Rev. James Martin: Why Stories Change Everything, What Points to the Resurrection, and the Story That Blew His Mind

Today on 7MS Presents: The Storytelling University, Aaron talks with Rev. James Martin, Jesuit priest, New York Times bestselling author, an editor at large at America Magazine, consultant to the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication and host of The Spiritual Life Podcast. Martin’s new memoir, Work in Progress, praised by Stephen Colbert as “funny, charming, inspiring, and wise,” becomes the doorway into a deeper conversation about storytelling, faith, and the search for meaning. They explore Martin’s journey from corporate America to the priesthood, sparked by a moment of unexpected clarity through the story of a Trappist monk. Along the way, this episode examines what it means to see life not just as a series of decisions, but as a story unfolding with purpose. This conversation also dives into: • How storytelling shapes belief, identity, and transformation • Why stories open minds where arguments often fail • Martin’s advocacy for LGBTQ Catholics and the power of elevating lived experiences • The idea that storytelling is not just communication, but ministry The episode opens with a compelling reflection on the Resurrection, viewed not through doctrine, but through the radical transformation in the behavior of those who witnessed it. If you’ve ever wondered how stories influence faith, purpose, and the direction of a life, this is a conversation that stays with you. Link to Buy Work in Progress Follow The Spiritual Life Podcast American Magazine Creator and Host: Aaron Calafato Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Producer: Brooks Borden Guest Coordinator: Dania Khalife