What do a boxing match, a beloved dog, and a playoff-bound soccer team have in common? They’re all part of the ride in this week’s episode, Taxi Driver.
Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, and Deacon Bob Rice take listeners on a wild journey through sports drama, media frenzy, and spiritual reflection—with plenty of unexpected turns and heartfelt pit stops along the way.
They start with an NFL roundup, including shocking upsets, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ undefeated streak, and Franciscan University’s PAC soccer championship (featuring Deacon Bob’s son Colby). Along the way, they honor Ben the Dog from College GameDay, debate the surreal Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, and reflect on recent election results—complete with media reactions, political hot takes, and a cameo from The View.
But the destination is the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Drawing from Pope Francis’s new document He Loves Us, the hosts explore Jesus’s love, His gaze, and His heart that still beats for each of us. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or cruising through life, this episode reminds you that hope is never far away.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Sports, Dogs, and College Playoffs
NFL upsets, college football playoff confusion, and a moving tribute to Ben the Dog. Cavaliers remain undefeated, and Franciscan University wins the PAC in soccer—Deacon Bob’s son Colby leads the charge.
(05:56) Father Dave’s Baseball Betrayal
Deacon Bob calls out Father Dave for watching the Lions game solo. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers lose a nail-biter. The guys debate game-day strategies and celebrate the fun of close games—even if it ends in parking lot heartbreak.
(13:16) Election Reactions and Media Echo Chambers
Trump wins big. The hosts unpack voter shifts, media meltdowns (The View erupts), and Kamala Harris’s political future. Echo chambers are real—but so is the call to listen and love.
(22:38) Bronny James, G League Moves, and NBA Realities
Bronny’s move to the G League sparks debate. Deacon Bob highlights his defensive skills; Father Dave questions his NBA future. The pressure of family fame and realistic expectations take center court.
(26:04) Holy Hollywood?
New docuseries hits Fox Nation on November 17. The hosts preview this saint-focused series and reflect on Scorsese’s Catholic storytelling—past, present, and future.
(29:08) The Sacred Heart of Jesus: A Love That Burns for You
Pope Francis’s He Loves Us takes center stage. The hosts dive into the imagery of Jesus’s gaze, His strong hands, His lips, and His heart that still beats for you—inviting all into a personal encounter with Christ’s love.
Resources Mentioned
- He Loves Us – Pope Francis’s reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Franciscan University Alumni Website – Redesigned for connection, events, and mentoring: alumni.franciscan.edu
- “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints” – Streaming November 17th on Fox Nation
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.