Explore every episode of the podcast Catholic Money Talk
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 123 – Five Questions for Financial Discernment (Original date 2/13/23) | 16 mars 2026 | 00:13:21 | |
How should Catholics make financial decisions? In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, Paul shares five simple questions to help you prayerfully discern financial choices through the lens of your faith. Whether you're deciding about a home, a job change, a major purchase, or another financial step, these questions can help you slow down, remove pressure, and seek God’s will for your money. If you want your finances to reflect your faith, this episode gives you a practical starting point. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 122 - Almsgiving: Expanding the Heart (Part 3) | 09 mars 2026 | 00:22:13 | |
Almsgiving is one of the three pillars of Lent, but it is often misunderstood. It’s not just about donating money or giving away what we don’t need. True almsgiving is love expressed in action. In Part 3 of the Catholic Money Talk Lenten series, Paul explores how generosity stretches our hearts and strengthens our trust in God. Through Scripture stories like the widow’s mite, the widow of Zarephath, and the rich man and Lazarus, we see that God doesn’t call us to comfortable generosity — He calls us to sacrificial love. Paul also shares a powerful personal story about a moment when his family wanted to give but couldn’t, and how that experience changed their financial life. The lesson? Generosity isn’t created by earning more. It’s created by needing less. When we shrink our “cup,” we create the margin that allows God to work through us. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 121- Fasting: Cleaning the Lens (Part 2) | 02 mars 2026 | 00:17:06 | |
Fasting isn’t about a “win-win” sacrifice — it’s about training the will. In Part 2 of this Lenten series, Paul explores how fasting cleans the lens of the soul, strengthens our prayer, and detaches us from the comforts and attitudes that control us. When the cup is small and the lens is clean, freedom and eventually generosity begin to overflow. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 120 - Pray First: The Foundation of a Faithful Lent (Part 1) | 23 févr. 2026 | 00:27:58 | |
Lent is our training for a life in pursuit of Heaven—and every training season begins with prayer. In this first episode of a three-part Lenten series, Paul explores why we must “pray first,” how gratitude changes our perspective, and what it means to place 100% of our finances under the Lord’s authority. Through practical stories and real-life moments, learn how ordinary prayer reshapes both your spiritual life and your money. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 119 - The Disney Delusion: How We Almost Bought a Timeshare We Couldn’t Afford | 16 févr. 2026 | 00:20:18 | |
In this episode, Paul shares a “crazy” story from his own financial past — the time he and Taryn almost bought a Disney Vacation Club timeshare when they absolutely could not afford it. With honesty and humor, he walks through how emotion, sales pressure, and financial delusion nearly led them into a long-term mistake — and the practical habits they use today to avoid those traps. As we enter Lent, this story becomes more than just a money lesson — it’s about slowing down, practicing discipline, and learning that sometimes the most spiritual word you can say with your finances is “no.” Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 118 - Integrity: Holiness Lived Consistently | 09 févr. 2026 | 00:29:01 | |
Integrity sounds simple—but living it can cost us something. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, we explore integrity as a virtue: holiness lived consistently. Through Scripture, real-life stories, and practical financial examples, we look at why letting our “yes” truly mean yes matters—not just for our money, but for our souls. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 117 - It's All About Our Hearts | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:27:50 | |
Nearly half of Jesus’ parables deal with money, wealth, or stewardship—not because God needs our money, but because money reveals what is in our hearts. This episode looks at time, finances, generosity, and why making Jesus Lord of our money begins with the heart. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 116 - If I Say Yes to This, What Am I Saying No To? | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:20:16 | |
Every time we say yes to a financial decision, we are also saying no to something else. In this episode, we explore opportunity cost through practical examples from family life and college planning, and why leaving margin matters. Living on less than we make gives us the freedom to say yes when God calls us to serve. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Epsiode 115 - Where do I start?: A Simple Guide to Budgeting | 12 janv. 2026 | 00:27:28 | |
Budgeting doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. In this episode, Paul shares the simplest way to get started with budgeting, drawing from his own story and the practical steps that helped him and his wife finally gain clarity and peace with their finances. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or intimidated by budgeting, this episode will help you take your first confident step forward. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 114 - The Purpose of Savings: Why We Save | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:33:01 | |
Why do we save money—and where should it actually go? In this episode, we break savings down into three clear purposes: emergencies, large purchases, and wealth building. You’ll learn how these fit together, where to keep your money, and how saving can bring peace, flexibility, and freedom to say yes when God calls. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 113 - Seven Questions for a Financial Reset(original date 1/8/2024) | 29 déc. 2025 | 00:21:26 | |
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause and take an honest look at our finances. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, Paul Scarfone shares seven practical questions to help you assess last year’s wins and challenges, identify priorities, and create a clear plan for the year ahead. This episode focuses not just on numbers, but on the behaviors and habits that drive real financial progress. Paul also introduces a Financial Wellness Checklist to help you evaluate your overall financial health—from budgeting and debt, to insurance, legal planning, and your relationship with money. Whether you’re married or single, Catholic or simply seeking practical financial wisdom, this episode will help you start the year with clarity, intention, and a stewardship mindset—always keeping our ultimate goal in mind. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 112 - This wasn't the Plan: Learning to Trust Like St. Joseph | 22 déc. 2025 | 00:10:21 | |
What do we do when life doesn’t go according to plan? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 111 - Enjoying Restaurants without Financial Regret | 15 déc. 2025 | 00:30:09 | |
Eating out can be a gift—or a source of quiet financial regret, especially during the busy Advent and Christmas season. In this practical episode, Paul shares how couples and families can enjoy restaurants, takeout, and celebrations while staying aligned with their budget, priorities, and long-term goals. You’ll hear real-life examples, creative ways to find deals, and a reminder that intentional planning today protects your peace in January. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Epsiode 110 - Stewardship, Wealth & Generosity: A Catholic Approach to Money - With Chris McMahon | 08 déc. 2025 | 00:42:10 | |
Is wealth compatible with holiness? In this inspiring conversation, Paul sits down with Christopher McMahon—CEO of Aquinas Wealth Advisors and author of Faithful Finances—to explore what it really means to approach money through a Catholic lens. Together they unpack the difference between worldly riches and true abundance, how stewardship shapes our financial decisions, and why generosity is central to living a fully Christian life. If you're seeking clarity, peace, and purpose in the way you handle money, this episode will guide you toward a more faithful and intentional financial path. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 109 - Advent: The Church’s New Year - How to Prepare for Christ with Purpose | 01 déc. 2025 | 00:16:34 | |
Advent marks the beginning of the Church’s year—a fresh spiritual start and a call to prepare our hearts with intention. In this episode, Paul explores what it means to slow down, pray, and live generously in a season that often pulls us toward noise and busyness. Discover practical and spiritual ways to make Christ the King of every part of your life—your home, your relationships, and even your finances. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 108 - Thankfulness vs. Gratitude: The Key to a Full Life | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:21:40 | |
In this Thanksgiving episode, Paul explores the powerful difference between a moment of thankfulness and a life built on lasting gratitude. While thankfulness reacts to the blessings we notice, gratitude roots us in God’s goodness even when circumstances shift. Discover how gratitude unlocks the “fullness of life” Jesus promises — and how choosing it daily can transform your faith, relationships, and peace. Happy Thanksgiving! Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 107 - Lord, what are we going to do today? with Deacon Art: Part Two | 17 nov. 2025 | 00:19:11 | |
This is the second half of my conversation with Deacon Art. Deacon Art says this prayer daily, "Lord, what are we going to do today?" It is such a simple prayer, but it changes everything. I am joined by Deacon Arthur Miller as we unpack this prayer and how allowing the Lord to guide us through each day can make all the difference. This episode is Part Two. Deacon Art is a Deacon at St Mary's church in Simsbury, Connecticut. He is an author, preacher, activist, and retired businessman. He also presents the daily video reflections on the USCCB daily readings website for Tuesdays. (That's where I found him). I am honored to have him join me on this episode of Catholic Money Talk. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 106 - Lord, what are we going to do today? with Deacon Art: Part One | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:29:31 | |
Deacon Art says this prayer daily, "Lord, what are we going to do today?" It is such a simple prayer, but it changes everything. I am joined by Deacon Arthur Miller as we unpack this prayer and how allowing the Lord to guide us through each day can make all the difference. This episode is Part One. Deacon Art is a Deacon at St Mary's church in Simsbury, Connecticut. He is an author, preacher, activist, and retired businessman. He also presents the daily video reflections on the USCCB daily readings website for Tuesdays. (That's where I found him). I am honored to have him join me on this episode of Catholic Money Talk. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 105 - Big Picture: Rules for Married Couples.....about Money | 03 nov. 2025 | 00:22:32 | |
Discover five spiritual principles and five practical habits that every couple needs for financial peace. From prayer and communication to budget check-ins and “sleep-on-it” limits, learn how to build unity, trust, and purpose in your marriage through money done God’s way. Money and Marriage Rules Cheat Sheet Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 104 - The True Cost of Debt: What Borrowing Really Costs You | 27 oct. 2025 | 00:29:54 | |
Debt seems normal—but the real cost is anything but. In this eye-opening episode, Paul breaks down how interest, minimum payments, and long loan terms quietly drain your future and steal opportunities you didn’t even realize you lost. Learn how to see debt for what it truly is, make smarter decisions, and take practical steps toward lasting financial freedom. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 103 - There’s Always Another Option | 20 oct. 2025 | 00:23:16 | |
Ever feel boxed in by your finances or life decisions? In There’s Always Another Option, Paul shows how our habits and hurry can blind us to better paths—and how a little patience and prayer open doors we didn’t see before. Discover how slowing down, asking better questions, and trusting God’s guidance can reveal smarter, more peaceful choices. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 102 - Don't Buy Shovels | 13 oct. 2025 | 00:18:45 | |
“Ever wonder why so many people chase success but end up stuck? In Don’t Buy Shovels, Paul unpacks the hidden cost of chasing quick wins and following the latest financial fads. Discover why the real path to freedom isn’t found in hype, but in slow, faithful progress and trust in God’s timing.” Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 101 - Emergency Funds(original date 10/9/2023) | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:23:36 | |
Tired of money stress every time something breaks? This episode shows you how to set up a real emergency fund—how much, where to keep it, and when to use it—so you stop relying on credit cards and start living with margin. Practical steps, Catholic perspective, immediate peace. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 100 - Episode 100 Wow! | 29 sept. 2025 | 00:23:41 | |
In this special 100th episode, Paul reflects on the incredible journey of Catholic Money Talk — the small beginnings, the faithful encouragement that sparked it, and the grace that’s carried it forward. Hear stories from listeners around the world, lessons from top episodes, and one simple challenge: start. Whatever dream or mission God has placed on your heart, the best time to begin is today. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 99 - Big Picture: Buying a Car | 22 sept. 2025 | 00:35:10 | |
Before you buy your next car, zoom out. In this episode, Paul shows how to make a smart, peace-filled decision by seeing the big picture—needs vs. wants, new vs. used, cash vs. financing, and how each choice impacts your long-term goals. Learn a simple, Catholic approach to car buying that protects your budget and your heart. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 98 - No one knows the day or the hour | 15 sept. 2025 | 00:15:00 | |
"But God, who has promised pardon to every repentant sinner, has not promised us tomorrow." St Gregory the Great Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 97 - How to Start Paying Off Debt When You Feel Overwhelmed | 08 sept. 2025 | 00:31:47 | |
Debt can feel heavy, confusing, and hard to face — especially when you do not even know where to begin. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, we walk through the first steps to paying off debt, including how to get clear on what you owe, why you need a small emergency fund, how to choose a payoff strategy, and what common mistakes to avoid. We also talk about the difference between the debt snowball and debt avalanche, and why paying off debt is about more than math — it is about changing habits and reclaiming freedom. If debt has ever made your stomach drop, this episode is for you. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 96 - Work and Trust: Where is the balance? | 01 sept. 2025 | 00:35:29 | |
Pray as if it depends on God, work as if it depends on you. Where is the balance? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 95 - God's Generosity(original date 9/25/2023) | 25 août 2025 | 00:13:44 | |
I am constantly experiencing God the Father's love and generosity. How do I share that with those around me? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 94 - Start with Why | 18 août 2025 | 00:19:27 | |
It is important to have a WHY that is big enough to get us to act. We might want to start something, we might want to change something, we might want to end something, but having the right WHY is key before we get to the how or the what. Let's talk about it....Start with Why! Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 93 - Building Bigger Barns | 11 août 2025 | 00:29:30 | |
Let's take a look at two biblical stories about bigger barns and discuss saving, investing, and wealth building. What is our motivation? What is our priority? Are we living a life of JOY? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 92 - Marriage Workshop Promo!! | 07 août 2025 | 00:09:46 | |
What would it be like if you and your spouse increased your effectiveness in handling money? This class, Money & Marriage: The Starting Point, is designed to help you do just that. Register here for the Workshop Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 91 - The Desire for Stuff(original date 9/11/2023) | 28 juil. 2025 | 00:16:55 | |
Here is a replay of Episode 27 - Always a great reminder when we find ourselves desiring something. We can get trapped in our desire for worldly possessions. St. Augustine has a great quote regarding this. Let's talk about it. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 90 - Subscription Creep: The Hidden Budget Killer | 21 juil. 2025 | 00:21:06 | |
Ever wonder where all of your money is going? Do you think there could be too many holes in your budget where money seems to leak out every month? You are not alone. And, there is hope. Let's talk about Subscription Creep and how it is The Hidden Budget Killer. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 89 - What a difference a year makes | 14 juil. 2025 | 00:17:14 | |
Every year, we seem to face new challenges. Do we remember to run to the Lord? Do we remember to open the door and let him in? Are we filled with hope because the Lord is faithful? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 88 - The Important Documents Your Family Needs If Something Happens to You (Original date 4/22/2024) | 30 juin 2025 | 00:19:08 | |
When something happens to us, our family should not be left scrambling to find important documents, instructions, account information, and end-of-life plans. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, we talk about how creating one organized file can be a simple but powerful act of love for your spouse, children, and family. We cover what to include, how often to update it, and why this kind of preparation can bring peace in the middle of a difficult time. This episode also includes a practical checklist to help you start building your own legacy file. Free download: Legacy File Checklist. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 87 - Kick Starting a Plan, Scorched Earth, and Real Emergencies | 16 juin 2025 | 00:24:20 | |
I often get questions from people who are faced with a challenging situation, and they are unsure of their options and don't know where to start. In this episode, I give some direction and hopefully some encouragement. There is a way out! Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 86 - The Cost of College, and How to Avoid Student Loan Debt | 02 juin 2025 | 00:22:26 | |
College is expensive, and too many families start the process without a real plan for how they will pay for it. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, we talk about college costs, why student loans can create a heavy burden for young adults, and how parents and students can begin planning with the end in mind. We walk through why it is so important to know what college actually costs, set a goal early, explore scholarships and work opportunities, and create a path toward graduating with as little debt as possible. If you are a parent of a high school student — or a student beginning to think seriously about college — this episode will help you start asking the right questions. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 85 - We've got some exciting news! - Taryn Scarfone joins me. | 26 mai 2025 | 00:18:47 | |
Taryn and I share some exciting news. Hopefully, we can encourage you as you pursue the goals the Lord puts on your heart. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 84 - Work and Career | 19 mai 2025 | 00:30:11 | |
It is important to be a Christian disciple in the workplace. As Catholics, we need to have the right mindset and approach to work. In this episode, I talk about the importance of having the correct approach to work and some of the challenges that we might face. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 83 - Why Budget Monthly | 05 mai 2025 | 00:22:49 | |
I often get asked, "Why do we need to create a monthly budget?" The answer is pretty simple: "Because every month is different." Budgeting monthly will give you more clarity about your finances, it will provide more control over your spending, and help you achieve your goals. Give it a listen. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 82 - Finishing Strong - Run so as to Win | 14 avr. 2025 | 00:17:22 | |
St Paul teaches us that finishing strong is important. "We must run so as to win," he says. Holy Week is a good time to put that into spiritual practice. Life presents many other areas to work on finishing strong and to run so as to win. As we learn to lean towards the finish line and finish strong in practical areas of our life, it helps us to build character and teaches us endurance as we run the race towards our Heavenly Home. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 81 — How to Start Saving for Retirement the Right Way | 07 avr. 2025 | 00:30:42 | |
Saving for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems far away or when life has other financial priorities right now. In this episode of Catholic Money Talk, we walk through how to start saving for retirement effectively, why starting early matters so much, how different retirement accounts work, and why consistency is one of the most important parts of the plan. We also talk about retirement through a Catholic lens of stewardship — preparing wisely for the future so that we can continue to serve, give, and respond to what the Lord may ask of us later in life. Please click the link below to get in touch with me if you have any questions. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 80 - Good things come to those who wait! | 31 mars 2025 | 00:19:18 | |
Are you familiar with this phrase? The Lord promises that he will come through. We know this because he is faithful. We need to put our trust in him. We need to hope in the Lord. Because "good things do come to those who wait!" Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 79 - Three Questions to ask before making a large purchase(original date 8/21/23) | 17 mars 2025 | 00:15:44 | |
Replay of Episode 26 - Large purchases have the potential to easily derail our financial plan. Ask yourself these three questions before making any large purchase or any large financial decision. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 78 - Speaking of Corporal Works of Mercy Part Two - with Dr Justin Anderson | 10 mars 2025 | 00:29:48 | |
Join me in Part Two with Dr Justin Anderson, as we discuss "if, how, and when" We might be able to share stories about corporal works of mercy to encourage others, and be a witness to the Glory of God. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 77 - Speaking of Corporal Works of Mercy Part One - with Dr Justin Anderson | 03 mars 2025 | 00:26:19 | |
Join me in Part One with Dr Justin Anderson, as we discuss "if, how, and when" we might be able to share stories about corporal works of mercymercy to encourage others, and be a witness to the Glory of God. Part two is next week. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 76 - Personal Discipline and Self Control(original date 10/16/23) | 24 févr. 2025 | 00:15:52 | |
This is a replay of Episode 30. But it is just as timely as ever. Personal Discipline and Self-Control are crucial for financial success. I give you three suggestions to help you implement them in managing your finances. Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 75 - Managers not Owners | 17 févr. 2025 | 00:21:26 | |
God owns everything. We are only managers. What does that mean? Get in touch with Paul | |||
| Episode 74 - Christian Financial Stewardship - Part Two | 10 févr. 2025 | 00:16:17 | |
We pick up where we left off. We start with our story; How Taryn and I implemented these principles into managing our finances. This is like a mini crash course in why we handle our finances with our faith lens, and how to do it. Thank you for joining me. Get in touch with Paul | |||