Why is prayer so difficult—even when we know it’s important? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Heffelfinger dive into the struggles we all face in prayer: distraction, busyness, pride, and dryness. Drawing from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the wisdom of the saints, and personal experience, they explore why prayer often feels like a battle and how humility, trust, and perseverance help us grow in friendship with God. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Why the Saints Still Matter Today
What can the lives of the Saints teach us about following Christ today? In this episode of Practicing Catholic, we explore why the Saints are more than distant historical figures—they are models, guides, and spiritual “big brothers and sisters” who show us how to grow in holiness.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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Why Work Matters: A Catholic Perspective on Purpose & Productivity
Work isn’t just a paycheck — it’s a path to holiness. In this episode ofPracticing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger dive deep into the Catholic understanding of work: why it’s fundamentally good, how Scripture and Church teaching frame it, and how simple practices like the morning offering can transform your daily routine.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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Triumph of the Heart: Why Art & Suffering Matter in Faith (w/ Filmmaker)
In this episode of Practicing Catholic, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger sit down with filmmaker Anthony D’Ambrosio, writer and director of the powerful new film Triumph of the Heart about St. Maximilian Kolbe.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 togetherHow St. Maximilian Kolbe’s sacrifice reveals the heart of the priesthoodWhat Catholic creatives can learn about perseverance in their workHow 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-79988If 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/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Holiness Isn’t Just for Saints: What Vatican II Really Taught
Holiness isn’t just for saints. Vatican II taught that every Catholic is called to holiness—here’s what that actually looks like in real life.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/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
A weekly podcast for everyday holiness featuring real conversations and practical wisdom to arm you in the ordinary pursuit of sanctification.
Join the Augustine Institute’s Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger as they explore topics such as work, family life, prayer, and Catholic culture. Each episode encourages and equips you with timeless wisdom drawn from Scripture, the lives of the Saints, and the Tradition of the Church, offering practical ways to grow in holiness in the midst of daily life.
Have a question or an idea for a future episode? We’d love to hear it! Click here: http://bit.ly/3IHWk5q
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