Wannabe Saints

Anchored in Hope (Part 1): Katie Baynai’s Journey from Rebellion to Redemption

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of sensitive topics including binge drinking, sexual assault, and eating disorders. Listener discretion is advised.
In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, we sit down with Rachael’s sister, Katie Baynai, as she bravely shares the early chapters of her journey—from teenage rebellion and deep brokenness to the beginning of God's healing work in her life.
Katie opens up about the painful realities of binge drinking, the trauma of sexual assault, and her silent battle with bulimia. But this isn’t just a story of suffering—it’s a testimony of God’s relentless pursuit and the first signs of redemption breaking through.
Her honesty, courage, and faith lay the foundation for what becomes a powerful witness to the radical love of God.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where Katie shares how God’s grace continues to transform her life.
 
Links to Katies Business and School:
https://www.forhisglorytours.com/
https://www.thearchangelsacademy.com/
https://www.instagram.com/forhisglorytours/More from us: Linktree📩 Questions or feedback? Email: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints on Instagram💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints
 

Introspection ft. Emma Scordato

In this episode, we explore the virtue of introspection, the habit of examining our interior life in the light of God’s truth. Joined by Emma Scordato, we reflect on how true introspection isn't self-centered, but a God-centered self-awareness that leads to freedom, growth, and holiness.
Introspection, rightly ordered, is not self-absorption, it’s the pathway to recognizing both our strengths and struggles in light of grace. It leads to authenticity, deeper trust in God’s mercy, and a life aligned with His will. Rooted in the wisdom of the saints and the Catechism, we uncover how introspection becomes the foundation for discernment, moral maturity, and virtue.
 
Check out Emma’s Pregnancy journal: Lumen Vitae Press @lumenvitae.press on Instagram
 
More from us: Wannabe Saints LinktreeQuestions or feedback? Email: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.comFollow us: @Wannabe_Saints on Instagram

Building the Path of Virtue (Part 2) ft. Fr. Trowbridge

In Part 2 of our conversation with Fr. Trowbridge, we continue exploring what it truly means to build a life rooted in virtue. Fr. Trowbridge walks us through the three stages of the spiritual life, helping us understand how growth unfolds over time with God’s grace. We reflect on how the Cross, far from being a burden, becomes a source of light, allowing us to see more clearly through the wisdom of sacrifice and the example of Christ. Fr. Trowbridge also breaks down the four key steps to cultivating virtue: it begins with desire, deepens with knowledge and understanding, is strengthened through discipline and perseverance, and ultimately depends on grace. This episode is both practical and profound, offering a roadmap for anyone seeking to walk the path of holiness with clarity and conviction.
 Link to Fr. Trowbridge's Parish – St. Catherine of Genoa Support us on Patreon Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_SaintsFind all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Building the Path of Virtue (Part 1) ft. Fr. Trowbridge

In Part 1 of our conversation with Fr. Trowbridge, we dive deep into the foundational topics of virtue, vice, and the often-overlooked impact of venial sin. We explore what virtue truly is, how vice takes root, and why even "small sins" can have a serious effect on the soul. Drawing from the Catechism, Fr. Trowbridge unpacks how venial sin weakens our pursuit of holiness and why it can’t simply be brushed aside. Throughout the conversation, we’re reminded that the path to virtue begins by being present to who you are right now — not who you were, and not who you hope to become — but fully attentive to the present moment where grace is at work.Link to Fr. Trowbridge's Parish
Our Patreon
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Humility and the Ego

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, Fr. Keith Romke joins us for a fun, deep and insightful conversation on the virtue of humility. We talk about the inner battle between the Theo and ego drama and how many people misunderstand humility as weakness or self-deprecation.
Fr. Romke reframes humility as knowing your true identity in God: that you are created in His image, fully loved, and nothing you do can earn or erase that love. We also dive into the importance of silence in prayer and the challenge to “show up and shut up” so God can speak.
Resources & Links:🔗 Fr. Romke’s Website📘 I Believe in Love by Fr. Jean d’Elbée📘 Spiritual Survival in the Modern World by Dr. Andrew Swafford
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Four Kinds of Respect, One Virtue

In this episode on the virtue of respect- We unpack four different types of respect—because it’s not a one-size-fits-all virtue. We explore:
    •    General Respect for every person
    •    Respect of Position for roles of authority
    •    Respect for God 
    •    Earned Respect through trust and admiration
We reflect on how earned respect is often the easiest to give—because it’s shown to those we admire, trust, and love. But it’s also the type of respect that can hurt us the most when that trust is broken.
We also discuss how respect evolves, especially in our relationships with parents—what it looks like to honor them as adults. Drawing from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we consider our call to respect all those in authority: parents, grandparents, teachers, bosses, and more. Finally, we talk about reverence and how we can grow in our awe and love for God.
 
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints
 
Link to Article We Read- From Focus On The Family
 

Interview with Cecilia Brennan: A Life Lived with Fortitude

In this episode of, Wannabe Saints, we switched things up for the virtue of fortitude. We interviewed Jordyn’s friend, Cecilia Brennan. Her life is a living example of the gift and virtue of fortidue, always persevering in faith and overcoming all obstacles, growing stronger and stronger each time. From growing up without her mom, to her husband being deployed to Japan two moths after they got married and starting her own company at the same time, to having to raise their daughter alone for the first 6 months. Despite all the trials she has been able to see Gods hand and the blessings in it all. “The purpose of life isn’t to find happiness, it is to find peace.” 
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints
Links to Cecilia's Instagram and Podcast:
Cecilia's Instagram
What In The Dang Heck
What In The Dang Heck Instagram 

Mercy & Compassion

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we dive deep into the powerful connection between compassion and mercy. We explore how true mercy can’t exist without compassion—and how compassion naturally moves us to acts of mercy. From the corporal and spiritual works of mercy to the challenge of bearing wrongs patiently, we reflect on how these virtues call us to love others even when it's hard. We also talk about what it means to forgive from the heart, and how real forgiveness isn’t something we can do on our own—it’s only possible through the grace and help of the Holy Spirit.
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Living With Integrity

Integrity is more than just being honest and trustworthy—it’s about living in a way that takes your values and turns them into virtues. In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we talk about what it really means to be a person of integrity, the virtues that it requires, and why it’s not just about doing the right thing when people are watching, but who you are at your core.
Listen in as we break down what it takes to be a person of integrity and challenge ourselves to live more authentically.
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Forgiveness & Confession with Fr. Ditomo

In this episode—Forgiveness & Confession—of Wannabe Saints, we welcome special guest Father Ditomo to dive into forgiveness and confession. We talk about the difference between mercy and forgiveness, why confession is key to spiritual growth, and where it’s found in Scripture. Plus, we discuss how confession can be a powerful source of psychological healing. Don’t forget to check out our show notes for timestamps on all the key topics in this insightful 2.5-hour conversation!
 
Listen to Father’s Podcast here:
The Grace Filled Life
 
Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints
 
Episode Time Stamps:
0:04:51 – Mercy vs. Compassion
20:22 – If someone confessed murder, can the priest tell them to turn themselves in?
22:20 – Confession: The Genius Sacrament
24:38 – Difference Between Grace and Mercy
27:52 – Where Is Confession in the Bible?
33:12 – Why Confess Sins to a Priest?
39:33 – Causing an Offense Against Someone and Going to Them Before Confession
40:52 – Mortal vs. Venial
43:33 – Free Will in Mortal Sin?
46:39 – Is Suicide Grave Matter?
49:49 – Sexual Sin
55:53 – Why Does It Feel Like You Fall Harder into Sin After Going to Confession?
1:02:47 – When You Forget Sins in Confession but Remember After, Have They Been Forgiven?
1:04:07 – How Specific Do You Need to Be in Confession?
1:06:00 – Is the Number of Times Just for Mortal Sin?
1:13:44 – Why Is Frequent Confession a Good Practice Even If It Isn’t a Mortal Sin?
1:16:37 – Praying While in Mortal Sin
1:21:20 – Do You Need to Confess Past Sins as You Further Develop Your Conscience?
1:24:41 – Examination of Life/General Confession
1:27:42 – Should You Write Things Down for Confession?
1:32:47 – Should Everyone Have a Spiritual Director, and How Do You Get One?
1:38:57 – Withholding Forgiveness and Holding Grudges
1:46:21 – Scrupulosity
1:54:27 – Psalm and Prayer to Help With Scrupulosity
1:57:26 – Confessing Behaviors That Are More Weakness Than Sin
1:59:49 – Why Do Priests Give Small Penances?
2:11:11 – Communion Covers Venial Sins—Should You Still Go to Confession Regularly?
2:13:37 – Bad Advice From a Priest or Not in Line With Church Teaching
2:17:00 – If the Priest Messes Up the Prayer of Absolution