

The Pillar Podcast
The Pillar Podcast
Great Catholic Conversation, each week. www.pillarcatholic.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 24, 2025 • 2min
Bonus: Mr. Big Shot going to the big house
Hosts dive into the NBA's shocking gambling scandal, focusing on Coach Chauncey Billups and his recent arrest. They discuss the implications of sports betting in basketball and the impact on the league's integrity. A blend of insights and analysis makes for an engaging conversation on a hot topic in sports.

Oct 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
Ep. 234: It’s not easy being the king of Canada
JD and Ed explore the complexities of King Charles III and Camilla's marriage, diving into canon law and the implications of previous unions. They discuss whether Diana's death affected Charles's ability to remarry and explore the historical tensions between English civil law and Church marriage law. Listeners learn about the nuances of consent in marriage and how external legal influences have shaped royal wedding rules. The lighthearted banter adds an entertaining touch to this deep dive into royal and religious intersections.

9 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 1h 10min
Ep. 233: The end of the Leonine honeymoon
JD shares amusing anecdotes from his time at SeaWorld during a canon law conference. The hosts discuss Cardinal Cupich's appointment and its implications for US bishops amid ongoing controversies. JD and Ed analyze the newly appointed Archbishop of Vienna, Josef Grünwidl, and whether his selection reflects continuity with past episcopal choices. They dive into troubling financial findings from an APSA audit, pondering the challenges ahead for Pope Leo as governance issues signal the end of his early, smooth period. The episode also features a fun segment ranking historical horses.

Oct 11, 2025 • 2min
Bonus: A few frustrations
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd visits an allergist.Then, he shares his frustrations with the latest lawsuit related to the Vatican financial scandal.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email…

Oct 11, 2025 • 60min
Ep. 232: Definitions, and a disposition toward the miraculous
JD and Ed dive into a fascinating discussion about a vibrating relic in Lincoln, exploring the local community's faith response. They unravel the Diocese's investigation, revealing its non-supernatural origin. The conversation shifts to Pope Leo XIV's recent financial decisions, highlighting the risks of decentralizing Vatican investments. The hosts debate the political implications of the term 'pro-life' and reflect on the Pope's comments regarding 'DurbinGate,' questioning the Church's collaboration limits with governments. Rich topics intersect faith, skepticism, and current events.

Oct 3, 2025 • 56min
Ep. 231: A canonical mailbag episode!
JD and Ed answer some questions about marriage from listeners.This episode is sponsored by The Catholic Family Emergency Binder from Wallet Win.This binder is designed to give Catholic families peace of mind, ensuring you and your loved ones are prepared for the unexpected—whether that’s an illness, injury, or even death.Use code PILLAR for 20% off at walletwin.com/binder This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Sep 26, 2025 • 2min
Bonus: Kids these days!
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd shares a story from his Sunday.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com

Sep 26, 2025 • 59min
Ep. 230: Our first Leo data points
JD clarifies his stance on homework, emphasizing balance between teaching and family time. He and Ed explore Pope Leo XIV's first major appointments, particularly Archbishop Montanari's reconfirmation and Archbishop Ione's canon law background. They discuss key issues facing the Dicastery for Bishops, including the need for transparency. The hosts analyze Bishop Cecchio's appointment in New Orleans, highlighting his administrative skills as vital for the role. Their conversation raises questions about the Vatican's engagement with the U.S. Church.

10 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 8min
Ep. 229: What Pope Leo said
JD and Ed dive into Pope Leo XIV's insightful reflections on the papacy, shaped by his pastoral background. They tackle the complex issues of Vatican finances and the clerical sexual abuse crisis, highlighting Leo's commitment to both accountability and victim support. The discussion also addresses challenges in maintaining privacy while navigating public expectations. Tune in for a thought-provoking look at how Leo balances spiritual leadership and institutional responsibility.

Sep 15, 2025 • 2min
Bonus: God loves JD
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD has a story for Ed.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com


