Previous episodes
Episode 82
"The Devil Made Me Do It"
In this week's episode, Lori & Simon discuss and review the "Sin" series led by Educator Charles Merritt on the Fresh Catholic Website. They also talk about their opinion and experience of Sin in our world and lives, how damaging it is to our relationships and devotion to Christ and how to turn away from Sin and turn back to the Lord!
Episode 83
"Catholic Trivia with Special Guest: Charles Merrittt"
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Educator, Charles Merritt who gives Lori and her listeners some very cool Catholic Trivia! Have a listen and learn some fun facts about our faith!
Episode 84
"The Cheers & Challenges of Being a Catholic High School Teacher with Alec Hamrick"
In this week's episode, Lori invites special guest, Alec Hamrick back to the podcast to give us an update on the "Biking For Babies" mission he went on this Summer. Then they switch gears and discuss Alec's experiences with the highs & lows of being a Catholic School High School teacher.
Episode 85
The Value of Family Faith Formation" with special guest, Teresa Nelson
IIn this week's episode, Lori is joined by special guest Teresa Nelson, the new Director of Family Faith Formation (formerly Religious Ed) at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Ventura, CA. They discuss what the program entails, what families can expect from it and to encourage other parishes to consider implementing this at their churches to enrich the faith!
Episode 86
The Importance of Youth Formation" with special guest, Carolyn Curtis
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by special guest Carolyn Curtis, the new Director of Youth Formation at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Ventura, CA. They discuss the importance of helping teens strengthen their focus on the Lord while preparing for Confirmation, as well as, creating a community for teens to grow in their faith.
Episode 87
Are you a Rebel?
In this week's episode, Lori & Simon talk about what happens when a person falls into rebellion against law, structure, parents and God. They discuss how and why this seems to happen and how people can turn back to Christ in reverent obedience.
Episode 88
"Exciting News"
In this week's episode, Lori & Simon have some very exciting...life changing news that, not only impacts their lives, but also their listeners! They will also give an update on their future Missionary Trip around the U.S.! ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 89
"Prodigal Daughter" with Special Guest: Becky Cooper
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by special guest: Becky Cooper who shares her story of being raised very devout Catholic, but turned away from the faith as a teenager. She describes the life changing moment when the Holy Spirit guided her back to Jesus and the Church!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 90
"The Race Of Your Life"
In this week's episode, Lori & Simon talk about how life is like running a race...strenuous, tiring and triumphant! How are you "training" for the race? How dedicated are you TO the race? The good news is that the Lord is waiting for us at the finish line!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 91
"Vent it out"
In this week's episode, Lori is getting some things off her chest! She gives her listeners a bit of a "pep talk" to help them get through some of life's troubling moments a current "trying" situations!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 92
"Have Mercy"
In this week's episode, Lori talks about second chances and having Mercy for people who are struggling or who find themselves in dire situations. She encourages these people to not lose hope and to seek forgiveness from those they've hurt. She also offers some ideas for those who want to help them get on a positive forward path!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 93
"Don't Judge a Book By Its Cover!"
In this week's episode, Lori cautions her listeners on judging people on their outward appearance and assuming they know what is in someone's heart & soul. Only God knows those things! Give people a chance and let the Lord handle the rest!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 94
"The New Manna" with Special Guest, Filmmaker Angelo Libutti -
n this week's episode, Lori is joined by special guest and filmmaker, Angelo Libutti, who is here to discuss his film, "The New Manna" and to ask the Fresh Catholic listeners to consider helping to support his film financially so that he can see it through to completion bringing with it a hopeful message of the Eucharist to all people!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 95
"Allhallowtide" with Special Guest: Educator Charles Merritt -
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes back Educator Charles Merritt to help her and her listeners to understand what "Allhallowtide" is, what days it includes and how we as Catholics celebrate this time of year!
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 96
"The Election, Voting & Beyond!
In this week's episode Lori gives a passionate plea to her listeners about the election, voting and thoughts about moving forward in peace & unity as a country when the results are in. One Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty & justice for all! And may God Bless America!!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 97
"Keep Calm & Carry On... Jesus Is In Charge!"
In this week's episode Lori follows up last week's episode about the election & voting and talks about how people are responding and coping with the outcome of the 2024 election. She offers ideas and insight into how to handle friends & family members who are less than pleased and how we can be beacons of peace and positivity moving forward with Jesus leading the way!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 98
"The Fresh Catholic Quiz - Part 1
In this week's episode (Part 1 of 2), Lori is joined by Special Guest, Educator Charles Merritt who quizzes Lori and her listeners on interesting Catholic facts! This could be a fun addition to your upcoming holiday celebrations!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 100
"The Fresh Catholic Quiz - Part 2"
In this week's 100th episode!! (Part 2 of 2), Lori is joined by Special Guest, Educator Charles Merritt who continues to quiz Lori and her listeners on interesting Catholic facts! How many have you gotten correct?! This could be a fun addition to your upcoming holiday celebrations! We can never know enough about our faith...but this is a great start!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 101
Hope & Prepare: Advent Week 1
In this week's episode, Lori talks about the first week of Advent! The two words to focus on this week are HOPE and PREPARE! Are we prepared for the Lord's birth? If not, how can we prepare?! Are we filled with hope at this time...or hopeless?! Advent is a perfect time to get our thoughts and feelings focused on Jesus!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 102
"Advent Reflections" - Part 2"
In this week's episode, Lori reflects on the remaining themes of Advent. She will give her thoughts on: Peace & Repent, Joy & Rejoice and Love & Light and how we can implement these into our Advent experience.
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 103
Hope & Prepare: Advent Week 1
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Educator Charles Merritt who explains the ins and outs of Advent traditions, such as: the colors & themes and the Advent wreath. They also discuss the origin and meaning of the Nativity Scene.​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 104
"Merry Christmas 2024!"
In this episode, Lori shares her memories of Christmas with her listeners! She also gives her thoughts and ideas of how we can find the "Light of Christ" to help us stay hopeful at this time of year, even when things might seem dark at times. Stay tuned at the end of the episode...as Lori shares "The Carpenter's Son" a new Christmas song! Written by Thomas Raniszewski & Father Ed Namiotka and sung by Drew Seigla!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 105
"Memories of 2024" with Special Guest: Simon Balderas
In this week's episode, Lori sits down with her Husband & producing partner, Simon Balderas to reminisce about their various guests & episodes this past year as they look forward to the New Year and Season 3 of Fresh Catholic!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 106
"Becoming Physically, Mentally &
Spiritually Fit!"
In this week's episode, Lori gives her thoughts, ideas & advice on how to become physically, mentally & emotionally fit this year! Thank you for listening and helping Fresh Catholic to be #3 on the Top 90 Catholic Podcasts on Feedspot! Please give us a 5 Star Rating and leave a Review! Much appreciated! Please share with your Friends & Family and help draw more people to Christ! https://blog.feedspot.com/catholic_podcasts/
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 107
"Out of the Darkness and Into the Light of Christ!"
In this week's episode, Lori talks about the history of Sin in her life and how she found her way through the dark tunnel and into the Light of Christ! Thank you for listening and helping Fresh Catholic to be #3 on the Top 90 Catholic Podcasts on Feedspot! Please give us a 5 Star Rating and leave a Review! Much appreciated! Please share with your Friends & Family and help draw more people to Christ! https://blog.feedspot.com/catholic_podcasts/​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 108
"What is Truth?"
In this week's episode, Lori talks about leaving an era in which we needed to be aware & cautious of people who manipulate others into thoughts & ideas that are contrary to the morals & ethics of Catholic teachings and moving forward into a new, more hopeful era where fear of professing your faith is a thing of the past.
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 109
"God Is In Control!"
In this week's episode, Lori opens up about the relatable struggles she is experiencing with outside interference of people and circumstances that are making her feel out of control, but ultimately realizing that GOD is in control.
Thank you for listening and helping Fresh Catholic to be #3 on the Top 90 Catholic Podcasts on Feedspot! Please give us a 5 Star Rating and leave a Review! Much appreciated! Please share with your Friends & Family and help draw more people to Christ! https://blog.feedspot.com/catholic_podcasts/​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 110
"Love Never Fails"
In this week's episode, to get in the spirit of Valentines Day coming up soon, Lori talks about all things LOVE...such as, the types of love, love languages and how we can show love to each other and to Christ.
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 111
"Jubilee Pilgrimage"
In this week's episode, Lori discusses her upcoming Pilgrimage to Italy for the Jubilee year with her Special Guests: Father Matthew Miguel, who will be joining her and Kayla Banning of Trinity Tour Travels who gives an overview of the trip and answers questions for prospective Pilgrims!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 112
"Truth, Beauty & Goodness Through Art" with Special Guest: Damien Walker
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes artist, Damien Walker from New Zealand! He shares his belief that art and beauty are essential to the Church's mission of Evangelization to inspire people back to the Catholic faith or TO the Catholic faith!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 113
"Catholic Joe: SuperHero" with Special Guest: Author, Steven Thomas"
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by the author, Steven Thomas of the book, "Catholic Joe: Superhero"! They discuss his powerful journey from the depths of addiction to a life of faith and purpose. From battling drugs & alcohol to entering the seminary (before, quite fittingly, being asked to leave) to walking on a 4500-mile pilgrimage that inspired this novel. Steven's story is one of incredible transformation!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 114
"How to Evangelize Anyone" with Guest: Author & Public Speaker, Jose Pulido"
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Author, Public Speaker & Evangelist: Jose Pulido! They discuss his new book, "HOW TO EVANGELIZE ANYONE" that helps Catholics to "dream like Joseph, talk like Mary and make all things new like Jesus Christ". This formula will help transform ministries, organizations and lives to feel relief, joy & peace!
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 115
"Lent 2025" with Special Guest: Educator Charles Merritt"
In this week's episode, Lori has invited Educator Charles Merritt back to the podcast to help us to not only understand our Catholic Lenten traditions, but to give us an insight to his Fresh Catholic "Lent" series available now!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 116
"Living Your Charisms" with Special Guest: Catholic Author & Speaker, Jill Simons"
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Catholic Author & Speaker, Jill Simons! She is the Executive Director of Many Parts Ministries, a lay apostolate that empowers Catholics to understand and embrace their unique roles in the Church through Charism discernment & commitment.
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 117
"Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker" with Author Dr. Cheryl Hughes"
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes Catholic Author: Dr. Cheryl Hughes to discuss her book, "Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker" and his huge contribution to drawing people to the Catholic Faith throughout his lifetime.​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 118
"Unforeseeable" with Special Guest: Author, Jeff Jones"
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes Catholic Author, Jeff Jones to discuss his new book, "Unforeseeable"! This thought provoking book touches on three "hot button" topics in society today. It's a little "Screwtape Letters"...a little "Faustian Bargain" and a little "A Christmas Carol"... and totally worth a read! Tune in to learn more about this brave & impactful cautionary tale!​
ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 119
"The Hour of Testing" with Special Guest: Father Donald Haggerty
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Father Donald Haggerty. He is a Priest at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and Author of the book, "The Hour of Testing" Spiritual Depth and Insight in a Time of Ecclesial Uncertainty.​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 120
"Lent 2025: Triumph or Tragedy?"
In this week's episode, Lori gives an open, honest assessment of her Lenten experience and encourages her listeners to do the same as they enter into Holy Week.​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 121
"The 50 Day Resurrection Challenge"
In this week's episode, Lori encourages her listeners to continue on with positive ideas & habits that they established during Lent. She invites them to the "Fresh Catholic 50 Day Resurrection Challenge" of submerging themselves in the Catholic Faith and offers some suggestions on how to accomplish this!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 122
"The Path to Catholicism: The Lori Balderas Story"
In this week's episode, Lori starts off a NEW (ongoing) series on conversion stories, beginning with her own! For additional background of her journey to the Catholic faith, head back to the beginning of Fresh Catholic and listen to Episodes 1-5! Email Lori with YOUR conversion stories to be a possible guest of this series! lori@freshcatholic.com​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 123
Pope Francis' Legacy & the Papal Transition with: Kathryn Jean Lopez
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes Special Guest: Kathryn Jean Lopez, Editor at National Review Magazine, who explains the Papal Transition, Conclave and Pope Francis' legacy, as we anxiously await our NEW Pope!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 124
"The Gift of Motherhood"
In this week's episode, Lori celebrates Mothers! Even though Mother's Day has passed, she wants to continue to honor Moms! She talks about the "Cherries & Challenges" of Motherhood, as well as, the roles & trends of Mothers back in the day and in the present.​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 125
"Did Jesus Really Say THAT?!"
In this week's episode, Lori welcomes back Educator Charles Merritt to help explain some of Jesus' most shocking and confusing statements throughout the Gospels. Email Lori with YOUR conversion stories to be a possible guest of her new series: "Path to Catholicism" SEND TO: lori@freshcatholic.com​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259
Episode 126
"The Cardinal & The Crook" with Author, Sal Tocco
In this week's episode, Lori is joined by Author, Sal Tocco! They discuss his book, "The Cardinal & The Crook" that incorporates elements of suspense, action & crime to tell the story of two adopted twin brothers & unshakable faith, courage & perseverance! A "must read"!​
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ITALY TRIP LINK: https://trinitytourtravels.wetravel.com/trips/fresh-catholic-father-matthew-miguel-pilgrimage-to-italy-trinity-tour-travels-70975259