This is both dated, and current. It's from a Substack Live session I hosted back in April, but I never got around to making it available on-demand. In this episode I discuss the theology behind Heaven, Hell, and the Catholic teachings regarding who goes where based on an essay I published in April, titled "Heaven, Hell, and My Prescription for What We Should Be Focused on".
We'll explore the concepts of mercy, justice, and the importance of staying true to Church teachings. I'll share personal anecdotes, and outline the essentials for salvation—baptism and belief in Jesus Christ. I also tackle complex questions surrounding unbaptized souls, the impact of good works, and the nuanced theology that makes Catholicism both rich and challenging. Are nice people guaranteed a place in Heaven? Let's find out!
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Essay: "Heaven, Hell, My prescription..."

In this abbreviated episode (Full version, for paid subscribers) I share my initial reactions to the election of Pope Leo XIV, my initial hope for Cardinal Sarah, and what I think of Pope Leo so far. Learn why I felt a sense of both surprise and optimism when I saw the new pope, and hear my thoughts on the damage done during Pope Francis's papacy – not as an attack, but as a cautionary tale for the future. For those passionate about understanding the Catholic Church's direction, this episode is a must-listen.
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Let's dive into this important moment in church history together!

00:00 Introduction to the Catholic Experience Podcast

01:03 Subscription Details and Benefits

01:44 Starting the Show: Reactions and Thoughts

03:42 The Election of Pope Leo: A Personal Account

08:48 Comparing Pope Leo and Pope Francis

26:24 The Importance of Tradition in the Church

33:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

NOTE: I keep saying “abrogates” when what I meant was “abdicates” (when a pope (or a king) steps down). Sorry for any confusion.
In this live episode of the Catholic Adventurer Podcast, broadcasted on Substack, I respond to the shocking yet not entirely surprising news of Pope Francis' death on April 21, 2025. I discuss my initial reactions, the historical context of such an event, and what I expect the reaction among Catholics, especially those in the traditionalist camps, will be. The episode explores the importance of unity within the Church and reflects on the complexity of Pope Francis' pontificate, emphasizing the Church's need for a leader capable of addressing contemporary issues. I also touch on the challenges of evangelizing in today's world and the impact of social media.

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