Dramatic Catholics
by Delila Baca
The Dramatic Catholics Podcast explores what it means to live within the great drama of salvation history — a story that didn’t end long ago, but continues through us today. Every moment, every choice, and every act of love becomes part of God’s unfolding story of redemption. Through real conversations and honest reflection, we discover how to live boldly, beautifully, and dramatically Catholic — responding to the call written into the heart of every soul.
Episodes
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Signs, Dreams & Everything in Between
Are your dreams trying to tell you something? Is that coincidence a sign from God? Hosts Delila Baca and Esme Gonzalez welcome Maria Kangapadan, Delila's new coworker and Outreach Coordinator for the Holy Cross Mission Center, as well as a Notre Dame theology graduate, for a conversation about...
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A Little Help from on High
What do baking, hospitality, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit have in common? Join us for a conversation with Br. Ben Sasin, C.S.C., about discovering and cultivating our gifts, talents, and charisms. Through personal stories and reflections on faith, creativity, and community, we explore how our...
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Where the ladies at?
What does it really mean to be a woman today? In this episode, we dive into femininity, independence, relationships, and what it means to embrace the unique gifts and vocation God has given women. We’re joined by Megan Boyington, youth minister at St. Joseph Catholic Church in South Bend and a...
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Learnin' a Lil' Lectio
Dust off your Bibles! This week, we’re learning about Lectio Divina, an ancient form of prayer that helps us slow down and meditate on Scripture. We’ll walk through its four movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (meditation), oratio (prayer), and contemplatio (contemplation). We will also…
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Let's Get Unfomfy
What happens when we realize we’ve become comfortable in our faith? In this episode, we talk about spiritual complacency, persistent prayer, trust in God, and the courage to go deeper. We reflect on Matthew 15:21–28 and the Canaanite woman’s persistent faith, asking what God might be inviting us…
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Season 4 Premiere: My Thoughts or God's Voice?
Welcome to Season 4 of the Dramatic Catholics Podcast! We're joined by one of our guest hosts, David Portugal, for a conversation on hearing God's voice, discernment, and how we can better prepare our hearts to grow in prayer. We kick off this new season on the feast day of St. John Vianney, and...
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It's Been a YEAR
⚠️ Fair warning: this episode’s audio quality is rough lol. We recorded this final episode without equipment, and honestly… it shows 😭 But we still wanted to sit down and reflect on this season with you all rather than skip the episode completely. If you’ve supported the podcast, listened...
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For the Seasoned Singles
This week on Dramatic Catholics, we welcome Helena Heffernan, Western Region Ministry Coach for Life Teen International, for a fun, honest, and dramatic conversation on singleness, dating, identity, and why your life is not on pause while waiting for marriage. 👀💍 We talk about putting yourself...
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Chatting it up with COR
This week on Dramatic Catholics, we’re joined by Mary Bakke and Cecilia Fritz—two of six COR members serving at Andre House of Hospitality. COR is a “re-imagined” team living a year of service in community, serving the poor and diving deeper into the faith. In this episode, we talk COR life,...
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Youth Ministry After Hours
Tune in this week with our SJV Lifeteen Core Team to get a behind-the-scenes look at life in youth ministry. From glory stories to meaningful moments, we’re talking about what it’s like to serve teens—and why we’re still doing it after all these years. Through laughter, honesty, and faith, we...
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Going Home to the Dome
In this special episode of Dramatic Catholics, we say goodbye to an era as Delila records her final in-person episode before moving to South Bend, Indiana for her new position serving with the Holy Cross Mission Center. Together, we reflect on Delila’s time at SJV—the memories, the people, and…
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Jesus Wants Your Money
We often come to Jesus with the “big things” going on in our lives, but He invites us to bring every aspect of our lives to Him—both big and small. That includes our finances. In this episode, we’re joined by Paul Lorenz as we talk about what it means to steward money well, avoid making it the...
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DATING vs. Dating
Welcome to Dating vs. Dating—where we unpack the difference between casually dating… and dating with a view of marriage. We’re talking boundaries, red flags, green flags, emotional chastity, and how to know when it’s time to take the next step—or take a step back. And for those moments when…
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Scandalousss
Disclaimer: This episode is not rated for children and addresses sensitive topics related to scandal in the Church. Listener discretion is advised. We strongly encourage listeners to engage with this conversation in its entirety, as it is shared with care, prayer, and necessary context—especially...
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Q & A with the Padres
You asked, we answered! In this Q & A with the Padres edition, Fr. Brian and Fr. David dive into listener questions on faith, life, and everything in between. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has impacted your faith, we invite you to be part of keeping this mission...
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New Thangs
We’re kicking off the new year with a familiar face! This week, we’re thrilled to welcome back our good friend Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C., now serving as the Associate Director of Vocations at the University of Notre Dame. We catch up on all the new thangs—from Fr. Andrew’s new role, to Esme…
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The Present of Presence
In this episode, we sit down with Chaplain Jeffrey Paparone of City of Hope Cancer Hospital to reflect on what it truly means to accompany those who are suffering. Through his experience walking with patients and families in moments of deep pain and hope, we explore the call to humility—learning...
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A Studious Queen
Balancing exams, deadlines, and everyday life is no small task—especially when it starts to feel like your worth is tied to your GPA. This week, we’re joined by my studious sister, Eliana Baca, a doctorate student of biology & physical therapy, who shares her own experiences navigating academic...
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Healing & Becoming Anew: Navigating Mental Health
In this episode, we sit down with Brian Cannon from the Diocese of Phoenix’s Office of Mental Health Ministry to talk about mental health, faith, and how our parishes can better support those who are struggling. We touch on common misconceptions, when to seek help, and how to navigate the added...
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Reclaiming the Night
The peak of Spooky SZN is upon us 👻— and we’re diving into the mystery behind what’s holy versus what’s counterfeit. Can Catholics celebrate Halloween? Where’s the line between faith and curiosity? What about spooky movies—harmless fun or spiritual danger? And is scattering our loved one's ashes...
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A Special Invitation
On this special release episode, we are welcomed by Don and Dina of the Dina Preston Band! Tune in as they share the amazing work they will be doing to raise money for Andre House. Join the Dina Preston Band as they launch their 2026 “We’ve Been Everywhere” Tour on April 17, 2026 at ASU Kerr!...
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The Drama of Holy Friendships
We weren’t made to walk this journey of faith alone. In this episode, we dive into what makes a friendship holy—from accountability and encouragement to challenging one another to grow deeper in love with Christ. Joined by David Portugal, Chilo, and Stephanie Salinas, we explore how authentic,...
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Rome Sweet Home
This week on Dramatic Catholics, we step into the heart of Church history as we recount the powerful canonizations of St. Carlo Acutis and St. Pier Giorgio Frassati. Delila shares her unforgettable journey to Rome—walking the streets of the Eternal City, standing before the incorrupt body of St....
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When Tragedy Strikes
We felt called to have this conversation in light of the recent tragedies that have shaken our communities: the mass shootings at Annunciation Catholic School and Evergreen High School, the stabbing of a woman on a bus in North Carolina, and, most recently, the assassination of Charlie Kirk. We…
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Those Cradle Catholics
This week, we’re joined by two very special guests: Jeremiah and Valerie Salinas. From their early days serving the parish—Jeremiah in our very own 3MORE band and Valerie as a parish intern—to their journey of growing up as cradle Catholics, dating, supporting one another’s dreams in marriage…
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Sista Sista
This week, we’re joined by my studious sister, Eliana Baca, doctorate student of biology & physical therapy for a deep dive into cultivating a healthy relationship with technology—yes, including social media. Esme and I also spill our favorite takeaways from the Catholic Creator Conference, where...
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(His)tory is Dramatic
We’re kicking off Season 3 of Dramatic Catholics! In this premiere episode, we’re joined by David Portugal (Director of Evangelization), Delila Baca (Director of Religious Education), and Esmeralda Avila (Youth Minister) as we reflect on the power of remembering. Our lives are not random — they…
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That's a Wrap
In this season finale, we return to the heart of it all: worship. What does true reverence look like? How does piety go deeper than appearances? Tune in for the end of season two with special guest, Fr. Brian Kennedy, C.S.C. Want to dive deeper into prayer? Check out the Laudate app today!...
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Evangelization: The Command of the Great Commission
Evangelization isn’t just standing on a soapbox and Bible thumping 😂 In this episode of Dramatic Catholics, we’re joined by Paul Lorenz and David Portugal to explore what it really means to live out Jesus’ call to evangelize. From everyday encounters to bold witness, we talk about how to share…
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Our New Papa 🤍
Habemus Papam! In this episode, we welcome Pope Leo XIV, our new Holy Father. We talk about the meaning behind his name, his first words to the faithful, and what his election might signal for the future of the Church. Join us as we unpack the moment the white smoke rose, the joy of a new...
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This is it...
This is it...Join us this week as we conclude our Sacrament Series with a deep dive into Holy Orders—and say farewell to our beloved friend, Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C. As he steps into his new role as Associate Director of Vocations at Notre Dame, we reminisce on his time with us, the impact he’s...
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Locked In: Conclave 2025
What really happens when the doors close and the world waits for white smoke? With the conclave beginning May 7th, we’re joined by Fr. David Halm to break down the history, process, and spiritual weight of choosing the next pope. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has...
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Behind the Grille: A Glimpse at Monastic Life
In this episode of Dramatic Catholics, Sr. Mary Fidelis of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Tonopah, AZ joins us alongside Fr. Brian Kennedy, C.S.C. for a powerful conversation on monastic life, discernment, and the hidden beauty of the cloister. From daily rhythms of prayer to the drama...
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Sacraments 101: Signs & Symbols
In this episode of Dramatic Catholics, we dive deep into the 7 Sacraments—the sacred channels of grace that shape our journey of faith. From Baptism to Holy Orders, these sacraments aren’t just rituals; they’re powerful encounters with Christ that transform our souls. But what do they really…
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Uncut Drama: We be Strugglin' (in Prayer)
Another uncut episode where we get real about praying through spiritual dryness. We’re unpacking the struggle, the silence, and why staying faithful in prayer—even when it feels empty—still matters. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has impacted your faith, we invite…
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God's Healing Touch: Understanding Anointing of the Sick
This week we are joined by Fr. Brian Kennedy, C.S.C. as he explores the power and grace of the Anointing of the Sick. Through scripture, real-life stories, and pastoral insights, discover how this sacrament brings healing, comfort, and hope in times of illness and suffering....
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Truth be Told: Inside the Confessional
What really happens inside the confessional? In this episode of Dramatic Catholics, we take a deep dive into the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Joining us are Fr. Brian Kennedy, C.S.C., and Fr. David Halm, C.S.C., who share their experiences from the other side of the screen—what it’s like to hear...
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Uncut Drama: Would You Rather (Catholic Edition)
As requested to upload more often, we will be periodically releasing special uncut and unedited episodes of Dramatic Catholics outside of our regularly scheduled biweekly podcasts. This week, we use ChatGPT to “play some rounds of a Catholic edition of “Would You Rather.” We hope you enjoy!...
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A Catholic Guide to Dating
Dating as a Catholic in today’s culture comes with unique challenges, but dating with our faith in mind makes all the difference. In this episode, we are joined by David Portugal and St. Thomas the Apostle’s Youth and Young Adult Coordinator, AJ Carter as we discuss how to date with a purpose....
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(Drama) Queen of Heaven
In this episode of Dramatic Catholics, we explore Marian apparitions like Our Lady of Guadalupe and the powerful titles of the Blessed Mother. Joining us is special guest Penelope Toscano, our Mental and Relationship Health Minister, to discuss how a relationship with Mary can strengthen our...
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2025 in a Word
As we step into 2025, we reflect on the word/phrase God has placed on our hearts to guide and inspire us this new year. Join us as we share the significance of our chosen word, and we encourage all of our listeners to do the same! Word of the Year Generator: http://www.wordoftheyear.me We'd love…
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Mass Confusion, Part 4: Q & A with Padre
Join us for part four, our final episode of a special series with Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C. This week, we are answering questions from our very own listeners! Looking for your own missal for Mass? Purchase a Magnificat here: https://paulinestore.com/magnificat-monthly-missal-7255-108809.html Need...
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Mass Confusion, Part 3: Liturgy of the Eucharist
Join us for part three of a special series with Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C., as we explore the questions and confusion surrounding the Mass. This week, we are breaking down the second half, the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Tune in next episode for part four of our Mass Series with a Q & A with Padre!…
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Mass Confusion, Part 2: Liturgy of the Word
Join us for part two of a special series with Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C., as we explore the questions and confusion surrounding the Mass. This week, we are breaking down the first half of Mass, the Liturgy of the Word. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has impacted your...
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Mass Confusion, Part 1: Why is Mass Boring?
Join us for part one of a special series with Fr. Andrew Fritz, C.S.C., as we explore the questions and confusion surrounding the Mass. This week, we tackle the question: Why is Mass boring—and what can we do to change that? Show Notes: James Tissot Image of the Crucifixion:...
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Catholics in the Public Square
In this special episode of Dramatic Catholics, we explore the intersection of faith and politics, discussing how Catholics can effectively live out their beliefs in the public square. Join us before November 5th to prepare for Election Day! Book Referenced: Catholics in the Public Square by…
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All Things Spooky
This week join us for our annual Spooky Season Episode! We are joined by Fr. David Halm, C.S.C. and explore the intriguing world of the supernatural, discussing everything from zombies to ghosts and aliens. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has impacted your faith, we...
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Taking on the Catechism
This week, we dive into the Catechism of the Catholic Church. How should we approach reading it? What are its origins? Is it really as challenging to read as it seems? We tackle these questions and more in this episode! Show Notes: Catechism in a Year:...
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Let's Talk About it...Primal Loss (with Leila Miller)
This week, we welcome Catholic writer and author Leila Miller to discuss her book Primal Loss: The Now-Adult Children of Divorce Speak. In this episode, we delve into the far-reaching effects of divorce on families and highlight the significance of preserving the sacredness of holy matrimony. If...
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OG Moms of SJV
Join us this week as we hear about the beginnings of SJV school with the some of its first graduates, Amanda Mazza, Melissa Cruz, Frankie Orozco and Erika Undiano. --------------------------------------- If Dramatic Catholics has impacted your faith, we invite you to be part of keeping this…
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About this show
The Dramatic Catholics Podcast explores what it means to live within the great drama of salvation history — a story that didn’t end long ago, but continues through us today. Every moment, every choice, and every act of love becomes part of God’s unfolding story of redemption. Through real conversations and honest reflection, we discover how to live boldly, beautifully, and dramatically Catholic — responding to the call written into the heart of every soul.
Hosted by
Delila Baca
Categories