Rebel Saints: Catholic Faith & Spiritual Growth for Christians

Nicole Olea | Catholicism & Catholic Faith Writer
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Personal Journals
  • Updated Weekly

There is nothing more punk than Catholicism. Rebel Saints is a Catholic podcast exploring Christian discipleship, spiritual growth, and Catholic theology for restless hearts trying to follow Jesus Christ in a modern world. In an age of algorithms, anxiety, artificial intelligence, and endless scrolling, how do we live out our Christian faith? St. Augustine wrote, "Our hearts are restless until they rest in You." Sixteen hundred years later, we're still restless — we just have smartphones now. Hosted by Catholic journalist, youth minister, and mother Nicole Olea, this show offers a fresh laywoman’s perspective on the ancient Church. Whether you are a cradle Catholic, a recent convert, a scripture seeker, or a skeptic, this podcast tackles the hard questions about faith and culture. Through thoughtful interviews, compelling storytelling, Catholic Church history, Scripture reflections, and the inspiring lives of the saints, Nicole dives into what it actually means to build a daily prayer life today. The Church has outlived empires, revolutions, and pandemics. She isn't afraid of modernity, and you don't need a perfect life hack or another political hot take to find peace. Maybe the most rebellious thing you can do isn't reinvent yourself. Maybe it's discovering Catholic spirituality and becoming the saint you were created to be. Restless hearts: You are welcome here. Join the Rebellion: Connect with the Restless Heart Society! Ready to connect with fellow rebels living out the Catholic faith? Find us, follow us, and join the community: Restless Hearts Social Club: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastInstagram & TikTok: @rebelsaintspodcast / @RebelSaintsPodcastRestless Hearts Society: (Patreon Support the Show): patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastEmail: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.comWebsite: rebelsaintspodcast.com

  1. 5d ago

    The Catholic Answer to ChatGPT? | Acutis AI Explained

    Catholic AI is reshaping how we interact with technology. In this episode, Peter Cooney co-founder, reveals how Acutis AI is building an artificial intelligence platform rooted in Catholic teaching, protecting human dignity, encouraging authentic faith, and offering a compelling alternative to mainstream AI tools. Discover why Catholic social teaching matters in the age of ChatGPT. Explore Acutis AI at: https://www.acutisai.com Takeaways Catholic perspective in AIInnovation and risk-takingHuman element in AI AI and its Impact on Young PeopleSafeguards and Controls for AI Use Chapters 00:00 Founding Acutest AI03:22 The Moral Framework of AI15:16 The Impact of AI on Jobs18:20 Inspiring Innovation and Creativity21:31 Carlo Acutis and the Role of Acutest AI26:34 AI and Its Impact on Young People27:27 Safeguards and Controls for AI Use28:54 Transparency and Parental Involvement31:52 The Role of AI in Evangelization33:24 Privacy and User Safety42:50 The Human Element in AI53:05 The Future of AI and Human Employment58:36 Encouragement for Young People and Conclusion Media Credits Original Rebel Saints theme song written by Nicole Olea. Music arranged and produced in collaboration with AI using Suno. Visit rebelsaintspodcast.com for complete show notes and more. SUPPORT THE JOURNEY Follow the show and leave a review to help more restless hearts find us. Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcast Instagram: @rebelsaintspodcast TikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcast Patreon: patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcast Email: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  2. Jun 22

    Catholicism Explained: What is Purgatory? Catholic teaching & the Communion of Saints

    What do Catholics actually believe about purgatory? In this Catholicism Explained episode, Nicole unpacks the doctrine of purgatory, suffering, and the communion of saints—exploring how Catholic teaching connects living and deceased believers in spiritual community. Far from punishment, this ancient doctrine speaks to healing, belonging, and why your prayers matter for others. Perfect for anyone questioning what Catholics really believe (and why it's so misunderstood). Scriptures Mentioned:1 Corinthians 3:15: Saved, but as through fire. Matthew 12:32: Sins forgiven in the age to come. 2 Corinthians 5:8: The desire to be absent from the body and present with the Lord. Revelation 5:8 & 8:3-4: The saints offering the prayers of the holy ones as incense. Media Credits Original Rebel Saints theme song written by Nicole Olea. Music arranged and produced in collaboration with AI using Suno. Stock Footage & Photography used in video edition. Alberto Escalona - Pexels Gryziu - Pexels Gabby K - Pexels Historical Imagery Via Triumphalis Necropolis - Wikimedia Commons Vatican Necropolis 01 by Blue 439, used under CC BY-SA 3.0 Deacon Marty McIndoe SUPPORT THE JOURNEY Follow the show and leave a review to help more restless hearts find us. Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcast Instagram: @rebelsaintspodcast TikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcast Patreon: patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcast Email: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  3. Jun 18

    Catholicism Explained: The Sacred Heart and why the US Church consecrated a nation

    In this episode of Rebel Saints, explore why America's bishops consecrated the nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June 2026, and what this radical act of spiritual surrender means for your faith today. Tracing the pierced heart of Christ through St. Margaret Mary Alacoque's mystical visions to this historic moment, we ask: what does Catholic spirituality teach us about vulnerability, sacrifice, and belonging in a restless age?  What does it mean to set a nation apart for God? How does patriotism differ from nationalism? And why might the wounded heart of Christ be the remedy for so much of what is going on in our world right now. REFERENCES & DEEP DIVES “Why the bishops are consecrating the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus” by Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski“Consecration 101: What the bishops’ upcoming consecration of the US to the Sacred Heart means” by Simone OrendainCatholic Answers Guide — The Sacred Heart of JesusThe Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson MEDIA & ART CREDITS • Sacred Heart of Jesus (1767), Pompeo Batoni — Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons • Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Paray-le-Monial — Lloydbaltazar, CC0, Wikimedia Commons • St. Margaret Mary imagery — Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons • ChurchPOP — Visions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus • Cinematic B-roll by David Pickup (Pexels) • Atmosphere visuals by Ravi Kiran (Pexels) Original Rebel Saints theme song written by Nicole Olea. Music arranged and produced in collaboration with AI using Suno. Additional background music licensed via Upbeat.io and Riverside.fm. SUPPORT THE JOURNEY Follow the show and leave a review to help more restless hearts find us. Connect: Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcast Instagram: @rebelsaintspodcast TikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcast Patreon: patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcast Email: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  4. Jun 15

    Magnifica Humanitas: Catholic faith in the age of AI | Part 2

    How do Catholic faith, spiritual growth, and modern crises collide? I In Part 2 of our Magnifica Humanitas breakdown, we look at Chapters 3, 4, and 5 to see how Pope Leo XIV tackles how to "disarm AI" and reclaim your freedom. This is a practical guide to Catholic discipleship in a digital age, focusing on the three battles reshaping our daily lives: Truth, Work, and Freedom. READ Magnifica Humanitas: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html Support the Journey: Help other restless hearts find us! Follow: Hit the "+" or "Follow" button  Review: If you enjoyed this show, please leave a review. It’s the best way to help us grow. Connect with Rebel Saints: Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastReflections: https://substack.com/@rebelsaintsInstagram: @rebelsaintspodcastTikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcastFor exclusive content find us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastWrite us: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  5. Jun 14

    Magnifica Humanitas: How Catholic Social Teaching confronts artificial intelligence| Part 1

    In this episode of Rebel Saints, host Nicole dives into Pope Leo XIV’s groundbreaking new encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas ("Magnificent Humanity"), signed on May 15, 2026. Strikingly relevant to our digital age, this document marks the first time Catholic social teaching directly confronts the world of artificial intelligence, automation, and algorithmic life. Nicole breaks down the foundational concepts of the letter, explores the historic Vatican launch featuring tech industry leaders, and unpacks Chapters 1 and 2 to reveal what it means to protect human dignity in a world obsessed with efficiency. READ Magnifica Humanitas: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html Support the Journey: Help other restless hearts find us! Follow: Hit the "+" or "Follow" button  Review: If you enjoyed this show, please leave a review. It’s the best way to help us grow. Connect with Rebel Saints: Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastReflections: https://substack.com/@rebelsaintsInstagram: @rebelsaintspodcastTikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcastFor exclusive content find us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastWrite us: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  6. May 24

    Catholicism Explained: Catholic faith and the devotion to the Virgin Mary

    On Mother's Day, we're answering the question Catholics get asked constantly: Do we worship Mary? No fluff, no stained-glass stereotypes, just real talk about what the Catholic faith actually teaches about the Virgin Mary. As a Catholic mom, I know how much we need her example—and why her story of radical obedience and belonging matters to every mama, spiritual seeker, and woman navigating Christianity in a secular world. Welcome to Rebel Saints, where Catholic spirituality meets real life. We are tackling the big questions: Why do Catholics make such a big deal about Mary if Jesus is enough?What is the Immaculate Conception (and why it’s not the Virgin Birth)?Was Mary really a virgin her whole life?Why do we call her the Mother of God, and what’s the deal with the Assumption?Why is she the ultimate Rebel Saint?We dive deep into the Catechism, Scripture, Church history, and Mary’s radical “yes” that changed the world. Whether you’re a mom in the trenches right now, someone missing their mother, or a Christian curious about Catholic theology, this episode will encourage and challenge you. Key Topics Covered:The Theotokos: Understanding Mary as the Mother of God and Mother of the Church.Catholic Dogma: Breaking down the Immaculate Conception, Perpetual Virginity, and the Assumption.Intercessory Prayer: Why Catholics ask Mary to pray for us.The Magnificat: The revolutionary power of Mary's song at the Cross and in daily life.References & Resources Mentioned:Scripture: Luke Chapter 1 (The Canticle of Mary / The Magnificat) via the Blessed is She Journaling Bible (NABRE).Catechism of the Catholic Church: * CCC 491: The Dogma of the Immaculate ConceptionCCC 2622: Mary’s Fiat and MagnificatChurch History: The Council of Ephesus (431 AD) – Defense of the title Theotokos.Papal Documents: Munificentissimus Deus (1950) – Pope Pius XII defining the Dogma of the Assumption. Support the Journey: Help other restless hearts find us! Follow: Hit the "+" or "Follow" button  Review: If you enjoyed this show, please leave a review. It’s the best way to help us grow. Connect with Rebel Saints: Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastReflections: https://substack.com/@rebelsaintsInstagram: @rebelsaintspodcastTikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcastFor exclusive content find us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastWrite us: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  7. May 19

    Are You there, God? A catholic guide for when prayer feels empty

    As a catholic christian have you ever went to pray and immediately started thinking about literally everything else? Your grocery list. That awkward conversation from three days ago. The email you forgot to answer. Whether everyone else in adoration is having some profound saint-level encounter with God while you’re mentally reorganizing your kitchen cabinets. Yeah. Same. In this episode of Rebel Saints, Nicole Olea talks about spiritual dryness, distractions in prayer, and the weird pressure a lot of Catholics feel to make prayer feel emotional or dramatic all the time. We’re talking about the lie that if you’re not feeling something, you must be doing prayer wrong. Drawing from Scripture, the saints, and Catholic teaching, this episode explores what it actually means to have a relationship with God when prayer feels ordinary, repetitive, frustrating, or quiet. Because holiness is not built on emotional highs. Most of the time, it’s built in the decision to keep showing up anyway. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Overcoming Distractions in Prayer: Why thinking about emails or laundry during a Holy Hour doesn't mean you're failing, but simply means you're human.The Catechism on Prayer (CCC 2725): A look at why the Church defines prayer as both a "gift of grace" and a "determined response." When the emotional feelings fade, that determination is where faithfulness is formed.Mother Teresa’s Dark Night of the Soul: How Saint Teresa of Calcutta endured nearly 50 years of interior spiritual dryness while remaining deeply united to God.Contemplative Prayer vs. Modern Optimization: Shifting our mindset from viewing prayer as a productivity app to viewing it as a slow, relational transformation.Lessons from Elijah (1 Kings 18-19): How God meets us in our exhaustion with rest and physical nourishment before speaking to us, not in the fire or earthquake, but in a "light silent sound" or whisper. A Note of Encouragement for Your Spiritual Journey: "Most days my own prayer life feels less like building a cathedral and more like showing up to a construction site holding a crooked brick and an iced coffee asking the Holy Spirit to please work with me. If your rosary feels distracted... you are participating in the slow, hidden, incredibly holy work of becoming faithful." Resources & Scripture Mentioned: Church Teaching: The Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2725Scripture Reflection: 1 Kings 18 (Elijah on Mount Carmel) and 1 Kings 19 (God in the whisper)Catholic Spiritual Classics: References to Saint John of the Cross (Dark Night of the Soul) and Saint Teresa of Avila. SUPPORT THE JOURNEY Follow the show and leave a review to help more restless hearts find us. Connect: Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcast Instagram: @rebelsaintspodcast TikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcast Patreon: patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcast Email: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

  8. May 8

    A catholic vision of peace in a divided world | Pope Leo XIV

    One year into the papacy of the first American pope, Nicole reflects on why Pope Leo XIV's message of peace cuts through our outrage-driven culture. How does Catholic faith and spiritual growth flourish when we resist the constant noise? In this heartfelt episode, she explores what an Augustinian missionary's simple, repeated call to peace reveals about discipleship in a restless, divided world—and why choosing peace might be the most radical Catholic act today. Support the Journey: Help other restless hearts find us! Follow: Hit the "+" or "Follow" button  Review: If you enjoyed this show, please leave a review. It’s the best way to help us grow. Connect with Rebel Saints: Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastReflections: https://substack.com/@rebelsaintsInstagram: @rebelsaintspodcastTikTok: @RebelSaintsPodcastFor exclusive content find us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastWrite us: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.com

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About

There is nothing more punk than Catholicism. Rebel Saints is a Catholic podcast exploring Christian discipleship, spiritual growth, and Catholic theology for restless hearts trying to follow Jesus Christ in a modern world. In an age of algorithms, anxiety, artificial intelligence, and endless scrolling, how do we live out our Christian faith? St. Augustine wrote, "Our hearts are restless until they rest in You." Sixteen hundred years later, we're still restless — we just have smartphones now. Hosted by Catholic journalist, youth minister, and mother Nicole Olea, this show offers a fresh laywoman’s perspective on the ancient Church. Whether you are a cradle Catholic, a recent convert, a scripture seeker, or a skeptic, this podcast tackles the hard questions about faith and culture. Through thoughtful interviews, compelling storytelling, Catholic Church history, Scripture reflections, and the inspiring lives of the saints, Nicole dives into what it actually means to build a daily prayer life today. The Church has outlived empires, revolutions, and pandemics. She isn't afraid of modernity, and you don't need a perfect life hack or another political hot take to find peace. Maybe the most rebellious thing you can do isn't reinvent yourself. Maybe it's discovering Catholic spirituality and becoming the saint you were created to be. Restless hearts: You are welcome here. Join the Rebellion: Connect with the Restless Heart Society! Ready to connect with fellow rebels living out the Catholic faith? Find us, follow us, and join the community: Restless Hearts Social Club: facebook.com/groups/rebelsaintspodcastInstagram & TikTok: @rebelsaintspodcast / @RebelSaintsPodcastRestless Hearts Society: (Patreon Support the Show): patreon.com/RebelSaintsPodcastEmail: rebelsaintspodcast@gmail.comWebsite: rebelsaintspodcast.com

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