The goal of the Forte Catholic Podcast is to inspire, uplift, and share the Good News in a way that will help you take the next step in your faith, no matter where you are on your journey with God.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 60
I am joined by Academy Award nominee Timothy Reckart, Director of "The Star" to discuss his fresh take on the Christmas story. We also kick off the Catholic New Year with how to utilize the season of Advent to refocus our life on Christ and prepare to be renewed by Him this Christmas.
It's not every day you get an Academy Award nominated director on your show!
In the second segment of this week's show, I am joined by Timothy Reckart, the director of this year's Christmas hit "The Star" to discuss the movie and how it came about. The film is an intriguing animated take on the Christmas story from the perspective of the animals around the birth of Christ. With the voice talent of Oprah Winfrey, Tracy Morgan, Tyler Perry, Patricia Heaton, Keegan Michael-Key, Zachary Levi, Kelly Clarkson and many more, this film is a sure fire hit for you and your family this holiday season! Check out the trailer below!
In the 1st and 3rd segments of the show, Taylor talks about Advent and how we can utilize this season of preparation, waiting and rejuvenation to refocus our life on Jesus and rest in His peace.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 59
I'm joined by Steve Pokorny to talking about ridding your life of pornography once and for all. Also, producer Sam and I finish up our recap from the National Youth Workers Convention by talking about a quirky Mass, the parable of the talents and not being Jesus' lawyer.
Howdy! Back again with another episode this week about our trip to Memphis for the National Youth Workers Convention.
In the first segment, I talk about a pretty interesting/quirky Mass we attended in downtown. This includes a cowboy priest and a fresh take on the parable of the talents.
In the segment segment, I welcome Steve Pokorny back to the show to talk about his upcoming book "Redeemed Vision" about being set free from pornography once and for all and the importance of seeking true beauty. Click here for more information on the book and how to get a copy!
In the final segment, producer Sam and I close out our sharing from the conference by talking about our favorite nuggets of wisdom we took home from the weekend like not being Jesus' lawyer and the priority of silence in the lives of a Christian.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 57
We finish our 3-part series on Jesus' encounters with his Apostles after the Resurrection and speak with Anthony D'Ambrosio about Catholic Creatives & 8beats. Finally, we introduce a new segment called "Unpublished Worship Songs" that you absolutely can't miss!
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In the first segment, I finish a three part series over the last three episodes on Jesus appearing to His disciples after the Resurrection. This week's passage speaks of Jesus and Peter on the beach.
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In the second segment, I welcome highly anticipated guest, Anthony D'Ambrosio. He is the co-founder of Catholic Creatives and speaks about the importance of art and collaboration in the Church today. We also talk about the new film coming from the Catholic Creatives community on the beatitudes called "8beats." Check out this project here and see how you can get involved!
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In the final segment, we introduce a new idea called "Unpublished Worship Songs." These are songs that Taylor has written about strange and obscure passages from the Bible that have never, EVER been put into song. This is a segment you absolutely don't want to miss. You will find yourself laughing and never being bored listening to the Scriptures in Mass again!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 56
We cover it ALL this week as we talk twitter, viral videos, doubting Thomas, the Ultimate Catholic Comic Book, weird prayers, ministry and Star Wars. All in under an hour!
Sooo much to get to on this week's show! We kick off the night with some crazy stories from twitter, including my boss going viral last weekend and the update to 280 characters and how people are going crazy. We also continue our topic of Jesus visiting his disciples after the Resurrection with the "Doubting Thomas" story.
In the second segment, I am joined by Matt Martinusen, producer of "The Ultimate Catholic Comic Book." I have read the whole thing and absolutely love it! I had a blast talking to Matt about how the project came to be, dealing with risk, and using new mediums to share the faith.
To finish off the show, we do a "Forte Five" countdown on the five weirdest things people do or say in prayer. And then I share about a 2.5 hour conversation I had with a high school student on retreat this weekend and how Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader played a big role in that conversation.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 55
A few months ago, listeners submitted questions or suggested topics for the show. A few of them, Taylor wasn't smart enough to answer alone, so he brought in help!
A few months ago, I got a lot of questions and topic ideas from you, the listeners. A few of them, I am definitely not smart enough to answer...so I brought in help :)
In the second segment, I am joined by my friend Adrian Charles who is studying Theology in Rome! He gives us an introduction into the topics of Natural Law and Logic.
In the third segment, Texas A&M Philosophy student and Ablaze Missionary Becka Landry rejoins the show to talk about Metaphysics(a class I didn't understand and barely passed.)
Also on this episode, we talk about a police officer friend of mine who listens to the show on patrol and discuss some Forte Catholic history trivia. Thanks for listening!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 54
This episode we explore the Old Testament with some fun stories and a game to prove its not just an "old boring book." Taylor also speaks with author Daniel Mattson about his book "Why I Don't Call Myself Gay."
In the first segment, we play the "Old Testament or Scary Movie" game (from Download Youth Ministry" as we prepare for Halloween.
In segment two, we welcome Catholic author Daniel Mattson to talk about his book "Why I Don't Call Myself Gay" and his journey through same sex attraction and faith.
In the final segment, we return to the topic of the Old Testament and share some crazy stories from it that prove it's not "an old boring book" and that it truly has a purpose for us still today.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 53
Two guests this week in two-time surfing world champion and hard core Catholic, Bear Woznick, and the President of Ignatius Press, Mark Brumley. We talk about manhood, being a father and the Protestant Reformation.
This episode, I talk about the birth of my 3rd child Felicity this past week and share another thing I've learned about my relationship with God from being a Father.
In the second segment, I speak with two-time world surfing champion, Bear Woznick. Bear is a hardcore Catholic who is using his platform to call men to a higher standard of faith and excellence. We talk about his TV Show "Long Ride Home" and his new online community for Catholic men called "Bear's Man Cave."
In the final segment, I speak with the president of Ignatius Press, Mark Brumley, about the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation this month. Ignatius Press is highlighting a book by Hilarie Belloc entitled "Characters of the Reformation" that goes into detail about some of the key players in the world of religion and politics at the time. I find the whole time period fascinating and enjoyed the interview. I hope you do as well.
As always, please subscribe and rate the podcast on the platform you are listening on. It will really help the show grow to reach more people. Thanks!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 52
Mass Text segment, talking the impact and influence of hip-hop on culture and the Church with Dr. Alex Gotay and a social experiment with AJ Barrows
We kicked off this week's show with a "Mass Text" segment where we looked at the Gospel for this coming Sunday. It is one of Jesus' lesser known parables and one of Taylor's favorites.
In the second segment, we were joined by Dr. Alex Gotay as he discusses his upcoming documentary "Encultured" about the impact and influence of hip-hop on culture and how it can be used in ministry.
In the final segment, I introduce missionary AJ Barrows and he shares about a social experiment he has been using in youth ministry to break down barriers and stigmas. It is quite intriguing so check it out.
Please like/rate/share the show on your favorite podcasting platform. Your 60 seconds of time will help the show's publicity tremendously. Thank you!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 51
A celebration of the show's 1 year anniversary! We are joined by the guys from the Catholic Man Show with a BIG announcement for the show, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers about reading the Bible like never before and our favorite memories of the show's 1st year.
Huge show to celebrate the show's 1 year anniversary of going live on the air!
First, we were joined by the fellas from the Catholic Man Show to settle who is manlier between them by pitting them against each other in a game of "Who Said It: Adele or King David?" Then we announce some BIG news together about the future of the show.
In the second segment, I am joined by one of the best Catholic speakers alive, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers. Tune in to hear how the Scriptures have made a huge difference in his life and how he wants to help the Scriptures come to life for you with his new book "Ignite: Read the Bible Like Never Before."
In the final segment, we reminisce on our favorite moments in the show's first year. With stories from guest producers Kyle and Mckenzie, listeners on social media, and a special surprise guest, we recap the year's greatest moments.
THANK YOU to all of you who have listened over the past year. This has truly been a dream come true and I am excited for what is coming in year two!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 48
As we remember the events of 9/11, we talk about how to respond to fear. I also interview Gina Bauer about balance & prayer in the second segment. I also interview Tom Craughwell about his new book "101 Places to Pray Before You Die."
In this week's episode, we remember the events of 9/11 and talk about how to respond to fear.
I also interview two wonderful people, Gina Bauer and Tom Craughwell! I speak to Gina about ministry, finding balance between work and home life and more. Tom and I talk about his new book "101 places to pray before you die" and share quite a few laughs!
Bonus Content! Jennifer Fulwiler Interview Round 2
Had the pleasure of being invited back as a guest on the Jennifer Fulwiler Show on Sirius XM's "The Catholic Channel." We talked missionary work, the power of music and finding joy in the midst of hardship.
Such a pleasure to be invited back on to the Jennifer Fulwiler Show on Sirius XM 129 "The Catholic Channel." (thecatholicchannel.org)
This time, we recapped the hilarious story about how I got on her show in the first place. We also talk about my work as a missionary with Ablaze, the power of music, and Jen calls me a "brilliant theologian" which makes everyone bellow a good hearty laugh. We also discuss what true joy is and the wake of Hurricane Harvey.
Find your favorite way to listen to the recording below!
Forte Catholic Podcast Bonus Content
The Forte Catholic Podcast has bonus content available for the shows supporters on Patreon. Join the community, support the show and get bonus rewards for your contribution. This is a sneak peek at what these outtakes are like. Enjoy :)
We ran out of time in Episode 45 and we had a game planned for producer Jake on his last show before leaving for college. So we decided to stick around and Taylor let the old and new producers play the game, recorded it and hilarity ensured. Tune in to hear Taylor go absolutely crazy not being in charge of the segment and swoop in to save the day. You won't stop laughing as you listen to these producers try to get through a segment alone and play the Pokemon themed game.
Enjoy the Forte Catholic podcast and this bonus content? Head over to Patreon.com/fortecatholic to financially support the show and get some awesome rewards with even more bonus content, merch, and involvement in the show's community. #HelpFeedTaylorsChildren
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 45
We address this week's big event: the solar eclipse. We also connect it to faith in the return of the "Forte Five" segment, interview Fr Terry Ehrman about his book on manhood and wrap up the show with a conversation with long time producer Jake on his last show.
In the first segment of this week's show, we talk about the solar eclipse that came and went the day before. I asked listeners on social media to make connections between the eclipse and faith and we started off the show with a "Forte Five" countdown segment of the five best submissions.
In segment two, I was privileged to interview author Fr. Terry Ehrman on his book "Man of God: Lessons To Young Men About Life, Sex, Friendship, Vocation, and Loving With The Heart of Christ" published by Catholic Answers. We discussed how his vocation came about and the importance of spiritual direction. For those who may have never heard of spiritual direction or have but have questions about it, this is the podcast for you.
In the final segment, Taylor reinstates producer Jake's talking privileges as he is interview on his final segment with the show before leaving for college. We discuss the path God has led him on, play corny songs in Jake's honor and laugh....a lot.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 44
We cover a wide variety of topics this week including bible study, the RCIA process and Young Adult Ministry in the wake of a gathering with the Bishops of the area to explore how to better serve the young Church.
In today's first segment, I explain some crazy things that happened right before the show and share some of the key points from a cool devotional I just finished on the Youversion Bible App.
In the second segment, I interview Toni Hendricks about the RCIA. This is the process of becoming Catholic so whether you are a Catholic and want to learn more about this treasure of the Church and how you can help or if you aren't Catholic and have questions about the faith and want to know more about the Church, this is the interview for you.
In the final segment, I am joined by Christopher Dowling to talk about the Young Adult Listening Session he and I both attended with both of Austin's Bishops. This was a tremendous opportunity the Bishops held to know how to best serve the young Church.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 43
I start this episode sharing from the depths of my heart some of the amazing things God has done for me in the past couple of weeks. After a long period of spiritual dryness, I feel invigorated in my faith for the first time in months.
I also interview Catholic Hip-Hop artist C2six about his music and tremendous conversion story.
What an episode!
In the first segment, I share from my heart some really powerful things that God has done for me in the past couple of weeks. After a long period of spiritual dryness, I have had some huge prayers answered!
In the second and third segment, I interview Carlos Zamora; a man with an incredible story of conversion from gangster to passionate Catholic hip-hop artist and speaker. We talk about his life pre-conversion, how God changed his life in a huge way and what has happened since. This is one of the most powerful conversion stories I have ever heard. He uses his passion for hip-hop and the Church to build the Kingdom of God. I pray that as you listen, his story and music will inspire you to take the next step in growing closer to Christ.
Check out the music of C2six here
If you like the show, please subscribe and click here to rate the show in iTunes as it helps tremendously to help the show reach more people. Thank you!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 41
We had a packed studio of 9 local humans to talk about their experience at a recent Jr High Summer Camp as campers, a high school staffer and parents of the campers. We talk about the impact of youth ministry for teens and their parents. We also play a game that pits the youth against the parents.
We had a Forte Catholic record 9 people in studio for the recording of this episode!
Last month, Ablaze Ministries took Junior High students to camp. Here, I interview 3 campers, two of their parents and a high school counselor on the impact camp and youth ministry have had on their lives from each of their unique perspectives.
I also pit the youth vs. the parents in an epic trivia game called "Taylor Swift or Lamentations"(DownloadYouthMinistry.com) where I read a line and they have to guess who said it. Hilarity ensued.
If you are in ministry, love youth ministry, have kids or have fond memories of your time as a young person in the Church, you will enjoy this episode.
As always, please subscribe to the show and rate in on iTunes. Thanks!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 40
In this episode I answer listener submitted questions, interview Trent Horn of Catholic Answers on his new book "Why We're Catholic" and play a quick fire trivia game with the producers of the show.
In this week's show, I continue answering listener submitted questions. This week, I tackle two questions about leading young people to Christ, especially when they don't seem to enjoy church. I also want to equip parents with the tools they need to speak with their children about faith. For more, visit beyondthepew.org.
In the second segment, Trent Horn returns to the show to talk about his new book "Why We're Catholic." This book is flying off the shelves due to its non-confrontational style to urge people to grow in their faith instead of trying to win them over simply through argument.
In the final segment, we play a rapid fire question and answer game with those in studio. This is to help get across the point that building trust and getting to know who people are is the necessary first step in evangelization.
Bonus Content! My Interview on the Jennifer Fulwiler Show!
I had the unbelievable privilege to be on The Jennifer Fulwiler Show on Sirius XM's, the Catholic Channel! Tune in as we talk about how the only way I got on her show as the combination of twitter and wine! We also discuss worship, youth ministry and complacency.
What an unbelievable opportunity I had to be a guest on the Jennifer Fulwiler Show on Sirius XM's The Catholic Channel!
(TheCatholicChannel.org)
I had so much fun on the air with Jen! I wrote her a song about her show, we talk about how the only reason I got on the show is because of the combination of twitter and wine, and then discuss topics like worship, youth ministry and complacency.
I had so much fun and I look forward to being back on her show on September 1st at 1:20pm Central!
Listen to the interview at any of the locations below.
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 39
In this episode, I discuss listener submitted topics from social media like "Is the Church a business" "I don't get anything Mass" "How do I defend my faith" and more.
I also interview long-time friend Brother Sean Stilson on his preparation for the priesthood and what he is most excited about in his vocation.
In the first segment of this week's show, I begin answering questions and topics posed by listeners of the show on social media. The first few questions are all about Church politics/bureaucracy and how we can respond to that.
In the second segment, I am joined by my long-time friend Brother Sean Stilson of the Brothers of the Beloved Disciple. We talk about what the life of a brother/seminarian looks like, what the role of a priest is supposed to be and what we can learn from that truth as lay people.
In the final segment, I continue to discuss suggested listener topics like "I'm not getting anything out of Mass", how to get started in being able to defend your faith(click here for the apologetics cheat sheet I mention in the show) and of course the classic question of whether I wear boxers or briefs.
I hope you enjoy this episode! If you haven't done so already, please subscribe and rate the show and then share it with your compadres. Thanks!
Forte Catholic Podcast Episode 38
Happy 4th of July! In this episode we talk about freedom, walking in the victory Christ won for us and have an interview with Marcus Guevara about technology and faith.
Happy 4th of July! This episode aired live on Independence Day so we HAD to talk about freedom in the first and third segments of the show. We talk about how so many of us live in guilt and shame instead of walking in the power of the resurrected Christ. He came to set us free!
In the second segment, I am joined by old friend Marcus Guevara, the founder of Thirsting for Truth to talk about his ministry and how technology, math, philosophy and theology all mix to reveal God.
As always, please like, rate, comment, subscribe and share!