The Brooke Taylor Show

TBTS #270 The Mission of Men: Lessons from St. Joseph with Devin Schadt

March is the month the Catholic Church dedicates to Saint Joseph. In this episode, Devin Schadt, co‑founder of the Fathers of St. Joseph joins Brooke to explore biblical masculinity, the mission of men, and St. Joseph as a model for fatherhood. Devin shares powerful insights on humility, suffering, and embracing our God‑given identity to become true warrior‑heroes in today’s culture.

Key Topics:

• The spiritual role of St. Joseph as a model for fathers
• The importance of humility and silence in masculinity
• The internal battle between worldly promises and divine peace
• The significance of divine sonship and identity in manhood
• The role of suffering and perseverance in spiritual growth

Click here for the Father of St. Joseph.

TBTS #269: Saint Patrick: From Slave to Shepherd of Ireland - featuring Br. Richard Hendrick OFM. Cap.

On this episode: Excitement for the Christ in Her Conference and preparing for Total Consecration to the Holy Face. Plus, special guest Richard Hendrick returns to explore the life and spiritual journey of St. Patrick, Ireland's patron saint. Discover how Patrick's experiences of slavery, prayer, and land shaped his mission and spirituality, offering timeless lessons on trust, presence, and divine grace.

TBTS #268: Quirky Catholic Kids: Raising Neurodivergent Saints with Ginny Kochis

In this episode, Ginny Kochis shares her inspiring journey as a Catholic mom and author of Quirky Catholic Kids, offering insights on supporting neurodivergent children through faith and community. We explore challenges, saintly intercessors, and prayer strategies.

We cover:

Understanding neurodivergence: autism, ADHD, OCD, PDA, and more

The spiritual approach: integrating saints and prayers like the litany of humility

Embracing the spectrum: development versus discipline in raising neurodivergent children

Practical tips for Mass attendance 

Personal stories of meltdowns, acceptance, and community support

Saints as intercessors: Therese, Zellie, Louie, and others, inspiring perseverance and patience

Creating sensory-friendly Mass environments and advocacy within parishes

The importance of surrender and trust in God's plan for our families

Resources & Links:

• Quirky Catholic Kids: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy
• Sophia Institute Press
• Zellie Society coaching program
• Sensory-Friendly Mass in Burke, VA
• Saint Therese of Lisieux
• St. Dymphna — Patron Saint of mental health
• Prayer Resources

Connect with Ginny Kochis:

• Quirky Catholic Kids Website
• Facebook Group for Catholic Parents of Neurodivergent Kids
• Instagram

 

TBTS #267: Sustained by God: Health, Strength, and the Grace to Keep Moving with Maria Gari

In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Maria Gari explore the integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, especially during Lent. They discuss the importance of movement, hormonal health, and the transformative power of faith and community.

Key Topics:

The integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health
The role of movement and exercise in holistic wellbeing
Hormonal health and menopause management for women
The significance of faith, prayer, and community during Lent

 

Chapters

00:00 Brooke shares a personal story about her son Gus and Lent
01:21 Gus' surprising journey into running and spiritual growth
03:12 Lent as a time for honest self-assessment and growth
04:04 Introducing Maria Gari and her work with women’s health and fitness
04:58 Patterns in women’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health
06:11 Practical ways to speak kindly to ourselves during struggles
07:01 Maria shares her personal Lent journey and reliance on God's sustenance
08:25 The importance of journaling God's faithfulness during Lent
09:44 Approaching fasting and discipline with kindness, not punishment
11:10 The significance of falling and getting back up in faith
11:59 Hormonal health and menopause: practical tips for women over 40
14:10 Strength training and its benefits for long-term health
15:17 Bioidentical hormones and holistic approaches to menopause
17:00 Natural family planning and its role in marriage preparation
19:24 Empowering women through knowledge of their bodies and health
20:52 The shift away from artificial birth control and its health implications
23:30 The importance of holistic care and natural family planning in marriage
23:57 Reframing movement as honoring the body, not punishment
26:43 The spiritual and mental health benefits of running
28:10 Adapting exercise routines for aging bodies and hormonal health
30:39 Encouragement for women feeling tired but eager to grow spiritually and physically
31:49 Connecting with Maria Gari and her resources for women’s health and faith

Guest Links:

Website - https://runningmyselftogether.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/runningmyselftogether/

 

TBTS #266: Fasting from Financial Chaos: Reclaiming Financial Habits with Sam Fatzinger

Lent invites us to slow down, simplify, and take an honest look at the habits that shape our lives, including the way we handle money. In this episode, Brooke welcomes Sam Fatzinger for a conversation on financial discipline, generational challenges, and the spiritual renewal that can come from reordering our priorities.

Sam reflects on how money habits are formed in childhood, the power of mentoring within families, and the importance of unity and communication for couples preparing for marriage.

The discussion also highlights the role of community support, the freedom that comes from delayed gratification, and the deeper peace that emerges when finances are properly ordered with faith and purpose.

Click here for Sam's book.

Click here for the Joyful Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.

Click here for the Christ in Her event in Beaumont, Texas.

TBTS #265: Feasting and Fasting: The Work of Lent with Fr. Leo Patalinghug

In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Father Leo Patalinghug explore the themes of Lent, fasting, and the importance of family meals. They discuss the significance of Shrovetide, the relationship between fasting and spiritual growth, and the impact of technology on modern life. Father Leo emphasizes the need for intentionality in family meals and the sacredness of cooking. The conversation also touches on the value of pilgrimage as a means of spiritual renewal and concludes with reflections on approaching Lent with clarity and sobriety.

 

 

Links

Join Fr. Leo, Bishop John E. Keehner, and Brooke Taylor on pilgrimage!

Click here for details. 

 

Click here for the sermon from Saint John Henry Newman on Fasting as a Source of Trial.

 

Click here for Fr. Leo's Plating Grace

TBTS #264: A Catholic Wedding Guide with Jo from Four Loves Photo & Film

Brooke Taylor and Jo Schnitzer explore the beauty and significance of Catholic marriage, emphasizing the importance of family support, prayer, and the sacramental nature of weddings.

They discuss the challenges couples face in planning their weddings, including navigating costs, cultural influences, and the impact of social media.

The conversation highlights the role of traditions and rituals in Catholic weddings, the importance of creating a peaceful environment, and the meaningful touches parents can contribute.

Ultimately, they express hope for the future of Catholic marriages and the excitement of young couples embracing the sacrament.

 

Chapters

00:00The Beauty of Catholic Marriage

02:51Role of Family in Marriage Preparation

05:31Navigating Wedding Planning

08:26Understanding Costs and Logistics

11:22Cultural Influences on Weddings

13:58The Importance of Prayer and Support

16:44Traditions and Rituals in Catholic Weddings

19:37Creating a Peaceful Wedding Environment

22:14Attire and Aesthetics for the Ceremony

25:00Meaningful Touches from Parents

27:41Hope for the Future of Catholic Marriages

TBTS# 263 Luke Brown LPCC-Carrying What Others Don’t See: Caregiver Fatigue and the Digital Overload

In this episode, Brooke Taylor shares a story about her daughter's equine therapy lesson, highlighting the everyday struggles faced by caregivers, particularly those caring for individuals with special needs. Nearly one in four adults in the U.S. is a caregiver, often juggling their own responsibilities alongside the needs of others. Special guest Luke Brown, a licensed professional clinical counselor, provides valuable guidance on managing caregiver stress.

Chapters

00:00The Glove Story: A Caregiver's Struggle

02:16Understanding Caregiver Burnout

04:42The Importance of Self-Care

09:55Finding Humor in Caregiving

18:04Recognizing Compassion Fatigue

24:08The Role of Community in Caregiving

29:59Setting Healthy Boundaries with Technology

37:28The Joy of Play in Parenting

39:21Final Thoughts on Caregiving and Community

Episode # 262 Breaking Through Spiritual Stagnation: The Power of the Holy Face

Summary

This episode explores the profound devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus, featuring Father Lawrence Carney, who discusses the spiritual journey and the significance of reparation, reverence, and reversion. The conversation delves into the historical and spiritual aspects of this devotion, its impact on personal faith, and its relevance in today's world. 

Click here for the book, Preparation for Total Consecration to the Holy Face of Jesus: How God Draws the Soul into the Purgative, Illuminative, and Unitive Ways.

Click here for the first book by Fr. Carney, Secret of the Holy Face.

Takeaways

• Consistent prayer correlates with contentment.
• The Holy Face devotion is cherished by saints like St. Therese of Lisieux.
• Father Carney emphasizes the importance of reparation, reverence, and reversion.
• The devotion offers a blueprint for engaging against spiritual challenges.
• St. Therese's spirituality was deeply connected to the Holy Face.
• Reversion involves returning to the Church and embracing its teachings.
• Spiritual reading is essential for deepening one's faith.
• The devotion to the Holy Face is a remedy for spiritual darkness.
• Father Carney shares personal insights on his spiritual journey.

 

TBTS #261: Fresh Star & Full Heart

In this episode, Brooke shares a personal update and reflects on the theme of making room in our hearts and lives. Discussion on home renovation project over the Christmas break, the challenges and lessons learned, and the importance of decluttering both physically and spiritually.

Brooke also shares insights from Pope Benedict XVI and St. John Henry Newman, emphasizing the need for inner renewal and attentiveness to God's presence. The episode concludes with A Prayer for Divine Illumination by Saint John Henry Newman and a preview of upcoming events and topics for the new season.

Takeaways

• Making room in our hearts is essential for spiritual growth.
• Home renovation can be both an exterior and interior journey.
• Decluttering helps focus on what truly matters.
• Pope Benedict XVI's insights on inner renewal.
• St. John Henry Newman's prayer emphasizes divine guidance.
• Social media detox can lead to unexpected peace.
• Upcoming events include retreats and conferences.
• The importance of attentiveness to God's presence.
• The new season of exciting topics and guests.

Click here for the Soul, Mind and Body Retreat in Tennessee. 

Click here for the Christ in Her Catholic Women's Conference in Texas.

Click here to join Brooke on Danube River Cruise and Christmas Markets pilgrimage.