking for a wholesome Halloween story or want to help your family grow in faith, this episode will warm your heart and uplift your spirit.
📖 Get your copy of All Hallows’ Eve here:
👉 https://sophiainstitute.com/promo/all-hallows-eve/?oid=779&affid=203
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 wishes had gone differently during the Synod, and how this experience has shaped his understanding of the Church today.
Fr. Edward also asks the Cardinal about his priestly vocation and ministry, offering listeners a glimpse into his life of faith and service.
📘 Buy his book: Word, Sacrament, Charism — available from Ignatius Press.
https://ignatius.com/word-sacrament-charism-wscp/
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 found a broken statue of Mary that transformed his life and the lives of countless others.
They also discuss the response of fans (“Kev Heads”), Kevin’s family, and why this story resonates so deeply with people across the country.
👉 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation — and make plans to see Broken Mary in theaters October 7!
Buy tickets here: https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/broken-mary-the-kevin-matthews-story/
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 little about Bernadette, discovering the musical, and being moved to help share her story worldwide.
Together they discuss the impact of musicals, how American audiences embrace them, the reception in France, and why this story matters today.
🎭 Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at Bernadette The Musical and what to expect when it arrives in theaters this fall.
https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/bernadette-of-lourdes-the-musical-in-cinema/
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 takeaways from the movie
*The role of Oscar Schindler in the story
*Why filmmakers continue making Holocaust movies
*Her favorite scenes from the film
Hear from Liv and Fr. Edward as the two react and share their reflections and discuss the themes, history, and impact of this powerful film.
🎬 If you’re curious about Bau: Artist at War and why it’s worth watching, this interview will give you a deeper look. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more faith-based conversations on movies, culture, and life.
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:
Whether you’re just learning about Padre Pio or already have a devotion to him, this conversation will inspire you to discover anew the life, miracles, and message of this extraordinary saint.
👉 Find Mary O’Regan’s book through Sophia Institute Press, and be sure to subscribe for more conversations on saints, faith, and devotion.
Buy her book: https://www.sojolk8trk.com/B72FJ8/2B99BFK/
Visit her blog: http://thepathlesstaken7.blogspot.com
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 renaissance.
👉 Topics discussed:
The moment Rob realized Pope Leo was from Chicago
Behind the scenes of Spirit Juice’s videos on Pope Leo’s favorite Chicago spots
What it was like filming at Pope Leo’s childhood home (and is the neighborhood safe?)
The story of losing press credentials for the White Sox Stadium Mass—and making it work anyway
Whether Pope Leo’s family has seen the videos
Is Catholic art leading the way again, like in the Renaissance?
📌 Perfect for those interested in Catholic media, Church history, and the inspiring story of Pope Leo’s Chicago connection.
Watch the videos:
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 we discuss include:
• How family life shaped Anthony’s vocation as a filmmaker
• The transition from short film to feature-length story
• Hopes for the future of Catholic films and evangelization
• Will Triumph make an impact at the box office?
• How the movie may foster devotion to St. Maximilian Kolbe and Mary
• Reflections on the cast, Catholic identity, and how film can become a channel of grace
Dr. D’Ambrosio also shares details on how to see Triumph of the Heart in theaters and what makes this project unique in the landscape of faith-based films.
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 chaplains, Sunday observance, and living as a Catholic man in a demanding environment
🔥 Why firefighters are teased for their good cooking and how camaraderie builds strength
🔥 The lasting impact September 11 had on the fire service
This episode is both a reflection on service and sacrifice and a reminder of the deep connection between faith and vocation.
👉 Be sure to check out Benjamin’s book The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17 wherever books are sold. https://ignatius.com/the-proving-grounds-pgp/
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 childhood of St. Thérèse of Lisieux.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
🎵 How Bradley connects country music with Catholicism in a way that resonates with listeners
🎵 His journey building a devoted fan base while staying true to his faith
🎵 Fr. Edward’s “wish list” of country songs he wishes Bradley would write
🎵 Nostalgic reflections on musicians from Fr. Edward's childhood and the influence they had.
Whether you’re a country music fan, a Catholic looking for faith-filled music, or simply love hearing powerful testimonies, this episode is for you.
📲 Listen and subscribe on Fireside, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and watch the full video episode on YouTube.
🎶 Find Bradley Banning’s music on your favorite streaming platforms!
https://www.bradleybanning.com
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 renew the heart of anyone who prays them.
Together, Fr. Edward and Dr. Bosarge discuss:
Who Fr. Robert Bradley, S.J. was and his devotion to Mary
How Dr. Bosarge came to know him and work as his editor
The purpose and prayerful use of Our Lady’s Psalter
Why the Rosary can transform and renew our spiritual lives
Why Fr. Donald Calloway recommended this book for Lent
Why this work has been called Fr. Bradley’s “love letter” to the Blessed Mother
If you’re seeking a deeper way to pray the Rosary and draw closer to Mary, this episode will inspire you to pick up Our Lady’s Psalter and discover its timeless beauty.
📖 Learn more or get your copy: https://angelicopress.com/products/our-ladys-psalter-robert-bradley
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 formation leader with Exodus 90, about the history, spirituality, and modern revival of St. Michael’s Lent.
Together they explore:
• How St. Francis of Assisi first observed St. Michael’s Lent
• Why it begins on August 15 (Assumption) and ends on September 29 (Michaelmas)
• Whether other Catholic saints followed this tradition
• How it compares to the Lenten season and whether feast days are penance-free
• Practical ideas for living St. Michael’s Lent today
• What Exodus 90 is offering to help men spiritually engage with this season
Whether you’re looking for a way to deepen your Catholic faith, embrace penance and prayer, or just curious about this revived Catholic tradition, this episode is for you.
🔔 Subscribe for more Catholic insights and spiritual practices.
💪 Check out Exodus 90’s St. Michael’s Lent resources at https://exodus90.com/st-michaels-lent/
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 involving medicine for his stomach that meant more than it seemed. What could that mean? You’ll have to listen to find out.
Hear a sibling’s unique insight into her brother’s sanctity, his cause for canonization, and why his story still inspires so many around the world today.
🎧 Listen now on Hey Everybody, It’s Fr. Edward! wherever you get your podcasts.
Buy the book- https://ignatius.com/cardinal-nguyen-van-thuan-cfntp/
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 advertising satanism—and reflect on the emptiness such a path offers. I also tell of a fascinating encounter with a Mormon missionary at the grave of Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, Illinois, and offer a quick look at the little-known Marian apparition of Mount Zvir in Slovakia.
Finally, I wrap things up with a fun reflection on how the story of Superman mirrors the mission of Christ.
You won’t want to miss this spiritual road trip of reflections, encounters, and unexpected grace.
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 Cabrini’s shrines), and the spiritual impact of intercessory prayer.
Whether you’re passionate about Catholic pilgrimages, chastity outreach, or growing in your spiritual life, this conversation is full of wisdom, humor, and grace.
🌟 Topics Discussed:
Working at the Champion Shrine (the only approved Marian apparition site in the U.S.)
How to prepare for a pilgrimage
Powerful moments from her shrine visits
The story behind her chastity speaking ministry
Gift shop finds & praying with intention
🔔 Subscribe for more Catholic stories, interviews, and faith inspiration!
Learn more about her ministry: https://www.theeverydaysaint.com
Buy Fr. Looney's book Places of Grace: https://www.amazon.com/Places-Grace-Shrines-Monasteries-Received/dp/B0D1XRLSJG/
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 inspiring story of Fr. Emil Kapaun, Medal of Honor recipient and Servant of God
• The true story behind Fighting Spirit and its ecumenical approach
• The tragedy of the Dorchester and how chaplains of different faiths became symbols of unity and sacrifice
• What critics and audiences are saying about Fighting Spirit (including its Rotten Tomatoes score!)
• How to watch the documentary and what you can expect
This conversation will deepen your patriotism, strengthen your faith, and leave you inspired by the courage of those who ministered in war’s darkest hours.
👉 Watch Fighting Spirit today on VOD platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, or Google Play.
🔗 Subscribe and share this episode to honor our military chaplains and keep their stories alive. ”
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:
What is Mayslake Ministries and who they serve
Why spiritual direction can be a life-changing practice
The unique structure and spiritual value of 365-day devotionals
How Marian apparitions (including Champion) are included in Everyday with Mary
How one can write 365 reflections about the humble and silent St. Joseph
Reflections on Catholic life, personal prayer, and living with purpose
Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic or just beginning to explore deeper spiritual practices, this episode offers rich encouragement to draw closer to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—every single day.
Buy Everyday with Jesus- https://www.osvcatholicbookstore.com/every-day-with-jesus.html
Learn about Mayslake Ministries- https://www.mayslakeministries.org
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 thinks it's one of the most thought-provoking movies in recent years.
He also shares that two audience members walked out of the theater after the first 30 minutes, calling the movie “stupid”—a sentiment Fr. Looney firmly refutes. Stay tuned to hear why he believes they missed the entire point of the film.
In this video, Fr. Looney covers:
The spiritual and philosophical impact of The Life of Chuck
Key themes of mortality, memory, and meaning
Two brief moral cautions for viewers to be aware of
Why he's already planning to watch it multiple more times
And how this film might inspire reflection on life and faith
📽️ Subscribe for more Catholic film reviews, reactions, and reflections on faith and culture.
Read my review: https://catholic-link.org/confronted-with-mortality-with-the-life-of-chuck/