The Pillar Podcast

The podcast discusses JD's encounter with a tortoise problem in Rome and the humorous conversation about turtles and tortoises, including discussions on Galapagos giant tortoise and playfully challenging a jogger to a fight.

The hosts discuss the impact of poor audio quality, reminisce about their early days in podcasting, explore the expressions 'you can't get blood from a turnip' and 'you can't get blood from a stone,' and discuss Freemasonry in Italy. They also praise the University of Dallas's core curriculum, emphasize the value of a liberal arts education, and delve into the history and cultural impact of Freemasonry in Italy. Finally, they explore the concept of synodality in the Church and discuss their plans to attend a press conference on the topic.

Amateur auctioneer shares experience and jokes about auctioning off their cat. Debates effectiveness of wearing hats at auctions and suggests using an ecclesiastical burretta as a unique twist.

JD and Ed challenge criticism of a recent Eucharistic procession in NYC. They talk about The Pillar's coverage of confidential synod documents. They discuss anticipation for the synod on synodality in Rome. The ongoing case of Libra Maloney is discussed, along with approaches to attract young people to the church. Blending local and national content in parish magazines is explored. They share their opinions on Dick Van Dyke's performances. The synod process, the role of framing, and confidentiality at the synod are discussed. Nudge theory in marketing and the nature of a synod are explored.

Topics include placenta phagy and its ethical concerns, mistrust towards institutions, media accreditation experiences at events such as Pope Benedict XVI's funeral.

The hosts discuss the dubia submitted to Pope Francis and his answers. They explore concerns about church teaching, appropriate questions for the Pope, and the Pope's recent statement on blessing same-sex unions. They also touch on traditions of general audiences and prime minister's questions, as well as personal plans and the taboo act of cannibalism.

Hosts discuss finance to marriage before delving into intriguing resignation of Bishop Perry as last conservative auxiliary bishop of Chicago. They talk about his appointment as chair of USCCB subcommittee ad hoc committee despite upcoming retirement. Confusion and uncertainty surrounding committee appointments and lack of clarity and rules for ad hoc committee.

Topics discussed include the Vatican financial trial, Bishop Jeffrey Monforton's transfer, lack of transparency in the Church, Vatican scandal, making a strong argument, 'Bill and Ted' movies, peak of media lives, bishops named Mike, and the importance of transparency and trust in the Church.

A dentist, a mechanic, and the tax man discuss teeth mishaps and dental experiences, including the importance of dental insurance and tooth phobia. Personal anecdotes involve forceful tooth extraction and aggressive behavior of dentists.

The podcast talks about the controversy surrounding former Jesuit Marko Rupnik and the lack of investigation by the Holy See and Jesuits. The University of Dallas and its holistic approach to education is discussed. The hosts also talk about convincing someone to let them go on stage and allegations against Rupnik being politically motivated. The importance of accountability is highlighted, along with a conversation about a popular food truck and a potential meet up.