Welcome to Things I Wish I Knew! Inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola, who believed in finding God in all things, host Julia Corcoran chats with guests about God at work in big life moments and what they wish they had known beforehand. Dive in for heartfelt stories and reflections that may just inspire you to see things differently. Discover more at Thinking Faith, the Jesuits in Britain CIO's online journal: www.thinkingfaith.org
In this episode, Julia speaks with Jacqueline Clovis, a Catholic life coach who shares her journey of self-discovery and the importance of embracing the present moment. Jacqueline opens up about her struggles with infertility, revealing how it led her to trust in God's plan and seek fulfilment in her unique path. Through her work as a life coach, she emphasises the significance of recognising your God-given gifts and the power of gratitude in overcoming challenges. This conversation highlights the journey of healing and the beauty of living purposefully, reminding us all that we are on our own unique journeys. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Email us: podcasts@thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
How can we find God in the midst of suffering? In this episode, Julia is joined by Noah Lawson from Pray As You Go , who shares how experiences of suffering became the turning point in his journey from atheism to Christian faith. Together they explore why pain doesn't have to be the end of the story, and how God can meet us in our darkest moments. Noah also reflects on the importance of community, creativity and hope, and how they have helped shape his relationship with God. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia chats with Andy Cassidy about his transformative journey from a life far from faith to recognising God in everyday moments. He shares his struggles growing up in a sectarian environment and his initial doubts about Catholicism, revealing the key experiences that brought him to embrace his faith. Through touching personal stories, including insights into family dynamics and balancing work with spirituality, Andy opens up about how he discovers God in both the ordinary and extraordinary. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Emma Walton, a Catholic artist and mother of two, who shares her transformative journey from a conventional Christian upbringing to a profound encounter with Catholicism. As she recounts her spiritual nudges, including a life-changing trip to Kefalonia, Emma dives into the challenges and joys of navigating her faith, art, and motherhood. This episode highlights the beauty of listening to God’s call and the importance of community and support in one's spiritual journey. For an art themed retreat visit: www.jesuitinstitute.org/events/let-there-be-an-online-retreat-day-2 Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Dallya Alhorri, an inspiring member of the Jesuit Refugee Service team, as she shares her poignant journey from Sudan to the UK. Dallya reflects on the challenges she faced when she arrived, including navigating a new culture and language while grieving the loss of her homeland. Through her story, we explore the significance of community and connection, and how small gestures can make a profound difference in the life of refugees and asylum seekers. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia is joined by Massimo Di Muccio, who shares his some of his journey from a traditional Italian Catholic upbringing to a more personal relationship with Jesus. Massimo explores the evolution of his faith, from a cultural understanding to a more intentional practice, emphasising the importance of dialogue with God and the role of Ignatian spirituality in his life. He shares insights on how he navigates the complexities of being a husband, father, and caregiver while keeping Jesus at the forefront of his mind. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Patricia Tahirindray, Programme Coordinator at the Centre Arrupe in Madagascar, about the real-life impact of climate change in her country. Patricia shares her journey into environmental advocacy, the growing challenges communities face - from stronger cyclones to disrupted farming - and the role of faith, education, and collective action in building resilience. A powerful conversation on climate, justice, and caring for our common home. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
What do you wish you knew before turning 30? In this episode, Julia sits down with Pippa Fletcher, a lay missionary in the Catholic Church, to reflect on the lessons she learned in her twenties. From moving to London and building a career in advertising to discerning a call to leave it behind for ministry, Pippa shares the unexpected journey that shaped her faith and vocation. Together they talk about the pressure of approaching 30, the feeling of needing life “figured out”, and why God’s timing rarely matches our own. Pippa also shares how prayer became central to her discernment and why learning to seek God before seeking a vocation changed everything. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia continues her conversation with Antonia Sobocki from LOUDfence, a passionate advocate for victim-survivors of childhood abuse, as they delve deeper into the vision of a truly healing church. Antonia reflects on her journey and the importance of creating a safe environment within the Church that acknowledges the pain of survivors. She discusses the significance of being seen as missionaries rather than activists, emphasising the need for compassion and understanding in the face of trauma. Together, they explore how ordinary Catholics can support survivors and engage in meaningful dialogue to foster healing. If you’ve been affected by the issues discussed in this episode, or if it brings up anything difficult for you, we encourage you to explore the following resources for support and guidance: Safeguarding resources – support and information for those affected by abuse. LOUDfence – learn about the movement and how communities can show solidarity with survivors. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia sits down with Antonia Sobocki, a courageous victim-survivor of childhood abuse, who shares her profound journey of healing and the role faith played in her life. Antonia reflects on her experiences growing up in the Church, the challenges she faced, and how her faith was both tested and ultimately restored through community. She introduces the concept of 'Loudfence', a movement she initiated to provide a tangible way for communities to express solidarity with survivors of abuse. This episode is a powerful reminder of how small actions can lead to significant change and healing. If you’ve been affected by the issues discussed in this episode, or if it brings up anything difficult for you, we encourage you to explore the following resources for support and guidance: Useful links: Safeguarding resources – support and information for those affected by abuse. LOUDfence – learn about the movement and how communities can show solidarity with survivors. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia and producer Ethel return for another reflective conversation, delving into the profound and often subtle ways that God shows up in our lives. They revisit themes from previous episodes, including the impact of addiction, the importance of community, and the difference between 'boom moments' and the quieter, everyday instances of God's presence. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Edwin Fawcett, a Catholic therapist and music minister, about the vital relationship between therapy and faith. Edwin shares his journey from music ministry to therapy, highlighting the importance of healing and thriving in our lives. He discusses how therapy can be a beneficial tool for personal growth and how it intertwines with faith, especially within the Catholic community. Together, they explore the misconceptions surrounding therapy, the significance of integration, and the value of having a therapist who understands your faith. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Dr Nicolete Burbach, a Catholic theologian from the London Jesuit Centre, about her journey as a trans woman and her work on trans inclusion within the Church. Nicky shares her unique path to theology, revealing how her experiences of transitioning and converting to Catholicism intertwined. She discusses the importance of community for trans individuals within the Church and the need for a more compassionate approach to understanding trans identities. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Lauren Heithaus, the founder of Hidden Catholic, about her journey of faith and the joy of sharing it with others. Lauren reflects on how travel, history, and pilgrimage shaped her love for the Church, and how leaving a corporate career required trust in God amid uncertainty. Through personal stories, she explores discernment, vocation, and the quiet courage of sharing faith in everyday life. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Veronica, a member of the Jesuit young adult community at Farm Street Church, about learning to recognise God’s presence in the midst of change and uncertainty. Reflecting on her move to London from Canada, Veronica shares how moments of isolation, community life, and worship gradually became places where she noticed God at work. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia chats with Naoise Grenham about his journey from Dublin to London and the moment he decided to live his life faithfully. Naoise opens up about growing up in a big, tight-knit family, the importance of community, and the struggles of keeping faith alive in a secular world. He shares some honest moments of doubt and the powerful experiences that have shaped his understanding of God and what it means to be your authentic self. Find more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Christine Allen, the director of CAFOD, about her remarkable journey in faith and leadership, as well as the importance of authenticity in her role. Christine shares her experiences growing up in a cradle Catholic family, and reflects on her unexpected path from studying philosophy and international relations to becoming a leader in the Church, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. With a focus on the significance of women’s contributions in leadership roles, Christine discusses the need for humility, discernment, and the power of prayer in making tough decisions. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
Julia Corcoran continues the conversation with Lauren Windle, who opens up about the tough realities of addiction and the struggle to stay sober in a world that often normalises drinking. Lauren reminds us that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of background. She talks about the importance of having a solid support system, setting boundaries when out with friends, and the exciting new alcohol-free options that are popping up everywhere! Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this powerful conversation, Julia sits down with Lauren Windle to explore her inspiring journey from addiction to over 11 years of sobriety. Lauren shares how alcohol and drugs once felt like an escape from social anxiety and a way to fit in, until they took a devastating toll on her life. She opens up about the turning point that led her to seek help, the challenges of early addiction recovery, and how faith and community became anchors in her healing process. This episode offers an honest look at the complexities of addiction and the transformative power of grace, resilience, and support. Find out more at : www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
In this episode, Julia speaks with Reverend Jonathan Aitken, a former MP who shares his transformative journey from a life of politics to an 18-month prison sentence for perjury, and ultimately to becoming an ordained minister. Reverend Jonathan reflects on his time in prison, discussing the challenges he faced, the unexpected sense of community he found among fellow inmates, and the profound role that faith played in his life during those difficult times. He shares insights into the power of prayer, the importance of humility, and the grace he has experienced through his relationship with God. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod
