iDeall Relationships

Spirit Catholic Radio Network

Relationships can be joyful, complicated, and everything in between. Hosted by Dcn. Tom Deall & Jeb Eischeid, the program explores dating, marriage, and everyday relationship challenges with honest conversation and a faithful Catholic perspective. Airs live on Mondays at 8 PM CT.

  1. Aug 3

    iDeall Relationships - History of the Myers-Brigs Type Indicator - Episode 18

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb explore the fascinating history behind one of the world's most recognized personality assessments—the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). While millions of people have taken the assessment over the years, many know very little about how it originated, who created it, and the purpose behind its development. The conversation begins by tracing the MBTI back to the work of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, whose theories on personality inspired Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter, Isabel Briggs Myers, to develop the assessment during World War II. Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to help people better understand themselves and others, allowing individuals to find careers and environments where they could thrive while improving communication and teamwork. Throughout the episode, Deacon Tom and Jeb discuss how the Myers-Briggs grew from a small personality assessment into one of the most widely used tools in businesses, schools, churches, and organizations around the world. They also examine some of the criticism the MBTI has received from modern psychology, including questions surrounding its scientific reliability, while acknowledging that many people still find value in the assessment as a practical tool for increasing self-awareness and improving relationships. The discussion emphasizes that personality assessments should never define a person's identity or worth. Rather, they can serve as conversation starters that help individuals better understand their own communication styles, strengths, preferences, and the unique ways others experience the world. Ultimately, every person is far more than a four-letter personality type. At its heart, this episode reminds listeners that our true identity is not found in a personality assessment, but in being created in the image and likeness of God. While tools like the Myers-Briggs can encourage personal growth and foster healthier relationships, lasting transformation comes through growing in virtue, understanding others with greater compassion, and allowing Christ to shape who we are each day. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  2. Jul 27

    iDeall Relationships - Avoiding Situationships - Episode 17

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb explore one of the most common relationship trends in today's dating culture: the "situationship." While often presented as casual and commitment-free, situationships can leave individuals feeling confused, emotionally drained, and uncertain about where they stand. The discussion examines why these undefined relationships have become so prevalent and how Catholics can approach dating with greater intentionality, clarity, and purpose. Throughout the episode, Deacon Tom and Jeb explain that many situationships develop because people are hesitant to define the relationship, communicate their expectations, or make a long-term commitment. While every relationship is unique, they discuss how avoiding honest conversations often leads to misunderstandings, inconsistent communication, emotional insecurity, and heartbreak. The conversation encourages listeners to recognize the importance of speaking openly about their intentions and not being afraid to advocate for their emotional and spiritual well-being. Rather than remaining in relationships that lack commitment or direction, individuals are encouraged to establish healthy boundaries, communicate honestly, and have the courage to walk away from situations that no longer support their growth or reflect their values. From a Catholic perspective, Deacon Tom and Jeb emphasize that authentic relationships are built on honesty, sacrifice, respect, and a shared desire to help one another grow closer to Christ. They remind listeners that true love is never rooted in uncertainty or manipulation but flourishes where there is trust, commitment, and genuine concern for the good of the other person. The episode also addresses the pain of rejection, ghosting, and unanswered questions that often accompany situationships. Rather than allowing those experiences to define their self-worth, listeners are encouraged to trust God's plan, learn from each relationship, and recognize that even difficult experiences can become opportunities for personal growth, healing, and deeper faith. At its heart, this episode reminds listeners that they deserve relationships built on clarity, commitment, and authentic love. By dating with intention, communicating openly, and placing Christ at the center of every relationship, individuals can avoid the uncertainty of situationships and pursue the kind of lasting, faith-filled relationships God desires for them. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  3. Jul 20

    iDeall Relationships - Dating Challenges - Episode 16

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb explore many of the challenges people encounter while navigating today's dating culture. From fear of rejection and poor communication to unrealistic expectations and uncertainty about commitment, the conversation examines why forming healthy relationships has become increasingly difficult and how Catholics can respond with faith, wisdom, and intentionality. The discussion highlights several of the obstacles that often prevent relationships from flourishing, including mixed signals, emotional unavailability, dating fatigue, ghosting, and the tendency to prioritize convenience over genuine commitment. Deacon Tom and Jeb encourage listeners to recognize these challenges without becoming discouraged, reminding them that healthy relationships require honesty, patience, vulnerability, and mutual respect. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of dating with purpose rather than simply passing time. Instead of allowing culture to define the standards for relationships, they encourage listeners to seek partners who share their faith, values, and desire to grow closer to Christ. Clear communication, healthy boundaries, emotional maturity, and intentional discernment are presented as essential building blocks for lasting relationships. The conversation also reminds listeners that not every relationship is meant to last, and that disappointment, rejection, and heartbreak can become opportunities for personal growth and deeper trust in God's plan. By learning from difficult experiences instead of becoming cynical, individuals can grow in virtue, better understand themselves, and prepare for the relationship God has planned for them. At its heart, this episode offers hope to anyone who finds dating frustrating or discouraging. Deacon Tom and Jeb remind listeners that while modern dating presents many unique challenges, authentic love is still possible. By placing Christ at the center, remaining faithful to Catholic values, and trusting God's timing, individuals can pursue relationships built on honesty, commitment, and a shared desire to help one another grow in holiness. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  4. Jul 13

    iDeall Relationships - Dating in the Modern World - Episode 15

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb take an honest look at the realities of dating in today's culture and the unique challenges faced by singles seeking authentic, Christ-centered relationships. From dating apps and social media to changing cultural expectations and communication habits, the conversation explores how modern dating has become increasingly complicated—and how Catholics can navigate it with faith, purpose, and hope. Throughout the episode, Deacon Tom and Jeb discuss how today's dating culture often emphasizes convenience, casual relationships, and instant gratification rather than commitment, intentionality, and genuine human connection. They examine the effects of ghosting, fear of commitment, unrealistic expectations, and the growing difficulty many people experience simply trying to meet others in meaningful ways. The discussion encourages listeners to approach dating with the future in mind rather than treating relationships as temporary or disposable. Instead of focusing solely on finding the "perfect" person, the episode emphasizes becoming the person God is calling each of us to be. Healthy relationships begin with emotional maturity, clear communication, shared values, and a desire to help one another grow in holiness. From a Catholic perspective, Deacon Tom and Jeb reflect on the importance of placing Christ at the center of every relationship. They discuss how prayer, discernment, patience, and participation in faith-filled communities can help singles build strong foundations for lasting relationships while avoiding many of the pitfalls of today's dating culture. Listeners are also reminded that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, honesty, and respect. Authentic dating requires courage, vulnerability, and intentional communication, even when relationships do not work out as hoped. By remaining faithful to God's plan and trusting His timing, individuals can pursue relationships that are rooted not merely in attraction, but in love, virtue, and a shared desire to grow closer to Christ. At its heart, this episode offers practical guidance and lasting encouragement for anyone navigating the complexities of modern dating. It reminds listeners that while the culture around us continues to change, the timeless principles of faith, integrity, and authentic love remain the strongest foundation for building healthy and lasting relationships. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  5. Jul 6

    iDeall Relationships - Healing After Divorce - Annulments, Identity, and Hope with Bethany Kline - Episode 14

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb welcome back special guest Bethany Kline to discuss a topic that is often misunderstood and rarely addressed within the Catholic community: life after divorce. Together, they explore the emotional, spiritual, and practical challenges many divorced Catholics face while offering hope, healing, and encouragement rooted in the teachings of the Church. The conversation begins by addressing common misconceptions surrounding divorce in the Catholic faith. Bethany explains that divorce itself does not separate someone from God's love or automatically exclude them from the life of the Church. She also clarifies several myths surrounding the annulment process, including the false belief that an annulment somehow affects the legitimacy of children born during the marriage. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of why seeking an annulment is an important step for those who hope to pursue a future sacramental marriage and how the process can become an opportunity for healing and spiritual renewal. Throughout the episode, Deacon Tom, Jeb, and Bethany discuss the deep loneliness, grief, and identity struggles that often follow the end of a marriage. Rather than allowing divorce to define a person's future, they encourage listeners to rediscover their true identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. The conversation emphasizes that while divorce may end a marriage, it does not diminish a person's dignity, worth, or vocation to holiness. The discussion also highlights the importance of faith-filled community during seasons of healing. Bethany shares how intentional fellowship, prayer, and support from other Catholic singles can help individuals move beyond isolation and find renewed hope. The group reflects on the value of daily prayer, the Rosary, the Sacraments, and authentic Christian friendships as essential tools for overcoming discouragement and rebuilding one's life after loss. At its heart, this episode is a message of hope. No matter what hardships someone has experienced, God's mercy remains constant, and healing is always possible. Through faith, community, and trust in God's plan, listeners are reminded that their story is not over. Even after profound loss, God continues to call each person into deeper relationship with Him and offers the promise of new beginnings, renewed purpose, and lasting hope. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  6. Jun 29

    iDeall Relationships - Thriving in the Space Between - Faith, Dating, and Intentional Singles with Meghan and Maria - Episode 13

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb welcome special guests Meghan Elfelt and Maria Mumaugh, co-founders of The Intentional Single ministry and hosts of the podcast Thriving in the Space Between. Together, they explore what it means to embrace the season of singleness with purpose, faith, and hope, rather than viewing it as a period of waiting for life to begin. The conversation examines the realities of modern dating, particularly within today's culture, where dating apps, swipe culture, and superficial relationships often leave many people feeling discouraged and disconnected. Meghan and Maria share insights into the unique challenges Catholic singles face while offering practical encouragement for building authentic, Christ-centered relationships grounded in intentionality rather than convenience. Throughout the episode, the discussion emphasizes that singleness is not a "holding pattern," but an opportunity for personal, emotional, and spiritual growth. Rather than allowing loneliness or disappointment to define this season, listeners are encouraged to deepen their relationship with God, cultivate meaningful friendships, become active in their faith communities, and discover their identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. Deacon Tom, Jeb, Meghan, and Maria also discuss healthy approaches to dating, discernment, and preparing for marriage without allowing the desire for a relationship to overshadow God's plan. They offer practical advice for navigating rejection, dating fatigue, unrealistic expectations, and the pressures created by today's dating culture while remaining open to God's timing and direction. At the heart of the conversation is the reminder that every stage of life has purpose. Whether someone is single, dating, engaged, or married, true fulfillment is found not in a particular relationship status but in faithfully following Christ. By living intentionally, trusting God's timing, and seeking authentic community, individuals can grow into the person God is calling them to be while preparing for whatever vocation He has planned. This episode offers hope and encouragement to anyone navigating the challenges of modern relationships, reminding listeners that God is always at work—even in the space between where they are today and where they hope to be tomorrow. Learn more about The Intentional Single here: https://www.theintentionalsingle.com/ iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

  7. Jun 22

    iDeall Relationships - The Important Role of Fathers - Episode 12

    In this episode of iDeall Relationships, Deacon Tom and Jeb explore the unique and irreplaceable role fathers play in the lives of their children and the lasting impact fatherhood has on individuals, families, and society. Drawing from research, personal experiences, and a faith-based perspective, the conversation highlights how fathers contribute to a child's emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual development in ways that complement the nurturing role of mothers. The discussion examines how involved fathers help foster confidence, resilience, independence, and healthy risk-taking in their children. Research consistently shows that children with engaged fathers often experience stronger academic performance, higher self-esteem, better emotional regulation, and healthier relationships later in life. Deacon Tom and Jeb discuss how fathers often encourage children to explore the world, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and develop the courage needed to navigate life's difficulties. The episode also addresses the consequences of father absence and the challenges that can arise when children grow up without a consistent father figure. While recognizing that many individuals overcome difficult circumstances through faith, family, and community support, the conversation explores the important role fathers play in providing guidance, stability, accountability, and a sense of security. From a Catholic perspective, Deacon Tom and Jeb reflect on how fatherhood mirrors God's own fatherly love for His children. Fathers are called not only to provide for their families but also to lead through service, sacrifice, presence, and example. The discussion emphasizes that some of the most important contributions a father makes are not material, but relational—being present, engaged, supportive, and invested in the lives of his children. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to appreciate the fathers, grandfathers, mentors, coaches, priests, and other positive male role models who have helped shape their lives. The conversation serves as a reminder that fatherhood is both a tremendous responsibility and a profound vocation that influences future generations. At its heart, this episode celebrates the vital role fathers play in building strong families and healthy relationships. By embracing their God-given calling with love, courage, and commitment, fathers help provide the foundation upon which children can grow, flourish, and discover their own purpose in life. iDeall Relationships airs Monday nights at 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
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About

Relationships can be joyful, complicated, and everything in between. Hosted by Dcn. Tom Deall & Jeb Eischeid, the program explores dating, marriage, and everyday relationship challenges with honest conversation and a faithful Catholic perspective. Airs live on Mondays at 8 PM CT.