Talking Catholic

What does Catholic life look like on a secular college campus—and how does God meet young adults right where they are?On this episode of Talking Catholic, hosts Kari Janisse and Mike Walsh begin with a conversation with Fr. Thomas Piro, newly ordained priest and parochial vicar at Saint Bridget University Parish, about his first months accompanying students at Rowan University’s Newman House. Fr. Piro reflects on the joy of campus ministry, the importance of priestly presence at a public university, and how everyday encounters—from rosaries on campus to spontaneous conversations in the student center—can open doors to evangelization, vocation discernment, and deeper faith.In the second half of the episode, the focus shifts to a powerful “mountaintop” experience as Rowan Catholic Campus Ministry members Gloria Schulz and Joseph Midiri, joined by Fr. Stephen Robbins, share highlights from the FOCUS SEEK conference held in early January. Drawing thousands of young adults from across the country, SEEK offered day

On this week’s episode of Talking Catholic, hosts Kari Janisse and Mike Walsh welcome national pro-life speaker Jannique Stewart for a powerful and candid conversation following her recent presentation at Rowan University titled “Abortion: Is it a black and white moral issue, or is there a gray area?” Drawing from science, personal testimony, and years of experience speaking to high school and college students across the country, Stewart challenges common misconceptions about abortion and invites listeners to confront the issue with both truth and compassion.The discussion explores why abortion is not merely a political or emotional debate, but a profound moral question rooted in the dignity of human life. Stewart shares formative moments from her upbringing in Germany, the influence of her grandmother’s Holocaust witness, and the experiences that shaped her vocation as a pro-life advocate. Together, the hosts and guest reflect on engaging young people in difficult conversations, the role of apologetics and s

How does the Church continue to engage the youth of today? By meeting them where they are at!So says Tim Poole and Jeff Siedlecki of Live Vertical (https://www.livevertical.org/), as they stop by Talking Catholic to explain how this grassroots, nationwide ministry evangelizes high school students through Adoration, conversation, working with campus ministers – and so much more.Tim and Jeff sit down with cohosts Mike Bress and Jen Mauro to talk about how they became members of the Live Vertical team, and the schools they’ve been working with in the Diocese of Camden.“It's all about helping to build each student’s relationship with Jesus,” they said. “We have conversations about theology, the Eucharist, the upcoming week’s Gospel and Mass. It’s the beauty of Jesus in the Eucharist that moves all our hearts.”Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic Church Media Radio Sundays at 11 AM | Mondays at 4 PM: domesticch

Roman soldier, courageous witness and fearless martyr, St. Sebastian kicks off a new year of Talking Saints with Pete and Laurie.  On this episode, you'll learn how this third century Christian boldly defied the Roman emperor to remain loyal to Christ and why he  became the patron saint of athletes and protection against the plague. Listen to Talking Saints with Laurie Power and Pete Sanchez everywhere podcasts can be found and on the Talking Catholic website https://talking.catholicstarherald.org/show/talking-saints/. Follow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

How is a school like an organism? Or human body? What role does the administration play in the health of a school vs. the students themselves?This week, cohosts Pete Sanchez and Mike Bress sit down with Camden Catholic High School’s new president, James Hozier to explore these questions and more.Hozier starts by sharing his journey to the new role, from studying science (hence the organism question) in college and graduate school to ultimately pursuing a career in education. The conversation explores his transition from principal of all-boys high school to president of a co-ed one, the key differences between the two positions and schools, and his hopes for the future of Camden Catholic. He also tackles the question of how each individual in a school – student, teacher, administrator – helps to keep it thriving.And, Hozier takes a moment to reflect on his personal faith journey and how it continues to shape his approach to leadership.Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catho

New Year's resolutions: You either love ‘em or hate ‘em. This week, Deacon Dean Johnson stops by Talking Catholic to take some of the pressure off by suggesting we ground our New Year goals in faith.Want to stress less? Turn to Saint Teresa of Ávila, who said: “Let nothing perturb you, nothing frighten you. All things pass. God does not change. Patience achieves everything.” Looking to exercise more? “Remember that bodily exercise, when it is well ordered … is also prayer by means of which you can please God our Lord,” says Saint Ignatius of Loyola.Tune in as Deacon Dean inspires co-host Jen Mauro, explains about the Mary Undoer of Knots prayer, and asks, “Are the many things that knot us up in our lives keeping us from hearing God?”Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic Church Media Radio Sundays at 11 AM | Mondays at 4 PM: domesticchurchmedia.orgFollow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Ins

On this week’s episode of Talking Catholic, we bring together some hosts and some communications colleagues to recap what we loved about 2025 and what we’re looking forward to in 2026. Enjoy this chat with Mike Walsh, Maria Toci D’Antonio, Jennifer Mauro, Mike Bress, Pete Sanchez and Andrea Herrera. Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic Church Media Radio Sundays at 11 AM | Mondays at 4 PM: domesticchurchmedia.orgFollow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

After a time of intense persecution, with a steady hand and fervent faith, Pope St. Sylvester led the Church out of the catacombs into a time of great flourishing. On this episode of Talking Saints, Pete and Laurie dive into the facts and legends surrounding this early 4th century saint who laid the foundations for the Christian Rome that we know today.  Listen to Talking Saints with Laurie Power and Pete Sanchez everywhere podcasts can be found and on the Talking Catholic website https://talking.catholicstarherald.org/show/talking-saints/. Follow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

On this week’s episode of Talking Catholic, cohosts Marianela Nuñez and Mike Bress step into the Advent and Christmas spirit with a visit to St. Peter School in Merchantville, where they sit down with music and religion teacher - and choir director - Sarah Duvall Pearson.Ms. Pearson shares her journey to becoming a full-time educator at St. Peter, her deep love for teaching music (especially Catholic hymns and sacred songs) and how she helped transform the school choir into one of the most popular and sought-after clubs. She also recounts a truly unforgettable moment for her students: performing the national anthem at a Phillies game, complete with a surprise encounter with the Phillie Phanatic.Amid the joyful busyness of the Christmas season, Ms. Pearson welcomes the hosts into one final rehearsal before the school’s Christmas concert. Be sure to listen through the end of the episode to hear the beautiful voices of the St. Peter School choir as they sing Glory in the Silent Night (Guerline Silien, compositio

It’s a full triumvirate of Mikes on this week’s episode of Talking Catholic as hosts Michael Bress and Michael Walsh welcome Michael Chambers, President of Paul VI High School, in Haddonfield, NJ.Mr. Chambers – the longest current serving president of any Catholic high school in the Diocese of Camden – reflects on his more than 30 years at Paul VI as a student, parent, teacher, and administrator. He shares insights into the school’s mission, culture, and the heart of its community, summed up beautifully among the schools belief statements: “We believe that our Catholic identity is at the core of who we are as a community. Catholic spirituality, values and morals are central to developing students who exercise true freedom with responsibility.”Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, legacy, and what makes Paul VI such a special place. To learn more about the school, go to: https://www.pvihs.org/ 

Catholic Star Herald fan-favorite columnist Deacon Dean Johnson steps into the co-host chair on this week’s episode of Talking Catholic!He’s joined by Deacons Barry Steele and Doug R. Stetser, newly ordained this fall, for a thoughtful and hope-filled conversation on Advent.“We prepare for Christmas… but what are we doing to prepare for eternity?” Deacon Barry reflects, as the trio dives into what it means to actively wait during this sacred season.They also share practical wisdom on slowing down, finding stillness, and reclaiming joy — including one simple challenge: “Try not to schedule things on a Sunday.”Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic Church Media Radio Sundays at 11 AM | Mondays at 4 PM: domesticchurchmedia.orgFollow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

This week on Talking Catholic, we welcome a long overdue guest: Robin Strough, Director of the Office of Child and Youth Protection for the Diocese of Camden. Robin joins us to share important updates from her department and to explain her mission — ensuring that every child entrusted to the Diocese is protected, supported, and surrounded by a safe environment. She also walks us through how the Diocese works to remain fully compliant with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.Some of the topics in this episode are difficult to hear but essential. Robin reminds us that “prevention is instrumental to a child’s future,” and that when we see concerning behavior, “Don’t be afraid. You could be saving a life.” Her insights are a powerful call to vigilance, compassion, and shared responsibility.To learn more about the Office of Child and Youth Protection — including upcoming trainings and events — visit https://camdendiocese.org/cyp/.One upcoming opportunity

As host Mike Walsh shuttled colleagues from Atlantic City to Philadelphia International Airport, he fired up the podcast gear and captured a conversation while criss-crossing New Jersey.Riding along in the passenger seats are:• Janelle Gergen, Chancellor and COO of the Diocese of Crookston• Montie Chavez, Director of Communications for the Archdiocese of Las Vegas• Paul Schratz, Editor of The B.C. Catholic in VancouverAll three serve on the Catholic Media Association board and had just wrapped up three full days of meetings in the Garden State, focusing on CMA initiatives and planning for the 2026 Catholic Media Conference, coming to Atlantic City June 16–19, 2026.Tune in for a lively, on-the-road conversation (complete with road noise and perfect driving) about the CMA, the upcoming CMC, and the work happening behind the scenes. And keep an eye on catholicmediaconference.org for updates and registration information!Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/

“Now let me fight for God.”  With these words, St. Martin of Tours, officer in the Roman Emperor's cavalry, put down his sword to follow Christ.  Join us for this episode of Talking Saints, as Pete and Laurie explore the life of this soldier turned monk, then bishop, who's act of charity toward a beggar ultimately changed the course of his life.   Listen to Talking Saints with Laurie Power and Pete Sanchez everywhere podcasts can be found and on the Talking Catholic website https://talking.catholicstarherald.org/show/talking-saints/. Follow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

This week on Talking Catholic, host Mike Walsh sits down with Joanna McGill-Gardner, Esq., an immigration attorney and former Catholic Charities of South Jersey colleague. Joanna shares how her early experiences in service and journalism led her to a vocation in immigration legal work, where she now accompanies individuals and families navigating some of the most complex and emotional legal challenges in our communities.Together, Mike and Joanna explore the deep Catholic roots of immigration in the United States — including how many of today’s Catholic families once faced the same hardships, prejudices, and uncertainties as the migrants arriving today. Joanna reflects on the stories of her own ancestors, the history of Catholic immigration policy, and why understanding the truth behind today’s immigration system is essential for building compassion and solidarity.Joanna also previews her Friday, November 14th talk - at Sant Charles Borromeo Parish in Sicklerville, NJ, from 6-7 PM - where she helps break open

“So I have a meeting at the Vatican…”That’s how this week’s episode begins — as members of the Diocese of Camden’s leadership reflect on their pilgrimage to Rome from Oct. 23–28 for the Jubilee of Synodal Teams and Participatory Bodies at the Vatican.Joining us to share stories from this extraordinary experience are most of the delegation that included: Bishop Joseph Williams, Father Jon Thomas, Vicar General, and the Diocese’s seven secretaries — Andrés Arango (Evangelization and Hispanic Ministry), Dr. Maria Elena Hallion (Catholic Charities of South Jersey), Nicole Keefer (VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services), Laura Montgomery (Administration and Finance), Donna Ottaviano-Britt (Discipleship and Leadership), Michael Walsh (Communication), and Dr. Bill Watson (Catholic Education).Hear firsthand how the Vatican discussions deepened their understanding of synodality, collaboration, and leadership in the local Church — and what they brought home to South Jersey.For more on the Jubilee Synod, visit https://ww

“Your life has meaning.” That’s one of the important messages this week’s guests have for Talking Catholic’s listeners. On this week’s episode, Father Tom Piro and Father Stephen Robbins – who are both associate directors for the Office of Vocations – talk about the Diocese’s newest initiative: “Called by Name.” This November, every parishioner is being asked to prayerfully consider young men, from high school through age 39, who show the qualities of a good priest. On the weekend of Nov. 1-2, you’ll find “Called by Name” cards in the church pews. Take one home, or after Mass, write down the name of a young man you think could make a good priest. Return the card to the collection basket. The vocations team will do the rest! “God wants to invite you to help build up His Kingdom,” the priests tell Jen Mauro and her co-host this week, Catholic Star Herald Reporter Pete Sanchez. Learn about the program, how to listen for God’s call in your life, and pick up on some spiritual advice from these young priests!Listen

This week on Talking Catholic, Marianela Núñez and cohost Mike Bress celebrate a century of faith, family, and Ram pride at Gloucester Catholic High School. They’re joined by Tom Iacovone, Principal, and Kathy Dougherty, Director of Marketing, to reflect on 100 years of tradition, community, and Catholic education in South Jersey.From the halls that shaped generations to the alumni who carry Ram spirit far and wide, it’s a conversation full of memories, laughter—and even Marianela’s heartfelt “call for gray hairs” as we honor the legacy and future of this beloved school.Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic Church Media Radio Sundays at 11 AM | Mondays at 4 PM: domesticchurchmedia.orgFollow us using our @TalkingCatholic handle on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X

Each year, the Office of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Camden brings together elementary and high school principals for a two-day conference in Ocean City. The gathering covers a range of important topics while also providing opportunities for fellowship among colleagues.On this week’s episode, cohosts Marianela Nuñez and Mike Bress speak with two new elementary school principals — Bill Hennessy of Holy Angels Catholic School in Woodbury and Dr. Deirdre Rood of St. Rose of Lima School in Haddon Heights — about their first conference experience.Together, they walk through the conference’s agenda, sharing their personal takeaways from each session, how the event encouraged deeper connections with fellow principals, and which elements they hope to bring back to their own school communities. The conversation also highlights the uplifting atmosphere of the event — from the beautiful weather and delicious food to the sense of renewal it provided after a busy September.To learn more about South Jersey Cathol

On this episode of Talking Catholic, we sit down with two distinguished members of Legatus, the national organization of Catholic business leaders committed to living and sharing their faith in the corporate world. Joining the conversation are BJ Kraemer, Managing Principal of MCFA, and Greg Passanante, CEO and Northeast Market Administrator for Shriners Children’s Philadelphia.Together, they share how their Catholic faith informs their professional lives, the unique mission of Legatus in forming Catholic executives to be ambassadors for Christ, and the ways their careers intersect with service, leadership, and witness in the community. Whether it’s shaping strategy in business or ensuring compassionate healthcare for children, BJ and Greg reflect on what it means to bring the Gospel into boardrooms and beyond.And make sure to check out BJ’s podcast, Leadership Blueprints. Listen to Talking Catholic everywhere podcasts are found or at talking.catholicstarherald.org/talking-catholic. And, catch us on Domestic