Your Radical Truth podcast

Margaret Mary O'Connor
  • 4.0 (4)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Monthly

The Your Radical Truth podcast celebrates trailblazing women, including Catholic women, who defy conventions and march to the beat of their own drum. An area we focus on are women priests and Catholic women. Each episode delves into the stories of these extraordinary pioneers, exploring their challenges, triumphs, and the impact they've made in their fields and communities. From breaking barriers within the Catholic Church with women priests, to redefining norms, Your Radical Truth offers inspiring conversations about resilience, innovation, and the courage to lead with authenticity. Join us as we uncover the diverse journeys of women who are shaping the world in bold and unconventional ways.

  1. Jun 29

    055: What Really Happens Inside Opus Dei? Anne-Marie Allen Shares Her Story

    What is Opus Dei really like behind closed doors? Former member Anne-Marie Allen joins Deacon Margaret Mary O'Connor to share her powerful firsthand account of life inside one of the Catholic Church's most controversial organizations. Anne-Marie, author of Serve! My Lost Years at the Heart of Ireland's Opus Dei, reveals how she was recruited into Opus Dei as a teenager, believing she was answering God's call. Instead, she found herself living under intense spiritual control, strict obedience, psychological manipulation, and a system that left little room for personal freedom. In this thought-provoking episode of Your Radical Truth, Anne-Marie shares what daily life was like as an Assistant Numerary, the emotional toll of living in a high-control religious environment, and the difficult journey of leaving Opus Dei after years of conditioning. Together, Anne-Marie and Deacon Margaret Mary explore questions many people have asked about Opus Dei, including its culture of secrecy, controversial practices, Vatican oversight, and why growing numbers of former members are now speaking publicly about their experiences. Most importantly, this conversation examines the difference between authentic faith and systems that misuse religious authority. It offers hope for anyone recovering from religious trauma, spiritual abuse, or coercive control while encouraging greater transparency, accountability, and compassion within faith communities. In this episode, you'll learn: • What Opus Dei is and why it remains one of the Catholic Church's most debated organizations • How Anne-Marie Allen was recruited into Opus Dei as a teenager • What life was really like as an Assistant Numerary • The psychological impact of spiritual abuse, fear, guilt, and religious manipulation • The purpose of practices such as the cilice and corporal mortification • Why leaving a high-control religious organization is far more difficult than simply walking away • How Anne-Marie rebuilt her life, faith, and identity after leaving Opus Dei • Recent Vatican reforms affecting Opus Dei and what they could mean for the future • Why transparency, accountability, and listening to survivors are essential for healing Whether you're interested in Opus Dei, the Catholic Church, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, church reform, faith, or survivor stories, this episode offers an honest, compassionate conversation about resilience, truth, and reclaiming one's life. Visit www.YourRadicalTruth.com/055-Anne-Marie-Allen for more.

    055: What Really Happens Inside Opus Dei? Anne-Marie Allen Shares Her Story

  2. Jun 23

    054: Excommunicated for Saying Yes to God: Father Anne, the Twelve Apostles, and the Future of Women's Leadership in the Church

    Excommunicated for Saying Yes to God: Father Anne, the Twelve Apostles, and the Future of Women's Leadership in the Church What happens when a woman believes God has called her to the priesthood, but the Church says no? In this thought-provoking episode of Your Radical Truth, Deacon Margaret Mary O'Connor welcomes Father Anne, a Roman Catholic woman priest who chose to follow what she believed was God's call, despite knowing it would lead to excommunication. Together, they explore one of the most controversial issues in Christianity: the exclusion of women from ordained ministry. Father Anne examines the Church's longstanding argument that Jesus chose only twelve male apostles and offers a historical, biblical, and theological perspective that challenges many commonly held assumptions. The conversation delves into the role of Mary Magdalene, the women who followed Jesus throughout his ministry, and the often-overlooked contributions women made in the earliest Christian communities. Father Anne also discusses how cultural attitudes toward women shaped Church teaching over the centuries and why she believes the conversation about ordination justice is far from over. This episode is not simply about who stands at the altar. It is about equality, conscience, leadership, and the future of a Church that continues to wrestle with questions of authority and inclusion. Whether you agree with Father Anne's position or not, this conversation will challenge you to think deeply about faith, tradition, and what it means to answer God's call. Learn more: https://yourradicaltruth.com/054-father-anne/

  3. Jun 11

    053: From Adrenaline Junkie to Peacemaker: John Graham's Search for Meaning

    What if the adventures that nearly killed you were actually preparing you for your life's true purpose? In this fascinating episode, John Graham shares his remarkable journey from adrenaline-fueled adventurer to global peacebuilder. As a teenager, he shipped out on a freighter, hitchhiked through the Algerian Revolution, helped make the first ascent of Denali's dangerous North Wall, and reported from war zones around the world. His quest for excitement eventually led him to serve as a U.S. Foreign Service officer in Libya, Vietnam, and at the United Nations. But it was during the Vietnam War that John experienced a profound awakening that forced him to confront the emptiness behind a life spent chasing danger. That turning point set him on a new path—one focused on service, justice, and helping others create meaningful change. John discusses the lessons he learned from surviving life-threatening situations, the search for purpose, his role in international peace efforts, and the inspiration behind the Giraffe Heroes Project, which honors people who courageously "stick their necks out" to make the world a better place. This powerful conversation explores courage, transformation, purpose, and the enduring impact of choosing service over self-interest. Full post: https://www.yourradicaltruth.com/053-John-Graham

    053: From Adrenaline Junkie to Peacemaker: John Graham's Search for Meaning

  4. May 12

    052: Ordination Justice, Women Priests, and the Future of the Catholic Church with Father Anne

    What if the question the Catholic Church has been asking about women's ordination is the wrong question entirely? In this powerful episode of Your Radical Truth, host Margaret Mary O'Connor welcomes back Father Anne for a deeply thought-provoking conversation about ordination justice, hidden church history, women's roles in early Christianity, and the future of the Catholic Church. Together, they explore the growing movement surrounding women in ministry, the historical evidence of women deacons, apostles, and leaders in the early church, and why so much of this history has remained hidden for centuries. Father Anne shares insights from her Ordination Justice Initiative and discusses why the conversation is about far more than women's ordination. It is about justice, equality, power, and the spiritual health of the church itself. The discussion also addresses patriarchy within church structures, the long-term impact of the sexual abuse crisis, the role of biblical scholarship, Pope John Paul II's influence on church doctrine, and why younger generations are increasingly questioning traditional narratives. This candid and heartfelt conversation challenges listeners to think critically, ask deeper questions, and explore the broader truth surrounding vocation, leadership, and inclusion within the Catholic Church. Topics Discussed Include: Women priests and women deacons in early church history Mary Magdalene, Junia, Phoebe, and women leaders in scripture The meaning of ordination justice Hidden church history and biblical scholarship Patriarchy and power within the institutional church Sexual abuse scandals and systemic accountability Young Catholics questioning traditional teachings The future of women in church leadership More about Your Radical Truth:   https://yourradicaltruth.com/podcast/

    052: Ordination Justice, Women Priests, and the Future of the Catholic Church with Father Anne

  5. Apr 7

    051: The Church You Were Taught… and the One You Were Never Shown

    What if the story you've been told about the Church is only part of the truth? In this episode of Your Radical Truth, Margaret Mary O'Connor welcomes back Father Anne for a conversation that goes far beyond surface-level discussion. This is the beginning of an ongoing monthly series where real issues are explored without filtering or softening the message. The focus of this episode centers on women in the Catholic Church, what has been taught, what has been omitted, and what is now being questioned. Father Anne speaks directly to the issue of ordination, not as a "women's issue," but as a matter of justice. When women are excluded from full participation, it doesn't just impact women. It shapes the entire structure of the Church and influences how authority, dignity, and voice are defined. The conversation also takes a closer look at Mary Magdalene, a figure long misunderstood and often diminished. As the first witness to the resurrection, her role was foundational, yet history has not always reflected that truth accurately. This episode challenges long-standing narratives and invites listeners to take a deeper look at what they've accepted without question. It explores the connection between religious hierarchy, power structures, and the broader impact on society. There is no attempt here to make this comfortable. The goal is clarity. If you've ever questioned what you've been taught, or sensed there was more beneath the surface, this conversation will give you plenty to consider. Listen now: YourRadicalTruth.com/051-Father-Anne

    051: The Church You Were Taught… and the One You Were Never Shown

  6. Mar 31

    050: Excommunicated but Called: One Woman's Path Beyond the Church with Reverend Shanon Sterringer

    What does it really mean to follow a calling when the very institution that shaped your faith no longer recognizes you? In this powerful episode of Your Radical Truth Podcast, Margaret Mary O'Connor sits down with Reverend Shanon Sterringer for a deeply honest conversation about vocation, excommunication, and the courage it takes to walk a path that few are willing to take. Shanon's journey began inside the Roman Catholic Church, where she served for more than two decades in ministry, leadership, and theological education. Her call to priesthood was not something that came from outside the Church. It was formed within it. Yet when she answered that call through ordination, she faced the reality that many women before her have encountered. Separation, scrutiny, and ultimately excommunication. What makes this conversation so compelling is not just the doctrine behind it, but the lived experience. Shanon shares what it felt like to receive multiple formal letters, how the process unfolded over time, and why the emotional impact goes far beyond what canon law can explain. This is not simply a theological issue. It is a deeply human one. At the same time, this episode goes far beyond the topic of excommunication. A central thread throughout the conversation is Shanon's lifelong study and devotion to St. Hildegard of Bingen. As a scholar, retreat leader, and founder of the Community of St. Hildegard Church and Hildegard Haus Shrine, Shanon brings a grounded and expansive understanding of Hildegard's life and work. You will hear a perspective on Hildegard that is rarely shared in full. While many know her as a mystic, herbalist, or composer, Shanon paints a much more complete picture. Hildegard was also a theologian, visionary, leader, and at times deeply traditional in her thinking. Her legacy includes music, healing practices, theological writings, visionary works, and over 400 letters that reveal a candid and often surprising voice. This episode also explores how Hildegard's influence is alive today through Shanon's work. From sacred gardens and retreats to hybrid learning experiences and community gatherings, Shanon has created a space where people can encounter Hildegard in a tangible and meaningful way. Whether someone comes for spiritual connection, intellectual curiosity, or personal growth, there is an open invitation to explore. You will also hear about The Green Shepherdess, Shanon's fair trade store inspired by Hildegard's vision of balance, sustainability, and care for creation. It is another example of how spiritual principles can be lived out in everyday life, reaching people far beyond traditional religious settings. Throughout the conversation, themes of leadership, integrity, and personal truth continue to surface. Shanon's story is not only about women's ordination. It is about what happens when you choose to live in alignment with what you know to be true, even when it comes at a cost. This is a conversation for anyone who has ever questioned authority, navigated a major life shift, or felt called to something that others did not understand. Visit: https://yourradicaltruth.com/050-reverend-shanon/

    050: Excommunicated but Called: One Woman's Path Beyond the Church with Reverend Shanon Sterringer

  7. Mar 24

    049: Why Are Women Still Denied Power in the Catholic Church?

    What happens when a woman devotes her life to faith and still finds herself shut out of leadership? In Episode 49 of Your Radical Truth Podcast, Debra Flint returns for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about spiritual and political power abuse within Catholicism. Drawing from her book No Place for a Woman, Debra shares her personal journey through the Church, her calling to consecrated life, and the moment everything changed. This episode goes beyond doctrine. It explores who holds power, why women continue to be excluded from leadership roles, and what happens when institutional authority overrides individual calling. You'll hear: Why women's roles in early Christianity matter today How Church structures shifted power away from the people The untold realities many women face inside the Catholic Church What happened when Debra's consecration was suddenly denied Why speaking up inside the Church is far more complicated than it seems This is a conversation about faith, authority, and the cost of silence. If you've ever questioned how power operates within religious institutions, this episode will challenge you to look deeper. Listen now and decide for yourself: power or silence? Enjoy the full post on the Your Radical Truth website at: https://www.yourradicaltruth.com/049-debra-flint

  8. Feb 18

    048: The Sins of Mandatory Celibacy: How One Rule Reshaped the Catholic Church with Debra Maria Flint

    Mandatory celibacy has shaped the Roman Catholic Church for nearly a millennium, yet questions continue to surface about its origins, purpose, and long-term impact on clergy, leadership, and the faithful. Why did the Church require priestly celibacy? Was it theological, political, or institutional? And what might the future hold for reform? In this episode of Your Radical Truth, Deacon Margaret Mary O'Connor sits down with Catholic feminist writer, theologian, and independent Catholic deacon Debra Maria Flint to examine one of the most debated disciplines in Church history. Drawing from her groundbreaking book The Sins of Mandatory Celibacy, Flint explores how power, doctrine, property, gender dynamics, and cultural forces helped reshape the priesthood and influence the Catholic Church for centuries. Flint shares her remarkable personal journey from an agnostic upbringing in Birmingham, England, to converting to Catholicism at 21, pursuing theological studies, and building a respected career in safeguarding and social care inspection. After years of institutional leadership and investigative work, she discerned a consecrated life before confronting the realities of Church structures that ultimately redirected her path toward advocacy and reform. Listeners will discover: • The historical origins of mandatory celibacy and why many early priests were married • How Church law evolved and what drove the prohibition of clerical marriage • The connection between celibacy, institutional control, and property • The cultural consequences of an all-male clerical hierarchy • Evidence of women leaders and deacons in early Christianity • Structural questions surrounding secrecy, loneliness, and clergy life • Whether a married priesthood could reshape Church culture • Why restoring the female diaconate remains a critical conversation • The tension between tradition and reform inside the Catholic Church Flint emphasizes that celibacy itself is not the issue. Rather, the concern is whether a spiritual calling can remain authentic when it is mandated instead of freely chosen. The conversation also addresses the difficult reality of abuse within Christian institutions and explores how transparency, balanced leadership, and inclusion may help foster healthier communities of faith. Co-authored with former priest Paul Murphy Sanderson, The Sins of Mandatory Celibacy brings both scholarly research and lived experience to a subject that continues to influence millions of Catholics worldwide. This episode invites listeners to step beyond assumption, examine the historical record, and consider what renewal could look like for the modern Church. If you are interested in Catholic Church history, priestly celibacy, women in ministry, Church reform, theology, or religious leadership, this is a conversation you will not want to miss. The Sins of Mandatory Celibacy is available through Wipf and Stock, Amazon, and major booksellers. More at: www.yourradicaltruth.com/048-debra-maria-flint

    048: The Sins of Mandatory Celibacy: How One Rule Reshaped the Catholic Church with Debra Maria Flint
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About

The Your Radical Truth podcast celebrates trailblazing women, including Catholic women, who defy conventions and march to the beat of their own drum. An area we focus on are women priests and Catholic women. Each episode delves into the stories of these extraordinary pioneers, exploring their challenges, triumphs, and the impact they've made in their fields and communities. From breaking barriers within the Catholic Church with women priests, to redefining norms, Your Radical Truth offers inspiring conversations about resilience, innovation, and the courage to lead with authenticity. Join us as we uncover the diverse journeys of women who are shaping the world in bold and unconventional ways.

Information

  • Creator
    Margaret Mary O'Connor
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Your Radical Truth podcast