Episode 337: He Battled Fires and Culture: A Catholic Firefighter’s Story with Benjamin O'Brien

Hey Everybody! It's Fr. Edward

I sit down with Benjamin O’Brien, Catholic firefighter and author of The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17. In our conversation, Benjamin shares: 🔥 Why he chose firefighting and how he discerned leaving the profession 🔥 The ways he integrated his Catholic faith into the firehouse 🔥 What inspired him to write The Proving Grounds and the reaction from former coworkers 🔥 The role of chaplains, Sunday observance, and living as a Catholic man in a demanding environment 🔥 Why firefighters are teased for their good cooking and how camaraderie builds strength 🔥 The lasting impact September 11 had on the fire service This episode is both a reflection on service and sacrifice and a reminder of the deep connection between faith and vocation. 👉 Be sure to check out Benjamin’s book The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17 wherever books are sold. https://ignatius.com/the-proving-grounds-pgp/

About Podcast

Fr. Edward Looney is a Catholic priest who loves having conversations with guests. They talk about new book releases, various topics related to faith and life, and occasionally he speaks with producers, directors, and actors from the film industry. He has podcasted since 2019, formerly as “How They Love Mary” and “Cup of St. Joe,” conducting over 300 interviews to date. The interview style podcasts from Fr. Edward continues now, as he begins each conversation greeting his audience with “Hey Everybody!” Tune in for inspiring conversations about faith, film, and life.