Real Life. Real Faith. Real Conversations.
The Lighten Up Podcast with Hannah Crews is powered by Truthly, the #1 most downloaded Catholic AI app in the world! Protect your soul and identity while using Truthly Catholic AI. For a Catholic perspective on ANY response, download Truthly today - available on mobile and desktop. https://web.truthly.ai/login
Join the Book Club on Patreon where we read and discuss books on original Christianity! "Elite" members unlock more bonus content from the podcast episodes!
https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheLightenUpPodcast/membership
Site
RSS
Apple
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Shared links between episodes and podcasts
Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.
Ex-Evangelical REACTS to Kathryn Krick: is this really the Holy Spirit?!
Episode 28
Monday, July 27, 2026 • Duration 15:14
A HUUUUGE THANK YOU to our new partner Truthly.ai 🙏🏼🥳 The #1 most downloaded Catholic AI app in the world! You can sign up for Truthly here: https://web.truthly.ai/login & download mobile / desktop versions in the app store!
In the spirit of keeping things TRUE I wanted to talk about this viral video “Apostle” Kathryn Krick shared of people shaking, falling, or convulsing during church services and book signings. In this episode of the Lighten Up Podcast, we’re looking into the claims surrounding Kathryn Krick, the charismatic movement, and the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) through the lens of Scripture, church history, and original Christianity.
Growing up with Pentecostal roots, I understand the appeal of emotional worship, speaking in tongues, and powerful spiritual experiences. But after studying the Catholic Church, the early Church, and the importance of apostolic succession, my perspective has changed dramatically.
Together, we'll examine what really happened at Pentecost, what the Bible teaches about the Holy Spirit, and whether modern charismatic manifestations align with the teachings of the apostles and 2,000 years of Christian tradition. We'll also discuss biblical discernment, the fruits of the Holy Spirit, and why testing every spiritual experience matters.
Join me on this inquisitive journey and let us know what you think of this video in the comments 😁p.s. Watcha think of the new look 🤩🪩
If you’re interested in learning more about original Christianity JOIN MY BOOK CLUB and online community on PATREON! Click the link below and choose your tier - ELITE members unlock bonus content from the podcast episodes:
00:00 Exploring the origins of charismatic theology
07:11 Biblical perspective on Holy Spirit's work and authentic experiences
09:31 Distinguishing genuine Holy Spirit activity from hyperemotionalism
10:30 The importance of church authority and tradition
Ex-Protestant Pastor shares why he became Catholic!
Episode 27
Monday, July 20, 2026 • Duration 44:23
Sam Nunnally is the creator of It’s Okay to Be Catholic, where he helps people online understand Catholic teaching through Scripture, Church history, and the writings of the early Church Fathers. His mission is to make the Catholic faith approachable for anyone sincerely seeking truth, and today he is joining us to discuss why being Catholic IS okay!
There’s a whole lotta misconceptions out there about the Catholic faith and Sam is here to encourage us and share the truth with us. As a former Protestant pastor, Sam addresses some of the biggest objections to Catholicism like prayer, sacrifice, and the Eucharist with compassion and sensitivity.
You also get access to THE BOOK CLUB on Patreon where we are currently reading JESUS AND THE JEWISH ROOTS OF THE EUCHARIST which you can get using the link below:
Missionary becomes Catholic and loses friends. But God stepped in…
Episode 18
Monday, May 18, 2026 • Duration 52:38
Throughout my journey of researching the Catholic faith I’ve been particularly captivated by conversion stories. This week I have the pleasure of sitting down with Brian Tran, a.k.a. “Catholic Brian” - a former Protestant missionary who served in some of the world's most persecuted regions, now dedicated to sharing the Catholic faith through social media!
His testimony reveals how deep study, divine encounters, and unwavering obedience can lead even the most skeptical souls to the transformative power of Christ in the Eucharist, Mary, and the early Church’s teachings.
This episode is a MUST-listen for anyone seeking to understand the beauty and depth of Catholic tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or just beginning your spiritual journey, Brian’s story will inspire you to keep seeking TRUTH, trust in divine mercy, and realize that the fullness of Christ’s Church has been walking with us through history.
If you've ever been curious or intimidated by Catholic traditions, then consider this episode your official “Mass Survival Guide!”
My family and I have been exclusively attending Catholic Mass now for several months and we absolutely love it - including my kids! We’ve experienced Mass not as super “boring” (as some might describe it), but as a powerful act of worship focused entirely on Jesus and the Eucharist.
My hope is that these practical tips take some of the pressure off and allow you to fully experience the beauty of the Mass if you ever decide to go. Regardless of our backgrounds or denominations - the reverence, tradition, and the focus on Jesus at Mass is something to behold ☺️
Join our Patreon for weekly BOOK CLUB livestreams and bonus content!! Click the link below and choose your membership 👇🏼:
Purgatory? Mary Worship? Emily from Catholic Converts Gives Answers!
Episode 16
Monday, May 4, 2026 • Duration 50:46
Welcome back to another episode of questioning everything I’ve ever known LOL
In this episode, I am joined by Emily Dinneny, a Catholic content creator, apologist, and researcher, known for her work with Catholic Answers and her mission to bring clarity to misunderstood doctrines.
Emily, a former evangelical, shares her jaw-dropping journey from questioning the faith to embracing the fullness of Catholic doctrine. Discover how early Christian traditions, historic church teachings, and compelling biblical evidence reveal a rich spiritual truth often hidden beneath decades of misunderstanding.
Don’t miss this compelling conversation that challenges what you thought was possible and get ready to see Christianity in a new light! When you pursue history and tradition together, the full story of Jesus unfolds before your eyes!
If you haven't seen the first episode of "What's Up with This Catholic Thing?!" you can watch it here: https://youtu.be/WPtH9muIlP0
Join our Patreon for weekly BOOK CLUB livestreams and bonus content!! Click the link below and choose your membership 👇🏼:
I'm a Protestant: 5 things that made me question EVERYTHING
Monday, April 27, 2026 • Duration 12:27
Over the past 6 months I’ve gone from a devout Protestant to a deep-dive investigator of early Christianity’s true origins. What I found REVOLUTIONIZED my understanding of faith. Which is why things are going to start looking a little bit differently around here…
Welcome to a brand new Lighten Up series, WHAT’S UP WITH THIS CATHOLIC THING?! In this episode, I’ll walk you through the questions and discoveries that made me want to pursue Catholicism. And over the next several weeks, I will be sharing some amazing conversion stories with you!
This series is perfect for anyone questioning the history they've been told, searching for biblical authenticity, or eager to understand the real roots of Christianity that might have been hidden for centuries. And if you're interested in going deeper, I invite you to join the Book Club on my Patreon! Click the link below 👇🏼 to gain full access to all the bonus content and Book Club videos!
VIGILANTE GONE VIRAL: HOW ALEX ROSEN TRACKS DOWN CHILD PREDATORS | E14
Episode 14
Monday, April 13, 2026 • Duration 26:51
Are we really doing enough to protect our kids? Most parents don’t realize how close predators are and how easy it is for them to slip through the cracks.
In this episode today Alex Rosen dives into the truth behind catching child predators that most of us never see. When you hear how he and his team, Predator Poachers, identify and confront these sick individuals (sometimes in direct face-to-face meetings) you'll realize how vital this undercover work is for protecting innocent lives. His story reveals the shocking prevalence of online predators and the heartbreaking gaps left by some law enforcement agencies, highlighting why vigilante efforts are sometimes necessary and how they serve as a crucial deterrent in a vast, hidden battle.
Hopefully this will be a wake-up call for any parent, teacher, or concerned citizen who understands that the fight to protect children is ongoing and multifaceted. The truth is… we all need to do our part. Be aware of who’s around your kids, limit their online exposure, and support efforts to keep predators off the streets.
THE TRUTH ABOUT CHURCH MONEY? INSIDE “THE RELIGION BUSINESS” WITH NATE APFFEL | E13
Episode 13
Monday, March 30, 2026 • Duration 48:56
Have you ever stopped to consider… just what is a church?? The reality that we are living in where faith meets finance begs this question. And exactly how much do monetary systems influence religious institutions? In his documentary “The Religion Business”, Nathan Apffel investigates these secrets and seeks accountability for nonprofit organizations.
Now, on the verge of a second season of The Religion Business, Nathan is sitting down to talk with us about making the challenging docuseries and solutions to this goliath of a problem. How could our communities transform if resources were just properly stewarded?
RUN, don’t walk, to go watch The Religion Business here:
00:00 Introduction to Nathan Apffel and The Religion Business
04:11 The Mixed Reception of The Religion Business
09:46 Remarkable Moments in Filming The Religion Business
12:52 Approach to Investigating Churches
18:21 Prosperity Gospel and Its Implications
21:08 Navigating Church Finances and Accountability
FROM VICTIM TO LAWMAKER: KAYLEIGH KOZAK’S FIGHT FOR JUSTICE | E12
Episode 12
Monday, March 16, 2026 • Duration 49:00
This trend of church scandals being covered up by pastors more concerned with protecting their reputation rather than protecting their people is DEEPLY disturbing…
In this episode of the Lighten Up Podcast we are sitting down with Kayleigh Kozak, a victim of sexual abuse dedicated to exposing evil and protecting other victims through legislation known as “Kayleigh’s Law.” Kayleigh shares her personal story and her inspiring fight for justice which highlights the ongoing struggles victims face in the legal system, the challenges of dealing with abusers, and the troubling role of churches in supporting abusers rather than victims.
Kayleigh and Hannah’s stories are just 2 examples of church leadership blatantly IGNORING cases of abuse, and in Kayliegh’s case actively and publicly supporting her abuser. Unfortunately, this is becoming all too common. There needs to be more accountability and reform within the church to protect future generations from similar abuses! We urge listeners to stay vigilant and pray for our leaders in the body of Christ as well as the victims.
Chapters
00:00 Unveiling the Scandals: A Personal Journey
05:53 Kaylee's Law: Protecting Victims for Life
12:00 The Ongoing Battle: Courtroom Struggles and Abuser's Tactics
17:52 The Church's Role: Cover-Up Culture and Accountability
23:17 The Church's Response to Abuse Cases
27:40 Accountability and Boundaries in Faith Communities
31:54 The Role of Leadership in Protecting Victims
36:32 The Impact of Institutional Failures on Victims
45:31 The Call for Truth and Reform in the Church
THE CORPORATE MEDIA IS LYING (AND SHE PROVED IT ON LIVE TV) | E11
Episode 11
Monday, March 2, 2026 • Duration 45:03
Have you ever wondered why so much news feels like propaganda?
I’ve seen FIRSTHAND how big media controls the narrative — and it’s sickening. But there's a silver lining: independent journalism is booming, giving us real truth and freedom to speak!! Today we are sitting down with Ivory Hecker, an independent journalist and news analyst who spent nine years as a TV news reporter and anchor. In 2021 she went viral for calling out her employer FOX Corp live on air after witnessing the suppression of truth and deception of viewers. She now dedicates her time to shining light on issues the media lies about or suppresses.
Ivory’s boldness is inspirational and in this episode you’ll hear just how much we’re being lied to. It’s time we all start demanding the truth!!
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Ivory
03:00 The Polarization of News Media
06:13 Investigating the Somali Fraud Story
09:07 The Emotional Toll of Independent Reporting
12:03 The Financial Upside of Independent Journalism
15:00 The Cult-like Nature of Corporate Media
18:01 Personal Experiences in Corporate News and Control
20:40 Media Manipulation and Vaccine Promotion
21:57 The Role of Corporate Interests in Journalism
23:58 Gaslighting in Newsrooms
28:05 The Future of Journalism: Independent vs. Corporate
34:50 Empowering New Journalists through Education
IF YOU'RE PASSIONATE ABOUT REAL STORIES AND WANT TO LEARN HOW TO DO IT YOURSELF, CHECK OUT IVORY’S INDEPENDENT JOURNALISM COURSE HERE: 👇🏼
Discover shows related to The Lighten Up Podcast, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
