The NBA playoffs may be unpredictable, but at least summer blockbusters deliver.
In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the Cleveland Cavaliers’ devastating playoff collapse (RIP hope), debate baseball scandals from Pete Rose to steroid-era legends, and preview the biggest summer movies hitting theaters. From Marvel’s new Thunderbolts to the return of Mission: Impossible and a much-anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, they break down what’s worth watching and what might just be movie theater popcorn filler.
Alongside the movie chatter and sports rants, Deacon Bob introduces an exciting revival of a powerful small group ministry: Discipleship Quads. This free resource fosters spiritual growth through intentional, weekly gatherings rooted in Scripture, catechesis, and deep personal sharing. With new momentum and even a Spanish-language version, the Quads model is helping people grow in faith and community across the country. (Check it out at dquads.com.)
The episode wraps with reflections on Pope Leo XIV’s installation Mass, his moving words of humility, and the symbolic weight of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring. As the Church welcomes a new pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob consider what might lie ahead in his papacy—including the possibility of a historic first visit to Ukraine.
As always, expect humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that our hope isn’t in playoffs or premieres—it’s in Jesus.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Postseason Chaos and NBA Plot Twists
Deacon Bob and Father Dave kick off the episode with a spirited sports recap, reacting to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse and the unexpected shape of the NBA postseason. They debate changing legacies, cheer for the Knicks, and comment on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ latest heartbreak in hockey.
(05:23) Baseball Scandals and Hall of Fame Debates
From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown. (14:18) Speaking of Movies: Summer Blockbusters Begin Summer movie season kicks off with Marvel’s Thunderbolts, and Father Dave shares why this new team-up film hits just right. The duo also discuss upcoming blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and the much-anticipated reboot of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, as well as kids' flicks like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch going live-action. (23:11) A Ministry That’s Multiplying: Discipleship Quads
Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life. (26:30) A Pope Named Bob (Sort Of): Leo XIV’s Installation
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents. (32:10) Praying for Ukraine and Papal Diplomacy
As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation. Resources Mentioned
From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown. (14:18) Speaking of Movies: Summer Blockbusters Begin Summer movie season kicks off with Marvel’s Thunderbolts, and Father Dave shares why this new team-up film hits just right. The duo also discuss upcoming blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and the much-anticipated reboot of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, as well as kids' flicks like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch going live-action. (23:11) A Ministry That’s Multiplying: Discipleship Quads
Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life. (26:30) A Pope Named Bob (Sort Of): Leo XIV’s Installation
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents. (32:10) Praying for Ukraine and Papal Diplomacy
As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation. Resources Mentioned