They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

What do typhoon evacuations, koala selfies, and second breakfast in Hobbiton have in common? They’ve all been part of Deacon Bob’s adventurous month. 

After a few weeks apart, Father Dave and Deacon Bob are back, swapping globe-trotting tales, ministry moments, and a surprisingly full slate of sports updates. Bob’s recent trip took him from the typhoon-swept Philippines to Singapore, Perth, Sydney, and a bucket-list stop in New Zealand’s Hobbiton (yes, complete with hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and second breakfast). 

Along the way, he preached to 90 youth leaders just hours after a typhoon hit, met a koala, saw kangaroos, and even met a listener named Rain who drove five hours just to hear him speak. There were plenty of memorable meals, from perfect pancakes to less-than-crispy bacon. 

Meanwhile, Father Dave stayed stateside, baptizing great-nieces (one walked to her own baptism), speaking at the Knights of Columbus Conference, and making a moving visit to the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City. He shares Rother’s remarkable story—from failing Latin in seminary, to obeying his bishop’s call to return to Guatemala, to his martyrdom in 1981—and the beauty of a shrine built right in the heart of the city it serves. 

Sports fans get plenty too: the debut of MLB’s first female umpire Jen Pawol (including her Hall of Fame–bound first pitch), Tom Brady’s towering new statue, and even a trivia challenge about the University of Michigan making draft history. 

Naturally, there are detours, including CGI vs. AI, bad sports statues, and ministry moments that transcended cultural boundaries. But through it all, the heart stays the same: joyfully sharing the Gospel, wherever God sends you (even if it’s to a sheep paddock in New Zealand). 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Sports, Schedules, and Saying Goodbye 

The guys open with bittersweet news about the podcast winding down, why recording has gotten harder, and an invitation for listeners to share favorite memories. They then go into the week’s light sports slate and review the new Superman. Even with the end in sight, their trademark banter is alive and well. 

(05:41) Football, Statues, and Sports Trivia 

Deacon Bob previews a Buccaneers-Steelers preseason game while Father Dave looks forward to Steelers training camp. They discuss Tom Brady’s towering statue and celebrate Jen Pawol historic debut as MLB’s first female umpire. The segment wraps with a trivia challenge about a university making draft history in all four major leagues. 

(15:44) From Typhoons to Hobbit Holes 

Bob recounts ministry in the Philippines, Perth, and New Zealand, including speaking to youth leaders after a typhoon and connecting with alumni abroad. He describes walking through the Shire set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, complete with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn. Jenny may not be a huge fan of the films, but even she found the tour magical. 

(23:42) Sydney, Koalas, and the Ends of the Earth 

From welcoming bishops to preaching across cultures, Bob reflects on moments when the Holy Spirit’s anointing was tangible. He shares encounters with young adults, a koala, and a listener who drove five hours to hear him speak. Each stop reaffirmed the universal joy of sharing the Gospel. 

(25:42) Baptisms, Knights, and Blessed Stanley Rother 

Father Dave talks about baptizing his great-nieces and representing Franciscan University at the Knights of Columbus Conference. He shares the moving story of Blessed Stanley Rother a missionary priest martyred in Guatemala, and describes visiting the shrine dedicated to him. The witness of Rother’s courage and devotion left a lasting impression. 

(32:37) Feast Days and a Chapel Blessing 

Looking ahead to the Feast of the Assumption they pray for peace amid global tensions. Father Dave previews the blessing of Franciscan University’s newly renovated Christ the King Chapel, while Bob outlines upcoming speaking engagements. The conversation closes with anticipation for the start of the school year. 

Resources Mentioned 

Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine – Learn more about the first American-born martyr 

MLB First Female Umpire – Jen Pawol – Read about her historic debut 

Hobbiton Movie Set – Explore the filming location of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit 

Feast of the Assumption – August 15, a Holy Day of Obligation in the Catholic Church 

Christ the King Chapel Renovation – Franciscan University’s expanded and renewed chapel 

Purposeful Lab – New season started on Faith and Reason 

What happens when the world’s top golfer says faith—not golf—is his top priority? 

Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off this episode with that headline-grabbing story, plus summer sports updates, movie reviews, and a powerful look at how God is moving through this year’s youth conferences. 

They cover everything from the MLB All-Star Game and Father Dave’s baseball “betrayal” (attending games without Bob) to a heartfelt reflection on Scottie Scheffler’s British Open win—and why his grounded priorities made bigger headlines than his major win. Father Dave also reviews the new Superman movie, featuring Krypto the Superdog, while Deacon Bob tries to catch up on Fantastic Four before heading overseas. 

But the heart of the episode is ministry: stories from Steubenville Youth Conferences where teens received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and lives were changed through the theme “Consumed.” Father Dave shares insights from a friars’ retreat on hope as a spiritual discipline, while Bob prepares for a whirlwind ministry tour in the Philippines, Australia, and beyond (with protein bars and peanut butter in tow). 

Naturally, there are tangents galore: a drone demo gone off-script, global food fears, and a preview of Franciscan’s upcoming Christ the King Chapel dedication. But through it all, the message is clear: Hope doesn’t disappoint—it transforms. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Summer Break, Baseball, and All-Star Highlights  The guys ease back into the podcast after a month off with All-Star Game highlights, reflections on the Tigers’ surprising run, and a lament over Father Dave attending games without Bob. They also touch on rising stars like Paul Skenes, who started for the National League, and celebrate the return of players wearing their own uniforms. 

(05:10) Scheffler’s Priorities and Superpowered Blockbusters  Scottie Scheffler wins the British Open, but stuns the media by saying golf is third in his life after faith and family. The guys reflect on identity, ambition, and what really matters. Father Dave also reviews Superman (yes, Krypto the dog steals the show), while Bob desperately hopes he can catch Fantastic Four while on the road. 

(11:30) Faith Under Fire  They highlight Father Dave’s recent In Person interview with Nina Shea, who shares sobering insights on Christian persecution across the globe—from Nigeria to China—and what it means to witness to hope in the face of violence and fear. 

(13:17) Youth Conferences: Confessions, Vocations, and Conversions  From Halifax to Springfield, this summer’s Steubenville Conferences have been full of grace. Thousands of confessions. Vocational calls answered. And in St. Louis alone, 20 teens stepped forward expressing their desire to come more fully into the Church. 

(23:56) A World Tour, a Friars’ Retreat, and Acts of Hope  Bob prepares to minister across the globe, while Father Dave shares a takeaway from the friars’ retreat: hope is an action—choosing to lean into God, especially when life feels uncertain. 

(28:24) Chapel Countdown and a Drone in the Studio  They preview Franciscan’s upcoming chapel dedication, celebrate milestones, and attempt a live drone demo (with expected results). The episode closes with prayer for those struggling to hold onto hope. 

• “Scottie Scheffler says 'faith and family' are most important after winning British Open” – Christian Post article 
• Steubenville Conferences – Life-changing encounters with Christ for youth and adults alike 
• In Person Interview with Nina Shea – Watch Father Dave’s interview with Nina Shea on global Christian persecution 
• Superman (2025) 
• The Fantastic Four: First Step 
• Ablaze Ministries  

Pope Francis has passed into eternal life—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob take time to remember him with reverence, gratitude, and a few good stories. 

In this episode, recorded shortly after the announcement of his death, the hosts reflect on the Holy Father’s legacy: his love for the marginalized, his embrace of simplicity, and his tireless call to joy. They recall his early days as a pope who rode the subway, paid his own hotel bill, and preached Christ with bold, missionary zeal. They also explore the complexities of his pontificate—from synodality and youth ministry to off-the-cuff comments and papal “mess-making.” 

Before diving into papal memories, Father Dave and Deacon Bob share Easter highlights, including Good Friday homilies, a stunning Exsultet, packed liturgies at Franciscan University and Blessed Sacrament Parish, and many guests at Deacon Bob’s house. From there, they unpack the impact of Evangelii Gaudium, Christus Vivit, and the Jubilee Years, along with Francis’ unmistakable emphasis on mercy, mission, and the personal love of Jesus. 

From Triduum grace to tears of gratitude, from liturgical reform to South American subway rides, this episode is a heartfelt farewell to a pope who reminded the Church that, in Christ, joy is always possible. Join us in praying for Pope Francis and the Church he loved. 

Highlighted sections 

(00:00) News of Pope Francis' Passing  Father Dave and Deacon Bob begin with the solemn announcement of Pope Francis' death, sharing their heartfelt reactions. They set aside their original agenda to honor his memory and reflect on his papacy. 

(02:11) Easter Reflections and Good Friday Grace  Deacon Bob describes a spiritually rich Triduum, including his deeply moving Good Friday homily and moments of reverence during the veneration. Father Dave recalls the powerful liturgies at Franciscan University and a Holy Thursday story from Rwanda that shaped his preaching. 

(11:06) Joy and the Pontificate of Pope Francis  The hosts reflect on joy as a hallmark of Pope Francis’ papacy—both in theme and in personal testimony. They recall how joy became a grace he received at the beginning of his pontificate, despite his naturally serious demeanor. 

(16:47) A Pope Who Wasn’t Afraid to “Make a Mess”  Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss Francis’ willingness to ask hard questions, provoke dialogue, and advocate for the marginalized. They highlight his synods, pastoral approach, and commitment to listening, even when misunderstood. 

(35:14) His Final Easter Message  The episode closes with Pope Francis’ final Urbi et Orbi blessing—a proclamation of hope, mercy, and resurrection. Father Dave and Deacon Bob pray for peace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the days to come. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Evangelii Gaudium – Apostolic exhortation on the joy of the Gospel 

• Christus Vivit – Pope Francis’ letter to young people 

• The Mission – Film about Jesuit missionaries in South America (IMDb) 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

This episode was supposed to be Live from PNC Park… Until wind, hail, and freezing temps benched those plans.  

Instead, Father Dave and Deacon Bob recap what didn’t happen at the Pirates game—and what did happen at Petco Park, Jackie Robinson Day, and the Pierogi Race. They also cheer for Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters win, reminisce about $300 Air Jordans and train robbers, and share a touching moment from an alumni visit to California.  

They close with rich reflections on the beauty of the Triduum—from foot washing and Good Friday sorrow to the light of the Easter Vigil. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Pirates Game Rained Out, Pasta Wins the Night  A freezing forecast and 40-mph winds cancel Father Dave and Deacon Bob’s plans for a live episode at PNC Park. Instead, they settle for Italian food, play-by-play reenactments, and philosophical questions like: why wouldn’t you go to Red Robin? 

(03:01) Baseball, Scholarships, and One Grateful Mom  Father Dave reflects on a recent trip to California where he met inspiring future Franciscan students—including Abby, a St. Michael Scholarship recipient whose mother wept with joy. They tie it all back to Giving Day and the real, personal impact of donor support. 

(07:06) Rory’s Redemption and Golf on the Tarmac  Rory McIlroy finally wins the Masters in a storybook finish. Father Dave watches it unfold from a stalled plane at O’Hare, while Deacon Bob gives golf an “ish” and vents about ESPN’s limited Masters coverage. 

(13:33) NFL Faith, Stefanski’s Vocation, and the Baron Club Dinner  Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski visits campus and shares how faith shows up in the NFL, from pregame Mass to personal vocation. Father Dave previews an upcoming interview and reflects on ministry, family, and football. 

(19:05) Holy Week Reflections: From Feet to Firelight  A powerful walk through the Easter Triduum—from the humility of Holy Thursday and the silence of Holy Saturday to the joy of the Easter Vigil. Deacon Bob celebrates the Exsultet, and Father Dave reminds us: don’t skip ahead—stay at the foot of the cross. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Franciscan University Giving Day – April 23, 2025 

• St. Michael Scholarship – Supporting first-generation college students at Franciscan 

• Baron Club Dinner – Annual fundraiser celebrating Baron Athletics 

• Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) – Chanted during the Easter Vigil 

• The Triduum – USCCB resource on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil 

• Seven Churches Visitation – Holy Thursday pilgrimage tradition 

• “Heaven Is for Real” – Movie based on a young boy’s near-death experience

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

What happens when you celebrate Palm Sunday and break a historic NHL record in the same week—then try to plan a live podcast at a ballgame? 

This week, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, reunite after time on the road to talk sports, saints, and the start of Holy Week. They celebrate Alex Ovechkin surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, reflect on the highs and heartbreaks of March Madness, and make ambitious plans for a live podcast episode from a Pirates game. Spoiler alert: Torpedo bats and Trevor Williams may be involved. 

Meanwhile, Father Dave shares about the overlooked power of Palm Sunday, inviting listeners to stay close to Christ throughout Holy Week—not skipping ahead to the Resurrection, but walking daily with Jesus through His Passion. From the colt that never bucked to the crowds that cheered then jeered, it's a timely call to praise Jesus for who He is, not just what we want Him to be. 

Also in this episode: Star Trek celebrity sightings, Minecraft movie madness, and what happens when Jack Black meets Jason Momoa (or a mimosa). 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Sugar-Free Gummy Bears, Hockey History, and Reunited Hosts  Father Dave and Deacon Bob are back together and immediately dive into some classic They That Hope banter—including unforgettable Amazon reviews of Haribo sugar-free gummy bears. They also celebrate Alex Ovechkin’s record-breaking moment on the ice and marvel at how the NHL pulled out all the stops for the Great Eight. 

(04:54) March Madness Surprises and Catholic Coaches on the Court  The NCAA tournament wraps up with buzzer-beaters and big surprises, including historic representation among head coaches. The hosts reflect on what it means to win—and lose—with class, and how faith sometimes shows up courtside. 

(09:38) Torpedo Bats, Million-Dollar Cards, and a Possible Live Episode  A new MIT-engineered “torpedo bat” sparks baseball buzz as the Yankees open strong and then crash hard. Meanwhile, a rare Paul Skenes card sells for a jaw-dropping price, and Deacon Bob pitches the idea of recording a live podcast from PNC Park. 

(11:45) Arthur Brooks, Evangelization, and the Art of Disagreement  Father Dave shares a moment of deep insight from his recent interview with Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, who spoke on campus about evangelization in a divided world. They reflect on the importance of friendship, dialogue, and belonging when sharing the Gospel with those who think differently. 

(23:19) Movies, Mimosas, and the Minecraft Mayhem  Deacon Bob survives the cinematic chaos that is the new Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa. The hosts also look ahead to Mission: Impossible, Thunderbolts, and the hopeful return of truly great summer blockbusters. 

(25:51) Palm Sunday Reflections and Staying with Jesus in Holy Week  The hosts reflect on the beginning of Holy Week and the often-overlooked beauty of Palm Sunday. They explore what it means to praise Jesus not just for what He does, but for who He is—and invite listeners to walk with Christ, one day at a time, through the Passion. 

Resources Mentioned 

• In Person with Arthur Brooks – Faith and Reason 

• Love Your Enemies by Arthur Brooks 

• A Minecraft Movie 

• Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning 

• Thunderbolts 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

"Neither do I condemn you." These powerful words from John 8 echo through this week’s episode, as Deacon Bob and Father Dave reflect on Jesus’ radical mercy and the call to transformation. The Gospel story of the woman caught in adultery takes center stage, prompting a rich conversation about sin, dignity, and the scandal of grace. 

From there, the hosts weave this message of mercy into stories from real life—on the field, in the classroom, and even around a D&D table. They celebrate Franciscan’s women’s softball team, relive a touching moment between Sidney Crosby and Deacon Bob’s son, and laugh their way through an unexpected defense of role-playing games (featuring dragons, dice, and Dr. Mike Welker). 

Even as the episode touches on travel tales, NHL milestones, and pretzel cravings in Austria, everything circles back to one central truth: God’s mercy restores what shame tries to erase. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) March Madness, Hockey Moments, and The Hope of Opening Day  Deacon Bob kicks things off with NCAA updates and his son's unforgettable moment with Sidney Crosby. Father Dave shares travel tales and hopes for the Nationals (and the White Sox?!). 

(06:32) Sportsmanship and Surprises in the NHL  From Ovechkin’s selfless plays to honoring retiring legend Marc-André Fleury, the hosts reflect on the character of hockey players and how moments of class can transcend rivalries. 

(13:53) Franciscan Updates, Study Abroad, and Parents’ Weekend in Vienna  Father Dave checks in from Austria, recounting a beautiful Night of Mercy in the Diocese of St. Pölten and sharing how Franciscan’s Austrian Program transforms lives—including a student who decided to transfer after just one semester abroad. 

(18:29) Dice, Dragons, and Deacon Bob’s Geekiest Joy  Bob explains the world of role-playing games—from character sheets to 20-sided dice—and why he finds creativity and community in tabletop storytelling. Father Dave listens… with mixed emotions. 

(25:58) The Gospel of Mercy: Jesus and the Woman Caught in Adultery  The hosts read and reflect on John 8, exploring how Jesus both confronts sin and restores dignity. They discuss the cultural and legal dynamics at play, the Pharisees’ trap, and the power of Christ’s compassion: “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin anymore.” 

Resources Mentioned 

• Gospel Reading: John 8:1–11 

• Franciscan University’s Study Abroad Program in Austria 

• Franciscan University’s Online MA in Theology Program 

• Fall 2026 Admissions Now Open: franciscan.edu 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

What do a prodigal son, a Belize beach revival, and Marian apparitions in Rwanda have in common? 

They all point us back to the mercy of the Father. This week on They That Hope, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka reflect on powerful journeys of repentance, healing, and homecoming—from the Gospel of Luke to the real-life stories unfolding in mission fields and pilgrimage sites. 

Recording from opposite sides of the globe, the hosts reunite after two transformative trips. Deacon Bob shares about leading Franciscan University students on mission in Belize, where their joyful witness brought hope to a struggling culture. Father Dave recounts his pilgrimage to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza, diving deep into the Church-approved Marian apparitions at Kibeho and the painful echoes of genocide. 

Amid reflections on mercy and reconciliation, they also manage to squeeze in March Madness predictions, NBA tanking controversy, and a surprisingly heartfelt conversation about snorkeling (yes, snorkeling gets emotional too). From returning to God after hitting rock bottom to living out faith in a divided world, this episode is a moving invitation to come home to the Father—again and again. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Mission Trips, March Madness, and Podcasting from Abroad  Father Dave checks in from Austria while Deacon Bob broadcasts from Texas. They swap stories from their respective journeys: Bob’s evangelization trip to Belize and Father Dave’s pilgrimage to Rwanda. 

(02:33) March Madness Recap and Catholic Teams on the Court  The NCAA tournament is in full swing with top seeds like Duke, Houston, and Auburn advancing. The hosts recap St. Francis University’s epic underdog run and reflect on the faith and fumbles of Catholic teams. 

(07:59) NBA Tanking, Cooper Flagg, and Draft Day Drama  Deacon Bob breaks down the controversial strategy of “tanking” in the NBA, with teams vying for next year’s top pick: high school phenom Cooper Flagg. Meanwhile, scrappy teams like the Warriors and Lakers keep playoff hopes alive. 

(10:20) Chastity, Witness, and the Joy of Mission in Belize  Deacon Bob shares how Franciscan students' witness to chastity made a profound impact in a culture where early sexual activity is the norm. Their week culminated in a powerful beach praise night that brought the town together. 

(17:03) Marian Apparitions and Forgiveness in Rwanda  Father Dave reflects on his powerful visit to Kibeho, site of the Church-approved Marian apparitions in Rwanda. He shares stories of healing, warnings of violence, and the radical forgiveness modeled by Immaculée Ilibagiza. 

(30:43) The Prodigal Son and the Mercy of the Father  This week’s Gospel reading prompts a deep discussion on God’s mercy, the danger of spiritual pride, and the invitation to love beyond mere obedience. The hosts explore how the older son’s struggle is often our own. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Left to Tell by Immaculée Ilibagiza 

• Our Lady of Kibeho – Church-approved Marian apparitions 

• Franciscan University Mission Trips 

• March Madness Bracket Updates 

• Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

What does God’s glory look like in your everyday life? 

This week on They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on the Gospel account of the Transfiguration, exploring how moments of divine glory give us strength and perspective during life’s hardest trials. They share how Christ reveals his presence both in the extraordinary—like mountaintop encounters—and the ordinary rhythms of daily life. 

As Deacon Bob prepares to lead a mission team to Belize and Father Dave readies for a pilgrimage to Rwanda, they reflect on the beauty, chaos, and spiritual depth of saying "yes" to God’s call.  

Plus: Gene Hackman tributes, sports heartbreak, custom cookies, and the surprisingly tricky technique of applying ashes. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Belize Missions and 2 A.M. Wake-Ups  Deacon Bob shares the joys and challenges of preparing for a teaching mission in Belize, including an unholy 2 a.m. check-in. Meanwhile, Father Dave offers prayers (and a touch of envy) from Steubenville. 

(08:05) Pilgrimage to Rwanda and the Power of Sacred Places  Father Dave looks ahead to his trip to Kibeho, the site of a Marian apparition that foretold the Rwandan genocide. He reflects on how sacred spaces open hearts to healing and hope. 

(09:20) Sports Heartbreak Hall of Fame  The hosts nominate America’s most painful teams to root for—from the Dallas Cowboys to the Cleveland Browns and beyond. It’s part therapy session, part sports history, and 100% relatable. 

(15:00) Lent, Ashes, and Sugar Cookies  From ash-thumb technique to cookies with their faces on them, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate Lent with reverence and humor. Plus, a shoutout to a generous listener and a forgotten name. 

(19:46) Remembering Gene Hackman  They honor the legendary actor Gene Hackman with a tour of his greatest films, including Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and The Firm. His legacy sparks a fun exchange about favorite actors and movie memories. 

(30:45) Gospel Reflection: The Transfiguration  The hosts reflect on Luke’s account of the Transfiguration and the mystery of seeing God's glory. They share how moments of divine light—like mountaintop encounters—sustain us through darkness and doubt. 

Resources Mentioned 

• FaithAndReason.com – Weekly Lent Scripture Reflections  

• Kibeho, Rwanda – Marian apparition site 

• Divine Mercy Shrine, Kraków, Poland 

• Hoosiers, Unforgiven, The Firm – Films starring Gene Hackman 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

As Lent begins, Deacon Bob and Father Dave turn to the Gospel of Luke and the image of Jesus being led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. From fasting and temptation to spiritual dryness and surrender, the hosts reflect on how the desert becomes a sacred space of encounter and transformation. 

This week’s episode moves from the spiritual to the political, as Father Dave shares his experience at the Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., and the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program. Then, shifting gears, the episode dives into the controversial press conference between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, with reflections on humility, diplomacy, justice, and how Catholics can engage a divided political world without losing heart. 

Sprinkled in—as always—are the laughs: a breakdown of the NFL’s “tush push,” Cavaliers comebacks, the rise of phone booth boxing, and a surprising story about wrestling in a former church. 

As Lent invites us deeper into prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, this episode ends with a moving reflection on the Gospel and a reminder that even in our own deserts, the Spirit leads and God is present. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Fasting, Cheeseburgers, and the Age of Exemption  Father Dave reflects humorously on turning 60 and technically being exempt from fasting—though he still chooses to fast as a spiritual discipline. Deacon Bob playfully insists that doing what you don’t have to do is what makes it truly holy. 

(01:57) NFL Tush Push, Cavaliers Comebacks, and Sports Surprises  The hosts dive into the NFL's controversial "tush push" play and debate whether it should be banned. They also celebrate the Cleveland Cavaliers’ incredible comeback wins and share thoughts on how grit and teamwork shape great sports moments. 

(04:44) Phone Booth Boxing and Wrestling in Church?  From Romania’s newest combat sport to a church-turned-MMA arena, the episode takes an absurd but entertaining detour. The discussion sparks deeper questions about sacred spaces and cultural trends that blur the lines between worship and spectacle. 

(06:10) Evangelization on the Road: Faith-Filled Uber Rides  Bob and Father Dave share stories of surprising spiritual conversations with Uber drivers that opened doors to talk about faith, suffering, and the Trinity. These everyday moments reveal how simple encounters can become grace-filled opportunities for evangelization. 

(08:10) Franciscan in D.C.: Homeland Mission and Catholic Prayer Breakfast  Father Dave describes the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program, aimed at giving students faith-integrated experiences in public service. He also recounts the beauty and depth of the Catholic Prayer Breakfast, including his encounter with JD Vance and a moving moment of public prayer. 

(11:29) Zelensky, Trump, and a Press Conference That Shook D.C.  In one of the most talked-about political moments of the week, the hosts break down the tense exchange between Zelensky, Trump, and JD Vance. The conversation opens up complex questions about justice, diplomacy, war, and how Catholics can engage with humility and integrity. 

(28:42) Into the Desert: Jesus’ Temptation and Our Lenten Journey  Drawing from Luke 4, the hosts reflect on Jesus’ hunger, vulnerability, and spiritual strength in the desert. They invite listeners to embrace Lent not as a burden, but as an opportunity to be led by the Spirit into a place of deeper encounter with God. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1–13 

• Catholic Prayer Breakfast (Washington, D.C.) 

• Franciscan University’s Homeland Mission Program 

Don't miss the engaging discussions brought to you by faithandreason.com and osvpodcasts.com. Catch more episodes at theythathopepodcast.com.

This week’s episode swings from dodgeball chaos at Franciscan University to international hockey heartbreak as Team USA falls to Canada. Father Dave and Deacon Bob also unpack the Yankees’ shocking decision to allow facial hair—and ponder whether robot umpires and AI-controlled baseball are the future of America’s pastime. Oh, and Juan Soto buys a teammate a $92,000 SUV for a jersey number. All-star moves, indeed. 

In entertainment news, the hosts react to Amazon’s takeover of the James Bond franchise, reminisce about their favorite 007s (yes, George Lazenby gets a mention), and reflect on the trend of turning beloved characters into corporate IP machines. Spoiler: they’re not thrilled. 

The heart of the episode is a deep, compassionate look at in vitro fertilization following President Trump’s executive order expanding IVF access. Father Dave and Deacon Bob thoughtfully explain the Church’s teaching on human dignity, the moral challenges of embryo preservation, and the pain of infertility—all while offering hope, prayer, and clarity for couples carrying this difficult cross. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00) Dodgeball, Hockey, and the Return of Beards  Father Dave reports from Franciscan’s wild dodgeball tournament, while Deacon Bob relives Team USA’s loss to Canada—with Canadian friends in the room. Plus, big news: the Yankees are finally allowing beards, and Catholic Beard Balm gets a shout-out. 

(06:21) Robots at Bat: Baseball’s High-Tech Future  From AI strike zones to robot pitchers, the hosts debate the future of America’s pastime—and whether baseball is losing its human touch. Spoiler: Bob wants an all-robot league. 

(07:37) All-Star Salaries and Jersey Numbers  Juan Soto drops $92,000 on a teammate’s car to snag jersey #22. The hosts share stories of sportsmanship, ego, and what happens when your number has a price tag. 

(11:39) Bond, Amazon Bond  With Amazon now owning James Bond, the hosts question the future of the franchise. They rank their favorite Bonds, lament over-franchising, and long for storytelling that isn’t driven by corporate profit. 

(17:42) IVF, Life, and the Church’s Teaching  In response to Trump’s IVF executive order, Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob offer a compassionate, clear look at Catholic teaching on fertility, frozen embryos, and the dignity of human life. 

(29:33) Lent, Loopholes, and Signs of Hope  Ash Wednesday is coming! The hosts clarify fasting rules (yes, there’s an age loophole), pray for Pope Francis, and highlight hopeful moves toward child protection in the digital world. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Catholic Beard Balm – Beard care with a sacred scent (yes, it smells like chrism!) 

• USCCB Statement on IVF – Church teaching on the moral concerns of in vitro fertilization 

• James Bond films 

• Decision Points by George W. Bush – Memoir reflecting on presidential decisions, including policies around embryonic research 

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.