The Catholic Morning Show

Jennifer Bryson, translator of Bread Grows in Winter, joins the program to discuss this moving narrative of faith, suffering, and steadfastness under totalitarian oppression. She reflects on the book’s spiritual depth and why she felt compelled to bring this story to English readers.
Book link: https://ignatius.com/bread-grows-in-winter-bgwp/

#JenniferBryson #BreadGrowsInWinter #IgnatiusPress #CatholicBooks #FaithInHardship

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Dr. Charles Camosy, professor of moral theology and bioethics at The Catholic University of America, joins the show to talk about the urgent moral questions facing society today. He draws on his academic work, writing, and public engagement to explain how Catholic moral theology provides a framework for truth, dignity, and ethical discernment in a rapidly shifting culture.

#CharlesCamosy #MoralTheology #Bioethics #CatholicEthics #CatholicTeaching

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Deacon Ned Willkom from All Saints Catholic Parish (Boyd-Stanley-Cadott, WI) joins the show to break open the Gospel for the Second Sunday of Advent. He discusses John the Baptist’s call to conversion, the symbolism of Advent preparation, and how Christ’s coming invites believers into deeper renewal and anticipation.

#DcnNedWillkom #AdventGospel #SecondSundayOfAdvent #SundayReflection #CatholicMorningShow

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Today on the Catholic Morning Show, Deacon Ned Willkom of All Saints Catholic Parish in Boyd-Stanley-Cadott, Wisconsin, joins us for this week’s Second Sunday of Advent Gospel chat. He reflects on the themes of repentance, preparation, and hope that shape the Advent season and invites listeners to enter more deeply into Christ’s coming.

Next, we welcome Dr. Charles Camosy, professor of moral theology and bioethics at The Catholic University of America. With a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and ten books to his name, Dr. Camosy discusses current ethical questions, the formation of mora...

In this week’s reflection, Deacon Randy Kiel, M.A., unpacks Isaiah 11 and the prophetic promise that a shoot will rise from the “stump”—or more accurately, the rootstock—of Jesse. Drawing from Hebrew imagery, he explains how the Davidic line, though seemingly destroyed in the Babylonian exile, would still bring forth the Messiah through God’s unstoppable life and fidelity.

Deacon Randy also highlights the gifts of the Spirit resting upon Christ and how these virtues echo figures like Saul and David before finding their fullness in Jesus. He connects this prophecy with the order of creation its...

Todd Dailey, CEO and Co-Founder of Eternize, shares the story behind the new wearable smart cross—a device crafted to help believers incorporate faith practices into everyday living through subtle, supportive technology. He explains how Eternize seeks to unite tradition and innovation.
Press Kit: https://myeternize.com

#Eternize #FaithAndTechnology #CatholicInnovation #SmartCross #ToddDailey

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Fr. Bruce Riebe, pastor of St. Andrew of Crete Byzantine Catholic Outreach of Iowa, joins us on the Feast of St. Nicholas to highlight the beauty, history, and theology of the Byzantine Catholic Church. He explains the Eastern Christian approach to worship, its connection to ancient Christianity, and why the Byzantine tradition is a vital part of the Catholic Church.

#ByzantineCatholic #FrBruceRiebe #StNicholas #EasternCatholic #CatholicTradition

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Today on the Catholic Morning Show, we welcome Deacon Randy Kiel, M.A., founder of Kardia Counseling, to explore the connection between emotional wellness, spiritual growth, and the healing God desires for every person. Deacon Randy shares pastoral insights from his years of counseling work and the hope available to all who seek Christ’s restoration.

Next, Fr. Bruce Riebe, pastor of St. Andrew of Crete Byzantine Catholic Outreach of Iowa, joins us on the Feast of St. Nicholas to explain the richness of the Byzantine Catholic Church. He discusses its traditions, liturgy, history, and what makes th...

Steve Ray, Catholic convert, speaker, and best-selling Ignatius Press author, joins the show to help listeners understand the Immaculate Conception. He walks through the biblical foundations, historical development, and spiritual meaning of Mary being preserved from original sin, clarifying one of the most frequently confused Catholic teachings.

#SteveRay #ImmaculateConception #MaryMotherOfGod #CatholicTeaching #MarianDoctrine

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Fr. Daniel Brandenburg, LC, a priest with the Legionaries of Christ, discusses the need for authentic leadership rooted in virtue, humility, and service. Drawing from his book Leader Like No Other, he offers insights for becoming a leader who reflects Christ in a world frequently marked by confusion and division.
Book link: https://www.regnumchrististore.com/collections/regnum-christi-store/products/leader-like-no-other?variant=49749239038254

#FrDanielBrandenburg #LeaderLikeNoOther #CatholicLeadership #ChristianLeadership #LegionariesOfChrist

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Today on the Catholic Morning Show, we welcome Fr. Daniel Brandenburg, LC, a priest of the Legionaries of Christ, to explore what it means to lead like Christ in a world starving for authentic, virtuous leadership. He shares themes from his book Leader Like No Other and offers practical ways to model Christ’s heart in our homes, workplaces, and communities.
Purchase the book here: https://www.regnumchrististore.com/collections/regnum-christi-store/products/leader-like-no-other?variant=49749239038254

In the second half of the program, Steve Ray—Catholic convert, speaker, and author of six Ignatius Press books—joins us to discus...

In this interview, Peter Carter—director of the Catholic Sacred Music Project and director of sacred music at both the Aquinas Institute of Princeton University and St. John the Baptist Church in Allentown, NJ—explores the renewal of sacred music in today’s Church. Drawing from his collaboration with Robert Cardinal Sarah, he reflects on the Church’s rich musical heritage, current liturgical challenges, and the central truth that sacred music leads us toward Christ.

Learn more about the Catholic Sacred Music Project: https://sacredmusicproject.org/

#SacredMusic #PeterCarter #CardinalSarah #CatholicLiturgy #BeautyInWorship #CatholicTradition

...

Bo and Matt reflect on the essential role that youth retreats and small groups play in passing on the Catholic faith. Drawing on their own experience, they explain how seemingly small or fleeting moments can become powerful turning points for young people as they mature and deepen in their relationship with Christ.

#YouthRetreats #TeenFaith #CatholicYouth #SmallGroups #FaithFormation #CatholicMorningShow

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Today on the Catholic Morning Show, Bo Bonner and Matt Wilkom discuss the unseen but lasting impact that retreats and small groups can have on kids and teenagers. Even when young people seem disengaged, these moments often plant the seeds of faith that grow later in life.

In the second half of the show, Bo and Matt welcome Peter Carter, director of the Catholic Sacred Music Project, as well as director of sacred music for the Aquinas Institute of Princeton University and St. John the Baptist Church in Allentown, NJ. Peter shares insights from his new book...

Drew Croegaert and Peyton Jameson – Drew and Peyton, Serva Fidem Coordinators at Dowling Catholic High School, explain the mission of Serva Fidem and highlight the exciting events on the horizon. They share what inspires them in their roles and why they are passionate about helping students live out the Serva Fidem mission.

Learn more about Serva Fidem: https://www.servafidem.org/
Become a Serva Fidem mentor: https://www.servafidem.org/become-a-mentor

#ServaFidem #FaithInAction #CatholicYouth #StudentFormation #CatholicEducation #MentorshipMatters #LivingTheMission

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Susan Joy Bellavance – Susan discusses her book This Little Light of Thine, sharing the inspiration behind it and her deep love for the Catholic Church. She reflects on the radiant light of Christ present in the tabernacle and how that truth shapes her storytelling.

Find the book: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/this-little-light-of-thine/
Explore more of her work: https://www.bellacorabooks.com/

#ThisLittleLightOfThine #CatholicBooks #FaithAndStorytelling #LightOfChrist #CatholicAuthor #ChristianInspiration

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Today’s show features two inspiring conversations rooted in faith and mission. First, author Susan Joy Bellavance joins us to share the heart behind her book This Little Light of Thine. She reflects on the beauty of the Catholic faith, the light of Christ present in the tabernacle, and how that divine inspiration shapes her storytelling.

We then welcome Drew Croegaert and Peyton Jameson, Serva Fidem Coordinators at Dowling Catholic High School. They discuss the mission of Serva Fidem, highlight upcoming events, and share why they are passionate about forming students to serve joyfully and intentionally in th...

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube! You can also find more information on our website. If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here!   Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson - Making It Personal with Bishop William Joensen - Man Up! with Joe Stopulus - The Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo Bo...

From all of us here at The Catholic Morning Show—Bo, Elise, Ayden, Alexia, and the whole Iowa Catholic Radio family—we want to wish you and your loved ones a blessed and joy-filled Thanksgiving! Today we pause to thank God for His abundant graces, the gift of faith, and for you, our listeners, who join us each day in prayer, learning, humor, and authentic Catholic conversation. May this Thanksgiving be a time of peace, gratitude, and grace, whether you’re gathered around a crowded table, serving others, or spending the day quietly in reflection. We pray that Christ, who is eve...

John Huynh, Director of Social Justice for the Diocese of Des Moines and Catholic Charities, joins the show to discuss entering Thanksgiving with a spirit of encounter. He highlights how family and community involvement are central to Catholic Social Teaching and shares practical ways to approach family dynamics with compassion as we enter Advent.

Learn more about Catholic Charities Des Moines: https://catholiccharitiesdm.org

#Thanksgiving #CatholicSocialTeaching #FamilyLife #Advent #JohnHuynh #CatholicMorningShow

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Yo...

Executive Director of Iowa Catholic Radio, Deacon Mark Campbell, shares a year-in-review of the station’s mission, growth, and blessings. Looking ahead to 2026, he underscores the importance of remaining spiritually awake during Advent. This season is not a time for relaxation, he says, but a call to prepare actively for the coming of Christ.

Learn more: https://iowacatholicradio.com

#Advent #IowaCatholicRadio #CatholicMorningShow #DeaconMarkCampbell #PrepareTheWay

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Deacon Mark Campbell, Executive Director of Iowa Catholic Radio, looks back on the station’s accomplishments in 2025 and offers a hopeful vision for 2026. As Advent approaches, he encourages listeners to stay spiritually engaged and embrace the season of preparation.

Next, we welcome John Huynh, Director of Social Justice for the Diocese of Des Moines and Catholic Charities. John discusses how Thanksgiving invites us to encounter family with charity and patience. He highlights the importance of family and community involvement as core principles of Catholic Social Teaching and reminds us that Advent is an ideal time to deepen th...

Madison Cipoletti, Creative Lead for Our Holy Home and Sock Religious, discusses a brand-new line of Catholic Christmas cards created in collaboration with sacred artists. These designs reclaim Advent and Christmas imagery focused on Christ, rather than consumerism.
See the collection and press kit: https://ourholyhome.com/pages/presskit

#CatholicArt #Advent #CatholicChristmas #OurHolyHome #CatholicDesign

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Charlie McKinney, Publisher of Sophia Institute Press and President of Sophia Institute for Teachers, CrisisMagazine.com, and CatholicExchange.com, discusses the mission of Sophia Institute and their newest offering, Saintifi, a digital resource dedicated to deepening Catholic learning and spiritual formation.
Learn more: https://saintifi.com/

#SophiaInstitute #Saintifi #CatholicFormation #CatholicEducation

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Charlie McKinney – Publisher and President of Sophia Institute Press, Sophia Institute for Teachers, Crisis Magazine, and CatholicExchange.com. Charlie discusses upcoming initiatives and resources supporting Catholics today, including Saintifi, a new digital experience for Catholic formation.
Saintifi: https://saintifi.com/

Madison Cipoletti – Product Team Lead for Our Holy Home and creative lead behind Sock Religious and Catholic Concepts branding. Madison shares the inspiration behind their new line of Christmas cards created with sacred fine artists, restoring reverence and beauty to Catholic holiday greeting traditions.
Press information and card collection: https://ourholyhome.com/pages/presskit

#C...

Greg Willits, founder of Rosary Army, reflects on the importance of the rosary, daily spiritual surrender, and the inspiration behind his latest book, God Doesn’t Hate Me After All. He also shares how his apostolate helps Catholics rediscover trust in God through formation, prayer resources, and personal testimony.

Book:
https://sophiainstitute.com/?product=god-doesnt-hate-me-after-all

#GregWillits #RosaryArmy #CatholicBooks #FaithJourney #TrustInGod #IowaCatholicRadio

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Sheila Thelen shares the story of how the St. Monica Ministry emerged within the Milford and Spirit Lake parishes. The ministry provides spiritual support, prayer, and fellowship for Catholics who are praying for spouses, children, and family members to return to a life of faith.

Article:
https://lumenmedia.org/news/milford-and-spirit-lake-parishes-offer-st-monica-ministry

#StMonicaMinistry #CatholicCommunity #HopeInPrayer #IowaCatholicRadio

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Sheila Thelen shares how the St. Monica Ministry began in Milford and Spirit Lake parishes, offering support, prayer, and communal hope for those praying loved ones back to the faith.

Later, Greg Willits joins us to discuss his work with a major international rosary apostolate and the message behind his newest book, reminding Catholics that God’s love endures even in seasons of struggle and discouragement.

St. Monica Ministry Article:
https://lumenmedia.org/news/milford-and-spirit-lake-parishes-offer-st-monica-ministry

Greg Willits – Book: God Doesn’t Hate Me After All
https://sophiainstitute.com/?product=god-doesnt-hate-me-after-all

#Cat...

Today Elise talks about her favorite experiences while being cohost of the Catholic Morning Show. Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube! You can also find more information on our website. If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here!   Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson - Making It Personal with Bishop William Jo...

Renee Roden explores the Vatican’s recent engagement with artificial intelligence and what it means for ethics, humanity, and the future of the Church. Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube! You can also find more information on our website. If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here!   Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Juli...

Fr. Chris Reising reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King and invites us to approach the end of the liturgical year with renewed focus on Christ’s reign. Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube! You can also find more information on our website. If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here!   Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada ...

Today on the Catholic Morning Show, we reflect on the Gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King and learn more about the Vatican's latest reflections on artificial intelligence. Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube! You can also find more information on our website. If you would like to support Iowa Catholic Radio you can donate Here!   Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women No...

Jeanne Thill, cohost of “Making It Personal with Bishop Joensen,” shares her love for liturgy as we prepare for a major shift in the Church year. She explains the significance of moving from Ordinary Time to the Feast of Christ the King and into Advent. Jeanne also previews what listeners can expect on the upcoming episode of “Making It Personal with Bishop Joensen.”

Learn more:
https://dmdiocese.org

#Liturgy #ChristTheKing #Advent #CatholicRadio #ChurchYear

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Our guest shares a deeper look at the role of law in the life of faith. From Natural Law written on the human heart to the revealed Supernatural Law of God, and the role of Human Law within the Church, he explains how each serves to guide believers into a life ordered toward Christ.

Learn more from the Diocese of Des Moines:
https://dmdiocese.org

#CanonLaw #CatholicLife #FaithFormation #ChristianLiving

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Yo...

Deacon Randy Kiel, founder of Kardia Counseling, joins us to help listeners prepare for the upcoming Christ the King Sunday readings. He guides us through what the Scriptures reveal about knowing Jesus as King and allowing the Lord to reign in our lives.

More from Deacon Randy:
https://kardiacounseling.com

#ChristTheKing #ScriptureReflection #CatholicFaith #SundayMass

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Today on the Catholic Morning Show:

Deacon Randy Kiel
Founder of Kardia Counseling, Deacon Randy offers a spiritual reflection on the upcoming Sunday readings for the Feast of Christ the King, guiding listeners to better prepare their hearts for the celebration.

Diocesan Canon Lawyer (Third Thursday Monthly Guest)
Our Canon Lawyer discusses the necessity of law in the spiritual life, reflecting on how Supernatural Law, Natural Law, and Human Law work together to rightly order our lives toward Christ.

Jeanne Thill – Co-Host of “Making It Personal with Bishop Joensen”
A lover...

Emily Jaminet joins the show to talk about living Catholic intentionality during Thanksgiving. From setting aside phones to serving one another joyfully, she shares practical habits rooted in the Sacred Heart devotion that help families make the holiday more meaningful and faith-filled.

https://www.emilyjaminet.com

#EmilyJaminet #CatholicFamily #Thanksgiving #FaithAtHome #SacredHeart

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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Emily Stimpson Chapman shares insights from her new book Sacred Wine: The Holy History and Heritage of Catholic Vintners and offers stunning historical and spiritual reflections on the role of wine in Catholic culture, community, and liturgy.
Learn more at:
www.EmilyStimpsonChapman.com

#EmilyStimpsonChapman #SacredWine #CatholicHeritage #CatholicHistory #CatholicCulture

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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In this episode:

Emily Stimpson Chapman
Emily Stimpson Chapman is a Catholic wife, mother, and bestselling author of more than a dozen books. Today she joins us to introduce her latest title, Sacred Wine: The Holy History and Heritage of Catholic Vintners, exploring the timeless relationship between wine, Catholic identity, and salvation history.
Learn more at:
www.EmilyStimpsonChapman.com

Emily Jaminet
Author and ministry leader Emily Jaminet shares practical and spiritually rooted habits families can incorporate into Thanksgiving — from unplugging devices to nightly Scripture reading to cultivating a home filled with gr...

Pastor of Christ the King Parish in Des Moines, Fr. PJ McManus joins the show to highlight the celebrations planned for the Feast of Christ the King. He discusses the spiritual significance of this solemnity, the parish's special liturgies, and how families can prepare their hearts for the end of the liturgical year.

Parish website: https://christthekingparish.org/

#ChristTheKing #CatholicFeastDays #ParishLife #IowaCatholicRadio #LiturgicalYear

Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Matt Wilkom

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