The Martin Sheen Podcast | Storytelling, Human Interest & Conversations

In this truly momentous episode Martin is joined at the mic by two very dear friends and West Wing series alum Melissa FitzGerald and Mary McCormack to talk all things West Wing with their best-selling book “What’s Next?” Both Mary and Melissa share their journey in the creation of their book. With over a hundred interviews of the cast, crew, writers and producers, it’s an amazing account of how the historic TV series the West Wing evolved from the very start to the final day of filming and beyond. Their chat with Martin really captures the cultural phenomenon the beloved show has become.  The series may have ended in 2006 but 27 years later the West Wing family of cast members still have a strong bond of friendship as is clearly evident in this heartfelt conversation.

Martin shares an unscripted moment at the mic and recalls his early days in New York in 1959 where he found acting work at the Living Theater for $5 a week, free meals at the Catholic Worker and a place to stay with whoever would take him in. Years later he returned to the city to perform with his friend and idol, George C. Scott in the play “Death of a Salesman” and he recounts extraordinary memories from both on and off stage. The episode then culminates with poems and works by various artists that highlight the beauty, hardship and wonder of big city life.

Martin welcomes Reverend John Dear to join him at the mic for a deeply moving episode centered on a life devoted to social justice, faith, and non-violence. Together, they reflect on the remarkable journey of a friendship and shared commitment spanning more than four decades – years marked by courageous stands against injustice, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in a world free from war, violence and poverty. Their conversation offers a rare glimpse into the faith that had guided them, the risks they have taken for what they believe in, and the enduring friendship that has carried them through it all. Their conversation is followed by a daily reflection on the life of Jesuit priest and poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, and the poignant words of French philosopher Voltaire that still echo through history to this day. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 7 Faith & Friendship Consider This Voltaire “Absurdities & Atrocities” “Blessed Among Us: Gerard Manley Hopkins” Robert Ellsberg “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

Martin takes the listener back to his early days at Holy Trinity Grade School where he fondly remembers his teachers, all nuns of the order of the Sisters of Notre Dame. As his story unfolds he reveals that the greatest lesson he learned from them throughout the years while in their care was compassion. This is followed by a rich tapestry of quotes and poetry, spanning from Dickinson to Whitman and beyond. It’s an episode brimming with insight, reflection and discovery.

In an episode exploring the vitality of youth and the wisdom that accompanies age, Martin opens the program with a stirring passage from Walt Whitman’s book “Leaves of Grass” giving listeners a grounding start that feels ageless and immediate. He then welcomes back to the mic his great granddaughters Luna, Sara & Jade for a little chat, some poetry and a lot of laughter. The show continues with inspiring and humorous quotes from authors and the legendary Yogi Berra, before concluding with the poetry of Willa Cather and William Blake, particular works that celebrate the indominable spirit of youth while fondly reflecting on the joys of days gone by.

In this episode Martin offers a bittersweet and touching reflection on his first year at Holy Trinity School in 1946. He brings to life the people and places that left an indelible impression on him, recalling friendships formed and loss encountered. All at the tender age of 6-year-old, these experiences created lasting memories for him and form the core of this beautiful reverie. This story is followed with the humor of Mark Twain, as well as the thought-provoking poetry of Walt Whitman and William Blake, creating both a teachable moment and an enjoyable one.

Being the seventh of 9 boys, Martin knows a thing or two about brothers as a lifelong lived experience. In this episode he reflects on the bonds that have shaped his life, beginning with a beautiful reading of Keats and culminating in an intimate conversation at the mic with his younger brother, Joe Estevez. Along the way, family stories are shared, long-held truths come to light and listeners are invited into a side of Martin’s world few have witnessed. Framed by the timeless writing of Keats and Tennyson, this is a heartfelt celebration of sibling camaraderie, memory and the enduring ties of family. Enjoy.

In this episode, Martin shares a deeply moving account of his time on the London stage in Larry Kramer’s landmark play “The Normal Heart.” More than a personal artistic challenge, the experience placed him at the heart of a pivotal moment in history, as the AIDS epidemic was just unfolding. From receiving the unexpected offer from Joe Papp to his time in England, Martin recounts the remarkable journey that culminated in a life-changing breakthrough during one unforgettable performance. Told with his signature warmth, humor and compassion, this poignant story offers an intimate glimpse into a transformative chapter of both his life and the cultural moment in which it unfolded. The show concludes with the support of life-affirming quotes and a beautiful and haunting poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

In this follow-up to his previous story about working on the epic “Apocalypse Now” Martin transports listeners back to the jungles of the Philippines, where an exhilarating yet relentless filming schedule tested everyone involved. Accompanied by his family and buoyed by long awaited supplies shipped from the United States, he recalls how the film’s raw, unforgettable opening sequence was captured almost entirely by chance. Martin then shares the story of Marlon Brando’s much anticipated arrival on the set, reflecting on the extraordinary experience working alongside this legendary actor. Their time together became not only the highlight of the production but the most rewarding of Martin’s career.

In this special episode Martin steps back from storytelling and poetry and joins his production team at the mic instead to have an informal chat and answer the burning question, “Whose idea was this podcast?” Listeners are invited to a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the origins of Martin’s podcast, how it evolved and where it’s all going. A complete list of writers & poets the special episode “Whose Idea Was This Podcast?” “The Age Demanded” Ernest Hemingway

This episode is full of literary works, speeches and poems by American authors and American public figures. A letter to America, if you will, the country we love, the one we criticize and the one we know can always be better, the one we are dreaming of. Join Martin as he wishes a happy 250th birthday to America through the recitation of “America the Beautiful” and other beloved poetry. The episode concludes with a passionate and moving rendition of President Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 10 The American Dream “America the Beautiful” Katherine Lee Bates Consider This Alexander Hamilton like founding father, like son “A Shadow” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow “The Song of the Stone Wall” Helen Keller Consider This Inauguration speeches, the short and long of it The poem “I Am Waiting” by Lawrence Ferlinghetti from Coney Island of the Mind, copyright 1955 is included in this podcast with permission of New Directions Publishing Corporation “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

Martin recounts how after many years of searching an inner voice led him to a true turning point in his spiritual life and his return to the Catholic church. With the help of an old friend while in Paris on location for the filming of “Enigma” Martin follows his heart and discovers a revitalized and more compassionate church under the reforms of Vatican II, where he experiences peace and the joy that comes from uniting the will of the spirit with the work of the flesh. This moving story of followed by literary works that resonate with the awakening that accompanies the search for happiness and a life more fully realized. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 8 Go In Peace The story “Transition” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. Consider This The Buddha “If you want to fly…” “Blessed Among Us: Dostoevsky” by Robert Ellsberg is included here by granted copyright permission. And we thank the author for this opportunity to share his work. “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

While in India in 1981, immersed in the sweeping production of the iconic film Gandhi, Martin finds himself profoundly altered by what unfolds both before the camera and behind it. Amid the grandeur of the production and under the guidance of acclaimed director Richard Attenborough, he witnesses not only the making of a heroic and deeply human story but also the stark realities of poverty, inequality, and suffering surrounding him in the streets of India. In this episode, Martin reflects on how this journey became far more than a cinematic experience. By the close of filming, something within him had stirred awake - a quiet but insistent voice he could no longer silence. What began as an artistic endeavor gradually transformed into a deeply personal reckoning, setting him upon an inward search for peace and healing. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 7 Awakening The story “In Gandhi’s Kindly Light” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. “Face to Face” Rabindranath Tagore “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

In this episode Martin recounts his journey through Spain alongside his closest friend and his grandson discovering along the way that the Camino can offer far more than a spiritual pilgrimage - it can become a journey of the heart itself. What began as an adventure across ancient roads unfolded into a story of connection, fate and enduring love. The episode continues with an intimate conversation featuring his grandson Taylor and Taylor's wife, Julia, as they share their side of how their paths first crossed in Spain, revealing to Martin some untold truths during that life changing journey and reflecting with gratitude on their chance meeting 23 years later. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 6 Adventure The story “El Camino In a Red Mercedes Benz” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

In a heartfelt tribute marking the centennial of his mother’s birth, Martin reflects on a journey to Ireland with his surviving siblings - a pilgrimage that unfolded into something far more profound and transformative than he ever anticipated. His story is accompanied by poetry and literary works that mirror the solemnity, grace and quiet reverence woven throughout this deeply personal episode.

Martin shares a powerful story of resistance in the face of corporate environmental destruction, bringing a deeply human perspective to those on the front lines battling toxic pollution in a rural community. He explores the extraordinary lengths he and local residents are willing to go in their fight for justice and accountability. His story is followed by a moving collection of poems and literary works celebrating that same indomitable human spirit. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 9 Justice The story “Protest, Trial & The Santa Claus Defense” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. Consider This Benjamin Franklin “Tell me…” “Changed” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow “Blessed Among Us: Mahalia Jackson” by Robert Ellsberg is included here by granted copyright permission. And we thank the author for this opportunity to share his work. “The Wind” Antonio Machado, with translation by Robert Bly “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

Martin reflects on the origins of his theatrical name change and the lasting ripple effect it carried into the next generation, especially for his sons Emilio and Charlie. He is later joined at the mic by his daughter Renee for an open and sincere conversation exploring the heart of their relationship, the bond they share, and the joy that continues to connect them.

In this episode Martin proudly reads the literary works of his dear friend and mentor Daniel Berrigan, who was a tireless champion for human rights by risking his life and imprisonment through non-violent radical actions of civil disobedience. His works are further enriched through Martin’s readings of a thoughtfully curated selection of poetry, each piece reflecting the enduring human quest for meaning, spirituality and beauty.

Martin shares an unforgettable story of an absentee midwife and how he and Janet had to cope alone in a life and death situation with the home birth of their second son. It is a personal narrative that captures both the profound challenges they faced as young parents and the relatable moments of joy along the way.

The epic film “Apocalypse Now” deserves an epic behind-the-scenes story that only Martin can bring to the mic. In the infamous Charlie Don’t Surf beach landing with Robert Duvall, he shares his first-hand account of the chaos and danger that was really happening all around the actors as the cameras rolled. And it was this particular sequence that would set the tone for a film shoot that lasted over a year and left a profound effect not only on Martin but his whole family as well. These truths are revealed and more as his wife, Janet then joins him for a candid conversation adding her own personal memories of being in the Philippines and how the filming of “Apocalypse Now” was life-changing for both of them. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 1 Apocalypse When The story “Apocalypse, You’re In For It Now” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

It’s the early 1960’s in New York City where the poems of Charles Frank Laughton take the listener on an unforgettable emotional trek through his unique lens of the city, its beauty, its brutality, its absolution and damnation. On the waves of Martin’s voice, the sounds on the streets, everyday scenes playing out on brownstone steps and corner markets come to life with people and seasons and distant longings. And all to a unique blend of jazz and bebop and blues music.

Childhood memories are the subject of this episode, starting with Martin’s deeply moving recollection of a special time spent with his father in 1947 in the Ohio countryside. Being the seventh son of 10 siblings, an entire day of just he and his father was such a rarity that Martin cherished the events and conveys those memories in this emotional story. It is followed by his daughter Renee sharing her own childhood story of growing up with her dad, Martin and the unusual but memorable time they spent together. Childhoods can be as loving and complex as the people who raise us.

The film “The Way” is often said to be the gift that keeps giving as it continues to encourage people to set off on the extraordinary pilgrimage in Spain and in this episode Martin shares his own fascination and personal experience along its path. In his inspired account Martin gives an in-depth look into his own pilgrims’ journey. This is followed by a candid and uplifting conversation at the mic with his son Emilio and the adventure they shared while making the movie “The Way” and how it changed both their lives on a deeply personal level.

Great grand kids are something to brag about, especially for a great grandparent like Martin and in this episode he brings 3 of them to the mic for some fun and poetry. Martin also shares a story close to his heart about the legendary actor Marlon Brando while filming “Apocalypse Now” in the Philippines. Of all the actors Martin has had the good fortune of working with Marlon was by far the most endearing and truly embodied a kid-at-heart spirit. Steering into the theme of this show, Martin recites a series of children’s poetry from Robert Louis Stevenson, a few cheeky quotes from Mark Twain and a modern-day article by W.D Erhart as well. This truly is an episode for the kid in everyone!

In 1991 Martin and a dear friend traveled to Rome, Italy to meet with Mother Teresa, petition Pope John Paul II and help end a war in the Middle East. Yes, it sounds incredible but it’s true! In this episode the listener is invited to join him on this peace mission as his story unfolds. It’s a testament to Martin’s belief in the goodness of humanity. Also included in this show are the literary works of some of Martin’s heroes, men and women who dedicated their lives to their faith and to peace with unwavering commitment and compassion.

Martin loves to share his favorite things with his listeners and in this special episode it’s all about music. He welcomes to the mic Paloma Estevez & Reed Thomas Lawrence, the duo behind Sun & The Saint, to talk about where they are on their musical journey, where they’re going and what inspires them along the way. Many of their songs are featured throughout the show giving the audience a wonderful sampling of the fantastic talent of this duo. Martin’s show is usually about storytelling and poetry and what could embody that better than the beautiful music of Sun & The Saint.

Martin tells a deeply insightful story of when he was only 14 years old and saw the legendary actor James Dean in the film “East of Eden” for the first time. It was a true game changer in how he saw himself as an actor and would haunt him but ultimately transform his relationship to his craft and to himself. This same raw reveal continues in the show as an open mic segment where Martin unveils how his acting technique evolved in his early years because of Dean and other artists who he admired and emulated. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 5 Like Dean The story “He Would Have Liked You” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. “Autumn Movement” Carl Sandburg “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

Martin pens a tender, moving story of being faced with a difficult challenge in his career and how he was inspired to take a leap of faith into the unknown.He tells of a brief encounter with renowned artist Elaine de Kooning as she recounted her extraordinary experience of creating the official portrait of President Robert F. Kennedy. This show also features a supporting cast of writers and poets whose works address the struggles and difficulties of life with grace, humanity and words of hope. A complete list of the writers and poets from Episode 4 Challenges The story “de Kooning, Jaquie & JFK” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. Consider This JFK quote “one heart with courage…” The poem “Who Are These People” by Ramon Gerard Estevez AKA Martin Sheen is included here by granted copyright permission. “Blessed Among Us: Marc Chagall” by Robert Ellsberg is included here by granted copyright permission. And we thank the author for this opportunity to share his work. Consider This Mother Teresa quote “I know that God will not give me…” “My Father at 85” Robert Bly is included here in this podcast by granted copyright permission of his daughter, Mary Bly, who we thank for this opportunity to share his poetry. “The Sound of the Sea” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow “Some” by Daniel Berrigan is included in this podcast with granted permission and remains the property of the Daniel Berrigan Literary Trust, who we thank for this opportunity to share his writings. “Where the Mind is Without Fear” Rabindranath Tagore

An episode very dear to Martin’s heart because it is dedicated to matters of the heart, namely, love. And what better way to explore the many facets of love than through poetry. As luck would have it, the love of his life, Janet agreed to sit down for an interview and talk about how they met in NY in 1961, fell in love and got married. Love is in the air and it’s happily contagious in this episode!

This episode captures a truly bold and historic moment in Martin’s life. After hearing of the horrific events in 1965 from Selma, Alabama known as “Bloody Sunday” he was motivated to bring the New York theater community together to raise funds and awareness for the people who suffered from this violence. In his personal story he recounts how a vast, diverse group of artists banded together for one unforgettable night of solidarity and a surprise guest visit by none other than Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. himself.

Martin recites two dynamic poems and explores how they influenced and shaped his career and ultimately his life. This episode concludes with the listener being invited to an intimate glimpse of Martin’s early years as he shares touching stories and candid memories from the front porch steps of his childhood home in Dayton, Ohio.

In this special episode of Martin’s podcast he invites his son, Charlie Sheen to join him at the mic. Together they tackle the epic baseball poem “Casey at the Bat” and then share some father son time talking about their personal and professional lives. It’s an open, plainspoken conversation rich with candid stories and more than a few unexpected discoveries along the way.

What better words than those of Shakespeare to help memorialize and celebrate those we have loved and lost. And what better ways to honor those who are gone than to share reminiscences and stories that live in our hearts. Martin does just that and more in this deeply moving episode that honors grief with empathy and reverence and humanity.

Martin tells a passionate and amusing story about the day he made the biggest commitment of his young life and how that solemn vow has been the source of his happiness ever since. And coming to the support of this theme is a beautiful array of classic poetry filled with the promise of love to inspire and sustain us.

In his deeply moving story “Bobby” Martin conveys how learning of the mortality of his hero, Bobby Kennedy did not shake his faith but gave him pause and strengthened it, proving that even the most tragic events can bring us to a positive personal realization beyond our expectations. He then goes on to interview his son, Emilio Estevez who offers his own take on how he processed this same tragedy many years later in his life and the miraculous circumstances surrounding that journey.

Martin explores the many facets of war through his own poetry and writings as well as the pen of Shakespeare and fellow poets’ works. Whether rallying the troops, offering comfort to a grieving nation, or struggling through the aftermath and its personal toll, this episode confirms that war leaves no aspect of life untouched.

This episode exemplifies Martin’s podcast at its core and the reason why he chose to tell the stories of his life. The listener is invited to journey with Martin to the past where he recalls his father’s first time seeing him on the Broadway stage, the lack of communication between them and how they would eventually have an amicable reckoning. And as his story concludes not all the threads of this tale are neatly tied, reminding us that life has its own plans despite our careful planning.

What does Martin do at the height of his career in 2006 after wrapping up seven years starring on the top show at NBC? Go to college! And a college in Ireland no less! Martin shares a story of his college adventures followed by a compilation of writings and poems that explore the search for wisdom and clarity, most notably the Robert Frost classic “The Road Not Taken.”

To know Martin is to know where he stands on the issues of social justice. And this episode shines a spotlight on who and what first inspired him to take his activism to the next level and sustained his faith in the process. Supported by the timely poetry of Edna St Vincent Millay and Ferlinghetti and by Martin’s own call to action in these uncertain times, this episode is an uplifting reminder that we must all effect change by finding that passion in our own hearts!

Martin brings together an assortment of his favorite poems and quotes. And these particular writings just happen to share the common theme of advice, be it crucial, loving, humorous or cautionary. From Kipling, to Mark Twain, to Dylan Thomas, advice is the order of the day in this not to be missed episode.

Martin imparts a story of his encounter with renown Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini and the legendary actress Ava Gardner that is both humorous and touching. An interview with his son, Ramon Estevez follows where they enjoy reminiscing about the films they worked on together over the years, their talk culminating in a beautiful, shared memory of their friendship with Ava Gardner. In conclusion, Martin reads a poem he wrote about the difficulty he experienced with one of his sons as a teenager, something he feels every parent can relate to.

Martin shares a glimpse into his background and what makes him the person he is today, starting with his parents and their immigration to America and the courage it took to begin anew. He beautifully recites The New Colossus found at the base of the Statue of Liberty and its significance to our nation as well as the rousing poem “Chicago,” an homage to the bold and fearless city by Carl Sandburg. This episode is filled with heroic stories and poems and the men and women who, despite the dangers, valiantly followed their hearts.

Please join me each Sunday for a beautifully crafted 20-minute journey of personal exploration. I am proud to say “The Martin Sheen Podcast” is now in its 4thseason!