Best Kolbe Academy Podcasts (2025)

1
265 Chosen to Be a Saint - Commencement 2025 1:06:36

Play Pause

12h ago1:06:36

1:06:36

AMDG. The Kolbe Academy Class of 2025 has graduated, and it’s time to celebrate! Kolbe Chaplain Fr. Charlie Archer, Executive Director Mary Rowles, Kolbe teacher Brendan Murphy, President of Walsh University Dr. Tim Collins, and three accomplished Kolbe graduates take the stage to share their reflections on Kolbe’s education and their rousing exhor…

1
264 Spiritual Friendship featuring Fr. Wayne Sattler 1:06:31

7d ago1:06:31

1:06:31

AMDG. “Sister, is God a person for you, or an idea?” Diocesan priest, author, and former hermit Fr. Wayne Sattler joins the Kolbecast to share his life-story from high school teacher to almost-married to hermit; his two books, which originated in his notes from years leading spiritual retreats; spiritual direction, or as he prefers to call it, “spi…

1
263 Exploring God's Cosmos - Astronomy for Everyday People 56:17

14d ago56:17

56:17

AMDG. In Kolbe’s new astronomy program, the sky’s the limit of what students can learn. Astronomy teacher Antonia Castro and course developer Vanessa Delgado are here to discuss the third quadrivium subject and Kolbe’s updated astronomy program. The duo examine why astronomy is the “mother of the scientific field” and explain their efforts to bring…

1
262 Childlike Joy for Our New Pope with Katie Bogner 55:46

21d ago55:46

55:46

AMDG. “Don’t feel like it’s too late— you can pick this up and study and learn about it anytime you want.”  Author of the brand-new book We Have a Pope Katie Bogner and Kolbe kindergarten teacher Kimberly Wolf join the Kolbecast to share their experience talking to young students about the new pope and papal election process. Katie explains the ins…

1
261 Lisa Popcak - Make It about Relationship 36:49

28d ago36:49

36:49

AMDG. In a continuation of last week’s episode, Lisa Popcak shares her advice for new homeschooling families, including what aspects of education matter most and what worked in her own family. “I had promised her… you will be 100% fine,” Lisa recalled. “And sure enough, she got recruited by her college… and got almost a full ride to be a pre-med st…

1
260 Lisa Popcak on Flow & Connection through Learning 44:54

1M ago44:54

44:54

AMDG. Catholic podcaster and co-founder/vice-president of CatholicCounselors.comLisa Popcak shares her wisdom on homeschooling and raising children in the faith. Lisa advocates for “flow” rather than structure in the homeschool day and paints a picture of what a rich— but achievable— prayer life looks like in a busy home. “We have to get away from …

1
259 Seeing the Story - Classical Reflections on Art 59:08

1M ago59:08

59:08

AMDG. “I always knew I liked these things and I knew they were beautiful, but now I know why.”  In a special sneak peek episode, Kolbe Academy team members Carol Gilpin, Stephanie Foley, and Therese Prudlo join the Kolbecast to discuss the brand new art history and architecture book. The trio discusses the layout of the new art book, revealing the …

1
258 Seeking, Finding, and Building Community -- Groups & Extracurriculars 57:15

2M ago57:15

57:15

AMDG. Do you worry about finding a strong community for your children outside the home? Homeschooling moms Dee-dee and Krysten join the Kolbecast to share about their homeschool communities. Filled with practical advice and anecdotes from their years of experience, Dee-dee and Krysten’s conversation makes building a thriving community feel accessib…

1
257 Integrated Catholic, Classical Education in Middle & High School 45:56

2M ago45:56

45:56

AMDG. What do parents need to know before their children enter middle school or high school? Curriculum Director Maggie Hayden and Principal Nicole O’Connor are back once again to discuss classical education at the 6-12 grade level. Maggie and Nicole share their years of expertise working with students, outlining what parents and students can expec…

1
256 An Education That Reflects God's Beauty 48:50

2M ago48:50

48:50

AMDG. “They are children of God and they are worthy of an education that reflects God’s beauty.”  What does a classical education even look like in grades K-5? Curriculum Director Maggie Hayden and Principal Nicole O’Connor join the Kolbecast to answer just that question. Maggie and Nicole explain how they rebuilt the Kolbe elementary curriculum to…

1
255 Family Life as Liturgy with Dr. Greg Popcak 49:58

2M ago49:58

49:58

AMDG. Host of EWTN’s More2Life podcast, founder of CatholicCounselors.com, and developer of the CatholicHÔM app Greg Popcak joins the Kolbecast to share his wisdom on making your home into a living, vibrant domestic church. “What does a domestic church spirituality even look like,” Dr. Popcak asks, “that would treat family life— the craziness, the …

1
254 Art & Laraine Bennett Offer Freedom from Anxiety 57:18

3M ago57:18

57:18

AMDG. Clinical counselor Art and psychologist Laraine Bennett join the Kolbecast to discuss anxiety and mental health, the temperaments, their recent publications, and so much more.  Art and Laraine talk about how anxiety can manifest dramatically differently in different people, and how to identify it in your life or in the lives of your children;…

1
253 Joseph Pearce's Classic Literature Appetizers 46:45

3M ago46:45

46:45

AMDG. Author, editor, and professor Joseph Pearce joins the Kolbecast to introduce his new book, Classic Literature Made Simple: 50 Great Works of Literature in a Nutshell. Joseph’s new book is an excellent introduction to classic literature for any Kolbe student, or the perfect all-in-one guide for parents who want to be able to discuss great work…

1
252 The Timeliness of Fulton Sheen with Dr. Cheryl Hughes 58:16

3M ago58:16

58:16

AMDG. “When I get to heaven, I’ll ask him.”  “What if he’s not in heaven?”  “Then you can ask him.”  First introduced to Fulton Sheen through her research on his famous converts, historian Cheryl Hughes tells the fascinating story of Fulton Sheen’s life. Dr. Hughes brings history to life with hilarious anecdotes and touching narratives. Listen in t…

1
251 A Year of the Lord's Favor - Joan Watson on the Jubilee Year of Hope 49:36

3M ago49:36

49:36

AMDG. “Go be a pilgrim of hope! There’s somebody in your life who needs the story of hope.”  Pilgrimage leader, author, and catechist Joan Watson joins the Kolbecast to share everything you need to know about the Jubilee Year of Hope. Joan explains the biblical and historical roots of the Jubilee Year, and how the laity were the impetus behind the …

1
250 Made for Relationship featuring Kenna Millea 57:17

4M ago57:17

57:17

AMDG. Clinical Director and Co-Founder of the Martin Center for Integration and host of This Whole Life podcast Kenna Millea joins the Kolbecast to discuss the ins and outs of relationships under a Catholic lens. “If you don’t like relationships here,” Kenna comments. “I think heaven’s going to be a big bummer— because that’s what it’s going to be.…

1
249 Stories Crafted with Care from Kolbe Academy Press 59:59

4M ago59:59

59:59

AMDG. “When a child opens a book, I don’t want him to be overwhelmed by what’s on the page. I want him to open the book and be excited.”  Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Kolbe’s publishing branch? Kolbe team members Stasha Becher, Carol Gilpin, and Stephanie Foley bring you an insider perspective on Kolbe’s publishing program, from …

1
248 Intentionality & Purpose for Lent & Holy Week with Katie Bogner & Shari Van Vranken 59:17

4M ago59:17

59:17

AMDG. “Advent is all cozy and sparkling lights… but Lent on the other hand, kids do not look forward to as much.”  Looking for a new way to engage your children during this Lent? All About Advent and Christmas author Katie Bogner and illustrator Shari Van Vranken join the Kolbecast to announce their new book, All About Lent & Holy Week: Sharing the…

1
247 Lightbulb Moments for Young Readers 48:06

4M ago48:06

48:06

AMDG. Reading is a daunting topic for many homeschooling parents. Luckily, Kolbe teachers and Master’s Level Education Specialists Kristi Cramer and Jenny Todesco are here to help. Kristi and Jenny answer the most-asked questions about reading, providing easy-to-digest answers and actionable steps that you can begin today. Tune in to learn how to a…

1
246 Orientation toward the Eternal 33:15

4M ago33:15

33:15

AMDG. Alumnus and CVS health general management program developer Charlie Mihaliak steps on stage to share an inspiring message about the importance of education in the current cultural moment. "What we're facing right now," Charlie declares, "is an idolatry of this farce of limitless freedom as the key to happiness." Charlie reminisces on his own …

1
245 The Odyssey's Allegorical Outlook 58:09

5M ago58:09

58:09

AMDG. From sea monsters and magic spells to archery contests and family reunions, this book has something for everyone. Join Bonnie, Steven, and Jordan as they dive into the great Homeric epic, the Odyssey. The group discusses major themes to watch out for in the Odyssey, including family life and wisdom; considers the must-ask questions, like whet…

1
244 Summer School Memories 51:29

5M ago51:29

51:29

AMDG. College decisions have you feeling overwhelmed? Join Kolbe students Bella, Jeremiah, and Gianna as they share their experiences attending Newman Guide colleges’ summer programs. The students discuss the ups and downs of navigating college decisions, providing insight into their thought processes along the way.  Experience Benedictine’s and Ch…

1
243 Drawing Distinctions - Classical Education, Liberal Arts, and Liberal Education 53:52

5M ago53:52

53:52

AMDG. What is classical education, exactly? Join Steven and Bonnie as they delve into the founding principles of Kolbe Academy and reveal surprising facts about classical education, including why history is not part of the liberal arts; the differences between classical education, liberal arts, and liberal education; why classical programs reject t…

1
242 Finish Line in Sight 55:18

5M ago55:18

55:18

AMDG. Kolbe seniors Ignatius, Dhilan, and Agnes join the Kolbecast to share an insider look at life as a Kolbe student. From their honor society activities to aerial acrobatics and magic, these students keep their schedules packed. The students share a range of experiences of homeschooling life, from taking music lessons at the University of Notre …

1
241 Renew, Resolve, Reengage 56:17

6M ago56:17

56:17

AMDG. What questions should homeschool parents be asking halfway through the academic year? Homeschooling moms and Kolbe employees Vanessa Delgado and Elyse Williams join the Kolbecast to talk about what to do— and not do!— if you’ve fallen behind; how to deal with burnout and unmotivated kids; when you should change courses and how to do it; when …

1
240 Entry Points for Evangelization -- Jimmy Mitchell's Let Beauty Speak 50:07

6M ago50:07

50:07

AMDG. “This is about making heaven crowded.” Assistant principal at Jesuit High School and author Jimmy Mitchell shares his many years of experience evangelizing in his new book, “Let Beauty Speak.” Jimmy reveals how to identify the right individualized approach to talk to someone about the faith as well as the role of beauty in conversion. He disc…

1
239 Divine Plot Twist 55:45

6M ago55:45

55:45

AMDG. Join Bonnie, Steven, and Jordan as they unpack the famous Greek play, Oedipus Rex. The tragic play slowly unravels the story of the downfall of the infamous king, Agamemnon. From murder to unexpected Biblical connections, there is no shortage of material to cover. The team reveals everything you need to know about Oedipus Rex, from historical…

1
238 Pat Millea on Accompaniment, Hope, Integration, and Resilience 59:19

6M ago59:19

59:19

AMDG. Catholic youth minister and podcaster Pat Millea joins the Kolbecast to share his journey from parish work to beginning an integrated Catholic therapy center. Pat explains what “integration” means; how a good therapist should sit with their clients; what “admonishing the sinner” really looks like; why parents shouldn’t protect their children …

1
237 Unearthing a Broader Worldview 57:57

7M ago57:57

57:57

AMDG. Kolbe science teacher of almost 30 years Leslie Spencer has stories to tell. Before she joined the Kolbe team, Leslie lived in a yurt in China while working as an English teacher. More recently, Leslie traveled to Athens and investigated recent archeological discoveries. Leslie reveals details about what the team uncovered that you have never…

1
236 Next Steps & New Chapters 52:30

7M ago52:30

52:30

AMDG. From social work to homeschooling to becoming a published author, Belinda Terro Mooney has done it all. In a heartwarming episode, Belinda shares the lessons she learned raising and homeschooling her seven children; navigating the challenges of ADD and ADHD in her own home; leaving behind a successful career to homeschool; reentering the work…

1
235 The Disposition of Pilgrimage with Joan Watson 53:50

7M ago53:50

53:50

AMDG. Looking to deepen your relationship with God this holiday season? Join our conversation with Catholic pilgrimage leader and podcaster Joan Watson to discuss her experience in Catholic ministry. Joan shares impactful stories from her pilgrimages, including her transformative trip to Rome at age 15; explains the difference between a pilgrimage …

1
234 Adding Color to What Is Black & White 56:23

7M ago56:23

56:23

AMDG. The Humanities Series is back! Join Bonnie, Jordan, and Steven for the grand finale of The Iliad. This episode covers everything you need to know about The Iliad, from the significance of burying the dead to the role of women in the Ancient World. The team breaks down the answers to complex questions, like what the afterlife meant to the Gree…

1
233 Incarnational Education at Wyoming Catholic College 57:55

7M ago57:55

57:55

AMDG. Trying to find the right college for you? Join Wyoming Catholic College President Kyle Washut and alumna Catherine Mershon for a virtual tour of campus life. President Washut reveals a connection between Wyoming Catholic and the Marian apparition site in Green Bay, Wisconsin; discusses the divine call to educate the youth in the wilderness; s…

1
232 Part of the Family - Parents & Advisors as Partners 43:57

8M ago43:57

43:57

AMDG. What exactly is a Kolbe advisor? Advisors Rylan Buchanan and Krysten Pizzurro join the Kolbecast to share an insider-look at how the academic advisor team collaborates with parents and students to meet their academic goals, from course selection to college planning. Rylan and Krysten talk about their backgrounds in homeschooling and their jou…

1
231 Centures Old Yet Never Timelier with Amb. Eduard Habsburg 52:15

8M ago52:15

52:15

Amb. Eduard Habsburg, archduke of Austria and ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See, joins the Kolbecast to discuss his brand-new book, Building a Wholesome Family in a Broken World. Amb. Habsburg expresses the difference between American and European attitudes towards homeschooling, faith, and family life; gives a glimpse into his life as a Cathol…

1
230 A Multi-Pronged Approach to College Prep 57:58

8M ago57:58

57:58

AMDG. Applying to college is no easy feat. From PSATs to transcripts, college visits, and gap years, it can feel like the decisions are endless. In this episode of the Kolbecast, we break down every stage of the college application process, from building a strong transcript to choosing the right college for you. Returning guest Erica Treat and acad…

1
229 Take a Note from Homer 56:06

8M ago56:06

56:06

AMDG. Wishing you could engage with your kids on their Greek literature course? Or trying to read the Iliad for the first time yourself? Bonnie, Jordan, and Steven are here to help. In this installment of the humanities series, the group unpacks the first six books of the Iliad and breaks down the essential takeaways, including the role of the gods…

1
228 No Holding Back 45:24

9M ago45:24

45:24

AMDG. When COVID-19 broke out, Kathleen decided to enroll her daughter in Kolbe Academy until the pandemic ended. Four years later, Kathleen’s daughter is still a Kolbe student and almost two years ahead of her peers in school— and she’s not slowing down any time soon. Kathleen discusses how she navigates being a homeschooling parent while maintain…

1
227 Sensory Awareness & Problem Solving 53:58

9M ago53:58

53:58

AMDG. Why do my kids always fidget during school? Why am I always overstimulated by loud noises? Why does my house feel tense right now? Occupational therapist and mom of five Caitlin Russ has the answers to these questions and more. Caitlin breaks down occupational therapy and emotional regulation; easy steps to optimize your homeschool environmen…

1
226 Cultivating Habits of Excellence with Andrew Abela 55:52

9M ago55:52

55:52

AMDG. Do you want to build your own “super habits”? Founding dean of CUA business school and Forbes contributing writer Dr. Andrew Abela promises that “super habits” are the secret to a successful—and happy— life. He reveals the three steps to building “super habits;” highlights the connection between neuroscience and virtue; argues that good ethic…

1
225 On the Same (Greco-Roman) Page 57:12

9M ago57:12

57:12

AMDG. Join Bonnie, Steven, and Jordan for the next installment in their continuing conversation about the humanities, sprinkled with fascinating tidbits of history and their best advice on reading The Iliad with your children or even on your own! The group discusses their own progress reading The Iliad with their families; the benefit to seeing a t…

1
224 Msgr. James Shea: Forming Apostolic Hearts 45:28

10M ago45:28

45:28

AMDG. Monsignor James Shea, president of the University of Mary, spoke to Kolbe supporters and friends at the Leaders in Catholic Education event the night before 2024 commencement. Listen in to Msgr. Shea’s speech in this episode, where he describes the apostolic work on the forefront of Catholic secondary education as we live in the first post-Ch…

1
223 Pick Up the Pen and Write featuring Master Penman Jake Weidmann 48:59

10M ago48:59

48:59

Jake Weidmann knows the science behind his art. With a background in psychology, Jake is now a professional artist and calligrapher. On today's episode, he shares the history of calligraphy and why it is so important to human beings; explains why you should turn off autocorrect; breaks down the psychological impact of sending hand-written letters; …

1
222 Something No One Has Understood Before with Dr. Daniel Kuebler 55:31

10M ago55:31

55:31

AMDG. PhD biologist and stem cell researcher Dr. Daniel Kuebler wasn't always a science major. Dr. Kuebler began his academic as an English major at Catholic University of America before transitioning to biology for his master's and doctoral degrees. Now a professor of science at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Dr. Kuebler educates a new gen…

1
221 A Survey and a Starting Point 51:57

10M ago51:57

51:57

AMDG. Looking back on four years and more than 220 episodes of the Kolbecast since its relaunch in August 2020, Jordan, Steven, and Bonnie reminisce on many memorable conversations and guests. Longtime and new Kolbecast listeners alike will find something of interest and inspiration from the array of episodes covered today. To sort through the libr…

1
220 Decoding Mythology to Reveal Christianity 58:03

11M ago58:03

58:03

AMDG. Like many Kolbe Academy parents, Jordan will be embarking on a trip through the Kolbe ninth-grade Greek history and literature courses this school year with his daughter. To chronicle that odyssey, he, Steven, and Bonnie are starting a new series of episodes to discuss the various texts and themes encountered along the way. Listen in as the g…

1
219 The Upside of Anxiety with Dr. Kevin Majeres 55:15

11M ago55:15

55:15

AMDG. Catholic psychiatrist Dr. Kevin Majeres rejoins the Kolbecast for a discussion on anxiety: one of the most common, but also most misunderstood, emotions. Working from the definition that anxiety is an urge to avoid challenge, Dr. Majeres describes how he helps his clients live by ideals that they freely commit to rather than living under the …

1
218 The Questions behind the Questions 56:52

11M ago56:52

56:52

AMDG. The high school years are formative as teenagers develop autonomy and independence in the world. In this episode, theology teachers Dan Angel, Brendan Murphy, and Nick Senz share their experiences of and perspectives on teaching apologetics, morality, and more to high schoolers. The conversation includes discussions of open question boxes and…

1
Online Learning with Kentucky Virtual Academy 31:05

11M ago31:05

31:05

In this episode, school administrators with the Kentucky Virtual Academy (KYVA) reflect on their first year of operation as the very first tuition-free online public school serving K-12 students in all 120 Kentucky counties. KYVA, a program of Cloverport Independent School District, empowers students through personalized, at-home learning with stat…

1
217 Spoilers of a Sort 40:46

11M ago40:46

40:46

AMDG. The art of storytelling involves decisions about perspective, themes, and emphasis, and good storytelling goes on to inspire questions and discussions. Dan Bielinski rejoins the Kolbecast on this special bonus episode to describe storytelling decisions and discussions related to his feature film, End of the Rope available for Kolbe families t…