In this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, I’m joined by filmmaker Anthony D’Ambrosio, director of the new movie Triumph of the Heart. This powerful film examines and celebrates the life of St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Catholic priest and martyr during the Holocaust, whose act of sacrificial love continues to inspire people across the world today.
Anthony shares the vision behind the film, the challenges of bringing such a profound story to the screen, and why Kolbe’s life resonates so deeply with our modern world. Together, we discuss the intersection of Lewis and Kolby and how stories of courage, sacrifice, and faith can change the way we view our own lives.
If you’re interested in faith, history, or powerful storytelling that bridges past and present, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
👉 Learn more about the film here: triumphoftheheart.com
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In this episode, we dive into Prince Caspian, the stirring sequel that reintroduces us to Narnia long after the Golden Age has passed. Narnia has fallen under tyranny, the old stories are nearly forgotten—and Aslan is silent. Or is He?
Joining me is singer-songwriter Thomas Austin, whose music is shaped by story, longing, and truth. Together, we explore the deep themes of Prince Caspian: waiting in faith, remembering rightly, and what it means to lead with humility. 🎵🌌. You can find Thomas Austin's music here.PLUS—we’re sipping on Caspian’s Woods, a rich and earthy Narnian tea blend crafted to match the mood of Telmarine forests and the hope of Aslan’s return. 🍵🌿 It’s one of several limited-edition Narnian blends we’ll share more about in the episode! You can find them here!
So whether you're hiking through the trees, sailing toward Aslan’s Country, or just brewing a cup at home—join us as we journey back to the heart of Narnia.
#CSLewis #PrinceCaspian #Narnia #Podcast #ThomasAustin #NarnianTea #AslanIsOnTheMove
In this episode, we journey into the wonder of C.S. Lewis’ beloved tale—exploring its themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the deep magic that governs Narnia. 🏰🕰️
Joining me is the brilliant Patti Callahan Henry, author of Once Upon a Wardrobe, a novel that beautifully explores the origins of Narnia and the power of storytelling. 📖💫 Together, we discuss the enduring legacy of Aslan, the Pevensie children, and why this story still speaks to our deepest longings.
So grab a cup of tea ☕, wrap up in a warm fur coat 🧥, and step through the wardrobe with us. Adventure awaits! 🗡️🦊
You can learn more about Patti and her works at her site here: Home | Patti Callahan Henry | NYT Bestselling Author
#CSLewis #Narnia #TheLionTheWitchAndTheWardrobe #OnceUponAWardrobe
In this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, Thornton is joined by David Bates (Pints with Jack) and singer-songwriter Matt Wheeler for a deep dive into their favorite Narnia book—The Horse and His Boy! 🏜️🐎 From daring escapes and desert treks to Aslan’s unseen guidance and a surprisingly hilarious villain, they unpack what makes this adventure so special.
Expect plenty of fanboy moments 🤓, discussions on the "problem of Susan", and why this book has captivated us for so long. Plus, Matt shares how Narnia influences his music 🎶, and David breaks down the book’s underrated humor! 😂
Whether you're a longtime Narnia fan or discovering The Horse and His Boy for the first time, this episode will have you dreaming of desert sunsets and talking horses. 🌅🐴
🎧 Grab your tea (Calormen Sunset blend 🍑🍵) and join the conversation!
Check out Matt's music at his website.
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Kindly like, rate, or subscribe.
#CSLewis #Narnia #TheLionTheWitchAndTheWardrobe #OnceUponAWardrobe
How do you bring the wonder of Narnia from the page to the stage? In this episode, I’m joined by Noah Stratton from The Logos Theatre, where they are bringing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to life in a breathtaking stage production. 🎭✨
We’ll go behind the scenes to discuss the creative process, the challenges of adapting Lewis’ beloved classic, and the deep themes of sacrifice, redemption, and courage that make this story timeless. From stunning costumes to larger-than-life puppetry (yes, even Aslan himself! 🦁🔥), you won’t want to miss this conversation.
So grab a warm drink ☕, imagine yourself stepping through the wardrobe, and join us as we explore the magic of Narnia on stage!
You can check out the play and purchase tickets at this link.
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Kindly like, rate, or subscribe.
#CSLewis #Narnia #TheLionTheWitchAndTheWardrobe #LogosTheatre #StageMagic #AslanIsOnTheMove
Check out Magic Mind: https://www.magicmind.com/MERECSLJAN
In this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, we dive into C.S. Lewis’ essay “It All Began with a Picture…” 🎨, where he shares how The Chronicles of Narnia first took shape in his imagination. How did a mental image of a faun with an umbrella ☂️ lead to one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time? We’ll explore Lewis’ creative process, the mystery of inspiration, and what his experience teaches us about storytelling and faith.
Plus, Thornton gives an overview of the year ahead 📅 and tackles the Chronicles of Narnia reading order controversy 📚🔥—should you read them in publication order or chronological order? Join us for a fascinating discussion on Lewis, imagination, and the stories that shape us!
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
📚✨ As we wrap up 2024, Thornton reflects on a year of diving into C.S. Lewis’ works, with this year’s theme of C.S. Lewis and Friendship guiding the journey. From the joys and challenges of true companionship to the deep spiritual lessons of love and selflessness, this episode explores how Lewis’ insights apply to both friendships and marriages. 💡🤝❤️
Thornton shares how Letter 26 of The Screwtape Letters impacted his understanding of self-giving love, profoundly shaping his marriage and relationships. 💍💬
Celebrate #CSLewisReadingDay with us as we honor the timeless wisdom of Lewis and the friendships that make life richer! 🎙️📖
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
#MereCSLewisPodcast #Friendship #Love #YearInReview
*Re-Mastered* In this episode we dive into Lewis’s profound spiritual fantasy, The Great Divorce. 🚍🌄 Discover the fascinating background behind the book, from its roots in medieval theology to its bold rebuttal of William Blake’s The Marriage of Heaven and Hell. We break down key moments, like the ghostly bishop’s intellectual pride 🧠❌ and the man with the red lizard’s transformation 🦎🔥➡️🐎.Plus, we’re joined by the insightful David Bates from Pints with Jack 🍻, who shares his thoughts on Lewis’s vision of joy, free will, and redemption. This is an episode full of wisdom, wonder, and hope. Don’t miss it! 🙌📖
You can check out the Pints with Jack podcast here: https://www.pintswithjack.com/.
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
For our special Halloween episode, we’re diving into the sinister world of C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters —and we’re bringing in a special guest, Rev. Brian McGreevy, to guide us through the shadows!
Written during the turmoil of World War II, Lewis crafted this satirical and chilling tale to explore the subtle ways in which evil infiltrates everyday life. Together with Rev. McGreevy, we explore not just the chilling strategies of Screwtape and Wormwood, but also the habits and practices that can protect us from such spiritual pitfalls. We chat about the fascinating way architecture can point us to Heaven, the best way to read and absorb these letters, and speculate on what future Screwtape Letters might address in our modern world.
With key excerpts and haunting insights, this episode is the perfect blend of spooky and thought-provoking. So, dim the lights, brew a cup of something warm, and join us for a journey into temptation’s darkest corners.
You can find Rev. McGreevy's letter by letter podcast of The Screwtape Letters at this link.
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
Get ready for a deep dive into the poetic mind of C.S. Lewis as we prepare for our upcoming discussion on The Screwtape Letters! In this episode, Thornton and a special poetry expert explore three of Lewis's profound poems🖋️✨
Join us as we unpack the darkly insightful "Wormwood," a precursor to the demonic perspectives we'll encounter in The Screwtape Letters. Then, we'll explore the chilling portrayal of human flaws in "Deadly Sins," where Lewis brings to life the classic vices with a sharp, poetic edge. Finally, we'll reflect on "On Being Human," a contemplative piece that delves into the human experience, highlighting the gap between our earthly existence and spiritual beings.
Whether you're a longtime Lewis enthusiast or new to his work, this episode is the perfect primer for understanding the themes of temptation, virtue, and humanity in The Screwtape Letters. Tune in and join us on this literary journey through Lewis's poetic explorations! 📚🔥 #CSLewis #Podcast #Poetry #ScrewtapeLetters #Literature #Faith #Temptation #HumanNature
Check out Melissa's poetry on Instagram @delRaepoetry and FanStory
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Prepare to journey beyond the Silent Planet 🌌✨ – the special episode dedicated to exploring C.S. Lewis's epic Ransom Trilogy! Thornton is joined by Christiana Hale, the insightful author of Deeper Heaven: A Reader's Guide to the Ransom Trilogy 📚🌠. Together, they delve into the rich and imaginative worlds of Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength. Discover the profound themes, complex characters, and theological underpinnings that make this trilogy a cornerstone of science fiction and fantasy literature. With Christiana's expert insights, this episode promises to take you on a journey through the cosmos and deep into the heart of Lewis's visionary storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, prepare to see the Ransom Trilogy in a whole new light. Tune in and explore the deeper heavens with us! 🚀✨ #CSLewis #RansomTrilogy #Podcast #DeeperHeaven #SciFi #Literature
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Welcome to The Hideous Strength 🌌✨ – Join hosts Thornton and Carolyn Weber, acclaimed author of Surprised by Oxford 🎓📖, now a major motion picture, as they delve into the gripping world of C.S. Lewis's That Hideous Strength 🏰🌀. Together, they unravel the novel's intricate plot, explore its profound themes of power, morality, and the clash between science and spirituality, and draw parallels to our contemporary world. With Carolyn's rich literary insights and Thornton's engaging commentary, the episode promises a deep dive into the heart of this classic masterpiece. Whether you're a C.S. Lewis aficionado or new to his work, prepare for lively discussions, thoughtful analysis, and a journey through the mind of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. 🚀✨ #CSLewis #ThatHideousStrength #Literature #SurprisedByOxford #RansomTrilogy
Check out the New College Franklin where Carolyn teaches. Check out the book and movie, Surprised by Oxford.
Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Welcome to Perelandra 🌌✨ Join hosts Thornton and John Thompson as they dive deep into the cosmos and discuss the second book in Lewis's Heaven's Trilogy (aka Ransom Trilogy). Explore the lush landscapes of Venus 🌿💫, encounter the profound philosophical and theological themes, and unpack the timeless wisdom of this classic sci-fi masterpiece. Whether you're a longtime admirer of C.S. Lewis 📚👓 or a newcomer to his works, Thornton and John bring fresh perspectives, engaging discussions, and a dash of humor to every episode. Tune in and embark on an interplanetary adventure that will expand your mind and touch your soul! 🚀🪐 Links discussed in the episode: Cambridge House Christian Study Center
Perelandra Center for Nature Research
Check out the Pints with Jack episode where they discuss the Perelandra Opera: S6E30 – AH – “Perelandra: The Opera”, After Hours with Prof. Judith Wolfe and John Marr - Pints With Jack Connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Thornton discusses the essay "On Science Fiction" to learn what Lewis had to say about the popular genre and how critics should deal with it.
Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Check out the new www.merecslewis.com to read a pirate story inspired by C.S. Lewis.
Step into the vivid world of C.S. Lewis' 'Out of the Silent Planet' with Thornton and guest Andrew Lazo! 🌌 Join us as we journey alongside Dr. Elwin Ransom to the mysterious planet of Malacandra, where vibrant landscapes and strange creatures await. From the crimson skies to the jagged mountains, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring adventure that awaits. Links referenced: The “Lost” C. S. Lewis Tapes (rabbitroom.com)
A Cosmic Find in The Screwtape Letters - A Pilgrim in Narnia
Mere Christians: A C. S. Lewis Conference Tickets, Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite
For your listening pleasure, the episode ends with Holst's Mercury.
Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Thornton reads three captivating poems by our favorite legendary author: 'Evolutionary Hymn,' 'Prelude to Space,' and 'Science Fiction Cradle-Song.' Thornton handpicked these gems for their thematic resonance with the beloved Ransom trilogy.
Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Jordan, from the Lesser-Known Lewis podcast, talks with Thornton about Lewis essay about faith, salvation, and aliens. Check out the LKL podcast at this link. Check out Jordan on Fargo here. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe.
Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/
Thornton interviews the creative forces behind the Prince Caspian stage play. They talk about their love for Lewis, adaptation decisions, and the future of Lewis' work on stage.
The play is running at the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. from 01 March to 27 April, 2024. You can purchase tickets at this site.
You can learn more about the Academy of Arts and Logos Theater at this site.
Let's connect on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Also, check out the new www.merecslewis.com where I've posted a review of the play.
Thornton and Andrew have a lovely talk with Nicole Stratton and Justin Swain about their stage adaptation of The Horse and His Boy. The discussion covers all things Narnia (including some breaking news), the creative process, and their philosophy of stage ministry. They performed their play at the Museum of the Bible from 20 January 2023 to 04 March 2023. Be prepared: the episode contains light spoilers for the play.
Thornton lays out the map for the new journey through Lewis' life and writings. He discusses the essay "On Stories" to learn what Lewis had to say about stories, characters, and plot. Connect with him on Instagram @merecslewis, 'X' aka Twitter at @MereCSLewis or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Check out the new www.merecslewis.com