• The rise of family estrangement and its ideological roots
• Impact of COVID-19 on family relationships
• The role of social media and therapy culture in estrangement
• The concept of empowerment delusion and its effects
• Strategies for reconciliation and forgiveness

• Estrangement often driven by ideological conflicts, not just personal faults.
• COVID-19 accelerated family disconnection through social and political upheaval.
• Social media algorithms reinforce divisive narratives, fueling estrangement.
• Reconciliation requires humility, listening, and intentional acts of forgiveness.
• The 'prodigal son' model exemplifies a compassionate approach to family reconciliation.

• "Family is being deconstructed as a social construct."
• "The empowerment delusion makes us both gods and victims."
• "Rekindling memory and love can bring families back to life."

Episode Summary In this short episode, Brooke reflects on a season of “survival mode” as her family navigates new challenges with her daughter Karolina’s autism, the rapid pace of life, and the emotional weight of constant vigilance.

She shares how prayer, the Rosary, and the Little Way have steadied her through exhaustion, even as joyful milestones: a wedding, a new daughter‑in‑law, and an engagement, filled the summer.

With autumn settling in, she turns toward functional strength, self‑care, and the spiritual invitation to notice the extraordinary hidden inside the ordinary, recalling the timeless message of Our Town as the Church moves from the month of the Rosary toward All Souls. Quotes Mentioned • St. Thérèse of Lisieux — “It is in my weakness I find my strength.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” • St. Thérèse of Lisieux — “Our fulcrum is God: our lever, prayer; prayer which burns with love. With that we can lift the world.” Resources & Mentions • The Little Way • Functional strength and caregiving • Prayer journaling • Our Town by Thornton Wilder • October: Our Lady of the Rosary • November: All Souls

In this episode, we explore the historic moment in our nation's history: the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. With Bishop John E. Keener from the Diocese of Sioux City, we delve into the spiritual implications as we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus represents profound love and compassion, serving as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice for humanity. In this episode, we discuss: *The tradition of the Sacred Heart and its relevance in today's society.

*Bishop Keener's personal journey with devotion to the Sacred Heart and its transformative power.

*Resources for homes and families to prepare for the solemnity and consecration.

*The aspect of spiritual reparation in the Sacred Heart devotion.

Important Links:

Join us on pilgrimage! Click here for details on the Danube River Cruise.

Resources for the Consecration of the U.S. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Bishop Keehner pastoral letter 2026.

In this episode, we explore the profound connection between nature, poetry, and Marian devotion, focusing on the significance of May as a month dedicated to Our Lady. Brother Richard Hendrick shares insights on how ancient traditions and modern practices can deepen our relationship with Mary, helping us find grace amid life's challenges. Poem shared by Br. Richard:

Maid that wed Divinity

Clay that shaped Infinity

Lady of the Trinity.

Keep me in your heart.

• Reflection on Seamus Haney’s poem "May" and the sacramentality of seasons
• The importance of May and October for Marian devotion in the Church
• Personal and familial traditions of honoring Mary in May, including altars, processions, and garden customs
• The theological significance of Mary as Theotokos, the new Eve, and divine maternity
• The importance of slowing down and being present to recognize God's marvels
• Practical ways to incorporate Marian devotions into daily life, especially for weary mothers
• The harmony of faith and science in understanding Mary’s maternity through maternal chimerism
• Mary as a model for authentic femininity, balancing service, love, and divine calling

In this episode, Brooke shares a short recap of her son’s recent wedding and a quick visit to Missouri, including details about the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.

The second half of the show focuses on major developments in the beatification cause of Venerable Fulton Sheen. Dr. Peter Howard, founder of the Fulton Sheen Institute, joins Brooke to discuss the latest updates, Sheen’s legacy, and why his teachings on the Eucharist and Marian devotion remain important today.

Click here for the Fulton Sheen Institute. Learn more about the Sheen pilgrimage, and more.

Click here for Celebrate Sheen, for tickets to the beatification.

Click here for TBTS #259 with Br. Richard Hendrick about Catholic wedding traditions, and much more.

Click here for TBTS #264 with Catholic wedding photographer Jo Schnitzer.

In your kindness, please consider leaving a positive review and/or sharing this episode with others. Reach out to Brooke at SaintGabrielmedia@gmail.com

March is the month the Catholic Church dedicates to Saint Joseph. In this episode, Devin Schadt, co‑founder of the Fathers of St. Joseph joins Brooke to explore biblical masculinity, the mission of men, and St. Joseph as a model for fatherhood. Devin shares powerful insights on humility, suffering, and embracing our God‑given identity to become true warrior‑heroes in today’s culture.

Key Topics:

• The spiritual role of St. Joseph as a model for fathers
• The importance of humility and silence in masculinity
• The internal battle between worldly promises and divine peace
• The significance of divine sonship and identity in manhood
• The role of suffering and perseverance in spiritual growth

Click here for the Father of St. Joseph.

In this episode, Ginny Kochis shares her inspiring journey as a Catholic mom and author of Quirky Catholic Kids, offering insights on supporting neurodivergent children through faith and community. We explore challenges, saintly intercessors, and prayer strategies.

We cover:

Understanding neurodivergence: autism, ADHD, OCD, PDA, and more

The spiritual approach: integrating saints and prayers like the litany of humility

Embracing the spectrum: development versus discipline in raising neurodivergent children

Practical tips for Mass attendance

Personal stories of meltdowns, acceptance, and community support

Saints as intercessors: Therese, Zellie, Louie, and others, inspiring perseverance and patience

Creating sensory-friendly Mass environments and advocacy within parishes

The importance of surrender and trust in God's plan for our families

Resources & Links:

• Quirky Catholic Kids: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy
• Sophia Institute Press
• Zellie Society coaching program
• Sensory-Friendly Mass in Burke, VA
• Saint Therese of Lisieux
• St. Dymphna — Patron Saint of mental health
• Prayer Resources

Connect with Ginny Kochis:

• Quirky Catholic Kids Website
• Facebook Group for Catholic Parents of Neurodivergent Kids
• Instagram