The Brooke Taylor Show

TBTS #273: The Power of the Sacred Heart for Our Nation with Bishop John E. Keehner

In this episode, we explore the historic moment in our nation's history: the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. With Bishop John E. Keener from the Diocese of Sioux City, we delve into the spiritual implications as we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States. 

The Sacred Heart of Jesus represents profound love and compassion, serving as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice for humanity. In this episode, we discuss:
*The tradition of the Sacred Heart and its relevance in today's society.

*Bishop Keener's personal journey with devotion to the Sacred Heart and its transformative power.

*Resources for homes and families to prepare for the solemnity and consecration.

*The aspect of spiritual reparation in the Sacred Heart devotion.

 

Important Links:

Join us on pilgrimage! Click here for details on the Danube River Cruise.

Resources for the Consecration of the U.S. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Bishop Keehner pastoral letter 2026.

 

TBTS 272: The Poetry of May: A Marian Doorway with Br. Richard Hendrick, OFM, Cap.

In this episode, we explore the profound connection between nature, poetry, and Marian devotion, focusing on the significance of May as a month dedicated to Our Lady. Brother Richard Hendrick shares insights on how ancient traditions and modern practices can deepen our relationship with Mary, helping us find grace amid life's challenges. Poem shared by Br. Richard:

Maid that wed Divinity

Clay that shaped Infinity

Lady of the Trinity.

Keep me in your heart.

Key Topics:

• Reflection on Seamus Haney’s poem "May" and the sacramentality of seasons
• The importance of May and October for Marian devotion in the Church
• Personal and familial traditions of honoring Mary in May, including altars, processions, and garden customs
• The theological significance of Mary as Theotokos, the new Eve, and divine maternity
• The importance of slowing down and being present to recognize God's marvels
• Practical ways to incorporate Marian devotions into daily life, especially for weary mothers
• The harmony of faith and science in understanding Mary’s maternity through maternal chimerism
• Mary as a model for authentic femininity, balancing service, love, and divine calling

 

TBTS #271: Major Developments in the Sheen Beatification: Update with Dr. Peter Howard

In this episode, Brooke shares a short recap of her son’s recent wedding and a quick visit to Missouri, including details about the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.

The second half of the show focuses on major developments in the beatification cause of Venerable Fulton Sheen. Dr. Peter Howard, founder of the Fulton Sheen Institute, joins Brooke to discuss the latest updates, Sheen’s legacy, and why his teachings on the Eucharist and Marian devotion remain important today.

Click here for the Fulton Sheen Institute.  Learn more about the Sheen pilgrimage, and more.

Click here for Celebrate Sheen, for tickets to the beatification.

Click here for TBTS #259 with Br. Richard Hendrick about Catholic wedding traditions, and much more.

Click here for TBTS #264 with Catholic wedding photographer Jo Schnitzer.

 

In your kindness, please consider leaving a positive review and/or sharing this episode with others. Reach out to Brooke at SaintGabrielmedia@gmail.com

 

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