Always Hope

Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT
  • 5.0 (136)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Always Hope

Always Hope provides solutions to a better life that are anchored in faith and psychological science. Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT, brings his years of counseling experience to the table and welcomes experts and friends to tackle challenging topics related to dating, marriage, gender, mental health, and the spiritual life. Started in 2018, the show has garnered a worldwide audience and is one the best podcasts that blends Catholicism with mental health and personal development. For more information, visit drmariosacasa.com

  1. 174. Take Up Your Cross: The Key to Peace

    MAR 21

    174. Take Up Your Cross: The Key to Peace

    Despite a having a strong faith, many of us face struggles that can feel overwhelming. The subtle messaging of a prosperity gospel can leave us feeling duped when life doesn't go as planned. It's essential to acknowledge that suffering is a part of life, even for devout Catholics. So, what do we do? We must learn to pick up our crosses and follow Christ, embracing the reality of our circumstances. This journey involves denying ourselves and understanding that our struggles can lead to growth and character development. By accepting our reality and choosing hope, we can navigate through life's challenges with faith and resilience. Let's remember that even in our suffering, we are not alone, and there is a path to peace and redemption through Christ! Together, we can support one another in this journey of faith and healing. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:06 - Carrying the Cross and Keys to Peace 00:04:07 - Denying Ourselves 00:08:44 - Taking up Your Cross 00:13:44 - Following Christ 00:19:55 - Break: Podcast Collaborations 00:22:02 - The Purpose of Lent and Self-Denial 00:26:34 - Being Honest with God 00:29:42 - Letting Go of Outcomes and Choosing to Play 00:32:01 - Acceptance and Choosing Hope 00:35:40 - Introducing Q&A to the Podcast   Got questions about dating, marriage, sex, or hope? Ask them here and they could get answered on a future episode of Always Hope: https://www.drmariosacasa.com/ask   Listen to the other podcasts mentioned in this Episode: Ask Fr Josh: https://media.ascensionpress.com/category/ascension-podcasts/askfrjosh/ Families of Character: https://www.familiesofcharacter.com/blogs/podcast/how-to-accept-differences-in-marriage-with-dr-mario-sacasa Fairest Love: https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/fairest_love_podcast/s5-ep-10-overcoming-stress-and-anxiety-with-dr-mario-sacasa/ Redeemed Vision: https://www.youtube.com/live/9CmGFRV7B9Y Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive?   Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    40 min
  2. 173. The Line Between Modesty and Freedom | Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio

    MAR 12

    173. The Line Between Modesty and Freedom | Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio

    Today, I welcome back Dr. Sarah Denny Laurio, bioethicist and speaker, to dive into what modesty really means, the responsibilities of both men and women, and how societal norms have shifted over the years. We explore the tension between personal freedom and the expectations placed on individuals, especially women, in how they present themselves. This conversation is not just about clothing; it's about understanding the deeper implications of modesty in our relationships and society. We discuss the importance of educating ourselves and others about the value of modesty, the role of shame, and how to navigate these complex issues in a way that honors our dignity and the dignity of others. So keep your airpods charged as we unpack these themes and encourage a more thoughtful approach to modesty in today's world. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:15 - Dr. Sarah's Dating and Marriage Journey 00:10:24 - How I Met My Husband 00:22:15 - Discussion on Modesty and Freedom 00:26:09 - Contrasting Views of Freedom: Margaret Sanger vs. John Paul II 00:37:12 - John Paul II's Hope for Humanity 00:41:52 - Freedom within the Limits of Reality 00:47:27 - The Role of Love in Modesty and Chastity 00:53:30 - The Role of Attraction and Respect in Modesty 00:57:24 - Discussion on Objectification and Usury 01:02:35 - Reflection on Margaret Sanger's Views 01:08:26 - Discussion on Shame and Modesty 01:17:41 - The Impact of Fashion on Modesty 01:25:26 - Chastity and Purity Culture 01:33:53 - Reflection on Modesty as a Value 01:38:56 - Understanding Modesty in the Context of Love 01:45:02 - The Sexual Value of the Body 01:50:56 - Freedom Within the Limits of Reality 01:56:51 - The Role of Responsibility in Modesty 02:01:02 - Choosing Purity Out of Freedom 02:03:06 - Introduction to the Podcast: What Women Are 02:05:17 - Closing Remarks and Reflections Listen to Dr Sarah Denny Lorio’s Podcast: What Women Are: https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcast Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/ The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    2h 8m
  3. 172. Captain America and the Pursuit of Ideals

    FEB 28

    172. Captain America and the Pursuit of Ideals

    In this episode of the Always Hope Podcast, I explore the character of Sam Wilson as he takes up the mantle of Captain America in the new movie: Captain America: Brave New World. While the movie isn’t great, I love seeing a therapist turned into a superhero. I share insights about Sam Wilson desire to do the right thing even when it’s hard, the difficulty of reconciling ideals with reality, and the importance of putting communication over violence. Whether you're a fan of the Marvel universe or just love a good character analysis, this episode is for you! Grab some popcorn and let's break it down together. 🍿  00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - Sam Wilson: Therapist and Superhero 00:03:09 - The Challenge of Doing Things the Right Way 00:08:38 - The Difficulty of Choosing Symbols 00:13:04 - Communication over Violence 00:16:09 - Closing   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate   Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    18 min
  4. 171. Mastering the Art of Speed Dating | Taylor O'Brien

    FEB 21

    171. Mastering the Art of Speed Dating | Taylor O'Brien

    Do you struggle getting dates? Are you sick of apps? Do you struggle knowing how to be able to talk to girls when you even go on dates? Then maybe it’s time to try speed dating. But how? Today, I sit down with Taylor O'Brien, co-founder and CEO of Candid, a Catholic speed dating app. We explore the world of speed dating and how it fills the gap between traditional dating apps and local meetups. Taylor shares her personal journey, including her own dating experiences that led her to create Candid, and the pain of a called-off engagement. We discuss the common fears and misconceptions surrounding speed dating, and how it can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals. Taylor also provides valuable tips for making the most out of speed dating events, including how to approach conversations and managing expectations. If you're tired of swiping and want to connect with others in a meaningful way, this episode is for you!  Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:20 - Candid Speed Dating App and Events 00:10:46 - Advice for Unsuccessful Matches 00:14:01 - Tips for Speed Dating 00:22:43 - Taylor Sharing Her Personal Dating Journey 00:32:19 - Dating Pressure and Expectations 00:33:14 - Gender Differences in Dating 00:44:16 - The Importance of First Impressions 00:48:02 - Self-Reflection and Improvement in Dating 00:54:26 – Closing   Download Candid: https://www.candiddating.net   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate   Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    56 min
  5. 170. Break Your Argument Patterns

    FEB 12

    170. Break Your Argument Patterns

    Can't seem to figure out why you and your spouse argue over that same dumb thing? It's exhausting, isn't it? In today's episode, we're going to talk about why that pattern exists and what we can do to break it. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I understand that couples often fall into repetitive arguments that seem trivial but are rooted in deeper issues. This episode dives into the dynamics of our nervous systems, how they are shaped, and how they influence our interactions with our spouse.  Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:48 - Understanding the Problem 00:01:25 - The Role of the Nervous System 00:05:42 - The Clash of Different Nervous Systems in Marriage 00:08:22 - Breaking the Pattern 00:12:10 - Real Life Application 00:16:04 - The Process of Remapping 00:21:27 - The Goal: Intimacy in Key Relationships   My YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate   Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    24 min
  6. 169. Attachment Theory Deep Dive | Adam Lane Smith

    FEB 5

    169. Attachment Theory Deep Dive | Adam Lane Smith

    Maybe you’ve heard the term but don’t really know what Attachment Theory is. Well, this episode is your introductory masterclass into all things attachment. Joining me on the podcast today is Adam Lane Smith, licensed marriage and family therapist and relationship coach, to dive into everything attachment: we discuss the different attachment styles, how they are shaped, how they impact conflict, what healing looks like through an attachment lens, and how our styles impact our attachment to God. Thanks for joining us in this geeked-out conversation about attachment theory and practice.   Chapters 00:00 Understanding Attachment Theory 07:20 Breaking Down the Attachment Styles 20:45 Practical Relationship Advice 26:00 Steps Towards Secure Attachment 34:55 Attachment to God 44:18 Conflict Resolution in Different Attachment Styles   Adam Lane Smith’s website: https://adamlanesmith.com   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate   Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    53 min
  7. 168. How to Accept Differences in Marriage

    JAN 29

    168. How to Accept Differences in Marriage

    Why is it that the things that initially attracted us to our spouse are the same things that drive us crazy? I’ve been married for 22 years and a marriage therapist for 20 and I get it. So today, we are going to breakdown how to embrace those differences and not see them as an obstacle to intimacy. I share some great stories in this episode that make these points super practical.   Tune in to learn more about how to navigate these challenges and build a stronger, more collaborative relationship.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Differences in Marriage 01:03 Yes, She’s a Different Person Than You 08:11 Understanding and Appreciating Your Spouse's Perspective 11:29 Practical Tips for Accepting Differences 13:14 Levels of Resentment 17:18 Conclusion: Celebrating Your Spouse's Unique Qualities   Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate   Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    23 min
  8. 167. The Importance of Curiosity and Play in Marriage | Dr. Steve Call

    JAN 22

    167. The Importance of Curiosity and Play in Marriage | Dr. Steve Call

    Are you a young married couple struggling to learn the essential ingredients for a thriving marriage? As a therapist, I know that we all have great intentions when we get married but may not know exactly how to make our marriage work. In this episode of the Always Hope Podcast, I had the incredible opportunity to chat with Dr. Steve Call, a renowned marriage therapist and author. We have a wonderful conversation about his book, A Deep-Rooted Marriage, co-authored with Dr. Dan Allender. Dr. Call detailed what it means to have a marriage with deep roots and emphasized the importance of intentionality in nurturing a healthy and flourishing relationship. He often drew parallels to gardening and beautifully illustrated how tending to the soil of our marriages can lead to a thriving relationship. As someone who’s killed a cactus before, gardening imagery only goes so far. Dr. Call shared many fascinating insights from his book, including the significance of continuous growth, the courage it takes to be vulnerable in a relationship, the need for play in marriage, and seeing conflict as a means for connection. (Not what you usually think). Overall, this episode was a treasure trove of insights and encouragement for anyone looking to cultivate a deep-rooted marriage. I hope you find it as enriching and inspiring as I did! Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:05 Where'd the Supersonics Go? 00:10:58 What is a Deep Rooted-Marriage? 00:20:02 Cultivating Curiosity in Marriage 00:25:54 Healing Your Nervous System Through Marriage 00:46:45 Ritual and Play in Marriage 00:59:10 What Gives You Hope?    Dr Steve Call’s Website: https://www.thereconnectinstitute.com Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Rooted-Marriage-Cultivating-Intimacy-Healing/dp/1400344468   Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   See the links below to offer financial assistance: Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Charities Hurricane Helen Donations Page: https://giving.classy.org/campaign/624511/donate Diocese of St. Petersburg Hurricane Relief Fund: https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp5f44220f014e0/user/guest   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.

    1h 2m
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About

Always Hope provides solutions to a better life that are anchored in faith and psychological science. Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT, brings his years of counseling experience to the table and welcomes experts and friends to tackle challenging topics related to dating, marriage, gender, mental health, and the spiritual life. Started in 2018, the show has garnered a worldwide audience and is one the best podcasts that blends Catholicism with mental health and personal development. For more information, visit drmariosacasa.com

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Mario Sacasa, LMFT
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    183
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Sacasa Solutions, LLC
  • Show Website
    Always Hope

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