Topic: Conclave

A mainstream media clip featuring Nora O'Donnell uses the term "raw dogging" to describe cardinals entering the conclave without electronic devices. The hosts laugh at the misuse of the sexual slang term in a religious context. They also note reports that the new Pope, Leo XIV, has been critical of Donald Trump's immigration rhetoric in the past.

As 133 Cardinals gather in Rome for the papal conclave, reports surface that French President Emmanuel Macron is attempting to influence the selection to prevent a conservative successor. Meanwhile, an Italian app called "FantaPapa" has gained 60,000 users who play a fantasy-sports style game to predict the next Pope.

Vatican expert John Allen discussed the upcoming papal conclave, noting that cardinals under the age of 80 are gathering in Rome for general congregation meetings. The selection process will weigh whether to continue the trajectory of the previous papacy or pivot toward new leadership. Key issues for the next Pope include navigating shifting global alliances, internal debates over women's roles in the church, and social concerns like migration and climate change.

The hosts discuss the film "Conclave," which saw a spike in viewership following the death of Pope Francis. One analyst compared using the movie as a guide to the Vatican to using "Spaceballs" as a guide to space travel. The discussion centers on the film's controversial ending involving a Pope discovered to have intersex characteristics, which the hosts describe as an unnecessary and disappointing plot twist.

As the Catholic Church prepares for a potential conclave, speculation mounts regarding the successor to Pope Francis. Candidates mentioned include Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea, who is noted for his conservative views on gender ideology. The discussion references the "Prophecy of the Popes" attributed to St. Malachy and the financial influence of the U.S. and African churches on the selection process.

Pope Francis is reportedly in serious condition at the Vatican following a severe coughing fit and complications from pneumonia. The timing of the health crisis coincides with the release of the film "Conclave," which is a frontrunner at the Academy Awards. Speculation regarding the Pope's recovery and the potential for a new papal election is increasing.

A discussion of the film "Conclave" reveals a controversial plot twist involving a mystery cardinal from Kabul who is discovered to have ovaries. The film, starring Stanley Tucci, deals with the internal politics of the Vatican following a Pope's death. The hosts mock the "woke" elements of the Hollywood production while discussing its timing relative to the current Pope's health issues.