New Podcast Tells the Stories of TST
Master of Divinity student Stephen Hurley has always had a love of broadcasting. Now, he has channeled that passion into Toronto Theology Talks, a new podcast he hosts featuring conversations with professors from the Toronto School of Theology (TST). Examining topics as diverse as the ecumenism at the heart of TST through to disability, theology and being church together, Hurley is hoping to expand the theological conversation while shining a light on TST’s unique consortium.
"I am fascinated by the concept of TST, given the frequent conflict around religion," says the Emmanuel College student, who is on the ordination track in the United Church of Canada. “When people listen to each other tensions can be lessened."
He also sees the podcast as a way to help listeners engage with challenging but vital conversations about theological concepts, discussions that can prompt further reflection on matters of heart and soul.
"One of my goals is to make what appears daunting less so," Hurley says, adding that he hopes to expand theological conversations beyond the academy, helping a variety of listeners to grasp why these conversations matter by offering what he labels a "public translation" of concepts. While terms such as ontology and epistemology can feel intimidating to anyone without theological training, he notes, a basic understanding can offer insights to anyone hoping to reflect on life’s big questions. "While these conversations aren’t casual, they are not as dense as a formal lecture might be."
The inaugural seven-episode season, which features professors from Wycliffe, Emmanuel, Regis and St. Michael’s colleges, launches the week of April 20, 2026. Episodes will be available on Apple Podcasts and on Spotify. Another seven episodes are planned for the fall 2026 semester.
Toronto Theology Talks is the latest project for Hurley, who is the creator and catalyst of VoicEd Radio Canada, a website that hosts podcasts and web broadcasting dedicated to issues in Canadian education and the public good. He is also the creator of About Faith, a series of conversations designed to connect faith communities across the country.
While he’s been retired from his formal teaching career for a decade now, Hurley remains a dedicated educator, whether it’s using his portable broadcasting studio to help potential podcasters learn the technical side of creating their own audio series or launching Toronto Theology Talks, bringing the exciting teaching and research of TST professors out of the classroom and into the public square.
"We are really grateful to Stephen for his generosity in sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with us. There are great things happening at each of our seven member colleges and it’s wonderful to have a channel to amplify this work," says Prof. Darren Dias, O.P., who is TST’s Executive Director.
Now wrapping up assignments as the winter semester draws to a close, Hurley takes a moment to reflect on his experiences creating the podcast’s first season.
"I’m learning so much," he says of the experience conversing with the TST professors. "It’s magic for me."