Welcome to Candid Catholics, the place for honest, unfiltered conversations about the Catholic Church. Hosted by Father Tom of Paulist Productions and broadcaster Maggie McKay, each episode is your one-stop-shop for thoughtful dialogue on Catholic beliefs, current events, and big questions shaping the faith.
Season one takes you inside the world of Conclaves and Cardinals as we reflect on Pope Francis’ legacy and explore what goes into selecting the next pope, with rare access and insight from people who know the process firsthand.
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Conclaves and Cardinals: Reporting the Vatican with David Ushery
Join Maggie McKay and Father Tom Gibbons as they talk with special guest David Ushery, lead anchor from News 4, New York, who has also served as a Vatican correspondent. David shares his experiences covering major Vatican events, including the funeral of Pope Francis and conclaves. They discuss the challenges of journalism in the digital age, the role of AI in newsrooms, and the intricacies of reporting on the Catholic Church from both a local and global perspective. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on blending traditional journalism with new media in covering the Vatican.
00:00 Introduction
01:22 Introducing the Guest: David Ushery
02:58 David Ushery's Vatican Coverage Experience
04:47 Insights from Covering the Vatican
06:43 Challenges and Changes in Journalism
11:26 The Impact of Social Media on Reporting
14:02 Course on Vatican Journalism
16:17 Balancing Social Media and Traditional Reporting
17:11 Navigating Social Media Challenges
18:19 Reactions to the New Pope
19:32 Sports and Papal Reflections
22:39 AI's Impact on Journalism
25:22 Reflecting on the Papal Transition
27:01 Wrap-Up
10 May 2025
Conclaves and Cardinals: Leo XIV, the First American Pope
Join Father Tom Gibbons and Maggie McKay as they discuss the surprising election of Pope Leo XIV with Joe Ferullo of the National Catholic Reporter. Learn about the dynamics of the recent papal conclave, and explore what makes Pope Leo XIV a unique and historic choice. They also discuss the impact of his background, his stance on key issues, and how he might shape the future direction of the Catholic Church. Hear personal reflections on the nature of priesthood and the role of religious upbringing in shaping one’s vocation.
9 May 2025
Conclaves and Cardinals: Group Dynamics in the Vatican
Join hosts Father Tom Gibbons and Maggie McKay as they explore the complex group dynamics and personality types at play in the Sistine Chapel during the Conclave. With special guest Dr. Judy Ho, a renowned clinical psychologist, they discuss the importance of diverse voices, overcoming groupthink, and ensuring all Cardinals' contributions are valued in selecting the new Pope. Tune in to gain a unique perspective on how psychology and faith intersect in one of the world's most significant decision-making processes.
9 May 2025
Conclaves and Cardinals: Global Perspectives on Papal Selection
Featuring special guest Andrew Nicholas, a seminarian from Kenya with international experience, hosts Maggie McKay and Father Tom Gibbons discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in the conclave, the qualities sought in a new Pope, and the diverse priorities of Catholics across the world. Explore potential papal candidates, including figures from different regions like Africa and South America, and examine key issues like evangelization, Synodal Church, and the social mission of the Catholic Church in contemporary times. Tune in for a deeper understanding of what the Conclave means for Catholics globally.
7 May 2025
Conclaves and Cardinals: The Road to a New Pope
Father Tom Gibbons and co-host Maggie McKay are joined by Sister Bernadette Reese, a former journalist with the Vatican Dicastery of Communication, to provide deep insight into the conclave's evolution, the roles and responsibilities of the Cardinals, and the stringent rules governing the election of a new Pope. Explore historical anecdotes, including the election of Pope Gregory X, and the significance of the Sistine Chapel as the setting for the modern conclave. Learn what to expect as the Cardinals prepare to elect the next Pope.
7 May 2025
Conclaves and Cardinals: The Legacy of Pope Francis
Join us for the inaugural episode of Candid Catholics as Father Tom Gibbons and co-host Maggie McKay discuss timely issues within the Catholic Church, the legacy of Pope Francis, and the upcoming conclave to elect his successor. Featuring special guest Evgeny Afineevsky, filmmaker and close friend of Pope Francis, the discussion explores personal stories, the Pope's influence on global issues, and what the future holds for the Catholic Church.
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