What would you do if your spouse, only 49 years old, was given a terminal diagnosis?

When doctors told Toni her husband would only live a few years if he didn't get a heart transplant, her world fell apart. Desperate for hope, she turned to prayer—pleading, bold, unwavering prayer. And then, on Christmas Eve in South Texas, something miraculous happened.

In this episode of The Bad Catholic Podcast, Toni shares the incredible story of how God answered her prayers with an undeniable sign: snow in a place where it never snows. Together, we explore the power of prayer, what it means to truly surrender to God’s will, and how moments of crisis can lead to extraordinary faith.

The story comes from A Christmas Miracle, a chapter in Bending Palms, the mother-daughter memoir Toni co-wrote with Trisha. Set to release on Amazon on December 23, 2024, the book shares inspiring stories of faith, resilience, and God’s grace.

You can download the chapter for free at https://trishaespinoza.com/christmas-miracle.

Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about us at badcatholicpodcast.com or visit us on Instagram @badcatholicpodcast. We'd love to see you there.

In this episode of The Bad Catholic Podcast, Trisha shares a deeply personal and vulnerable experience: her first confession in over 30 years. Nervous and unsure of what to expect, she opens up about the emotions leading up to the moment and her disappointment when she didn’t feel the release or connection she anticipated afterward. Joined by her dad, Deacon David, they explore the purpose and power of the sacrament of confession, the importance of preparation, and how God’s grace often works in unexpected ways. Whether you’ve been to confession recently or are hesitant to go, this episode offers an honest and heartfelt look at the complexities of reconciliation and faith.

00:00 Introduction to The Bad Catholic Podcast

01:02 Confession Experience: Nervous Beginnings

01:21 Facing the Priest: Overcoming Anxiety

02:38 The Act of Confession: Expectations vs. Reality

05:42 Understanding Reconciliation and Its Importance

07:41 Steps to a Good Confession

12:29 The Role of Community in Faith

16:51 Sacraments: Connecting the Supernatural and the Physical

22:03 Daily Examination of Conscience

23:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about us at badcatholicpodcast.com or visit us on Instagram @badcatholicpodcast. We'd love to see you there.

What’s an annulment, and why does it matter? Trisha dives into one of the most misunderstood aspects of Catholic marriage with her father, Deacon David. They break down what an annulment really means, why it’s not just “Catholic divorce,” and how the Church views marriage as a lifelong sacrament. From surprising real-life stories to insights on faith, healing, and second chances, this episode sheds light on why annulments are more than just paperwork—they’re a path to reconciliation and spiritual freedom. Plus, learn why delaying your annulment could cost you more than time. Tune in to laugh, learn, and maybe even start your own process!

Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about us at badcatholicpodcast.com or visit us on Instagram @badcatholicpodcast. We'd love to see you there.