What if Jesus is the greatest leadership model of all time—and modern leadership theory has been overlooking Him?

Fr. Daniel Brandenburg, LC joins Fr. Edward to discuss how his academic study of leadership led him to a surprising realization: at Catholic institutions, Jesus was rarely studied as a leadership model at all. Yet no leader has shaped history more profoundly.

In this conversation, Fr. Brandenburg compares Jesus to the top secular leadership frameworks and thought leaders, explains why asking for the “best leadership model” misses the point, and shares how leading like Jesus leads to flourishing—while failing to do so leads to breakdown.

He also reflects on Pope Leo XIV’s leadership style, offers encouragement for those suffering under poor leadership (including a powerful story involving Padre Pio), and explains who his book is written for and why it matters today.

Fr. Edward also shares how this discussion challenged and refined his own thinking about leadership.

Whether you’re a priest, educator, manager, or parish volunteer, this episode will reshape how you think about leadership—and discipleship.

Buy his book: https://www.amazon.com/Leader-Like-No-Other-Leadership/dp/B0DYJJBKMD/

What do priests and funeral directors have in common? According to Bishop Robert Barron, “The priest goes where most don’t want to go”—and the same could be said of funeral directors.

In this episode, Fr. Edward Looney sits down with funeral director Victor Sweeney for a candid and thoughtful conversation about death, funerals, and what lies beyond this life. Fr. Edward shares stories from death calls—including one time when he simply made a pot of coffee for a grieving family in the midst of chaos. Victor reflects on his own experiences, including leading a Latin prayer when he encountered a deeply Catholic home and family.

They explore how Victor’s Catholic faith informs his work, why he is careful with the word “love” in obituaries, and how he helps his parish observe All Souls’ Day and remember the dead. The conversation also touches on Purgatory, Catholic and non-Catholic funeral rites, what Victor has learned from preachers, and why he once made homemade graves for the poor.

Fr. Edward and Victor discuss contemporary funeral culture—why fewer families are holding funerals today, the rise of cremation, and how Catholics can better understand the importance of reverently burying ashes. Victor also shares about his secular book, which invites readers of all backgrounds to reflect on life, death, and eternity.

Whether you’ve recently lost a loved one, work in ministry, or simply want to think more deeply about mortality and hope, this conversation offers wisdom, honesty, and faith-filled perspective.

Buy Victor Sweeney's book- https://www.amazon.com/Now-Departing-Small-Town-Mortician-Moments/dp/1668062119

Fr. Edward Looney welcomes author Anthony DeStefano back to the podcast to discuss his new children’s book, Your Valentine, which reclaims the true Christian meaning of Valentine’s Day.

Anthony shares the real story of St. Valentine—a 3rd-century priest and martyr whose witness to Christian marriage and sacrificial love reminds us that love is stronger than death. They explore how Valentine’s Day became commercialized, why it’s important to teach children the Catholic roots of the holiday, and how themes of empathy, friendship, and self-giving love are woven into the story.

This episode is a timely conversation for parents, teachers, and anyone who wants to rediscover the faith-filled origins of Valentine’s Day.

Your Valentine is available from Sophia Institute Press. Buy here: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/your-valentine/?oid=816&affid=203