Dr. Tom Curran Podcast

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel to respond to quotes by St. Lawrence of Brindisi on themes, such as: the importance of language/ words, the power of God's Word, the struggle between interior vs. exterior, the duty of preaching, and more.

From the archive! Dr. Tom and Kari Curran reflect on parenting teens and college-aged kids during Summer Break. The Currans reflect back on their successes and failures in teaching lessons and habits to their children.

Dr. Tom Curran explores the founding of the carmelite order, quotes from carmelite saints, the connection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to Our Lady of Fatima, and the role of the Blessed Mother in the lives of Catholics today!

Dr. Tom Curran interviews Msgr. Marc Montminy, Pastor of Saints Mary and Joseph in Salem, NH. In anticipation of his upcoming 50th year Anniversary to the priesthood, Fr. Montminy shares insights on his experiences in several spiritual renewal movements and shares stories of miraculous healings, mystical gifts and stigmatists. Referenced Spiritual Renewal MovementsCatholic Charismatic RenewalCursillo MovementKairos Prison Ministry InternationalMarriage Encounter

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, share insights and stories about discerning the seminary, celibacy and priesthood. Fr. Pat talks about witnessing his friend and colleague's consecration to bishop.

From the archive! Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel: What does it mean to go “all in” for Christ? What drains you of energy? What attracted you to a monastic vocation? Fr. Nagel gives tips for fruitful contemplative prayer and responds to quotes from St. Benedict.

Dr. Tom and Kari Curran explore important qualities to look for when discerning a future spouse, looking ahead at the many stages in marriage. The Currans consider the questions: Do they have compatible ambitions? Do they have long-lasting friendships/ loyalty? How do they handle being wrong? How do they treat their parents/siblings? Tom and Kari ask each other surprise questions about their own marriage.

Dr. Tom Curran continues to share insights from his upcoming book, No Half Measures, about his Camino pilgrimage. Tom explains why he started his journey with a visit to Tours, France, and teaches about the history of the Devotion to the Holy Face of Christ, revealed to Sr. Marie of St. Peter.

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, share insights from Isaiah 55 and Matthew 13 on the theme, God's Word bears fruit. Tom and Fr. Pat discuss practical examples of the different types of soil from The Parable of the Sower.

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel: What's the 250 year history of America? What was the faith of the Founding Fathers? How revolutionary was the American Revolution? What's your take on conspiracy theories? and more!

Dr. Tom Curran gives examples of big and small gracious disruptions from his Camino pilgrimage, starting with the first day of his trip. Tom shares insights from several scripture accounts of gracious disruptions, through charity or calamity.

Dr. Tom Curran discusses the journey that led him to moments of conviction and commitment to walk the Camino de Santiago. Tom addresses the pressures of raising a family and testifies to discerning God's 10X vision for his life, pursuing a gracious disruption and overcoming obstacles.Referenced Book/ Podcast10x Is Easier than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy

Dr. Tom Curran talks about important truths to teach the next generation: deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and stand up for Christ's teaching in the world. Tom explores the principle, “many live by the favor of the few” and the gift of the communion of saints.

Dr. Tom Curran shares insights from Reign of Jehoiachin (2 Kings 24:8-17) about surrendering to the consequences of disobedience to God, even the loss of wealth, fame and power. Tom discusses themes written about in his upcoming book on his Camino pilgrimage, No Half Measures. Referenced Texts: Ascent of Mount Carmel and Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross.

From the archive! Dr. Tom Curran asks Father Kurt Nagel: What is the purpose of Quo Vadis Days? I can't hear God's voice, is that normal? How does one discern a call from God when faith becomes dry?

Dr. Tom and Kari Curran discuss the encouraging and triggering moments of watching FIFA World Cup. The Currans give tips for keeping marriage fresh and ponder the questions: What are signs that a married couple is drifting? Do you know what brings life to your spouse? How do you grow beyond the boredom of predictability in marriage?

Dr. Tom Curran explores the questions: What shapes your philosophy on life? What's your vision for life? How does your life project what's most important to you? Tom shares insights from Ascent of Mount Carmel and Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross. Referenced Philosophy Books:On Caring by Milton MayeroffWho Is Man? by Abraham J. HeschelMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

Dr. Tom Curran shares insights from his Father's Day celebration with his family. Tom talks about the generational impacts of affirming others, handing-on the faith, fasting from comforts/ embracing a difficult path, and more!

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, celebrate Fr. Pat's 36th Anniversary of ordination. Fr. Pat shares insights on being a son/brother in his family, a spiritual father, a brother in a fraternity of priests, and a child of God.

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel to share highlights on 4 saints honored this week: St. Aloysius Gonzaga, St. John Fisher, St. Thomas More and St. John the Baptist. Which saint is attractive for GenZers searching for purpose and identity? Which saint was a laymen, with a wife and family? Which bishop was martyred for choosing the pope over a king?

Dr. Tom Curran continues to explore the gift of The Rosary, as an antidote to sources of modern decay. Tom talks about how to pray The Rosary well, by meditating on the events of the mysteries.

Dr. Tom Curran shares insights by Pope Leo XIII and Pope Leo XIV on 3 sources of modern decay: the crisis of labor/ vocation, the vice of spiritual softness and the forgetfulness of eternal life. Tom addresses his own 4th reason for contemporary decay, addiction to the digital world.

Dr. Tom Curran interviews Esther Ripplinger, CEO of Human Life of Washington's Love and Life Network. Esther gives an update on changes in the prolife movement and talks about the upcoming conference, Culture of Life & Love Summit and Arts Festival, Pasco, WA.

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, share insights from Psalm 95. Fr. Pat addresses the common questions: What is the Liturgy of the Hours? Why do priests pray the Liturgy of the Hours? What motivates you to pray the Liturgy of the Hours well every day?

From the archive! Dr. Tom Curran asks Father Kurt Nagel: What is home? What's a priest's experience of home? What is true freedom? What are the dangers of modern technology? Fr. Kurt Nagel addresses the “anti-Trinity”: the internet, smartphones and AI.

Dr. Tom and Kari Curran discuss growing in self awareness through making a good confession. Tom tells the "missing chapter" from his transformative Camino pilgrimage and he explores 3 levels of conversion: repentance, renunciation and God's grace.

Dr. Tom Curran talks about the effects of sin on the intellect, will and desires. Tom explores the concupiscence of sin, particularly the sins of pride and anger. What are the promises of pride? How is stubbornness and boastfulness connected to pride? How can we grow in humility? What's the difference between righteous indignation and anger? Referenced Movie:Sacred Heart: His Reign Has No End (Fathom Entertainment) Get Tickets Near You!

Dr. Tom Curran shares insights from a recent Curran Family Sunday meeting. Tom addresses four questions: What is the proper effect of Holy Communion? What's at stake in receiving Holy Communion? How do you pray in relation to Holy Communion? How does adoration deepen how one receives Holy Communion? Tom answers the question his kids asked him, “Why don't you have any friends?”

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, discuss the importance of building a small group of people to walk in faith together. Today's hosts talk about education vs. formation, saying prayers vs. praying to God, friendship vs. fraternity, and more!

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel: How did you celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi? What's the science behind the eucharistic miracles? How long did saints fast, surviving only on the Eucharist alone? What does it mean to become a “living monstrance?"

Dr. Tom and Kari Curran reflect on the transition of a loved one through death into eternal life. The Currans talk about how they honored their dying parents, grieved the death of a parent and celebrated the legacy of a “life well lived.” Kari reads the eulogy she wrote for her mother.

Dr. Tom Curran clarifies common misconceptions about “praise and worship” and explores different forms of praise: in song, in words and in silence. (individually, communally and liturgically) Tom shares insights from the Catechism of the Catholic Church on the Prayer of Praise and gives practical tips on how to teach kids to pray and forgive.Prayer Acronym:PTPIA - Praise, Thank, Petition, Intercession & AskForgiveness Sentences:“I did it.”“I'm sorry.”“Forgive me.”“I'll make up for it.”“I'll never do it again.”

Dr. Tom Curran explores insights by his spiritual director, Fr. Mark Noonan, about 4 Levels of Receptivity: receive me, I receive, I'm receptive to receive, and I am receptive to being received. Tom talks about the topics, such as: neediness, gratitude, affirmation, belonging and acceptance.Referenced Book:He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek, S.J.

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, share insights on Pentecost Sunday, Holy Trinity Sunday, and Corpus Christi Sunday. Today's hosts answer the questions: How do you nurture a personal relationship with Jesus? How has the eucharist impacted your vocation? Have you noticed a trend toward more reverent posture towards the eucharist?

From the archive! Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel and Fr. Jeff Lewis: How have you been transformed by God's Word? What are some scripture passages that have changed your life? Is there a bible verse that speaks to you again and again?Fr. Nagel's List of Life-Changing Scripture PassagesGal 2:19-20Eph 3: 14-19Luke 9: 23Fr. Lewis's List of Life-Changing Scripture PassagesPsalm 46: 11Exodus 14: 13-14Luke 1:38

From the archive! Dr. Tom and Kari Curran talk about recent Aha! moments, prompting them to recognize blindness and gain awareness. The Currans discuss adventures in playing Mr. Mom, Seasonal affective disorder (SAD,) green flags for a future spouse, and more!

Dr. Tom Curran explores the first Encyclical Letter of Pope Leo XIV titled Magnifica Humanitas. Tom discusses key highlights on topics, such as: the modern industrial revolution, the Babel-syndrome, the human person “made in the image of God” vs. “a project to be optimized,” and transhumanism.Referenced Document:ENCYCLICAL LETTER, MAGNIFICA HUMANITAS, OF HIS HOLINESS POPE LEO XIV ON SAFEGUARDING THE HUMAN PERSON IN THE TIME OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (Vatican.va)

Dr. Tom Curran talks about the impact of Pentecost and explores the important meaning of dates on the calendar, namely: saint feast days, anniversaries, birth / death dates and more! Tom shares insights from St. Philip Neri and St. Augustine of Canterbury.

Dr. Tom Curran shares insights on recent and upcoming events: Pentecost Sunday, Memorial Day and the prayer vigil for Mary Margaret Delorenzo. Tom talks about the experience of grief, the doorway of death, the power of the Holy Spirit, and seeking the presence of Jesus.

Dr. Tom Curran, Fr. Kurt Nagel and Fr. Jeff Lewis discuss spiritual, academic and human formation. Tom asks the priests: What were the gifts and gaps in your seminary formation? How well did your seminary formation prepare you for celibacy? How do you help parishioners with discernment? What resources do you recommend for those looking to grow in prayer?Referenced Book List:The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à KempisAn Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de SalesIn the School of the Holy Spirit by Jacques PhilippeTime for God by Jacques PhilippeSearching for and Maintaining Peace: A Small Treatise on Peace of Heart by Jacques PhilippeIn Conversation with God series by Francis Fernandez-CarvajalFire Within: Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross and the Gospel on Prayer by Fr. Thomas Dubay, S.M.The Gift of Faith by Tadeusz DajczerHeart of the World by Fr. Hans Urs Von BalthasarThat Man Is You by Louis EvelyWe Dare to Say Our Father by Louis Evely

Dr. Tom Curran gives an extended eulogy for his mother in law, Mary Margaret Delorenzo. Tom shares complementary stories from her life and death related to themes, such as: passing on faith, breaking through limitations and making room.

Dr. Tom Curran and Natalie Lair, host of Desert Wanderer Podcast, discuss the balance between pursuing a money-minded career versus mission-minded career. Tom gives basic tips for making more, spending less, changing focus and trusting God!

Dr. Tom Curran and Natalie Lair, host of Desert Wanderer Podcast, discuss working in the Catholic podcast ministry, balancing work, raising kids, and trusting in God's providential care! What's the Catholic approach to achieving a perfect work life balance? Today's hosts explore principles to help Catholics achieve spiritual, relational and professional growth.

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, ponder the questions: What preparation does it take to form a great priest? Fr. Pat and Tom recollect the gifts and gaps in their own seminary formation.

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel to share insights on the right vs. wrong way to wait and the important role of singing at Mass. Tom asks Fr. Nagel: What's the history of The Novena to the Holy Spirit? Who is St. Matthias? What can St. Philip Neri teach us about waiting well?

On the Feast of the Ascension, Dr. Tom Curran anticipates the upcoming Novena to the Holy Spirit by pondering the question: Why have so many faithful Catholics never experienced real transformation? Tom differentiates information vs. insight and lists two important factors to deep, transformative change: coachability and docility. Referenced Book:The Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner

Dr. Tom Curran explores 4 topics: What's the history of Fatima apparitions? What happened to the three Fatima Visionaries? What's the message of Fatima? How did the Lord continue to use the message of Our Lady of Fatima after the apparitions?

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, discuss different titles of the Holy Spirit. Today's hosts prepare for Ascension Thursday by exploring how to have an intimate, personal, profound and lifegiving relationship with the Holy Spirit!

In honor of Mother's Day, Dr. Tom Curran explores the theology behind the concept: a child first experiences God through the love of their mother. Tom shares insights from popes and saints on the importance of families on civilization, the gift of motherhood, the model of the Blessed Mother, and Our Lady of Grace.

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith,Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, discuss readings from the Sixth Sunday of Easter Philip in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8, 14-17) and The Advocate. (John 14:15-21) Today's hosts testify to God's providential care and talk about three moments of the disciple: called, powerlessness and empowered.

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel to explain the important impact of community for men, women, married couples and priests. Today's hosts share insights on St. Hilary of Arles and St. Hilary of Poitiers and discuss many topics, such as: living well in dark times, resisting worldly comforts, creating fellowship rooted in faith, and growing in nobility.