Feeding Fathers
Religion & Spirituality
About
Fr. Simon Esshaki hosts engaging conversations and shares a meal with three of his brother priests. This Catholic podcast offers candid, informal discussions on theology, faith, and contemporary issues, seen through a distinct Chaldean Catholic lens. Explore the profound ancient spirituality of the Church of the East, bringing unique and fresh perspectives to Christianity and modern culture. This show is for anyone seeking spiritual insights, Catholic wisdom, and meaningful dialogue about faith in today's world. Listen in for discussions that truly nourish your soul, enlighten your understanding, and make you hungry!
Episodes
- What Does a Priest Really Go Through? The Side People Rarely See [Ep. 84]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses the joys, challenges, seminary life, and the human side of priesthood that is often unseen. It features a conversation with four priests: Fr. Simon Esshaki, Fr. Christopher Somo, Fr. Tristan Farida…
- Slowing Down: Fighting Hustle Culture & the Craziness of Life [Ep. 83]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses the importance of slowing down and resisting hustle culture. The hosts explore how constant work can negatively affect faith, family, and peace of mind, and highlight the value of true leisure and…
- Don’t Let Your Heart Be Troubled: Finding Peace in Jesus [Ep. 82]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses finding peace in Jesus through the teachings in John 14, emphasizing a Eucharistic life and a relationship with Christ. It also critically examines Bart Ehrman's perspectives on the resurrection ap…
- Trump "Roasts" Pope Leo... How Should Catholics Feel About It? [Ep. 81]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses a Truth Social post by President Trump regarding Pope Leo XIV, exploring the intersection of faith and politics for Catholics. The hosts also discuss the appointment of a new Chaldean Patriarch, a…
- Plenary Indulgences: What They Really Do (& Don't) + Divine Mercy Sunday [Ep. 80]
In this episode, the hosts discuss the theological significance of Divine Mercy Sunday and plenary indulgences, addressing common misconceptions surrounding purification and temporal punishment. They also explore the importance of prioriti…
- Chaldean Church at a Critical Moment & the Silence of Holy Week [Ep. 79]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses the current challenges facing the Chaldean Church and the significance of Holy Week. The hosts reflect on a letter from Bishop Saad Sirop Hanna and explore liturgical traditions, the power of silen…
- Kiss Jesus' Feet or Post for Likes? Shia LaBeouf & Virtue Signaling [Ep. 78]
The hosts discuss the impact of virtue signaling and social media on faith, examining why private devotion is often superior to public displays. They also analyze a viral clip of Shia LaBeouf and reflect on the importance of silence, humil…
- Jesus' 3 Temptations: Dostoevsky's Grand Inquisitor & How Love Wins [Ep. 77]
This Lenten episode of Feeding Fathers explores Jesus' three temptations in the desert, Dostoevsky's Grand Inquisitor, and how to practice fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. The hosts also discuss mixed marriages in the diaspora and conduct…
- Escape Doomscrolling: The Epstein Files & The Weight of Constant Bad News [Ep. 76]
In this episode of Feeding Fathers, the hosts discuss the challenges of constant news consumption, doomscrolling, and digital well-being. They share strategies for setting boundaries, navigating social media overload, and processing diffic…
- Healing Family Trauma, Parenting Advice, & AI Therapy [Ep. 75]
Fr. Simon Esshaki, Abbot Ankido Sipo, Fr. Tristan Farida, and Fr. Fadi Auro discuss healing family trauma, parenting in a secular world, and conflict resolution influenced by monastic life. The episode also explores the role of faith in he…
- Ba'utha and Jonah: What Fasting Can Reveal About Ourselves [Ep. 74]
Fr. Christopher Somo, Fr. Andy Younan, Fr. Daniel Shaba, and Fr. Tristan Farida discuss the significance of the upcoming Ba'utha season, the story of Jonah, and the role of fasting and personal growth. The episode also features a round of…
- Are My Desires Good or Bad? Overcoming Habitual Sin and Self-Doubt [Ep. 73]
Fr. Simon Esshaki, Abbot Ankido Sipo, Fr. Augustine Joseph, and Fr. Christopher Somo discuss overcoming habitual sin, managing desires, and the role of God's love in personal growth. The episode also includes a segment on the legacy of Ful…
- Why Don't You Feel God?: Spiritual Dryness & Desolation | Live from SEEK26 [Ep. 72]
In this live episode of Feeding Fathers from the SEEK26 conference, Fr. Simon Esshaki, Fr. Christopher Somo, Fr. John Jaddou, and Dn. Brandon Elias discuss spiritual dryness and desolation. They explore maintaining faith, prayer, and commu…
- God Became Man: A Controversial Christmas Story? [Ep. 71]
In this final episode of the year, the hosts explore the theological essence of Christmas and the significance of the Incarnation. Guests discuss the symbolism of the nativity, the vulnerability of God becoming man, and the impact of Chris…
- Scandal and Corruption in the Church: Where We Go From Here [Ep. 70]
In this episode of Feeding Fathers, the hosts discuss scandals in the Church, focusing on the HBO documentary 'Marcial Maciel: The Wolf of God.' They explore the impact of clerical abuse on faith and the necessity of accountability, transp…
- What True Unity with the Orthodox Church Has to Look Like [Ep. 69]
Episode 69 of Feeding Fathers discusses Christian unity, focusing on the divisions between Catholic and Orthodox churches. It covers historical, theological, and cultural roadblocks to unity, the significance of love and truth, and related…
- Cinema & Synods: Pope Leo Says "Go to the Movies" [Ep. 68]
Episode 68 of Feeding Fathers discusses the Chaldean Church's liturgical year-end, synod practices, and the intersection of cinema and faith, inspired by Pope Leo's engagement with the film industry. Hosts Fr. Simon Esshaki, Fr. Daniel Sha…
- Are We Losing Our Minds to AI? | Feeding Fathers [Ep. 67]
Feeding Fathers Ep. 67 discusses the societal impact of AI and digital technology, exploring human connection and generational differences. The hosts also share nostalgic memories, touch on Pope Leo’s perspectives, and debate Mexican food.
- Chaldean Catholic Identity Crisis: Youth Embracing Tradition [Ep. 66]
Episode 66 of Feeding Fathers examines Chaldean Catholic identity, focusing on the importance of tradition and the challenges faced by modern youth. It also discusses findings from the 2025 National Study of Catholic Priests regarding youn…
- The Nightmare Before All Saints' Day: Halloween and Breaking the Matrix [Ep. 65]
Episode 65 of Feeding Fathers discusses the morality of Halloween, spiritual warfare, and the inspiration of saints, including St. Bartolo Longo. The hosts share personal experiences with fear and explore divine guidance versus deception,…
- Why Do We Put Our Faith in Politicians? Abortion Pill and Family Planning [Ep. 64]
Episode 64 delves into the nuances of abortion and family planning, examining societal expectations and moral considerations. The discussion addresses the abortion pill, the Trump administration's stance, and the role of faith in public di…
- How Young Generations Save Sacred Traditions [Ep. 63]
Feeding Fathers Ep. 63 features Fr. Fadi Auro discussing the Chaldean liturgy, its traditions, and modern challenges. The conversation covers the preservation of ancient practices by the younger generation and the role of music in liturgy.
- Controversy of Honoring Pro-Abortion Leaders [Ep.62]
Episode 62 of Feeding Fathers features Fr. Chris recounting his pilgrimage and discussing the ethics of life, abortion, and societal values, referencing recent comments on pro-life issues.
- Assassination Aftermath: Forgiveness in a Divided World [Ep. 61]
Episode 61 of Feeding Fathers discusses the culture of anger and division following an assassination, examining misplaced zeal in judgments, the impact of social media, and the need for forgiveness and reconciliation. It references histori…
- Playing Halo to Being Holy: New Saints and New Priests [Ep. 60]
Episode 60 of Feeding Fathers features newly ordained Fr. Augustine, Fr. Matthew Zetouna, and Deacon Brandon Elias discussing priesthood, community, and faith. They explore topics ranging from homilies and church community to the unexpecte…
- Becoming Fathers: The Journey to Ordination [Ep. 59]
In episode 59 of Feeding Fathers, three men on the verge of ordination share their experiences and insights into the priesthood, the Eucharist, and Chaldean communities worldwide.
- Vows, Habits, & Religious Life [Ep. 58]
Episode 58 of Feeding Fathers features Sister Bernadette, Brother Augustine, and Sister Benedicta discussing spiritual journeys, the significance of vows, religious vocations, the Eucharist, and digital evangelization.
- Jubilee of Young People and Youth Convention [Ep. 57]
Episode 57 of Feeding Fathers discusses organizing the Jubilee of Youth pilgrimage, priest schedules, and large events like the 2025 Chaldean Youth Convention, sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting family values. The hosts also menti…
- Mary Is a Big Deal: The Assumption in Tradition and Scripture [Ep. 56]
The Feeding Fathers podcast episode "Mary Is a Big Deal" explores scriptural debates around traditions using the Assumption of Mary as a theme. It also discusses avoiding unproductive arguments and views scripture as a divine love letter.
- Did Jesus 'Nerf' Himself? Lessons from the Transfiguration [Ep. 55]
Feeding Fathers episode 55 explores the Transfiguration of Jesus, symbolizing spiritual transformation and divine revelation. The discussion includes personal prayer, forgiveness, embracing weaknesses, St. Peter's transformation, and a mea…
- Modesty, Comic-Con, and Communal Meals [Ep. 54]
In Episode 54 of Feeding Fathers, Fr. Andy recounts his Comic-Con experience. The discussion delves into the evolution of clergy attire, modesty, fostering virtuous friendships, and navigating social norms as a Catholic, referencing Pope L…
- This Could Have Been a Text (Is It Really Urgent?) [Ep. 53]
This episode of Feeding Fathers, featuring Fr. Simon Esshaki, Abbot Ankido Sipo, Fr. Chris Somo, and Fr. Tristan Farida, discusses the realities of modern priesthood, including managing urgent matters, spiritual burnout, and maintaining we…
- Gossip in the Digital Era: A Discussion on the TEA App [Ep. 52]
Episode 52 of Feeding Fathers examines the TEA app, a platform for women to anonymously rate men, and discusses the ethics of online public call-outs versus slander. The hosts also explore the relevance of Christian values like mercy and f…
- The Fatigue of Life and Living with Intention [Ep. 51]
Episode 51 of Feeding Fathers discusses intentional living, balancing work and rest, and the impact of news consumption, referencing Pope Leo's 'fatigue of life'. The hosts also touch on prayer, contemplation, and share thoughts on Wimbled…
- 50th Episode Extravaganza [Ep. 50]
Feeding Fathers celebrates its 50th episode with a packed show, including discussions on the Pope's Bible interpretation and a U.S. Senator's stance on Israel.
- Sacred Heart Devotion & Marriage [Ep. 49]
Episode 49 of Feeding Fathers discusses the Sacred Heart devotion and its relevance to modern marriage, exploring apparitions, reparation, and sacrificial love with two nuns and a monk.
- To Chant, or Not to Chant? [Ep. 48]
Episode 48 of Feeding Fathers discusses spiritual authenticity, the pros and cons of chanting during daily mass, and the significance of Corpus Christi within the Chaldean liturgy. The hosts also touch upon Eucharistic hymns and personal r…
- What Should a Priest Wear on Bingo Night? [Ep. 47]
Episode 47 of Feeding Fathers delves into priestly fashion, questioning attire for events like bingo nights and the symbolism behind it. It also examines the biblical story of Peter and John healing the lame man, highlighting contemporary…
- Holy Spirit & Pentecost: Accuser vs. Advocate and Bad Puns [Ep. 46]
Episode 46 of Feeding Fathers discusses the events of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit
- The Ascension: Victory, Glory, and Divine Timing [Ep. 45]
In Episode 45, Fr. Daniel, Fr. Andy, Fr. Simon, and Abbot Ankido discuss the Ascension, covering its meaning for heaven, earth, unity, and divine timing. The episode also touches on suffering versus glory, the eternal versus earthly, and i…
- Talking Parables with the Monks [Ep. 44]
In Episode 44 of Feeding Fathers, Fr. Simon and guests discuss discovering one's calling, the power of God, and the meaning behind Jesus' parables, touching on faith, monastic life, and spiritual community.
- Papal Aura and Italian Memes [Ep. 43]
Fr. Simon and Fr. Tristan share experiences from Rome, including Pope Francis's funeral and the election of the new pope. They also discuss Italian AI memes and the importance of humility in leadership.
- Foretaste of Heaven and German Food [Ep. 42]
Episode 42 of Feeding Fathers explores the concept of heavenly love and the Christian life, focusing on building a relationship with Jesus. The discussion covers motivations for seeking Heaven, challenges to faith and humility, and the inf…
- The New Pope & New Sunday [Ep. 41]
Fr. Roni discusses "New Sunday" in the Chaldean tradition, its history, and apostolic roots, including the figure of St. Thomas. The episode contrasts this with Divine Mercy Sunday and briefly touches on speculation regarding the next Pope.
- What Happens After a Pope Dies? [Ep. 40]
Episode 40 of Feeding Fathers discusses the process after a pope's death, including eligibility for papacy, the historical significance of papal names, and the impact of popes. The hosts reflect on Pope Francis's legacy and also taste Ital…
- Intensity of Good Friday [Ep. 39]
Fr. Andy and Fr. Simon discuss Holy Week meditations from the Chaldean Liturgy, focusing on Passion Friday and the Saturday of Light. They analyze a specific prayer about prophets awakening after Christ's Passion, noting its uniqueness to…
- Holy Week in the Chaldean Tradition [Ep. 38]
In Ep. 38 of Feeding Fathers, Fr. Simon and Fr. Andy discuss Chaldean Holy Week traditions, including Basilica Hymns and Palm Sunday. They examine the themes of joy and sadness, referencing texts from St. Ephraim.
- Sexual Sin and Human Dignity [Ep. 36]
This episode of Feeding Fathers explores the challenges of sexual sin, the value of chastity, and the role of confession in seeking grace. The discussion also covers overcoming sinful habits, dealing with temptation, and maintaining a cons…
- Sin & Scrupulosity [Ep. 35]
This episode of Feeding Fathers discusses the sacrament of confession, addressing the trend of frequent confession for minor or non-existent sins. It clarifies misconceptions about sin, breaks down the Ten Commandments, and highlights conf…
- Monks and Sisters [Ep. 34]
Episode 34 features Chaldean nuns and a monk discussing their unique experiences, including missions, daily life, discerning vocations, and a recent pilgrimage to Italy and Iraq.