The Catholic Man Show

Dave took another trip to the emergency room this week — though this one wasn't for him. His daughter Bernadette and one of his boys built a foam block bridge, she went off the side of it, landed on the wall, and broke her clavicle. Clean break. When Adam got the x-ray, he zoomed in, screenshotted just the broken collarbone, and sent it to Lady Haylee with no context — let her think Adam had been out grinding, building fences, shouldering it like a tough guy. Bernadette, for the record, is doing great. Three weeks and she's back to normal. As Dave put it, if you're going to break your clavicle, do it young. Don't do it at Jim's age.A lot of life packed into this one before the topic. Adam and his boys, Luke and Jude, are going to read the Aeneid together this summer — Luke already read it at Holy Family Classical School, so he'll lead the way. Adam helped Dave harvest wheat (the invoice is coming), and the two of them talked homesteading honestly: you don't get into it to save time or money. It's a lifestyle, and the pork chop costs $400 if you're foolish enough to count your own labor. Adam also turned 40 — by the time this airs, the birthday's passed — and he spent his Substack this week reflecting on the four ten-year cycles he's got left, if he's lucky. The big lesson from 30 to 40: he had it backwards. He was making his life serve the business instead of the business serve his life. Build the habits of prayer, reading, and friendship young, because life only gets busier, and it's far easier to keep a habit than to add one.Two prayer requests worth holding. Lady Pamela's due date is this week — baby Niles number seven, two middle names this time, names not yet shared. And baby Mary is still in the NICU. They're going to try again this week to take her off the breathing tube. She's weaning off sedation — which means withdrawals, which is hard — but she's gaining weight and getting stronger. Get past the tube and the next hill is open heart surgery. Adam's grateful for every prayer, and for the guys who sent DoorDash cards. Keep praying for Mary. And a shout-out to Dan O'Brien, David's father-in-law, walking the Camino as this drops — Dan, hope the feet are holding up.This week's pour is a funny one: WhistlePig's 250th Anniversary of America 10-Year "Piggy Bank" Limited Edition Straight Rye, 55% ABV. The box is a literal piggy bank and the bottle is a chrome-plated ceramic pig. Spicier and more herbal than your Weller or Buffalo Trace — but smooth for the proof, with caramel and warm undertones. Picked up at Broken Arrow Wine and Spirits, owned by a good Catholic family from St. Benedict. Jim's yummy scale (bourbon scale): 5.87 out of 6.Then the main course: the Finding of Jesus in the Temple. Luke 2, the last joyful mystery, the only Gospel that records it — and the very first time Jesus is recorded speaking. Adam walks through it with the Catena Aurea, Aquinas's compilation of the Church Fathers edited by St. John Henry Newman. The caravan to Jerusalem split women and children up front, men in the back, and a twelve-year-old could be in either — so Mary thought He was with Joseph, Joseph thought He was with Mary. Theophylact says it wasn't negligence. A logistical blind spot. Any father who's left a kid at church after coffee and donuts gets it.The three days they searched? St. Ambrose says that's no accident — a rehearsal for the three days of the Passion, lost and then found again. The age of twelve is no accident either: right before the bar mitzvah, the Lord fulfilling the law perfectly, right on time, and twelve standing for the tribes and the apostles. Watch Mary, too. She brings her grief straight to her Son without accusation — "why have you done this to us?" — modeling how a soul carries pain to Christ: honestly, blaming no one, trusting before she fully understands. Watch Joseph, who says nothing, and pursues his mission relentlessly without drama. That's the masculine answer to adversity: very well, and you handle it. Protect, provide, establish.Was Jesus being disobedient? The Fathers say no — His higher obedience to His Father's business ran underneath the surface, and verse 51 shows Him going home and being subject to them. God first, then family, and that order doesn't fracture the home. It grounds it. And where did they find Him? In the temple. His Father's house. Which is the whole point: you can find Jesus in nature, in the car, anywhere — but you are guaranteed to find Him in the church, body, blood, soul, and divinity, in the tabernacle of every Catholic church in the world. If you want to become holy, go be with Him. Get an adoration hour. Holiness doesn't happen the way Adam's buddy Juan figured he'd "just kind of one day have a six pack." You have to do something about it. Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDDave's daughter Bernadette breaking her clavicle falling off a foam block bridge the kids builtAdam screenshotting the x-ray and sending just the broken collarbone to Lady Haylee with no contextAdam reading the Aeneid with his sons Luke and Jude this summer — and why he's doing it men's-group styleHarvesting wheat, and the honest economics of homesteading ("the $400 pork chop")Why you never homestead to save time or money — it's a lifestyle, not a shortcutAdam turning 40 and his Substack reflection on the four ten-year cycles he has leftThe biggest lesson from 30 to 40 — making the business serve your life instead of your life serving the businessWhy habits of prayer, reading, and friendship are easier to keep than to add laterLeveraging competent friends instead of trying to do everything yourselfLady Pamela due this week with baby Niles number seven — and the two-middle-names debateBaby Mary update — another attempt to come off the breathing tube, weaning off sedation, gaining weightWhy open heart surgery is the next hill after the breathing tubeDan O'Brien walking the Camino — a shout-out for sore feetBourbon of the week: WhistlePig 250th Anniversary 10-Year "Piggy Bank" Limited Edition Straight Rye, 55% ABVThe ceramic pig bottle, the piggy-bank box, and why a limited shelf whiskey runs $250–$350Jim's yummy scale hitting 5.87 out of 6 on the bourbon scaleThe Finding of Jesus in the Temple — Luke 2, the last joyful mystery, and the only Gospel that records itThe first recorded words of Our LordReading the story through the Catena Aurea — Aquinas's compilation of the Fathers, edited by St. John Henry NewmanHow the Passover caravan split women and children up front and men in the back — and how Jesus fell into the gapTheophylact on why it was a logistical blind spot, not negligence or bad parentingSt. Ambrose on the three-day search foreshadowing the three days of the Passion and ResurrectionWhy the age of twelve matters — the year before the bar mitzvah, and the symbolism of the twelve tribes and apostlesJesus fulfilling the law perfectly and right on time, not jumping aheadMary bringing her grief to Christ without accusation — the model for carrying pain to the Lord"About my father's business" vs. "in my father's house" — the translation and what it meansSt. Bede on faith preceding comprehension — assenting before fully understandingSt. Joseph as the model father — pursuing his mission relentlessly, without drama or self-pityMary honoring Joseph's fatherhood — "your father and I" — and why spouses don't belittle each otherHow complaining about your spouse to others actually breaks your wedding vowsWas Jesus disobedient? The Fathers say no — the higher obedience running underneathThe devil's-advocate case that He chose to be left behind, and His right as the Logos to do soJesus using the Socratic method in the temple — asking questions and "making them wonder upon him"The hierarchy of Christ's presence — and why you're guaranteed to find Him in the tabernacleA convert's story and the simple counsel: you just need to be in front of Jesus"Nothing if not you" — non nisi te, Domine — St. Thomas Aquinas's answer to the LordThe spiritual six pack — why holiness never just "happens on its own"Getting an adoration hour as a statement about the kind of man you want to be REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:Catena Aurea by St. Thomas Aquinas, edited by St. John Henry Newman (the Fathers' commentary on the Gospels)The Gospel of Luke, chapter 2 (the Finding in the Temple, vv. 41–52)The Aeneid by Virgil (Adam's summer read with his sons)The Iliad and the Odyssey by Homer (mentioned alongside Luke's classical reading)Adam's Substack, The Grounded Builder — this week's reflection on his ten-year cycles Saints & Church Fathers:St. Thomas Aquinas (the Catena Aurea; non nisi te, Domine)St. John Henry Newman (editor of the Catena Aurea)Theophylact (the caravan blind spot, not negligence)St. Ambrose (the three days foreshadowing the Passion; Mary's grief without rebuke; "right on time")St. Bede the Venerable (faith preceding comprehension; the hierarchy of loves)St. Teresa of Avila ("no wonder you have so few friends, with how you treat them")St. Humbert of Romans (the importance of place and location in prayer)The Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph (the model of unified, honoring...

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2026

Adam's youngest son, John, locked himself in the bathroom. No big deal — kid's fine, sang songs in there for forty-five minutes like a champ. The problem was the doorknob. Broken cam, broken spring, faceplate screws on the wrong side, and no way in. So Adam did what any father of six at the end of a long day does: he took an angle grinder to the thing and ground the entire doorknob into a pile of metal shards on the floor. Dave's suggestion — order the door open under holy obedience — came in a little too late.Then Dave told on himself. Reseating a toilet, scraping the wax ring, already in a state of borderline rage. He bumped the tank against the tile and cracked it. In a fit of Herculean fury he hoisted the seat over his head, ready to Hulk-smash it into a million pieces — and heard, somewhere, his guardian angel. Jesus doesn't want you to do this. He set it down. Didn't destroy it. And got rewarded for it: American Standard honored a lifetime warranty he didn't know he had and shipped him a $1,600 toilet, free, to replace the $200 one he broke. Resisting the rage paid out at eight to one.Then a quieter note. Baby Mary is still in the NICU. They got her off the breathing tube — she lasted about 24 hours before she had to be re-intubated. Good progress, long road still ahead. Oklahoma City's two hours off, the kids are out of school, and the Minihans are looking at hiring a nanny. But Adam wanted to brag on Lady Haylee. A stranger at the NICU left her a handwritten note and a crochet sweater with Mary's name on it — telling Haylee her faith had been an encouragement, that God is using her right there in that place. Haylee wasn't trying to be a witness. She was just being a mother in a hard place. That's exactly why it landed. Keep praying for Mary.This week's pour: Smoke Wagon Uncut Unfiltered Straight Bourbon from Nevada H&C Distilling out of Las Vegas. 59.29% ABV — hand-written on the bottle, so every batch runs a little different. Hot, full-flavored, plenty of grit. Jim's yummy scale gave it a 6.0, which broke the scale, because the scale apparently only went to four until tonight.Then the real work. The spiritual significance of manual labor. Summer's coming — the season of labor — and the guys make the case that work isn't a curse of the fall. Adam was tending the garden before sin entered the world. His very name comes from the dirt — adamah — made from it, named for it, made to work it. St. Augustine: what's more wonderful than to watch God's creation respond to human hands? Aquinas gives his four reasons for manual labor — obtain your livelihood, remove idleness, curb concupiscence ("I'm almost too tired to sin"), and give alms from the surplus. And the deeper distinction: servile work, done out of necessity, and liberal work, done for the sake of rest. We don't work to work. We work so we can look at what we've made, see that it is good, and rest. Same thing a man does in the soil, he does for his wife — order the environment so the thing entrusted to him can thrive. Protect, provide, establish.It's hard. It's supposed to be. What did you think hard was going to be? The man who can fix things is a threat to the throwaway culture — and the same will that fixes a thing is the will that prays the rosary on the morning you'd rather not. Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDAdam grinding his kid's bathroom doorknob into shards with an angle grinder after his son John got locked inDave nearly Hulk-smashing a toilet seat in a fit of rage — and the guardian angel that stopped himHow resisting the rage earned Dave a free $1,600 American Standard toilet under a lifetime warrantyBaby Mary update — off the breathing tube for 24 hours, re-intubated, long road still aheadThe Minihans looking at hiring a full-time nanny with the kids out of schoolThe handwritten note and crochet sweater a stranger left Lady Haylee at the NICUHow you carry suffering as a Christian can be a witness even when you're not trying to be oneBourbon of the week: Smoke Wagon Uncut Unfiltered Straight Bourbon, Nevada H&C Distilling, 59.29% ABVJim's yummy scale hitting 6.0 and breaking its own four-point ceilingWhy we even have to talk about manual labor when it used to be everybody's daily lifeAttention as agency — guarding what you direct your mind toward in a world built to fracture itAcedia, apathy, and becoming a cog flung to and fro like Francesca in Dante's ninth circle"The world fears the man who can fix things" — Fr. Mori of Clear Creek AbbeyThrowaway culture and why things are programmed now instead of built to be repairedAdam's M6 Marketing memo on "character without exception" — work and life are one line, not twoManual labor in Genesis — Adam tending the garden before the fall, not afterAdamah — why the first man was made from dirt, named for dirt, and made to work itSt. Augustine on God's creation responding to human handsAquinas's four necessities of manual labor: livelihood, removing idleness, curbing concupiscence, giving alms"I'm almost too tired to sin" — why a hard day's work curbs temptationServile work vs. liberal work — laboring out of necessity vs. laboring for the sake of restJosef Pieper and the Catholic mind: we work so that we can restWhy hard is supposed to be hard, and how it trains the willChoosing to pray the rosary on the morning you've already decided you won'tSelf-sacrificial love — doing the dishes when you don't want to, because she shouldn't have toPrayer as both work and rest — peace as the tranquility of order in this life, rest in the nextWhy unstructured, leisurely time is where the desire to write, paint, and create actually surfacesPassing the habit of manual labor — and the courage to fix things — down to your kids"It's not about the nail" — the philosophy of life behind refusing to just throw things away REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:In Tune with the World: A Theory of Festivity by Josef PieperLeisure, the Basis of Culture by Josef Pieper (Pieper's broader work on work and rest)Adam's Substack, The Grounded Builder — recent article on five overlooked books worth readingThe Book of Genesis (the creation and naming of Adam; the call to tend the garden)Dante's Inferno (the ninth circle; Francesca in the second circle, flung to and fro)Shakespeare's As You Like It (staged locally by the Sheard family and other homeschool families) Saints & Historical Figures:St. Thomas Aquinas (the four necessities of manual labor; servile vs. liberal work)St. Augustine ("what is more wonderful than to observe the workings of nature...")Adam (the first man — adamah, made from and for the dirt) People:Adam Minihan (host; founder of M6 Marketing; writes The Grounded Builder on Substack)Dave Niles (host)Jim (in studio — keeper of the yummy scale; shipping Patreon gifts; prays with Hallow)Fr. Mori of Clear Creek Abbey ("the world fears the man who can fix things")Brandon Sheard (quoted the same line; the Sheard family staged the Shakespeare production)Dan (Dave's father-in-law — never trusted a man who works with music on in the background)Josef Pieper ("the peepster" — Adam's favorite German philosopher)Bob Ross (Dave's aspirational painting instructor)Lady Haylee MinihanLady Pamela Niles Programs & Institutions:Clear Creek AbbeyHallow (prayer app — Jim uses it; not a sponsor)M6 Marketing (Adam's company) SPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, one name kept coming up: Select International Tours. They're the best. Having used them, the guys can vouch for it. Wherever in the world you want to go, Select has a tour ready. Whether you're looking to lead a pilgrimage or attend one, head to selectinternationaltours.com and see everything they offer. You won't regret it.Support the show: patreon.com/thecatholicmanshow — Patreon gifts are shipping out again, and the Catholic Man Show Glencairn glass is being paused soon (maybe back around Christmas). If you want one, become a patron now — you've got about four minutes.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

Dave's been throwing parties. Three in four days. Confirmation sponsor for a friend's son, family and friends over the next night, and then — because the universe has a sense of humor — some local gentleman decided to remodel Dave's brick mailbox. With his truck. At speed. Bricks were found over a hundred feet away. The guy left his license plate behind, which Dave is now holding like a man who accidentally picked up evidence and doesn't know what to do with it. The driver's fine. Well — he's in jail. But he's alive. Dave wants him to know that God's mercy is always ready and present, even for the man who turned a brand-new brick mailbox into gravel.Meanwhile, Adam got a new plum tree. Planted a maple. He's getting oaks for the pig pen so they'll drop acorns someday. One of his chickens died in a water barrel trap that nobody designed on purpose — the lid flipped, the chicken couldn't get out. Farm life. And then the real news: baby Mary is doing better. Haylee got to hold her. Adam held her for over three hours — only his second time since she was born in February. Three months of NICU, and the man finally got to just sit with his daughter. Praise God. Keep those prayers coming.Also — Adam's turning 40 on June 2nd. And Lady Pamela is due with their next baby on June 4th. They floated the idea of recording an episode in the delivery room. Pamela has not been consulted.This week we're sipping 13th Colony Distilleries Southern Rye Whiskey, French Oak Finish, Small Batch — 47.5% ABV. Platinum award-winning. Silky texture with hints of rye, apricot, and brown sugar. The rye's there but it doesn't overpower — still has a lot of bourbon elements to it. About forty bucks. That's a great buy.Then the conversation turns to something Adam's son Jude sparked. Jude — Adam's second oldest — just finished reading the entire Bible, Genesis through Revelation, straight through. Now he's reading the Council of Trent Catechism. He's a kid. Nobody told him to do this. He just had good books lying around the house and picked them up. That's the whole point.The virtue of study — studiositas — isn't what school taught us it was. It's not cramming. It's not memorizing facts to dump after the test. Aquinas calls it a habit of the mind ordered towards truth. Classical education at its best doesn't fill your head — it forms the way you think. The more you read rightly, the more you can arrive at correct conclusions through a sound process, not just recall. Study leads to contemplation. Contemplation is rest in truth. And it's not about finishing the book. If you're reading to check the box, you've already lost the plot. Sit with it. Let yourself be carried. The intellectual life doesn't compete with the family — it serves the family.From there, Adam and Dave go back and forth on the books that actually formed them. Adam leads with Joseph Pieper's In Tune with the World — a short, devastating argument for why festivity dies when we strip the divine out of celebration. Dave counters with The Soul of the Apostolate — the book that reordered his understanding of what has to come first before any ministry means anything. Adam brings John Senior's The Restoration of Christian Culture — hard opinions, harder truths, and a quote worth sitting with: the virtue of study requires a canon, a body of great works proven across time. Without tradition to guide what's worth studying, you're just chasing novelty.Dave goes deep on Fr. Timothy Gallagher's The Discernment of Spirits — a practical walkthrough of St. Ignatius's rules that shed light on the stages of the spiritual life and how the enemy shifts tactics as you grow. Adam responds with Raymond Arroyo's biography of Mother Angelica — a story of suffering, faithfulness, and a woman who said yes without knowing where it would lead. Dave makes a case for the Psalms — Psalm 51, the De Profundis in Latin, and the realization that there's a psalm for every moment of a man's life, and he'd been skimming past them for years.Adam goes deep cut: Fr. Paul Murray's Aquinas at Prayer — a book that reoriented his understanding of St. Thomas from pure intellect to contemplative soul. Dave brings Divine Mercy in My Soul by St. Faustina — hundreds of pages of our Lord's words on mercy that are sometimes scandalously generous. Adam throws in Simon Sinek's Start with Why as the non-Catholic book that changed how he thought about business, marriage, and fatherhood. Both men land on fiction that haunts them — Adam with Sigrid Undset's Kristin Lavransdatter, Dave with Candice Millard's Hero of the Empire on young Churchill. They touch on Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Gone with the Wind, the bishop chapters of Les Misérables, Neil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death, and close with John Senior's Thousand Good Books — the canon itself, the list that connects it all.They end where they always end: with Plato. They're halfway through the Republic in their great books group. David sits on the dumb couch. He knows he sits on the dumb couch. He's fine with it.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDDave's brick mailbox obliterated by a truck — bricks found 100 feet away, driver in jail, license plate left behindThree parties in four days at Porter Prairie: confirmation, family gathering, and involuntary demolitionDave building a grain cradle for his scythe for the upcoming grain harvestAdam's new plum tree, maple tree, and oak trees planned for the pig penThe chicken that died in a water barrel trap nobody designed on purposeBaby Mary update — doing better, Adam held her for three hours, Haylee held her tooAdam turning 40 on June 2nd and Lady Pamela due June 4thBourbon of the week: 13th Colony Distilleries Southern Rye Whiskey, French Oak Finish, 47.5% ABVJude Minihan reading the entire Bible and now the Council of Trent Catechism — and nobody told him toWhy having good books lying around the house matters more than assigned readingThe virtue of studiositas — Aquinas on study as a habit of the mind ordered towards truthStudy isn't cramming — it's forming the way we think, not filling our headsWhy finishing the book isn't the point — sit with it, let yourself be carriedThe intellectual life doesn't compete with family — it serves the familyJoseph Pieper's In Tune with the World — why festivity dies without the divineThe Soul of the Apostolate — what has to come first before any ministry mattersJohn Senior's The Restoration of Christian Culture — hard opinions and the necessity of a canonFr. Timothy Gallagher's The Discernment of Spirits — St. Ignatius's rules made practicalRaymond Arroyo's biography of Mother Angelica — suffering, faithfulness, and saying yesThe Psalms as treasure — Psalm 51, the De Profundis in Latin, and why Dave had been skimming past themFr. Paul Murray's Aquinas at Prayer — reorienting Aquinas from intellect to contemplativeSt. Faustina's Divine Mercy in My Soul — mercy so generous it's almost scandalousSimon Sinek's Start with Why — a non-Catholic book that changed everythingSigrid Undset's Kristin Lavransdatter — fiction that haunts you because it doesn't read like fictionCandice Millard's Hero of the Empire — young Churchill before the cigar and the brandyPatrick Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team — why hard conversations are acts of charityGone with the Wind — Rhett Butler as a man whose virtues take a lifetime to findThe bishop chapters of Les Misérables — Hugo's best character, written by a man who wasn't even a fan of the ChurchNeil Postman's Amusing Ourselves to Death — prophetic in 1985, terrifying nowJohn Senior's Thousand Good Books — the canon that connects all the great worksThe Count of Monte Cristo as a commentary on Dante's InfernoPlato's dialogues — the Republic, Euthyphro, the Symposium, and why you need a great books groupAdam sits on the dumb couch at great books night and he's fine with it REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:In Tune with the World: A Theory on Festivity by Joseph PieperLeisure, the Basis of Culture by Joseph Pieper (mentioned)The Intellectual Life by A.G. SertillangesThe Soul of the Apostolate (Dave's pick)The Restoration of Christian Culture by John SeniorThe Death of Christian Culture by John Senior (mentioned)The Discernment of Spirits by Fr. Timothy Gallagher (based on St. Ignatius's rules)Mother Angelica: The Remarkable Story of a Nun, Her Nerve, and a Network by Raymond ArroyoAquinas at Prayer by Fr. Paul Murray, O.P.Divine Mercy in My Soul by St. Maria FaustinaStart with Why by Simon SinekKristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid UndsetAnna Karenina by Leo TolstoyThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniGone with the Wind by Margaret MitchellHero of the Empire: The Boer War, a...

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

Indian paintbrush showed up at Porter Prairie Family Farm this week — native Oklahoma wildflower, first time Adam's seen it on his property. He didn't plant it. Nobody did. The seed bank was just dormant, waiting for the soil to be right. Two years of cattle grazing in the back pasture, no mowing, better land management — and something long dormant finally decided it was safe to bloom. Joel Salatin talks about this: when the practices change, when a property gets new stewardship, the land seems to know it. So does grace.David's been busy in a different direction. He wired up an automatic door for the chicken coop — actuator, relay, battery, timer — a sliding gate that covers the nesting boxes so the younger chickens stop sleeping in them and fouling the eggs. Under $150 total, including an actuator that lifts 300 pounds for thirty bucks. When he asked Lady Pamela what she wanted it to look like, she said: prison bars coming down. "We'll call it the Henna Tincture." David said say no more. The Henna Tincture it is.This week we're sipping Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond, Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 7 years — same distillery as Elijah Craig and Evan Williams. No gimmicks, under fifty bucks, smooth finish with a peanut butter quality that works. Bottled in bond since the Act of 1897. Very solid.Quick update on baby Mary: she's still having good days. Praise God. Keep her and Lady Haylee in your prayers. Adam also headed out to Arkansas over Mother's Day weekend to be with his goddaughter JoJo Kleine for her First Holy Communion — and got to watch nephew Danny Kleine go two-for-two at the plate with at least one RBI. After months of watching a daughter fight for her life in a NICU, sometimes what a soul needs is family, a Mass, and a kid absolutely cranking baseballs.Then we get into it: the papacy. A year in with Pope Leo XIV — the first American pope, the man who took the name knowing exactly whose shoes he was stepping into — and what does all of it mean? Where does that authority come from, and what's it actually for?Dave traces it back to the Davidic kingdom. When the king left for war, he handed the keys to his steward, who operated with full royal authority until the king returned. Matthew 16 isn't symbolism. "What you bind on earth will be bound in heaven" — the Jews at the time knew exactly what that meant. That's why Peter is listed first among the apostles almost every time. He was their leader. He had the keys. Two thousand years of unbroken succession later, here we are.But then the conversation goes somewhere unexpected. Authority is given to you so that you might serve those over whom you have authority. Not for your own glory. Not so people owe you. The pope is literally titled Servant of the Servants of God. The same authority Christ handed to Peter is the same authority He described in the upper room — the pagans lord it over their subjects, but not so among you. You will be the one who serves.For fathers, that cuts. Pope John Paul II stood up against governments, even after taking a bullet. He kept going out. What does that courage look like in an ordinary household? Probably not a wound in the square. More likely a different kind of martyrdom — the kind where you make a decision for your family that nobody else understands, that your kids resent for a season, that costs you something in your social circle. You make it anyway. Because you've prayed about it, talked it through with your wife, and you know in your gut it's the right thing for your people. You stand on the island by yourself if you have to.Dave closes with something worth trying: he prays specifically to the Holy Spirit to give Lady Pamela strong motherly intuition into the inner lives of their children. When she says something feels off, he pays close attention. That's him exercising his authority — his fatherly papacy — to draw more grace into his household. Not to control everything himself. To pray for the right graces for the right people.The fatherly papacy, if you will.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDIndian paintbrush flowers appearing at Porter Prairie — and why the land responds to new stewardshipJoel Salatin and the School of Traditional Skills on how cattle and management change soil biologyDavid's automatic chicken coop door: actuator, relay, timer, and the Henna TinctureDavid's wheat harvest coming up — 12,000 square feet, building a grain cradle for the scytheBourbon of the week: Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond, 7-year Kentucky Straight BourbonJoJo Klein's First Holy Communion and nephew Danny Klein's two-for-two at the plateBaby Mary update — still having good days, keep her in your prayersPope Leo XIV's one-year anniversary — the first American pope and what it means to hear him speak in American EnglishThe modern problem of instant information and why it's harder than ever to be the popeWhy interview questions on a plane, stripped of all context, are unfair to any human beingThe name you give a child is an inheritance — a new name inherits nothingWhy Adam named Leo Thomas after Pope Leo XIII and Thomas Aquinas, and John Dominic after the Apostle and the DominicansPope Leo XIII: the Marian pope, the social doctrine pope, the first pope ever filmedThomas Aquinas on the papacy — Contra Gentiles and the SummaThe Davidic kingdom and the keys: Matthew 16 as a transfer of royal authority, not a metaphorThe question of authority — Trent Horn, Protestants, atheists, and why it always comes down to thisWhy the things closest to heaven get attacked the hardest — authority and sexuality as parallel examplesThe pope as Servant of the Servants of God — and what that actually costsPope John Paul II standing up against communist governments even after being shotWhat putting yourself in harm's way looks like for fathers: social martyrdom, not bulletsMaking decisions for your family that your kids, their friends, and their friends' parents all disagree withThe German church and what a timeout looks like at the universal levelWhy the Church has been around for 2,000 years and what that tells youPraying for your wife's specific graces — and why Dave prays for Lady Pamela's motherly intuitionAuthority as the source of efficacious prayer — a father's prayers for his childrenThe TOTUS TUUS decision and trusting a mother's intuitionPope Leo's upcoming AI encyclical — and why millennials are the generation tasked with figuring this outThe fatherly papacy — what domestic authority and universal authority share REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:Summa Theologiae by St. Thomas AquinasSumma Contra Gentiles by St. Thomas Aquinas Saints & Historical Figures:St. Thomas AquinasPope Leo XIII (social doctrine, Marian encyclicals, first pope ever filmed)Pope Leo XIV (Robert Prevost, first American pope)Pope John Paul II (stood against communist governments, continued ministry after assassination attempt)Pope Francis (repose of his soul — the men still catching themselves saying the wrong name)King David / the Davidic kingdom (Old Testament typology for the papacy)St. Peter (first pope, holder of the keys) People & Guests:Joel Salatin — School of Traditional SkillsTrent Horn (Catholic apologist, debates on authority)Patrick Stephen (listener and Instagram follower who suggested the topic)JoJo Klein — Adam's goddaughter, received First Holy CommunionDanny Klein — Adam's nephew, baseballLady Haylee MinihanLady Pamela NilesLuke Minihan (Adam's oldest)Mary Minihan (in the NICU) Programs:TOTUS TUUS (Catholic youth formation program)School of Traditional Skills (online homesteading video subscription) Scripture:Matthew 16:18-19 — "I give you the keys to the kingdom"John 20:23 — binding and loosing SPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, they asked around, and the same name came up over and over: Select International Tours. Having used them, they can tell you it's deserved. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, Select has a tour ready for wherever the Lord is calling you. Head to selectinternationaltours.com and take a look.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

We open the show on a wiffle ball game in the backyard. Adam's pitching. Jude's at the plate — right-handed, like always. Adam throws a sinker. Jude cranks it. Home run. On dad. In front of the whole family. Adam shakes it off, gets ready to deliver some justice on the next at-bat… and Jude steps over to the left side of the plate. "Jude, what are you doing?" "Dad. Just pitch the ball." Brushback pitch. Second swing — gone. Out of the park. Left-handed. Turns out Jude found out earlier that day he can bat from either side and forgot to mention it. Adam took it like a man — somewhere between humiliated and proud. Dave's response: this is why he still brushes his teeth left-handed. To stay coordinated. (Adam also has four cavities. Unrelated.)This week we're sipping Laphroaig Càirdeas 2024 — Triple Wood & PX Casks. Aged ten years in ex-bourbon and quarter casks, finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. 52.4% ABV. Dark cherry-amber in the glass — uncharacteristic for an Islay. The classic peat smoke is there, then it opens into ginger, fruit, sherry sweetness. Càirdeas means friendship in Gaelic, which is exactly where the episode is headed. About $130-$140. Limited release, every year a little different.Mary update: she's off the paralysis medicine. Still heavily sedated, but her eyes are open. She's looking around. Oxygen, blood pressure, heart rate — all trending in the right direction. More good days than bad right now. Adam and Lady Haylee are grateful. Keep them in your prayers.Then we get into it: spiritual friendship, through St. Aelred of Rievaulx — the 12th-century Cistercian abbot whose book Spiritual Friendship is basically the Catholic doctrine on what a real friend is. He opens it with this line: "Here we are, you and I, and I hope that Christ makes a third with us." That's the whole thing.Adam walks through the bell curve of zeal every man hits when he starts taking his faith seriously. Phase one: you read everything, you want to tell everybody, you should start a podcast. Phase two: you realize you know almost nothing and you go quiet. Phase three is where Aelred meets you — somewhere between "let me lecture you" and "I'm not qualified to say anything." The answer isn't to forfeit the zeal. It's to ground it in humility. You don't have the answers because you are not the answer. Christ is. But you do have your own experience, and what He's done in your life is yours to share.Aelred's rules for friendship cut right through the noise. Spiritual friendship is not a teacher-student relationship — both men give, both men receive. Don't sacrifice your own vocation to be a "spiritual father" to someone else. When you meet, it's not the depth of the conversation that matters most, it's the consistency. And the cheat-code question for getting under the surface: how's your prayer life? Try that on a buddy this week and see what happens.We close on Aristotle and the Eucharist. Nicomachean Ethics lays out hierarchies of friendship — friendship of utility, of pleasure, of virtue — but you can't be an authentic friend if you don't first know the good. And the good, ultimately, is Christ in the Eucharist. If the man you call your friend doesn't live a Eucharistic life, you may have a buddy. You don't yet have a spiritual friend. Make one. Be one. Bring him to Christ.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDJude's ambidextrous wiffle ball ambush and the inevitable day every dad gets cranked onAdam's left-handed toothbrushing regimen and his four cavities (related, probably)Why the Càirdeas release is one of the most interesting Islay bottlings out thereAn update on baby Mary — off the paralytic, eyes open, more wins than lossesThe bell curve of zeal — and why most men quit halfway up the back sideSt. Aelred of Rievaulx, the 12th-century Cistercian abbot the Church basically credits as the doctor of friendship"Here we are, you and I, and I hope that Christ makes a third with us" — the opening line of Spiritual FriendshipWhy spiritual friendship is not a teacher-student relationship and why treating it like one ruins itThe danger of becoming the guy who turns every conversation into a lectureDon't sacrifice your own vocation to play spiritual father to someone else'sConsistency beats intensity — and why a Pelagian attitude toward your men's group will wear you out"How's your prayer life?" — the question that breaks past small talk in under thirty secondsVulnerability as a man's strength, not his concession to a cultural buzzwordWhy one man's honest confession in a group does more for the listeners than the speakerLady Haylee and Lady Pamela both telling their husbands, in different houses, the same thing: you're a better man when you come back from those groupsSubsidiarity in friendship — the smallest circle is always the most important circleAristotle's hierarchy of friendship and why you can't be an authentic friend without knowing the goodThe Eucharist as the prerequisite for real spiritual friendship between menMake a friend. Be a friend. Bring a friend to Christ.Bourbon of the week: Laphroaig Càirdeas 2024, Triple Wood & PX Casks REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks:Spiritual Friendship by St. Aelred of Rievaulx — be careful of older translations from the 60s and 70s that read sexualization into the text that isn't thereNicomachean Ethics by AristotlePurgatorio by Dante (Adam's office reading group, currently working through it) Saints:St. Aelred of RievaulxSt. Benedict (and the Cistercian reform out of the Benedictine order)St. Peter (the lawn chair analogy) People & references:Lady Haylee MinihanLady Pamela NilesAdam's Substack (where he wrote about the Dante reading group)The friend in Adam's office who told him, "I didn't even realize that friendship like that existed" Concepts & passages:John 15: "I no longer call you slaves, but friends"The three Aristotelian friendships: utility, pleasure, virtueThe four ends of friendship in St. AelredThe "Friends of Laphroaig" plot programThe three TCMS pillars: Protect, Provide, Establish SPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, the same name kept coming up: Select International Tours. Having now used them, we can tell you they're the real deal. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, Select has a tour ready for wherever the Lord is calling you. Head to selectinternationaltours.com and take a look.

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

We open the show on Oz Pearlman — the mentalist who's been showing up on every podcast and somehow keeps reading minds for a living. Adam just caught him on Modern Wisdom, where Pearlman walked the host through his exact internal thought process — what he picked, what he second-guessed, what he settled on — like he had a pipeline straight into the man's head. Adam now rearranges his schedule whenever Oz pops up on a screen. So consider this a formal invitation: Oz, come drink whiskey with us. Tell us our favorite bourbon. We'll pour the Glencairns.Speaking of — this week we're sipping High West Campfire. A blend of straight rye, straight bourbon, and blended malt scotch. Yes, scotch. Peat smoke gives way to orange zest, English toffee, toasted brioche, salted caramel, leather, dark chocolate. It works.Then Adam gives an update on baby Mary. New listeners — Adam's daughter was born very early with a heart condition and a long list of complications. She's been in the NICU since birth. This past weekend was her actual due date, and after a long string of holding-the-line W's, she's turned a meaningful corner. Off the paralytic. Better oxygen, blood pressure, heart rate. Swelling coming down. Still a long road — likely nine to twelve more months in the NICU. Adam and Lady Haylee are deeply grateful. Keep them in your prayers. Both of them.Quick note from Dave: Good Shepherd Sunday in Tulsa. The pastor handed out cards and asked every man in the pews to write down the name of a young man who'd make a good priest. A thousand men doing that work together. Tulsa's per-capita priest count is already top five in the country — and we still need more.Then we get into it. The King in the Tabernacle.If the Eucharist is just a symbol, the Catholic Church is a 2,000-year deception. Flannery O'Connor's line — to hell with it — is the right one. But we don't believe it's a symbol. We believe what Christ said. Body, blood, soul, and divinity. The continuation of the Incarnation, until the end of the age.David's been reading The Real Presence by St. Peter Julian Eymard (Cor Jesu Press). Eymard is the patron of Eucharistic adoration — one homily in him, gave it for a lifetime. And one chapter lays out a battle plan for how to actually spend a holy hour. Not just sit there. Spend it.The four ends of worship — ACTS: Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, Supplication. Eymard breaks the hour into four fifteen-minute sections. First fifteen: adoration. You don't walk into the royal court making demands. You fall on your knees and salute the King. Second fifteen: thanksgiving — for yourself, your family, the world. Thank Him for instituting the Eucharist at all. (Most of us forget that one.) Third fifteen: reparation. Stand in the gap. For your sins, for the world's, especially for the sacrileges against the Eucharist itself. Fourth fifteen: petition. Now you can ask. Ask large graces. Ask for the triumph of His Church. By the time you get there, you're asking for the right things.We talk about the difference between knowing the Eucharist is Christ and acting like it. You don't accidentally get a six-pack at 40. You don't accidentally get holy, either. We're body-soul composites — what we do with our bodies forms our souls. That's why we genuflect. Dress for Mass. Kneel after Communion. St. Charbel had two modes: preparing to receive, or thanking God for having received. The bar he set is the right one.We close with Eymard's image of the guard of honor. Jesus has made Himself vulnerable in the host. Heart pierced. Defenseless. Waiting on His men to show up and adore Him. That's the work. Guard duty. Get to adoration. Change your life.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDOz Pearlman the mentalist — and Adam's open invitation to come on the showBaby Mary's update: off the paralytic, turning a corner after months in the NICUWhy prayer for Lady Haylee matters as much as prayer for MaryGood Shepherd Sunday in Tulsa — a thousand men writing down names of future priestsWhy the Eucharist is the reason to be Catholic — and why "to hell with it" is the right answer if it's a symbolSt. Peter Julian Eymard, the patron of Eucharistic adoration, and his book The Real PresenceWhy the real presence is the continuation of the IncarnationThe actual battle plan for a holy hour: ACTS in fifteen-minute sectionsWhy thanksgiving in adoration is the most perfect act of loveReparation — standing in the gap for sacrileges against the EucharistWhy your petitions get sharper after you've adored, thanked, and made reparationKnowing the Eucharist is Christ vs. actually acting like itWhy you're not going to accidentally get holy any more than you're going to accidentally get a six-pack at 40Body-soul composites: how genuflection, posture, and dress shape the interior lifeSt. Charbel's two modes — preparing to receive Communion, or thanking God for having receivedLady Pamela stopping at every chapel she passed — and why that 60 seconds was worth more than Adam realizedDon't let the perfect be the enemy of the excellentThe guard of honor: Jesus exposing Himself in the host, depending on His men to defend and adore HimBourbon of the week: High West Campfire — the rare rye/bourbon/scotch blend REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks:The Real Presence by St. Peter Julian Eymard (Cor Jesu Press) Saints:St. Peter Julian EymardSt. CharbelMother Angelica (and her new shoes at adoration) People & previous guests:Joey Spencer — on Christ becoming the fruit hanging on a treeJeff Cavins — on talking to Jesus like He's actually thereFlannery O'Connor / Dorothy Day — "If it's a symbol, to hell with it"Oz Pearlman (mentalist, Modern Wisdom podcast)Lady Haylee MinihanLady Pamela Niles Concepts & references:The four ends of worship: Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, Supplication (ACTS)The National Eucharistic CongressGood Shepherd SundayEucharistic adorationThe continuation of the IncarnationSubstance and accidents (Aristotelian-Thomistic metaphysics of the Eucharist) SPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, the same name kept coming up: Select International Tours. Having now used them, we can tell you they're the real deal. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, Select has a tour ready for wherever the Lord is calling you. Head to selectinternationaltours.com and take a look.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2026

Adam went out to the shop and heard birds. Which would be fine — except the shop has closed-cell spray foam insulation. Thick stuff. Solid. Apparently it doesn't matter, because the birds had been pecking through it anyway, six spots deep, living inside the walls like they owned the place. He grabbed a can of expanding foam, took his six-year-old Leo out to help seal the gaps, and watched Leo immediately stick his hand in the wet foam. It went everywhere. On Leo. On the shop doors. On a previous car that is now long gone. If you've ever tried to wipe expanding foam off anything, you know how the rest of that goes.He opened the show with that story. Then Jim Spencer showed up — back after a long hiatus, cowboy hat on, ready to weigh in — and they cracked a bottle of Kilchoman's 14th Edition, an Islay scotch that doesn't get the attention of a Laphroaig or Ardbeg but probably deserves it. A $110 bottle. Jim put it at a 3.91 on the yummy scale (it was a prime number recording day, so that's out of 7 — work it out yourself). They all agreed it was legitimately good.Before getting into the main topic, Dave gave an update on Baby Mary. She's been on a paralytic to help her grow, and they're trying to wean her off it. She tolerated the second attempt better than the first, but not well enough. They'll try again Monday or Tuesday. Pray for her blood pressure to stay stable when she comes off, and for her heart and lungs to stop fighting the ventilator. Dave said it directly and without dramatics, and that's the right way to hear it.The episode is about the dinner table. Not as a feel-good idea — as a liturgy.Adam had done a piece on this for his Substack: what makes a good day? Not an emotional high. A good day. He landed on three things: early morning prayer and reading, honing his craft in some way, and making it to the dinner table. They spent the hour unpacking why that third one carries so much weight.Dave brought in the biblical thread — Abraham hosting God and the angels, Moses eating with the elders on the mountain, the Passover meal, the Last Supper, Christ asking for fish in his glorified body just to show the disciples he wasn't a ghost, the Road to Emmaus where he revealed himself in the breaking of bread. The pattern is not subtle. God keeps showing up at tables. There might be something to that.Adam made the distinction between communication and communion. A lecture is communicative. The dinner table — done right — is a place of communion. The giving and the receiving. The statement and the response. That's not an accident. It's what the table is for.They got into the practical mechanics: one conversation at a time, husband and wife starting the conversation before the kids are brought in, ending dinner with prayer for the souls in purgatory, the escalating formality through the day (breakfast is just survival, lunch gets the flowers on the table, dinner gets the candles). Dave's daughters were wearing hoop skirts on the grass at the contra dance they hosted the night before. He mentioned a Clear Creek inspiration — the monks don't even sit at breakfast. He's pondering it. Adam is not.The story that landed hardest was from Alabama. He and Dave were on their way to EWTN — they recorded an episode in Mother Angelica's office, and Adam has video of Dave in makeup, which is apparently a treasure. They had dinner at the home of a man named Charlie Remore, a friend of a friend they'd never met. Large family. Long dinner table. Every child had a job, and they knew it cold. One managed silverware, one managed plates. When dinner ended, one stood up and cleared. Adam tried to stack the plates to help, and Charlie's kid corrected him — politely, but clearly. Don't stack the plates. We have to wash both sides. That's my job.That's disinterested service. The Catechism (CCC 2223) actually names it. Charlie's household had made it habitual. No one was waiting for a thank-you. The family is the mission.The picky eater section was, as promised, a hot take. Adam doesn't tolerate it. Eat what's served or it goes in the fridge and that's what you're eating next time. He said it, Dave agreed, and they both acknowledged it's hard — the chicken nuggets are right there, it's easier, you're tired — but the long-term cost of caving is worse than the short-term cost of holding the line. Your kid spreading butter with their fingers in your presence, knowing the rule, is an event that requires a response. Even when it happens to be this morning.After dinner prayer. Pray it. For the faithful departed. It's been jettisoned by most Catholic families, including strong ones, and it shouldn't be. You're feeding those who can no longer feed themselves. That's what it is.Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDBirds pecking through closed-cell spray foam — and why Leo is now microdosing industrial chemicalsKilkeman's 14th Edition Islay scotch: Jim Spencer's 3.91 on the yummy scale (out of 7 — prime number day)Baby Mary update: weaning off the paralytic, prayer request for blood pressure stabilityWhat makes a good day — Adam's three metrics: morning prayer, honing the craft, the dinner tableGod keeps showing up at tables: Abraham, Moses, Passover, Last Supper, Road to Emmaus, the glorified body asking for fishCommunication vs. communion — and why the dinner table is the latterDave's contra dance at Niles Ranch and Fecundity Farm — live violin, Jonathan and Jessica Hodge, Becca Niles, ~20 adults, a lot of kidsJonathan Hodge's classroom liturgy: "Why are we here? To learn from the great men and women who have come before us."Adam's daily school drop-off call and response: "Today's a great day" / "To be a great saint"Charlie Remoure's table in Alabama: disinterested service in a large family done rightOne conversation at a time — why the loudest voices always win in a free-for-all, and why that's not the goalHusband and wife start the conversation before the kids — the table as marriage prep for your childrenEscalating formality: breakfast informal, lunch flowers, dinner candlesAfter dinner prayer for the souls in purgatory — and why it's been quietly dropped by most Catholic familiesPicky eaters: Adam's position, the fridge play, and why every picky eater somehow likes chicken nuggets REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODECharlie Remoure — dinner host, Alabama; friend of a mutual friend; large family with exceptional dinner table cultureJonathan Hodge — teacher, Tulsa Classical Academy; contra dance musician; Jonathan Hodge's classroom liturgyJessica Hodge — violinist, piano teacher to the Niles kidsBecca (Dave's sister) — violinistLittle House on the Prairie: The Long Winter — Laura Ingalls WilderEWTN — mentioned in passing (recording trip, Mother Angelica's office)The Catechism of the Catholic Church, para. 2223 — disinterested serviceDeuteronomy 6 — instruction of children "when you sit in your house"Clear Creek Monastery — mentioned re: standing breakfast, monastic orderFather Ketterer — shout-out listenerMatt — listener, North Dakota, protecting the northern borderGage — listener, home from deployment, birthday shout-out Sponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.com Adam and Dave have used them. When they decided to lead their first pilgrimage and started asking around, Select was the name everyone gave them. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, they're the real deal — go see what they've got.

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2026

Dave's cows got out again.The gate was shut. Just not latched. There's a difference — a difference Dave now knows in vivid detail, courtesy of the Broken Arrow Police Department and at least one very stressed heifer on the turnpike. Nobody died. The cows are back. The neighborhood is bonded. And apparently this is just a tradition they keep at Niles Ranch and Fecundity Farm.This week Adam and Dave sat down with a glass of Dancing Panda — a straight Kentucky bourbon, eight years, 100 proof, with an unexpected apple-cinnamon finish — and got into someone most Catholics have heard of but few have actually read: St. Bonaventure.Before you dive in: Adam's daughter Mary is in the hospital. Her lungs keep deflating. The situation is hour by hour. Please pray for her.St. Bonaventure is, in a word, underrated. He was the Franciscan answer to Aquinas — less systematic, more contemplative, every bit as deep. Best friends with Thomas Aquinas. Minister General of the Franciscan Order. Seraphic Doctor. Second founder of the Franciscans. The man who, when Aquinas read his contribution to the Mass reform aloud, said "That's perfect. There's no need for mine" — and meant it.The book on the table is Holiness of Life, published by Coriaceous Press. Written to a Poor Clare nun. Short — you can finish it in an afternoon. Dense — you'll carry it for a long time after.Bonaventure lays out a ladder. Self-knowledge first. Then humility. Then poverty. Then silence. Then prayer, the remembrance of Christ's passion, perfect love of God, and final perseverance. Adam and Dave cover the first four.Self-knowledge is not a journaling exercise. It's a brutal, honest accounting of where you actually are — seeing your dignity as an image of God and your misery as a sinner, both at the same time, clearly. Bonaventure names three root causes of sin: negligence, passion, and malice. He also gives you a mirror: are your interior promptings pulling toward pleasure, curiosity, or vanity? Most of us don't have to think long.Humility follows — because you can't see yourself honestly and still puff up. Bonaventure says humility is the guardian and foundation of all virtues. To excel in virtue without humility is to carry dust before the wind. If pride is the root of every sin, humility is the root of every virtue. And Adam drops the Aquinas line that's worth writing on a wall: A man is truly wealthy when he lacks nothing that he truly needs for salvation.Poverty, in Bonaventure's framing, isn't about being broke. It's about holy detachment. The unburdening of the soul so you can actually run toward Christ. We're not trying to anchor ourselves in this world. The more you sink your teeth into worldly things, the less you can sink your soul into heavenly ones.And then silence. Not just quiet in the house — interior silence. Bonaventure says poverty and silence are twins. Those appetites you feed don't just cost you. They're loud. They lie. They drown out everything you need to hear about who you actually are.Bonaventure wrote: "Silence has another advantage. It shows that man belongs to a better world. If a man lives in Germany and yet does not speak German, we naturally conclude that he is not German. So too, we rightly conclude that a man who does not give himself up to worldly conversation is not of the world, although he lives therein."That'll stay with you.Topics covered in this episode:Dave's cows, the Broken Arrow Police Department, and the difference between shut and latchedWho St. Bonaventure actually was — and why he's been undersold for centuriesWhy Bonaventure is called the Seraphic Doctor and the second founder of the FranciscansThe four-part structure of Holiness of Life: self-knowledge, humility, poverty, silenceThe three root causes of sin: negligence, passion, maliceWhy holiness costs everything — and there's no negotiating a discountHumility as the guardian and foundation of all virtueThe Aquinas line on what real wealth actually isPoverty as holy detachment — practical application for married men with mortgagesWhy poverty and silence are twins — how attachment to things creates interior noiseThe German analogy for silence: belonging to a better worldStoic meditation vs. Christian prayer — why entering into yourself is not the same thingSelf-knowledge as an ongoing relationship with our Lord, not a box to checkFulton Sheen's Emmy speech and Mother Teresa — what God actually usesFinal perseverance — and why Adam wants it more than anything else Referenced in this episode:Holiness of Life — St. Bonaventure St. Thomas Aquinas — the Mass reform story and the quote on true wealthSt. Bernard — on humility and exact self-knowledgeSt. Francis of Assisi — and why he deserves a better reputationFulton Sheen, Mother Teresa — as examples of God using the truly humbleCor Jesu Press Sponsor: Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.com Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, Select is who you call. Adam and Dave have used them. The real deal.Patreon note: Catholic Glencairn glasses are still available for $10/month supporters — but not for much longer. Jim Spencer needs a break. If you want one, now is the time.

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

Most Catholic dads are working hard in their home. The problem? They’re not working on it. There’s a difference between a household that runs because you’re there holding it together — and one that’s been designed to form your wife and children for heaven even when you’re not in the room.In this episode, Dave and Adam get into John Cuddeback’s framework for the domestic church, pull from their book Living Beyond Sunday, and share the 3 telltale signs your home is running on willpower instead of design. Plus: what to do about it, how morning chaos is actually a design problem, and why the living room might be the most important room in your house.In This EpisodeWhy Holy Week is the lens through which this entire conversation happensThe Deacon’s homily: “You are a thought of God made flesh” — and what that means at your most broken momentsAdam’s son Luke wins concert tickets — then realizes it’s Good Friday. What happened next.Adam announces M6 Marketing and The Grounded Builder SubstackThe body-soul composite of the home: daily life vs. moral and spiritual formationWorking IN your family vs. working ON your family (the entrepreneur analogy every dad needs)3 signs your home runs on willpower, not design:The same corrections keep happening to the same kids — it’s not a motivation problem, it’s a design problemMorning chaos — nothing was built right the night before to make it smoothYour presence is the only thing holding it together — when you’re gone, the wheels fall off3 diagnostic questions to ask when something keeps breaking in your homeThe Great Silence: Dave’s family morning prayer rule (and why it’s formed him more than his kids)Why bells beat yelling — and the sacramental case for ringing a blessed bell in your homeGiving kids real work with real consequences: why sweeping the floor doesn’t cut itThe dinner table as non-negotiable — and why screens are the enemy of family formationThe one room in your house not ordered toward a biological need — and why it matters mostWhy designing the household is a man’s domain and responsibility — ordered entirely in love Timestamps00:00 — The manliness warning. Yes, they played it twice.01:30 — Blessed Holy Week + Deacon’s homily: “You are a thought of God”07:00 — Luke wins concert tickets. It’s Good Friday. What he said.09:30 — Mary’s procedure + prayer request11:00 — Adam announces M6 Marketing + The Grounded Builder Substack15:30 — White Lightning: the 1989 Chevy, the gas station, and the woman whose dad owned it22:00 — The topic: designing your home as the domestic church25:00 — Cuddeback’s 4 things a home must do + the body-soul composite of household life30:00 — Working IN the family vs. ON the family (business owner analogy)34:00 — The 3 signs your home runs on willpower, not design40:00 — The 3 diagnostic questions when something keeps breaking45:00 — Rules for the day, the Great Silence, and preparing kids to hear God’s voice53:00 — The case for blessed bells (and why yelling kills the spirit of what you’re doing)58:00 — Giving kids real work with real consequences1:02:00 — The dinner table: the most attacked and most essential daily ritual1:07:00 — The living room: the only room not ordered toward a biological need1:12:00 — Why this is a man’s job — and what authority granted in love looks like Resources MentionedThe American Catholic Land Movement — edited by Jason Craig and Jared Stout (TAN Books)Living Beyond Sunday: Making Your Home a Holy Place — by Dave Niles and Adam MinihanJohn Cuddeback, Ph.D. — philosopher, professor, and homesteader. Find him at LifeCraft.orgThe Grounded Builder — Adam’s Substack on virtue, business, fatherhood, and homesteading. Published every Thursday.Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.com — The Catholic pilgrimage company Dave and Adam trust.Divine Mercy Chaplet — pray it daily at 3:00 PM, the Hour of MercyThe Great Silence — a monastic morning practice you can adapt for your home. Start with Psalm 51. Enjoyed This Episode?Leave a review on Apple Podcasts — it’s the single best thing you can do to help other Catholic men find the show. Takes 90 seconds.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. New episodes weekly.Follow the show at thecatholicmanshow.com and find Dave and Adam on social media.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2026

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David crack open a rare Teeling whiskey from Ireland and dive into a topic most men never examine: avarice.Often reduced to “greed,” avarice is far more subtle—and far more dangerous. Drawing from St. John Cassian, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the spiritual tradition of the Church, the guys explore how a disordered attachment to material things can quietly shape our lives, distort our priorities, and even blind us spiritually.They discuss how modern “grind culture” can normalize avarice, why money itself is uniquely deceptive among the vices, and how this sin can creep in unnoticed—even among faithful men striving for holiness. The conversation also tackles:Why avarice is different from other sinsThe “seven daughters” of greed according to AquinasHow avarice leads to restlessness, anxiety, and spiritual blindnessThe connection between avarice and a lack of trust in GodThe surprising concept of spiritual avaricePractical strategies to root it out, including manual labor, generosity, and community If you’ve never considered avarice in your examination of conscience, this episode will challenge you to take a deeper look—and give you a path forward.

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2026

What is time for?In this episode, Adam and David reflect on the gift of time through the lens of Catholic theology, fatherhood, prayer, suffering, work, and even Nick Saban’s famous process-driven mindset.The conversation begins with updates on baby Mary and a moving reflection on the fragile beauty of life, suffering, healing, and hope. From there, the discussion turns toward a deeper meditation on time itself: how easily we waste it, how often we rush through it, and how every moment is a gift given by God.Drawing from St. Augustine, St. Teresa of Avila, the Psalms, leisure, memory, mortality, and the demands of vocation, Adam and David explore what it means to live well in the present moment. They also connect this to Nick Saban’s practical framework of focusing on the now, controlling the controllables, and trusting the process over the outcome.This episode is a call for Catholic men to stop drifting through life, stop living in regret or anxiety, and start receiving time as the arena in which God prepares us for eternity.In this episode:An update on baby Mary and the power of prayerWhy suffering, life, and death sharpen our awareness of timeSt. Augustine on the mystery of past, present, and futureWhy Catholic men must stop wasting the present momentFatherhood, busyness, and the fear of missing what matters mostLeisure as the wise use of timeSt. Teresa of Avila on growth in prayerHow to stop rushing through lifeNick Saban’s “focus on the now” mindset through a Catholic lensControl the controllables and trust the processTime, judgment, memory, and eternity Key takeaway:You cannot control the future. You cannot relive the past. But you can receive the present moment as a gift from God and use it for holiness.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2026

David and Adam are back in the groove for Lent. They open with a timely conversation about Pope Leo's call for priests to stop using AI to write homilies, and why that warning matters far beyond the pulpit. The guys explore how AI threatens the muscles of human creativity, the irreplaceable nature of human-to-human proclamation of the Gospel, and where men should draw their own lines before the technology draws them for you.Then it's deep dive time into Dante's Divine Comedy — specifically the Dantinian ordering of sin, love, and the moral life across the Inferno and Purgatorio. David and Adam unpack:Why lust is the first (mildest) circle of Hell — and why that's actually a message of hope, not a free passWhy fraud and treason sit at the bottom — and what it means to so disfigure your soul that evil looks like goodThe mirror structure of Purgatory — pride at the base, lust at the summit, and why the climb starts nowMisdirected love, deficient love, and excessive love — how Dante's ladder maps directly onto your daily examination of conscienceWhy Hell is isolation and Purgatory is communion — and what that says about Christian hopeAcedia (sloth) redefined — it's not laziness, it's spiritual sluggishness, and it may be the most dangerous sin of the comfortableCato's charge at the gate of Purgatory: Run. Don't wait a second. The guys also taste a rare bottle of Angel's Envy Rye finished in Anejo Tequila barrels (104 proof, surprisingly mellow), give a shout-out to their upcoming 10-year anniversary, and share a sneak peek at the Catholic Man Show Campout short film dropping soon on Patreon.Resources mentioned:The Divine Comedy by Dante AlighieriAscend the Great Books podcast with Deacon GarlickPatreon.com/TheCatholicManShowSelectInternationalTours.com

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

Adam Minihan and Dave Niles open this episode with a story about two broken-down vehicles, a newborn daughter named Mary, and a prayer over a dying engine that — Amen — actually worked. From there they settle in with some Basil Hayden bourbon and turn to a piece of Dante most people have never read: the Convivio, his unfinished philosophical treatise written during his exile from Florence.The main topic: wonder. What it is, why Dante considered it the most critical virtue to cultivate in adolescence, and what we lose when we crush it in our kids... often without realizing it.Dante divides life into four stages: adolescence (birth to 25), youth (25 to 45), old age (45 to 70), and extreme old age (70 and beyond). Each stage has its own virtues and tasks. But it's adolescence — the age of obedience, wonder, and ordering loves — that Dante treats with the most urgency. Because wonder, once crushed, is very hard to resurrect.Adam and Dave unpack why screens flatten the imagination, why GK Chesterton's wonder at green grass wasn't eccentricity but sanity, and why Dante's most devastating line about education still applies today: if you raise kids without wonder, you may make them competent... but not wise.Also in this episode: the connection between Dante and Aquinas, the KU Integrated Humanities Program and David Dean, a monk at Clear Creek who hadn't read his prior's book and why that was one of the wisest things Dave has ever seen, and the difference between knowledge and wisdom in the age of AI.Deacon Harrison Garlick's Ascend the Great Books podcast is working through the Purgatorio right now. If you're not following along, this episode is a good reason to start.This episode brought to you in partnership with Select International Tours — selectinternationaltours.com.Topics covered in this episode:Adam's van saga, a dying alternator, and what happens when you pray like Jeff CavinsDante's exile from Florence and why Pope Boniface VIII ended up in the eighth circle of hellThe four stages of life from the Convivio — adolescence, youth, old age, and extreme old age — and the virtues and tasks for eachWhy Dante places the pinnacle of life at age 33 (and why that's not a coincidence)Wonder vs. ignorance — Dante's distinction and why it matters for how we raise kidsScreens and the flattening of wonder — Dave's strong opinion, delivered with characteristic convictionGK Chesterton and the green grass"You cannot love that which you have never wondered at" — Dante's most profound parenting insightThe connection between leisure and wonder — why you can't have one without the otherWhy the goal is heaven, not Harvard Referenced in this episode:The Convivio (The Banquet) — Dante AlighieriThe Divine Comedy (Inferno, Purgatorio) — Dante AlighieriIris Exiled: A Synoptic History of Wonder — Dennis QuinnAscend the Great Books Podcast — Deacon Harrison GarlickDavid Dean — humanities professor, student of John Senior's program at KUJeff Cavins

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2026

We’re back, and life got realIt has been the lightest recording stretch the show has had in almost ten years. Adam owns the delay and explains why. Since the last episode, baby Mary arrived very early at around 27 weeks and about two pounds. She was baptized immediately, and there is a question about whether she was also confirmed due to the use of holy oils and the circumstances.A few days after birth, Mary underwent an intense and invasive surgery that lasted more than six hours. The surgeon later said it was the hardest operation he had ever performed. The procedure connected her esophagus to her stomach, and the family is now living the day to day reality of the NICU: small adjustments, constant monitoring, and a careful balance with oxygen, blood pressure, heart rate, and long term risks.The charity that is hard to receiveA theme that keeps surfacing is gratitude, and how hard it can be to receive help when you want to be in control. Adam and David thank listeners for prayers, meals, transportation help, and the quiet generosity that shows up when you least expect it.They give a major shoutout to the Ronald McDonald House, which provided a place for the family to stay near the hospital, along with meals and support that would have been financially impossible otherwise. Adam also mentions friends and patrons who opened their homes and brought food. It is a reminder that “village” is not a cliché when your world turns upside down.Also, in the middle of all this, Adam’s son Leo drops a classic kid moment at Mass: during a serious homily he leans over and asks when he will get to meet J.B. Mooney, the professional bull rider. Fatherhood keeps you humble.What they’re drinkingDavid brings a bottle from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society featuring Royal Brackla. The tasting notes are ridiculous in the best way, described like “dessert in the workshop,” with custard, toffee chunks, marshmallow, and an unexpected “carpenter’s shop” vibe. It even has a hint of iodine that makes David think of Islay, without the heavy peat and smoke.A relic in the hotel roomA priest from the diocese drops off a first class relic of St. Gemma, telling Adam to keep it while the family walks through this trial. Adam and David talk about the reality of having the body of a saint in the room with you, and the comfort that brings, especially when the road ahead is long.Lent and temperance: not a “no,” but a “yes”The episode’s main topic is temperance, framed as the Lenten virtue that touches everything. The simple kid definition they love is: temperance is having a healthy amount of everything. Not perfect, but memorable.They push back against the idea that temperance is just restriction. Temperance is not merely refusing the extra piece of cake. It is also the positive ordering of your life so you can say yes to the right things at the right time in the right way: exercise, prayer, rest, work, family presence, joy, celebration.The key theme: virtue is always a yes. The “no” exists to protect the “yes.”St. John Cassian and the “bread” of SodomOne of the most interesting turns comes from St. John Cassian’s Institutes. Cassian argues that Sodom’s first sin was not the obvious sin people associate with Sodom and Gomorrah. He points to Ezekiel and emphasizes surplus, abundance, and gluttony. Cassian’s logic is that the disorder starts low and spreads upward: feed the appetite, then the passions grow louder, the will weakens, and eventually the mind rationalizes what it should never have chosen.They connect this to the common sense link between food appetites and sexual appetites. If you cannot curb the basic, you will struggle to curb the higher.A line that lands: If you can’t say no, your yes means nothing.Pleasure, pain, and spiritual clarityAdam shares a sharp thought: pleasure clouds judgment faster than pain. Suffering, especially voluntary suffering, tends to focus the mind. It wakes you up and forces clarity. That is why fasting can sharpen spiritual vision. It reveals attachments you thought you did not have.They bring in Father Anselm Stolz’s point: ascetic practices are not the end. The end is contemplation, union with God, and becoming more like Christ. The danger for men is turning Lent into an achievement badge, turning penance into pride, and making the self the center.Temperance orders the whole manThey outline a hierarchy: God, reason, will, passions, body. Temperance helps keep the order intact, so the higher rules the lower and the lower serves the higher. When the passions take the driver’s seat, the will becomes a servant, reason gets distorted, and you can rationalize sin quickly or slowly over years.They also emphasize something many men miss: the temperate man feasts. Feasting well matters. If you do not fast, you will not feast well. If you cannot feast temperately, your fasting might be more about control than freedom.Practical takeaways for dadsOne of the best “take this home” moments is teaching kids delayed gratification. The classic M&M test becomes a simple, memorable way to form a child in temperance. Kids have wildly different reactions, and that is the point. You are building the muscle of waiting for the greater good.They also offer a gut check for adults: a good test of temperance is how you feast, not only how you fast. If Sundays turn into chaos, bingeing, and excuses, something is off. The goal is freedom.Closing thoughtLent is a season of no so you can say yes. Mastery before glory. The Christian life is not an empty handed life. It is abundance in the right order.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2026

What does it actually mean to persevere?In this episode, Adam and David unpack the Catholic understanding of perseverance—not as white-knuckled suffering, but as faithfully enduring in the pursuit of the good over time.Using insights from St. Thomas Aquinas, they explain why perseverance is less about dramatic hardship and more about showing up day after day in prayer, marriage, fatherhood, and work—even when there is no immediate payoff.From the slow labor of a sow giving birth, to the monotony of daily prayer, to the demands of being present as a father, this episode reframes perseverance as one of the most essential virtues for the modern man.Topics include:St. Thomas Aquinas’ definition of perseveranceThe difference between perseverance and constancyWhy perseverance is about duration, not difficultyWhy there is no “excess” of perseveranceFinal perseverance as a gift from GodWhy motivation fades but discipline remainsPractical ways to grow in perseverance as a man

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David discuss the essential role of fathers in catechizing their children... not just by teaching information, but by forming habits, traditions, and a lived love for the Catholic faith.Adam shares a personal update about his family and the power of prayer and community during a time of serious medical uncertainty. From there, the conversation turns to what real catechesis looks like in the home: modeling prayer, creating a culture of beauty, building liturgical traditions, and making the Eucharist the center of family life.The guys explore why passing on the faith is less about producing kids who can pass a religion test, and more about raising children who know God is real and worth ordering their entire life around.Topics include:Why fathers are primarily responsible for catechesisThe difference between knowing the faith and loving the faithTeaching children how to pray by exampleUsing beauty, art, and the home to form soulsWhy habits and traditions matter more than programsMaking the Eucharist the source and summit of family life Support The Catholic Man Show: www.patreon.com/thecatholicmanshowThank you to our sponsor: Select International Tours

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2026

This episode moves from a lighthearted family practice of setting “New Year’s disciplines” into a serious, practical conversation on Josef Pieper’s The Concept of Sin. Adam and David argue that modern culture often avoids the word “sin” not because sin disappeared, but because the concept of sin has been replaced with softer language: mistakes, weakness, psychological explanations, or vague “bad choices.” Pieper’s central claim, they explain, is that sin is not merely a moral misstep but a rejection of reality itself.The conversation ties sin directly to freedom. Only a truly free person can sin, because sin requires knowledge, responsibility, and the willful refusal of the good. Drawing on the Catechism, they frame sin as an offense against reason, truth, and right conscience, as well as a failure in love caused by disordered attachment to lesser goods. Sin is not “missing the mark” in the sense of trying hard and falling short; it is a refusal, a “no” to what is.They also explore how every sin involves untruthfulness and self-deception. To commit sin, a person constructs a false account of reality that makes the act seem reasonable. This helps explain why rationalization demands constant outside validation and why modern life often tries to remove guilt without removing sin. Against that, the hosts emphasize that forgiveness presupposes guilt, and sin can only be understood alongside grace.Practical takeaways include building a daily examination of conscience, paying attention to patterns and triggers, naming both sins of commission and omission, and running to confession with regularity. The episode closes with a fatherly focus: how to speak about sin with children truthfully without crushing them, holding together mercy and clarity so that kids learn both the seriousness of sin and the permanence of love.Key topics coveredA family approach to New Year’s disciplines: spiritual, virtue-driven, and “free choice” goalsWhy “the concept of sin” has faded while sin itself has notPieper’s claim: before sin is a moral issue, it is a metaphysical issueSin, freedom, and responsibility: why only the free can sinWhy sin is more than “missing the mark”: refusal vs. mistakeSin as rejection of reality and the link to truth and the transcendentalsThe role of self-deception and rationalization in every sinful actGrace and forgiveness: why forgiveness presupposes guiltVice vs. sin and how habitual patterns can erode clarity and hopeExamination of conscience, confession, and spiritual “trench warfare”Parenting: naming sin without demoralizing children, holding truth with mercy Notable references mentionedJosef Pieper, The Concept of SinCatechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1849 (definition of sin)St. Paul on grace abounding where sin increasesDiscussion invitation: patrons reading Romano Guardini, Letters from Lake Como (relationship to technology)A practical tip for readers: keeping quotes and notes in a phone note app Practical takeawaysDo a daily examination of conscience: where you fell, where grace was present, and what you failed to do.Identify the “script” behind recurring sins: time of day, moods, environments, triggers, and predictable pathways.Treat confession as a regular cadence, not only an emergency response.Pay attention to sins of omission: failure to act, speak, defend, or choose the harder good.When talking with children: name sin clearly, offer mercy quickly, and keep the relationship intact. Sponsors, community, and announcementsPatron discussion announcement: Romano Guardini, Letters from Lake Como, with guest Brandon Sheard (Farmstead Meatsmith)Whiskey mentioned: Cream of Kentucky, small batch bourbon; “yummy scale” rating joke lands at 4.2

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2026

Opening: Joy evangelizes (and kids teach us)The “joyful demeanor” that opens doors to talking about Jesus (without getting weird).A godfather breakfast on a baptism anniversary becomes a living lesson in evangelization.“Five seconds” theology: most of our daily encounters are brief—so what do we do with them? The Thomistic pivot: Why life feels like a blurTime accelerates as you age; “someday” becomes a trap.Many men feel stuck for 10–15 years—spiritually, vocationally, relationally, and in work.The antidote isn’t bigger ambition—it’s better order. Aquinas on happiness: What won’t satisfyAquinas method: name the end (happiness), then rule out false ends.Wealth: money is a means, not a final end.Honor / reputation: depends on others; happiness must be stable and interior.Power: instrumental, addictive, and easily disguised as “leadership.”Pleasure: real and good, but cannot be the end—pleasure perfects an act, it doesn’t define the goal. The positive claim: What happiness actually isPerfect happiness is the vision of God (beatific vision).We can’t fully attain it in this life, but we can live an imperfect happiness by ordering our lives toward it.Key shift: beatitude, not optimization. Hierarchy of goods (practical framework for 2026)Three filters for any resolution:Is it ordered toward the highest good? (God, truth, contemplation)Does it support your vocation? (husband/father, priest, etc.)Does it treat lesser goods as means? (money, status, comfort serve the mission) Concrete resolutions (small, durable, lifelong)“Not huge shifts—small profitable habits that stick.”Guarding silence and adding a few more minutes of contemplative prayer.A reminder: you can “succeed” without prayer, but not in the way a Christian wants to succeed. The closing medicine: Gratitude slows timeGratitude grounds you in the present and breaks the “always next” mindset.Hard to stay bitter when you’re truly thankful.Cheers to Jesus—and to living the winning side like you mean it.

Transcribed - Published: 29 December 2025

Cy Kellett, host of Catholic Answers Live, joins the Catholic Man Show for a wide-ranging and surprisingly practical conversation on evangelization. If the idea of “sharing your faith” makes you uncomfortable, intimidated, or quietly guilty, this episode is for you.The guys talk about why evangelization feels scary for normal Catholics in the pews, why it is not optional, and why God never asked you to be effective. He only asked you to be faithful. Cy explains why pressure to “get results” is misplaced, how discouragement is the devil’s favorite weapon against evangelists, and why introverts might actually be better at sharing the Gospel than extroverts.They also dig into what the Gospel actually is, why “God loves you” is true but incomplete, and how the full Christian story speaks directly to the modern world’s confusion about meaning, identity, and purpose. From street evangelization to talking with adult children who have drifted from the faith, Cy offers clarity, encouragement, and concrete advice rooted in real experience.This is an episode about integrity, prayer, the sacraments, and learning how to talk about Jesus in a way that is honest, human, and real.In this episode:Why evangelization feels intimidating for ordinary CatholicsWhy you are not called to be effective, only faithfulHow discouragement shuts down evangelizationThe difference between proclamation and debateWhy introverts can be excellent evangelistsWhat the Gospel actually is, beyond “God loves you”How modern culture misunderstands science and human dignityWhy evangelization always includes words, not just exampleThe role of prayer and the Eucharist in sustaining evangelistsWhy the goal is winning souls, not argumentsCy’s new book, How to Talk About Jesus with Anybody Guest:Cy Kellett, host of Catholic Answers Live and co-author of How to Talk About Jesus with AnybodyBook mentioned:How to Talk About Jesus with Anybody by Steve Dawson with Cy Kellett

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

Ever wake up with that “today is the day” feeling, like you are ready to conquer the world? The guys start there, take a hard left into Pinky and the Brain, and somehow end up pondering what it was like when Christ rose from the dead. From there, it turns into a practical, tradition-packed episode on celebrating Christmas well. Not the Hallmark version, and not the American “Christmas ends on December 26” version either. The kind that actually follows the liturgical calendar, keeps Advent as Advent, and treats Christmas as a season, not a day.Along the way, they review a Taiwanese whiskey from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, talk family customs that make the day feel grounded, and make a strong case for grandfathers and fathers to be the custodians of tradition. One of the best parts is a simple, doable challenge: take the 12 Days of Christmas seriously and mark the feast days with small, intentional practices your family will actually remember.In this episode:The “wake up and conquer the world” mood vs the day Christ resurrectedAdvent vs Christmas, and why our culture gets it backwardsWhy “Merry” used to mean more like blessed than happyMidnight Mass, caroling, real Christmas trees, and reading Luke before presentsA great grandfather tradition: gather the family and speak from the heartGifts for kids: fewer and meaningful vs abundance as a sign of the Father’s generosityThe 12 Days of Christmas, and the feast days that stack up fastSt. John’s Blessing of Wine and why you should do itA practical idea for the Holy Innocents: dads blessing their children out loudEpiphany water and why you should plan ahead to get it blessed Whiskey for the episode: Taiwanese whiskey (Scotch Malt Whisky Society pick), “Dunker’s Delight” style notes, 107 proof, with flavors like caramel and apple pie crust.Challenge for the week: Pick two feast days during the 12 Days of Christmas and do something small but real. Bless your kids, bless wine, invite someone over, go to Mass, or start a tradition worth keeping.

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2025

In this episode, Adam and David welcome back longtime friend and mentor Matthew Christoff of EveryCatholicMan.com to talk about what it really means to become a happier Catholic man.Matthew shares the story behind his new devotional, “Becoming a Happier Catholic Man 2026,” and why he believes every man can be happier by drawing closer to Jesus, embracing suffering, and living a zealous Catholic life.Topics discussed:Why God actually wills our true and lasting happinessThe difference between fleeting pleasure and beatitudePracticing the presence of God in ordinary daily lifeUsing “triggers” like sirens, cemeteries, and churches to turn the mind to GodHow technology, curiosity, and pornography are devastating modern manhoodHomeostasis of the soul: breaking habits and building new spiritual baselinesWhy pornography and AI-generated lust are a major assault on men and womenConfession, near occasions of sin, and forming a real battle planThe need for a “penance revival” to accompany the Eucharistic RevivalWhy evangelizing men is decisive for families, parishes, and cultureHow awe of Jesus, not just information about him, is the foundation of conversionThe structure of the book: weekly Gospel commentary, awe-of-Jesus focus, maxims, and prayersUsing the devotional as a couple and in the domestic church Resources mentioned:Becoming a Happier Catholic Man 2026 – devotional for Sundays and feast days of the liturgical yearEveryCatholicMan.com – Matthew Christoff’s apostolate and resources for menBrother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of GodThe Catechism of the Catholic Church (references used throughout the book) Learn more and get the book:Visit EveryCatholicMan.com or search “Becoming a Happier Catholic Man 2026” on Amazon.Support The Catholic Man Show and get access to extra content and community at:TheCatholicManShow.com

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2025

This episode is packed — saints, miracles, Marian devotion, vocations, fatherhood, fasting, silence, and the rise of a new generation of men hungry for God.Fr. Charbel, a Franciscan Friar of the Immaculate, joins Adam and David in Tulsa along with first-class relics of St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. Charbel, sharing powerful stories of faith, mission, intercession, and what young Catholic men are longing for today.IN THIS EPISODE1. Meet Fr. Charbel — his order, his mission, and why Marian consecration is centralFr. Charbel introduces the Franciscans of the Immaculate, an order founded to continue the Marian mission of St. Maximilian Kolbe:Total consecration to Mary as a fourth vowA spirituality built on St. Francis + St. MaximilianMissionary availability (“Send me anywhere in the world”)Heavy emphasis on prayer, poverty, obedience, and Marian devotion He explains how Our Lady’s presence has shaped every major moment in salvation history — from Nazareth to the Cross — and why consecration gives Mary “permission” to form us the way she formed Christ.2. A surge of young men seeking GodAs the newly appointed vocations director, Fr. Charbel reveals something astonishing:40+ serious vocation inquiries in just two months.Why the sudden surge?Men want something realThey crave mission and purposeThey want orthodoxy and reverenceThey want a spirituality that demands something of themMarian devotion draws them in a unique way “It’s inspiring,” he says. “Young men want authenticity.”3. Stories of Divine Providence and the adventure of religious lifeThe guys talk about:The Franciscan blend of active + contemplativeThe thrill of trusting God with everythingPoverty that becomes a doorway to providenceWhy Franciscans never seem to fundraise (“God just provides”) Religious life, he says, is more adventurous than most men realize.4. Deep dive: Who is St. Charbel? Why is he exploding in popularity?St. Charbel Makhlouf, a Lebanese hermit, is becoming one of the most beloved saints of the century.Father explains why:Lived a hidden, humble, ascetic life23 years in community + 23 years as a hermitEntire life centered on the Holy EucharistBody discovered incorrupt with supernatural light rising from his tombOver 29,000 documented miracles since 1950Miracles among Muslims, Druze, Orthodox, and nonbelieversGlobal pilgrims: 2 million+ per year One stunning story:A Muslim sheikh publicly visited St. Charbel’s shrine to thank him for healing his mother of cancer.“Why would God confirm the life of a hermit who spent his life before the Eucharist,” Father asks, “unless the Eucharist is truly what the Church says it is?”5. Lessons from St. Charbel for modern men + fathersWhat does a hermit from Lebanon have to teach us? A lot.Fr. Charbel lays out practical takeaways:Faithfulness in the small thingsSilence — making space for God’s voiceDaily prayer even without consolationsObedience and humilityEucharistic devotionMarian devotion as a way of being formedAsceticism and fasting: dying to self in small waysDoing your duty with love As he says: “God doesn’t call you to be successful. He calls you to be faithful.”6. Mary, her titles, and how she draws men to ChristThe guys discuss:Why we must be unashamed of Marian devotionThe richness of her many titles:Mother of GodCause of Our JoyMother of Good CounselUndoer of KnotsSeat of WisdomWhy Marian consecration doesn’t distract from Jesus — it leads to HimWhy she is the “surest and quickest way” to holiness Fr. Charbel emphasizes “You can never love her as much as Jesus already does.”7. Books, Resources, and Where to Find MoreFr. Charbel’s order publishes incredibly practical Marian books:“Preparation for Total Consecration” (33 days in the spirit of Maximilian Kolbe)“Beloved Disciple” — how to live your consecration daily“Rule of Life: St. Maximilian Kolbe’s personal spiritual notes” (brand new) Visit: AcademyOfTheImmaculate.comLearn about the order: MaryMediatrix.com

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2025

This episode starts with an apology and an update. It’s been a wild stretch—hospital visits, birthday mishaps, broken teeth, truck trouble, cows and pigs headed to the processor—but also a lot of grace and gratitude.Adam shares about Lady Haylee's recent medical scare during pregnancy, the prayers from patrons, and what it’s like to walk through real uncertainty as a husband and father. The guys reflect on how quickly life can tilt from “normal” to “barely holding it together,” and yet how God can still anchor everything in hope and gratitude.Over whiskey (a Pseudo Sue malt from Iowa), Adam and David shift into the main topic: spiritual blindness—how easy it is for men to be convinced we’re right, standing for the truth, and yet be totally off the mark.Drawing from Scripture, the lives of the apostles, St. John of the Cross, Aquinas, and even Dante, they explore:In This Episode:Real-life trials and gratitudeHaley’s hospitalization and recoveryKids’ birthdays, chipped teeth, and car troubleHow chaos at home can either crush us or deepen our trust in GodMiracles, doubt, and the desire for “proof”“If God would just give us a miracle, evangelization would be easy”The everyday miracles we ignore: the Eucharist, confession, conversionsWhy even those who saw Jesus’ miracles still doubted and fledSpiritual blindness in the apostles and in usPeter’s “I’ll never deny you” moment—and the fall that followedThe apostles missing who Jesus really is, even after years of walking with HimLooking back on friendships and seasons of life and realizing, “I was blind to how unhealthy that really was”How our culture and attachments distort our judgmentBringing politics into our faith and letting ideology outrank the GospelThe overworking dad: when “providing” becomes an excuse to avoid the harder work of fatherhoodAttachment to success, busyness, and being “the guy” who makes everything happenThe “theology guy” who knows tons about the faith but never actually prays or servesSt. John of the Cross and Aquinas on blindness of mindDisordered attachments as a cause of spiritual blindnessMisapplying first principles and deforming prudenceWhy ignorance isn’t always innocent—especially when it’s chosenDante, betrayal, and why some wounds cut so deepWhy Dante places traitors and betrayers at the bottom of hellThe pain of realizing someone you trusted was not who you thoughtHow misplaced trust in people can tempt us to distrust GodPractical ways to grow in spiritual clarityDaily (or even twice-daily) examination of conscienceHonest fraternal correction and asking your friends to tell you the truthLiving a real ascetical life: fasting, temperance, and taming appetitesSubmitting your judgment to the Church instead of making yourself the standardTurning to the sacraments—especially confession and the Eucharist—for renewed vision Along the way, you’ll also hear:A story about accidentally using cardamom instead of cinnamon on a first dateThe strangely satisfying joy of a perfectly vacuumed game roomThe quiet fulfillment of husbandry—raising animals, caring for land, and stewarding what God has given This episode is an invitation to ask hard questions:Where am I convinced I’m right, but might be deeply wrong?What am I attached to that clouds my judgment?Who do I trust enough to tell me what I don’t see about myself? If you’ve ever looked back on a season of life and thought, “How did I not see that?”—this conversation is for you.

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2025

Opening: Setting the Record StraightNo, The Catholic Man Show isn’t joining The Daily Wire. A sincere congrats to Matt Fradd on taking Pints With Aquinas to a bigger platform—and a case for celebrating a brother’s success without the cynicism.Why Moves Like This MatterMedia realities, families to provide for, and why “selling out” is usually just a lazy take. Bigger reach can mean more souls reached—full stop.Pilgrimage Debrief: Rome, Florence, and AweFlorence surprises: the David, the Medici footprint, and why the city stole the show.Rome moments: St. Mary Major, the House of Loreto, and the joy of praying where the Holy Family lived.Padre Pio: devotion, controversy, and a frank take on the modern shrine aesthetic. A Feast-Day Field NoteSt. Hubert, patron of hunters, meets a proud dad moment: a 12-year-old’s first solo hunt, patience under pressure, and why rites of passage matter for boys.Main Topic: Obedience Without CaricatureAquinas on obedience: not the greatest virtue (charity is), but among the highest of the moral virtues because it orders us to the good.Catechism on authority (cf. 1897ff): authority is legitimate when it seeks the common good and respects moral law; unjust commands do not bind.Three “levels” of obedienceModern resistance to authority vs. Christian freedom: obedience is not blind; it’s charity and justice in action. Socrates, the Coliseum, and Costly WitnessA lively back-and-forth: unjust sentences, martyrdom, and whether courage sometimes looks like staying put.Fatherhood and the Pattern of ObedienceChildren learn reverence for God’s authority by seeing Dad obey the Church, pray when he doesn’t “feel like it,” and submit his will to the good.House rules and spiritual rule: why outside authority often works better than self-made resolutions. Community CornerThanks to patrons, cookies, and a few inside-baseball notes about keeping a niche Catholic show on the air without taking a dime personally.Key TakeawaysCelebrate good work when Catholic creators get a larger platform.Obedience isn’t weakness; it’s strength directed toward the highest good.Legitimate authority deserves assent; unjust commands do not.Fathers model obedience that forms a family’s conscience.Pilgrimage sharpens conviction—beauty and history catechize the heart. Mentioned in the EpisodeSt. Thomas Aquinas: Summa Theologiae, II–II, q.104 (obedience).Catechism of the Catholic Church: on authority and the common good (around 1897–1904).St. Hubert: patron saint of hunters.Padre Pio: witness of obedience amid misunderstanding.House of Loreto, St. Mary Major, Florence’s David: moments where beauty meets belief.

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2025

Recording on the move along the Adriatic, the guys sit down in Italy with their spiritual guide and friend Fr. Stuart Crevecour to talk about Eucharistic adoration—what it is, why it matters, and how to begin. From stories of Eucharistic miracles in Cascia and Orvieto to practical advice for dads bringing kids to the chapel, this episode explores how adoration “holds a moment of the Mass” so Christ can transform our week. Along the way: pilgrimage anecdotes, incorrupt saints, and a few dad-joke detours.Segment GuideOn the Road (and Sea): Why This Episode Is DifferentFirst-ever episode recorded in transit—pilgrimage vibes, College GameDay energy, and what a Jubilee year in Italy feels like.Eucharistic Miracles: From Casual Irreverence to Deep ConversionThe bleeding breviary in Cascia and the miracle preserved in Orvieto become cautionary tales—and catalysts—for reverence and faith.What Adoration Is (and Isn’t)Fr. Stuart offers a simple frame: adoration as a moment of the Mass held in contemplation—the elevation “stretched” so we can gaze and be changed.Does It Really Do Anything? Why GoFrom “just try it” to “I can’t live without my hour,” we hear how steady time before the monstrance re-centers a life and renews prayer.Awkward at First: How to Start a Holy HourBring a rosary or a good spiritual book. Expect silence to feel long. Keep going. Over time, conversation gives way to presence.Spiritual Communion: When You Can’t ReceiveMaking a spiritual communion at home or in church keeps us oriented toward the tabernacle—especially helpful in seasons of waiting or constraint.Benediction: A Different Kind of BlessingWhy the blessing at the end of adoration is unique: you’re being blessed by Christ himself, truly present in the Host.Family Adoration (Without the Panic)Practical ideas: parish “family holy hours,” short come-and-go windows, and training kids gently in reverence (yes, even page-turning).If Your Parish Doesn’t Have AdorationHow to ask your pastor for a weekly hour or occasional exposition—and ways laity can help make it happen.From Medieval Piety to Today’s RenewalHow devotion blossomed after Corpus Christi and grew again in recent decades—feeding vocations, parish life, and personal holiness.Key TakeawaysAdoration deepens Communion. It doesn’t replace the Mass; it disposes us to receive the Eucharist more fruitfully.Start small, stay steady. Twenty minutes grows into an hour; over time, you won’t want to miss it.Bring the kids. Create kid-friendly windows or family hours; let children encounter Jesus and learn chapel habits gradually.Spiritual communion matters. If you can’t receive sacramentally, orient yourself to the tabernacle and keep showing up.Benediction blesses uniquely. The blessing is given with Christ himself, not merely by the priest. Memorable Lines“Adoration is a moment of the Mass held in contemplation.”“You can’t outgive the Lord—show up and let Him do the work.”“Hang out with Jesus often; we become like the people we’re with.”“Correct the [Eucharistic] abuses, but don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater.” How to Begin a Holy Hour (Simple Plan)Arrive and acknowledge: a slow Sign of the Cross; “Lord, I’m here.”Read briefly (5–10 min): a Gospel passage or trusted spiritual classic.Pray a decade or the whole Rosary.Rest in silence: “I look at Him and He looks at me.”Finish with gratitude and one concrete resolution for the week. Resources & Places MentionedBasilica of St. Rita of Cascia (Eucharistic miracle)Orvieto (miracle tied to the Feast of Corpus Christi)Sacré-Cœur, Paris (longstanding perpetual adoration)St. Thomas Aquinas (Eucharistic hymns for Corpus Christi)St. John Vianney (on simple adoration)St. John Paul II (modern renewal of adoration)St. Peter Julian Eymard (19th-century apostle of the Eucharist) For Dads & GrandfathersKeep expectations age-appropriate. Five or ten minutes is a win.Prep gently before you enter; debrief after with hot chocolate or a donut.Rotate one-on-one holy hours so each child sees Dad pray Listener ChallengeCommit to one adoration visit this week. If your parish lacks exposition, pray before the tabernacle—or make a daily spiritual communion at home, oriented toward your parish church.

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

Adam and Dave are broadcasting from the heart of Assisi, Italy—knee-deep in pilgrimage vibes with St. Francis, St. Clare, and the whole crew. They break down the "establish" pillar of fatherhood (you know, the third leg of protect-provide-establish) and get talk about turning your home into fertile soil where your family's faith thrives. Recorded right after a providential run-in with a fan who spotted Adam's voice in the wild—shoutout to Kel from Illinois!Key Highlights:Pilgrimage Gold: Fresh off praying at St. Francis' tomb and St. Clare's incorrupt body. Plus, stories of Francis dodging death in the Holy Land because even the Saracens couldn't handle his holiness. Spiritual overload = total win.The Father's Job: Establish a Culture: Forget the 30-something basement-dwellers—it's time to till that family soil like a pro vintner. They riff on winery chats: Every plot's different, climates change, so adapt your strategy. Build traditions around high feasts (Christmas Nativity read-aloud before gifts? Yes!), guard your wife's prayer time, and echo that husband-wife holiness down to the kids.Resilience Like the Saints: One bad call ruins your day? No. Channel St. Clare ("No suffering bothers me!") and blind-but-joyful St. Francis. Practice gratitude, God's-will-be-done prayers, and bounce back fast—'cause your mood sets the home tone.Focus or Bust: Saints win by laser-focus on holiness. Ditch the noise (X, YouTube, endless projects). Adam's hack: Stopwatch your day. Shocking how 25 minutes of "deep work" gets hijacked by texts. Apply it home—clock real presence with kids over fence-painting busywork. Adam's Four Pillars to Cultivate Christian Life:Silence – God's language. Train kids to quiet appetites at home so they can apply it at Holy Mass.Reverence – Rebel against irreverence. Yes sir/ma'am, genuflect at churches, dress sharp for Mass—builds love for the Eucharist.Hard Work – Outpace 90% by pushing past "I can't." Sports, chess, prayer, fasting—saints weren't smarter, just tougher.Charity – The supernatural crescendo. Serve without quid pro quo (Catechism 2223). Punch in pure love, St. Nick-style. Grandpa Power: You're the tradition custodian! Give "state of the union" fireplaceside talks like Adam's grandpa—wisdom from the trenches and the hilltop.Soul-Crafting Close: Italian churches are stunning, but one holy soul outshines 'em all. You're the craftsman for your wife's and kids' souls—steward God's talents like your life depends on it (spoiler: it does). Action Steps for Catholic Dads:Tonight: List 3 family traditions to start (feast-focused first).Tomorrow: Stopwatch 1 hour of undistracted kid-time. No phone.This Week: Guard your wife's prayer slot—strictly.Pray: "Lord, till my home soil for saints."

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Morey, the prior at Clear Creek Abbey, to discuss the vital role of fathers in passing down faith and tradition. Fr. Morey shares insights from his life as a Benedictine monk, including the importance of spiritual protection for families, the power of fasting as a group, and how manual labor connects men to reality. We dive into why a lack of tradition signals a loss of culture, the spiritual warfare fathers face, and practical advice for men striving for holiness. Plus, learn about the "deposition of charges" at the monastery and why relics, not money, are the true treasure. Join us for a conversation filled with wisdom from the cloister, recorded at the ninth annual Catholic Man Campout at Clear Creek Abbey.Key Points:The role of fathers as spiritual protectors of their families.Why fasting and prayer are essential for building virtue.The connection between manual labor and a man’s soul.How receiving and transmitting tradition is key to a thriving culture.Clear Creek Abbey’s fundraising efforts to complete their monastery.Call to Action: Visit clearcreekmonks.org to support the monastery’s mission.

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2025

OverviewAdam shares a sideline story from coaching I-9 flag football—including a bold moment of public prayer—and the guys dive into practical Marian devotion for men. Plus: the legendary Catholic Man Show Campout, a hilarious kiddo/arcade saga, and this week’s whiskey.In This EpisodeCoaching & Courage: How an I-9 format works for big families, simple plays that win, and leading a team in prayer after a teammate’s injury.Being Bold in Public Faith: Why most people respect prayer, overcoming hesitation, and letting charity—not fear—set the tone. Marian Devotion for Men:Mary as Queen Mother and model disciple (why Mariology protects sound Christology).Practical “Marian hacks”: entrusting your prayers to Mary; asking for her heart before Holy Communion; Undoer of Knots novena.Old Testament typology (Jael, Judith, New Eve) and “she will crush your head” (Gen 3:15).Whiskey of the Week: Scotch Malt Whisky Society bottling from Tomatin (Highland), 9-year, charred hogshead, ~59% ABV—hot but opens beautifully with a splash; oak-forward finish.Campout Buzz: Men flying in from across the country; new activities; documentary coming to YouTube.Family & Fun: The token machine misadventure (fire trucks, free passes, and a parental facepalm). Key TakeawaysWhen in doubt, pray anyway—most onlookers receive it as a kind gesture.Daily Rosary is a proven aid against habitual sin (per spiritual masters).Offer your prayers through Mary so she can “clean them up” and present them to Jesus.Consider Total Consecration (St. Louis de Montfort) to root your day-to-day in Marian discipleship. Mentions & ResourcesRosary episode with Dominicans: Fr. Gregory Pine, Fr. Patrick Briscoe, Fr. Joseph Anthony KressSelect International Tours – long-time show sponsor for pilgrimagesDevotions: Our Lady, Undoer of Knots novena; Total Consecration (St. Louis de Montfort); Glories of Mary (St. Alphonsus Liguori)

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2025

This week on The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome Chris Carstens—Director of the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, teacher, author, and liturgical scholar.Together, they dive deep into the heart of Catholic worship and explore:How fathers can introduce young children to the beauty of the Mass—even when it feels like a workout.Why children belong in the main body of the church, not just the cry room.The meaning and role of altar serving and how it shapes boys into men of faith.Insights into the ordinary form vs. extraordinary form conversation, and how Pope Benedict XVI envisioned “mutual enrichment.”What the Eucharistic revival accomplished and why the Mass itself is the greatest act of Eucharistic adoration.Practical steps to make parish liturgies more beautiful, reverent, and evangelizing.Resources and books to help families grow deeper in love with the liturgy, such as A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Biblical Walk Through the Mass. About our guest:Chris Carstens has spent over 25 years in liturgical ministry, teaching at the Liturgical Institute and Christendom College, and serving as editor of Adoremus Bulletin. He is the author of several books on Catholic worship and continues to help parishes and families rediscover the beauty of the Mass.👉 Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Adoremus BulletinA Devotional Journey into the Mass (Sophia Institute Press)Biblical Walk Through the Mass by Edward SriJesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist by Brant Pitre

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

Why does the Rosary matter? How do you pray it well when distractions hit? And what about devotion to Mary — is it too much, or exactly what we need?In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome three Dominican priests: • Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. • Fr. Patrick Briscoe, O.P. • Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress, O.P.They dive into:✅ The history and power of the Rosary✅ Practical advice on handling distractions in prayer✅ The Luminous Mysteries and why they matter today✅ Mary’s role as Mediatrix of Grace✅ Live audience Q&AThis lively, insightful, and often funny conversation will deepen your love for the Rosary and inspire greater devotion in your prayer life.Looking for a book to turn your home into a saint-making machine?https://ascensionpress.com/products/living-beyond-sunday-making-your-home-a-holy-place Become a patron and get TCMS whisky glasses and/or beer glasses just like you see on the show: https://www.patreon.com/thecatholicmanshow New to the show? Check out these cool episodes we did with guests and without guests: https://thecatholicmanshow.com/new-to-the-catholic-man-show/ Check us out on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecatholicmanshow/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CatholicManShowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecatholicmanshowPodcast: https://feeds.captivate.fm/thecatholicmanshow/

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2025

On this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome Brandon Sheard — homesteader, butcher, and teacher — to talk about the lost art of traditional husbandry and meat preservation. Brandon shares why skills like butchering, curing, and cooking matter for men, families, and Catholic culture.From the cultural and spiritual meaning of feasts like Christmas, with roast goose and black and white pudding, to the role of men in providing for their households, Brandon offers both practical wisdom and timeless tradition. He also discusses his upcoming book on raising and harvesting pigs, plus the benefits of his membership site featuring step-by-step homesteading videos.Listeners will learn how Catholic tradition, food, and masculinity intersect — and how reviving these skills can strengthen community and faith.Episode Highlights:Why traditional meat preservation is vital for family and cultureThe role of feasts in Catholic traditionPractical skills every man should know in the kitchen and fieldUpcoming opportunities to learn butchering firsthand Action items from this episode:Live lamb harvest and butchering demonstration at the Catholic Man Show campoutOctober 2-day class on harvesting and butchering Dexter cattleJoin the Farmstead Meatsmith Membership and get 1 month free by using "CatholicManShow" as a discount.

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2025

What does it mean to be a Christian man, husband, and father in today’s secular culture? Actor and Christian leader Kirk Cameron joins Adam Minihan for a powerful conversation about reclaiming fatherhood, cultivating virtue, and leading your family toward heaven.Kirk shares practical wisdom on:Why dads must be the primary educators of their childrenThe danger of pornography and fractured marriagesLiving by example so your kids know Christ is realBuilding authentic male friendships and brotherhoodHow joy and gratitude give men strength in a hostile culture This episode of The Catholic Man Show is a call for men to stop settling for mediocrity and start living with purpose. If you’re ready to embrace your role as protector, provider, and spiritual leader of your family—this one’s for you.

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2025

Every man needs a rule of life—a clear, concrete framework that keeps prayer, family, work, and virtue in order. Without it, we risk wasting time, neglecting our duties, and drifting through life. With it, we gain clarity, perseverance, and a spiritual roadmap toward sanctity.In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, we explore:Natural benefits of a rule: better use of time, decisiveness, consistency, and efficiency.Supernatural benefits: transforming daily actions into prayer, combating disorder, and conforming life to God’s will.For your neighbor: how your fidelity inspires others, balances prayer and apostolic works, and sanctifies your community.The right balance: flexibility without laxity, firmness without scrupulosity.Concrete considerations: prayer, family life, work, personal discipline, community, and apostolic action. A rule of life isn’t about rigidity—it’s about freedom: God first, then your soul, your family, and your apostolate.“He who lives by rule, lives unto God.”

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2025

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David wrestle with advice, masculinity, and the struggle for holiness. Drawing from the wisdom of Venerable Fulton Sheen, they explore the three causes of love, the mystery of prayer, and why real men must go beyond “average” to pursue heroic virtue. Along the way, they share stories of fraternity, marriage, business, and spiritual battles—and how the simple thought “Just do it” can transform your daily walk with Christ.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why comparing yourself to the “average American man” sets the bar far too lowFulton Sheen’s teaching on goodness, knowledge, and similarity as foundations of loveThe tension between prayer as desire vs. prayer as dutyWhy saints are extraordinary men and women who embrace heroic virtue“Just do it” as a rule for the spiritual life, work, and family lifeThe role of suffering and sacrifice in becoming extraordinaryPractical wisdom on prayer, business, and discipline for Catholic men todayA special tasting of an 18-year Orphan Barrel bourbon whiskeyUpdates on pilgrimages, the Catholic Rancho Campout, and more Key Quotes:“Extraordinary men and women are saints because they have heroic virtue. Not just virtue—heroic virtue.”“Ordinary does not call you to get up early, to sacrifice comfort, or to fight for your family. Heroic men do.”“Sometimes, you just have to Nike up, bro. Just do it.”

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2025

In this episode, Adam and Dave start with a lighthearted story about a suspicious liquor store and end up diving into one of the most serious struggles facing men today: restraining our instincts.They reflect on:The challenges of summer routines, distractions, and drifting prayer livesThe importance of order and rhythm in family and spiritual lifeHow our passions can overwhelm us if not properly trainedPractical steps for purifying the memory and avoiding near occasions of sinThe balance between embracing God’s gifts and remembering the GiverWhat it means to fight temptation as husbands and fathers, especially in seasons of abstinenceEncouragement from the spiritual masters: why pressure can be good and why we must never assume we’re immune from temptation With humor, honesty, and practical advice, Adam and Dave remind us that peace is the tranquility of order and that holiness requires vigilance, fraternity, and grace.

Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2025

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam shares a powerful story about his son, a food truck, and an unexpected act of virtue that left a lasting impact — not only on his son, but on him as a father. It’s not a flex… but it kind of is.What does it mean to live virtuously in public? How can one small act of kindness or virtue build up a community, shape a young man’s character, and challenge all of us to do more with what we’ve been given?Adam and David dive into:The deep value of prudence — the “charioteer” of the virtuesThe role of memory in growing in wisdomAnd of course… the return of David from his 17-month “vacation” Plus: whiskey reviews, Clear Creek Abbey updates, the Catholic Man Show Campout hype, and why From Silence to Silence is the book to read for St. Michael’s Lent.This episode is a mix of fraternal storytelling, serious virtue talk, and a challenge to be the kind of man whose actions ripple into eternity.Challenge This Week:Be like the man at the food truck — notice virtue, call it out, and reward it. Then invite a brother to join you for St. Michael’s Lent starting August 15.Mentioned Resources:From Silence to Silence by Fr. Francis BethelAscend Podcast by Dcn. Harrison GarlickThe Intellectual Life by SertillangesBooker’s Bourbon - The “Pond Batch”Exodus 90 – Sign up for St. Michael’s Lent 🎟️ Campout info (for patrons first!): TheCatholicManShow.com✈️ Pilgrimage with us to Italy: Spots are filling fast!

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2025

Super Bowl Champion Harrison Butker and his wife Isabelle discuss marriage, fatherhood, motherhood, and raising virtuous children in a chaotic world.Isabelle opens up about the often unseen strength of motherhood, the beauty of sacrifice, and what young women should look for in a husband. Harrison shares what he admires most about his wife, how they live out their vocations as Catholic parents, and why men must reclaim their role as spiritual leaders in the home.In this episode:The complementary roles of fatherhood and motherhoodWhy suffering well is at the heart of sainthoodAdvice for young men & women discerning marriageHow to form children in faith without losing sight of the homeThe power of presence, prayer, and humility in family life Whether you’re a parent, single, dating, or discerning your vocation, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to pursue holiness in your home.

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

Matt Walsh on Rest, Leisure, and Why Men Need to Get Off Their PhonesIn this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam Minihan and David Niles sit down with Matt Walsh — Catholic commentator, author, and host of The Matt Walsh Show — for a conversation on leisure, manhood, and how technology is reshaping our minds.Matt shares his perspective on the modern man’s crisis of leisure, the dangers of mindless scrolling, and why intentional hobbies like fishing or board games are more than just recreation — they’re necessary for the soul.They discuss:Why men today are worse at leisure than their grandfathersHow social media disorders our view of restThe connection between leisure, joy, and being fully humanHow to foster habits of real leisure in your home and familyWhy every man needs one good hobby — and why that hobby should help you disconnect Matt also reflects on the importance of silence, presence, and being able to simply “be” without needing to consume content or noise.Sponsor:Check out The Catholic Woodworker for heirloom-quality rosaries: https://catholicwoodworker.com/

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles share personal anecdotes and deep spiritual insights, focusing on the challenge of distractions in prayer. From road trip stories to household mishaps, the hosts set the stage with relatable humor before diving into a discussion inspired by St. Thomas Aquinas and Father Frederick Faber. They explore the five fountains of distraction in prayer, offering practical advice for cultivating a deeper prayer life by addressing distractions outside of prayer time.Key Discussion Points:Opening Banter (00:00:19 - 00:04:50): David recounts his family road trip to Wyoming, including an unexpected stop in Denver and the challenges of traveling with six kids. Adam shares his chaotic week of household breakdowns, from a malfunctioning dishwasher to a beeping van door and a broken lawnmower, humorously reflecting on the "throwaway culture" he’s trying to resist.Health Struggles (00:09:01 - 00:11:24): Adam discusses a rare bout of heartburn that kept him up at night, highlighting his lack of Tums and his struggle to lead a meeting while sleep-deprived and feverish. David relates to his heartburn experience from a past "one chip challenge" on the show.Sponsorship Spotlight (00:12:00 - 00:12:39): The hosts thank Select International Tours, a long-time sponsor, for their reliable pilgrimage offerings. They encourage listeners to visit selectinternationaltours.com for details on their upcoming October pilgrimage to Italy, emphasizing the ideal weather and transformative experience.What We’re Drinking (00:37:02 - 00:37:26): Adam and David enjoy Wyoming Whiskey, a bourbon David praises for its affordability ($30 in Wyoming) and delicious flavor, making it a fitting choice for the episode.Main Topic: Distractions in Prayer (00:15:28 - 01:11:09):Personal Reflection: Adam shares a moment of grace in adoration, where he asked God to reveal impediments in his prayer life. A distracting phone check during a conversation revealed his struggle with presence, sparking a realization about the need for focus in both human and divine relationships.Theological Foundation: Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas’ Summa Theologica (Second Part of the Second Part) and Father Walter Farrell’s Companion to the Summa, the hosts discuss prayer as an act of the will, preceded by the intellect. They reference the Baltimore Catechism’s teaching that we are made to “know, love, and serve” God, emphasizing that knowing God fuels love, which leads to service.Five Fountains of Distraction (Father Frederick Faber): Disordered Health: An obsession with health (valetudinarian state) can distract from tranquility in prayer, unlike true suffering, which can draw one closer to God when united with the Cross.Actions of the Holy Spirit: Distractions can serve as a crucible to humble and purify, grounding believers in deeper devotion by burning away self-love.The Devil: Demonic distractions are marked by their abundance, vivid imagery, soul-disquieting nature, disconnection from daily life, repetitive patterns, and potential to lead to sin. Custody of the eyes, especially against sins of the sixth and ninth commandments, is crucial to limit the devil’s influence.Inculpable Self: Unintentional distractions arise from temperament, imagination, or poor spiritual direction, which are not deliberately chosen but still disrupt prayer.Culpable Self: Deliberately entertained distractions are grave sins if knowingly allowed during time owed to God. These include: Bodily Sources: Lack of mortification, irreverent postures (e.g., not kneeling when able), and frequent position changes. Kneeling can orient the mind toward God, uniting discomfort with the Cross.Mental Sources (Seven Causes): Carelessness about minute sins, which corrupt purity of intention.Lukewarmness (tepidness), often unrecognized, blinds one to spiritual deficiencies.Curiosity, especially a thirst for news or irrelevant knowledge, distracts from one’s vocation.Lack of preparation for prayer, such as not reflecting beforehand or rushing in without focus.Neglecting custody of the senses outside of prayer (e.g., excessive phone use or unchaste media).Failing to practice ejaculatory prayers (e.g., “Jesus, I trust in you”), which redirect the mind to God.Not addressing recurring distractions through mortification. Practical Advice: The hosts emphasize that the battle against distractions is won outside of prayer through habits like custody of the senses, scheduled prayer times, and preparation (e.g., silent reflection before adoration). Adam shares his practice of focusing on intentions during the drive to adoration, while David highlights the value of ejaculatory prayers and teaching children to offer Mass intentions.Key Insight: Faber’s teaching that “the time of prayer is not the time for the true combat with distractions” underscores the need to build disciplined habits throughout the day, such as avoiding phone distractions during conversations or limiting exposure to sensational news. Events and Announcements:Pilgrimage to Italy (00:13:17 - 00:14:43): Join Adam and David in mid-October for a transformative pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi with Select International Tours. Limited spots remain—visit selectinternationaltours.com to sign up.Catholic Man Show Campout: Details not mentioned in the transcript, but typically held at Clear Creek Abbey in September. Check thecatholicmanshow.com for updates. Resources Mentioned:Scripture: John 15:15 (“I no longer call you servants, but friends”).Books:Companion to the Summa by Father Walter Farrell (Loreto Publications).Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales.The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis.Other: Baltimore Catechism for teaching children the faith. Quotes to Ponder:“The heart cannot run before the head.” – Father Walter Farrell, Companion to the Summa“The time of prayer is not the time for the true combat with distractions.” – Father Frederick Faber“You cannot love that which you do not know.” – Adam Minahan, referencing the Baltimore Catechism“Ejaculatory prayers are the heavenly side of distractions, thoughts of God which distract us from the world.” – Father Frederick Faber Call to Action:Reflect on your distractions in prayer and identify their sources using Faber’s five fountains.Practice custody of the senses daily, such as limiting phone use during conversations or avoiding unchaste media.Prepare for prayer with intentional silence or reflection, as St. Francis de Sales suggests.Join the upcoming pilgrimage to Italy at selectinternationaltours.com.Subscribe to The Catholic Man Show podcast for more insights and share this episode with others.

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2025

Episode Overview:In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles dive into a lighthearted yet profound discussion about the phrase "killing two birds with one stone," the joys and challenges of high school reunions, and a deep exploration of friendship—both human and divine. The episode centers on John 15:14-15, where Jesus calls His disciples friends, not servants, offering a transformative perspective on what it means to live in communion with Christ. A powerful confession experience ties the conversation together, emphasizing the shift from doing things for God to doing them with Him.Key Discussion Points:Opening Banter (00:00:16 - 00:04:55): Adam and David humorously debate the origins and modern misuse of the phrase "killing two birds with one stone," referencing historical and biblical imagery like David and Goliath, and even a viral video of Nolan Ryan hitting a bird with a baseball.Life Updates (00:05:00 - 00:11:39): David shares his excitement for an upcoming family reunion in Wyoming, while Adam talks about his son Leo’s second-place finish in mutton busting at a local rodeo and his anticipation for a 20-year high school reunion, sparking a funny reflection on aging and pride.Sponsorship Spotlight (00:12:00 - 00:13:15): The hosts highlight their long-time sponsor, Select International Tours, encouraging listeners to explore pilgrimage opportunities at selectinternationaltours.com and join their upcoming trip to Italy in October.What We’re Drinking (00:13:29 - 00:15:47): Adam and David enjoy The Sassenach, a blended Scotch whiskey with a Gaelic name meaning "outsider" or "stranger." They praise its Highland-like flavor and art deco bottle, likening it to a Mad Men-style decanter.Literature and Reading (00:16:46 - 00:20:43): David discusses reading G.K. Chesterton’s Man Alive, recommended by Monsignor Gallus, a Chesterton scholar, and touches on Plato’s The Republic. The hosts reflect on Chesterton’s whimsical style and the influence of classical works on Christian thought.Main Topic: Friendship with Christ (00:22:08 - 00:58:51):Biblical Foundation: Adam introduces John 15:14-15, where Jesus says, “You are my friends if you keep what I command you. No longer do I call you servants… but I have called you friends.” This passage sets the stage for a discussion on authentic friendship.Philosophical Insights: Drawing from Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics (Books 8-10), the hosts explore his three types of friendship—pleasure, utility, and authentic (virtuous) friendship. Aristotle views authentic friendship as the highest moral achievement, impossible without virtue, as vice renders true friendship unattainable.Christian Perspective: The discussion connects Aristotle’s ideas to Christian theology, with references to Augustine, Aquinas, and Cicero. Aquinas describes charity as the highest form of friendship, requiring mutual love, willing the good of the other, and a shared life—mirrored in Christ’s relationship with His disciples.Old vs. New Covenant: The hosts contrast the Old Covenant’s servanthood (e.g., Abraham obeying without full understanding) with the New Covenant’s friendship, where Christ shares divine knowledge, inviting us into intimacy and communion.Confession Insight: Adam shares a transformative moment from confession, where a priest challenged his mentality of doing things for God, urging him to focus on doing things with God. This shift reframes Christian life as a relationship of friendship, not obligation, aligning with John 15’s message.Communion of Saints: The episode explores how the communion of saints reflects perfect friendship, unhindered by human vice, and how Christ’s infinite love desires this communion with us.Practical Takeaway: The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on John 15:9-17 in adoration, emphasizing that God doesn’t need our works but desires our companionship. This perspective relieves the pressure of performance and combats pride, fostering a deeper relationship with Christ. Events and Announcements:Catholic Man Show Campout: Scheduled for the last Saturday in September at Clear Creek Abbey. Sign-ups open in August, with new activities planned for this milestone event (approximately the 10th annual campout).Pilgrimage Opportunity: Join Adam and David in Italy this October with Father Stuart Kravcor. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details. Resources Mentioned:Scripture: John 15:9-17, particularly verses 14-15.Books: G.K. Chesterton’s Man AlivePlato’s The RepublicAristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics (Books 8-10)Ignatius Study BibleSponsorship: Select International Tours (selectinternationaltours.com)Social Media: Check Adam’s Facebook for a video of his son Leo’s mutton busting performance. Quotes to Ponder:“You are my friends if you keep what I command you. No longer do I call you servants… but I have called you friends.” – John 15:14-15“The Lord doesn’t need anything from you… You have to start thinking about doing things with the Lord.” – Priest in confession“Friendship is the point of the Christian life.” – David Niles“Charity is the highest form of friendship.” – St. Thomas Aquinas Call to Action:Reflect on John 15:9-17 in prayer or adoration to deepen your understanding of friendship with Christ.Sign up for the Catholic Man Show Campout at Clear Creek Abbey in September.Explore pilgrimage opportunities with Select International Tours. Share this episode with friends to spark conversations about authentic friendship and faith.

Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2025

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles welcome Michael Knowles, conservative commentator and host of The Michael Knowles Show, to discuss the critical role of language in shaping truth, culture, and faith. Drawing from philosophy, theology, and literature, Knowles explores how the corruption of language distorts our perception of reality, the dangers of slogans and propaganda, and the rebellious power of silence in a distracted world. From Dante’s view of fraud to the importance of interpreting the “signs of the times,” this episode is a thought-provoking call to reclaim language for truth and virtue.Key Discussion Points:Language as a Lens for Truth: Knowles explains that language is not a neutral tool but shapes how we perceive the world. Misusing it, such as through euphemisms like “undocumented American” instead of “illegal alien,” can obscure truth and manipulate thought.Euphemisms and Lies: While polite euphemisms (e.g., “woman of a certain age”) can be charitable, dishonest ones cross into lying, undermining civil discourse and societal standards.The Battle of Standards: The real fight isn’t between free speech and censorship but between competing norms. Knowles critiques free speech absolutism, advocating for standards that reject obscenity and fraud in the public square.Philosophy and Language Degradation: Drawing on Josef Pieper, Knowles notes that denying objective truth turns language into a tool for manipulation, eroding reasoned debate and civil society.The Power of Silence: In a world of constant noise, silence is a rebellious act that allows us to hear God’s voice and interpret the “signs of the times,” as Christ urges.Dante and Fraud: Knowles connects Deacon Harrison Garlick’s idea of lying as “contraceptive speech” to Dante’s Inferno, where fraud, especially betrayal, is among the gravest sins, as it perverts language’s purpose of conveying truth.Christian Task of Interpretation: Knowles emphasizes that Christians are called not to “do” but to interpret the world’s meaning, aligning actions with truth rather than reconstructing it. Resources:The Catholic Woodworker – Discover heirloom-quality rosaries, including the “Saint Michael the Defender” rosary gifted to Michael Knowles.Check out The Michael Knowles Show on your favorite podcast platform or at dailywire.com.Explore Josef Pieper’s works on language and truth, such as Abuse of Language, Abuse of Power.Learn more about Dante’s Inferno for insights into the moral weight of fraud and betrayal.

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles dive into the topic of spiritual idleness, drawing from Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness: Progress of the Spiritual Life. Recorded around the Fourth of July, the episode begins with a celebration of small-town Americana, from mutton busting at the local rodeo to the ordination of their friend, Father Robert Williams. The hosts then explore seven developments of spiritual idleness—dissipation, sadness, sloth, and more—offering practical insights on how to stay vigilant and prioritize a life oriented toward God. Sipping on Balvenie’s American Oak 12-Year Scotch, Adam and David discuss how modern distractions, like smartphones and excessive communication, fragment our focus and hinder our prayer life, and share strategies for cultivating presence, joy, and intentionality in both spiritual and daily routines.Key Discussion Points:Small-Town Americana: The hosts celebrate the Heart of America rodeo, mutton busting, and the communal prayer and patriotism of small-town events, reflecting on their importance in fostering connection.Priestly Ordination: David shares a moving story of his son’s emotional response to Father Robert Williams’ ordination, highlighting the eternal nature of the priesthood and the call to discernment.Spiritual Idleness Defined: Drawing from Father Faber’s Growth in Holiness, the hosts unpack seven developments of spiritual idleness: dissipation (misprioritizing tasks), sadness (rooted in self-love), sloth (hatred of existence), useless industry (excessive communication), and general indifference to time.Dissipation’s Impact: Putting less important tasks first disrupts the hierarchy of goods, leading to a loss of peace and distractions in prayer, as Faber notes: “He who is diligent will soon be cheerful.”Sadness and Self-Love: Sadness, driven by self-improvement rather than God, gives the devil power over the soul, undermining spiritual progress.Sloth as a Culmination: Sloth combines dissipation and sadness, fostering a distaste for existence and duties, disrupting the tranquility of order (Aquinas’ definition of peace).Useless Industry: Faber’s critique of excessive letter-writing in the 1800s applies to today’s text messaging and social media, which fragment focus and reduce meaningful communication.Indifference to Time: Wasting time, especially on addictive platforms like YouTube Shorts, is a “stupid” sin that squanders the precious, irrevocable gift of time, which Faber calls “the stuff out of which eternity is made.”Focus and Presence: True focus requires saying “no” to distractions to prioritize God’s will, fostering presence in both daily life and prayer, as exemplified by a man eating lunch under a tree without multitasking.Leisure Done Right: Leisure must align with one’s state in life, be tethered to joy, and have a contemplative aspect, avoiding compulsory or utilitarian ends. Notable Quotes from Father Frederick Faber:“Dissipation… consists in putting things off beyond their proper times so that one duty treads upon the heels of another, and all duties are felt as irksome obligations.”“He who is diligent will soon be cheerful.”“The soul of sadness is self-love… How many are there whose real end in the spiritual life is self-improvement rather than God?”“Nothing gives the devil so much power over us [as sadness].”“Time is the stuff out of which eternity is made… we shall have to give the strictest account of it at the last.” Resources:Growth in Holiness: Progress of the Spiritual Life by Father Frederick Faber (available from Koreasoo Press).Select International Tours – Join Adam and David on their October pilgrimage to Italy or explore other holy sites worldwide.Explore St. Hesychios’ writings on watchfulness for insights on vigilance in the spiritual life.

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2025

A special thank you to our sponsor, The Catholic Woodworker. Get your heirloom quality rosaries here: https://catholicwoodworker.com/In this inspiring episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles sit down with special guest Harrison Butker, NFL kicker and devout Catholic, to discuss fatherhood, faith, and leading a virtuous life in today’s world. Harrison shares his insights on being the head of the household, raising children in the faith, and balancing a high-profile sports career with family responsibilities. From practical tips on prayer routines to the importance of grandfathers in passing down wisdom, this episode is packed with wisdom for Catholic men striving to live authentically for Christ.Key Discussion Points:The Role of a Father as the Head of the Household: Harrison emphasizes the responsibility of men to lead their families with virtue, drawing parallels to great leadership in sports, like his coach Andy Reid, who takes accountability as a true leader.Raising Faithful Children: As the primary educators, parents must prioritize their children’s relationship with Christ over worldly achievements. Harrison shares how he and his wife teach their children, including preparing his six-year-old son for First Communion and altar serving.Building a Prayerful Family Life: Harrison discusses the importance of a family rosary, praying before meals, and striving for quality in prayer to foster a deep connection with God.The Role of Grandparents: Harrison reflects on the value of grandparents in passing down faith and life lessons, advocating for multi-generational households to strengthen family bonds.Advice for Young Boys: Harrison’s heartfelt advice to the hosts’ sons: “You are enough.” He encourages young men to follow Christ and the saints, embracing their unique vocations without succumbing to societal pressures of pride or competition. Special Mention:Harrison praises the durability of rosaries from The Catholic Woodworker, a sponsor of the show, and receives a handmade “Terror of Demons” rosary as a gift.The hosts and Harrison discuss the importance of intentional prayer, with practices like the Angelus and family rosary to anchor family life in faith.

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Embracing Patience and Presence in Everyday LifeIn this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts David Niles and Adam Minihan dive into the spiritual wisdom of Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century Carmelite lay brother, and his timeless book, The Practice of the Presence of God. From a heartfelt story about Adam’s son asking, “Can patience exist without annoyance?” to exploring how Brother Lawrence found God in the chaos of a busy kitchen, the hosts discuss cultivating a constant awareness of God’s presence. They address modern distractions like smartphones and share practical ways to reclaim presence in daily life, drawing inspiration from Brother Lawrence’s disciplined yet joyful spirituality.Key Topics Covered:Adam’s son’s profound question: “Can patience exist without annoyance?”Brother Lawrence’s life as a lay brother and former soldier, finding God in mundane tasksThe importance of disciplined prayer to build a habit of God’s presenceOvercoming modern distractions like technology to stay present with God and othersPractical tips: Cultivating natural focus to enable supernatural awareness Action Item:Practice presence by setting aside your phone during family time or conversations. Start with disciplined prayer to build a habit of offering every moment to God, as Brother Lawrence did.Resources:The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence (ICS Publications: icspublications.org)Join a pilgrimage with Select International Tours: selectinternationaltours.com Keywords: Brother Lawrence, Practice of the Presence of God, Catholic spirituality, patience, spiritual discipline, overcoming distractions, presence with God, Catholic men’s faith, Christian living, technology and faith

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

Episode OverviewDavid and Adam welcome Father Mike Schmitz to discuss the transformative power of prayer. With humor and candor, they explore the difference between merely saying prayers and truly praying, addressing how to cultivate a prayer life that aligns with God’s will. Drawing from Saint John Chrysostom and Fr. Thomas Dubay, the conversation emphasizes the universal need for prayer, especially for laypeople navigating the challenges of daily life, and offers practical insights for moving from rote recitation to a deeper, relational encounter with God.Key Discussion PointsPrayer for All Vocations: Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges the assumption that monks have a deeper prayer life, citing Saint John Chrysostom’s teaching that laypeople need prayer and scripture more than monks due to the “arrows and spears” of daily life—annoying bosses, irritating spouses, and bothersome kids. This resonates as a call for everyone to prioritize prayer, regardless of their state in life.From Saying to Praying: The hosts and Fr. Mike discuss the transition from reciting set prayers to engaging in mental prayer (e.g., Ignatian prayer, Lectio Divina). Fr. Mike shares a personal story of a silent retreat where a memorized psalm provided words when his own failed, highlighting the value of rote prayers as a foundation for deeper communion.Distractions in Prayer: The conversation addresses the common struggle of distractions, distinguishing between intentional distractions (e.g., checking a phone during prayer) and natural ones that God may use to purify prayer. Adam emphasizes the beauty of “wasting time” with God in contemplative presence, akin to an old couple silently enjoying each other’s company, versus being distracted by external devices.Why Prayer Matters: Prayer is an act of faith, rooted in the belief that time spent with God transforms us into the person He calls us to be. Fr. Mike compares prayer’s motivation to health practices like intermittent fasting: if you’re convinced it makes a difference, you’ll commit. Prayer changes us to love like Jesus, even when we feel inadequate.Overcoming Apathy and Ignorance: Referencing a humorous anecdote about a coach and player discussing “ignorance and apathy,” Fr. Mike stresses that convincing someone to pray requires sparking a desire to become more like Christ. Without an encounter with Jesus (the kerygma), prayer may seem irrelevant to those who don’t yet care to grow in holiness.Practical Advice for Laymen: Fr. Thomas Dubay’s blunt wisdom—“If you’re content being a mediocre dad or mom, don’t pray”—underscores that prayer is essential for excellence in any vocation. Fr. Mike encourages introducing children to mental prayer early, as seen in his summer camp where sixth graders learn Lectio Divina and Ignatian prayer. Featured GiftCatholic Woodworker Rosary: Fr. Mike receives an heirloom-quality rosary from The Catholic Woodworker, featuring handcrafted wood beads built to last. The hosts highlight its durability, even with young children handling it, and promote the official Catholic Man Show rosary. Spiritual TakeawayPrayer is not just a checkbox but an act of faith that transforms us into the image of Christ. Whether through memorized prayers that anchor us when words fail or mental prayer that fosters intimate communion, the key is presence with God. Laypeople, facing daily trials, need prayer as much as—if not more than—monks. By committing to prayer, even amidst distractions, we grow in love and align with God’s will for our lives.Call to ActionGet a Catholic Woodworker Rosary: Visit catholicwoodworker.com to purchase an heirloom-quality rosary, including the official Catholic Man Show design, perfect for daily prayer.Practice Mental Prayer: Start with Lectio Divina or Ignatian prayer to deepen your prayer life. Set aside time daily, even if brief, to be present with God, trusting that it will transform you.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

Episode OverviewDavid and Adam share humorous anecdotes from their chaotic home lives—mice-catching kids, runaway cows, and pig feeder mishaps—before diving into a deep discussion on spiritual growth. Drawing from Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness, they explore five practical signs of progress in the spiritual life, offering insights for men seeking to deepen their relationship with God. The episode balances lighthearted banter with profound reflections on humility, perseverance, and living intentionally for Christ.Key Discussion PointsLife Updates:Adam recounts his son Leo’s antics, including catching mice and feeding them into traps, and opening a gate, letting a cow escape during relentless Oklahoma rain. He also shares the challenges of a kitchen remodel, leading to household disorder and a mouse infestation.David discusses his pigs knocking over their feeder, eating through plywood, and his frustration-driven rebuild with metal siding, highlighting the manual labor woes of farm life.Spiritual Focus: The hosts explore Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness (published by Cor Iesu Press), focusing on Chapter 1’s five signs of progress in the spiritual life. Faber, a 19th-century Oratorian and convert, offers timeless clarity on Catholic spirituality.Contradictions in the Spiritual Life: Faber notes the spiritual life is full of contradictions due to our fallen nature, particularly the tension between knowing ourselves deeply while thinking of ourselves humbly. David challenges the modern adage that humility is “thinking about yourself less,” arguing that true humility requires rightly ordered self-reflection. What Not to Do:Don’t Ask Your Spiritual Director for Progress Reports: Faber advises against seeking your spiritual director’s judgment on your progress, as it places unfair pressure on them and risks oversimplifying complex spiritual states.Avoid Arbitrary Benchmarks: Setting personal, artificial markers of progress can lead to disquietude, distracting from genuine growth and forfeiting graces. Five Signs of Spiritual Progress:Discontent with Your Present State: A desire to be holier, coupled with humility and gratitude for past graces, indicates progress. This discontent must avoid sloth (acedia) or unease with devotional practices.Constant Fresh Starts: Persevering through repeated failures by recommitting to holiness (e.g., overcoming a persistent sin like pornography) is a sign of growth, reflecting perseverance.Specific Goals in View: Actively pursuing a particular virtue, overcoming a specific fault, or adopting a penance shows intentionality, akin to a business plan for spiritual growth.Feeling God’s Particular Call: An “attraction” to a specific fault to correct or pious work to undertake, guided by the Holy Spirit, signals progress. Not all experience this, but it’s significant when present.General Desire for Perfection: A broad desire to be more perfect, if acted upon through prayer, penance, or zealous acts, is valuable but must be channeled into action to avoid spiritual stagnation. Practical Reflections:Adam shares his practice of writing down elements of a “good day” (waking early, praying, reading, working hard, family dinner, early bedtime) to replicate satisfying days, aligning with Faber’s call for specific goals.David reflects on overcoming obsessive thoughts by offering gratitude to God, transforming burdens into opportunities for grace, illustrating the power of fresh starts. Hot Takes:Faber’s claim that “we must not be without fear even of forgiven sin” sparks debate. David questions fearing forgiven sins, suggesting it doubts God’s mercy, while Adam interprets it as acknowledging lingering attachments or temporal consequences requiring atonement.Faber’s assertion that exact knowledge of our growth in grace is harmful is clarified as a caution against prideful self-assessment, emphasizing trust in God’s measurement over our own. Featured BeverageDuchess de Bourgogne (Regular and Cherry): A Flemish red ale from Brouwerij Verhaeghe in West Flanders, Belgium. The regular version offers a refreshing, slightly tart complexity, while the cherry variant is overly tart and less balanced. Priced at $25 for a four-pack, it’s a rare find but best sampled if you enjoy sour beers. Spiritual TakeawayThe spiritual life is not about mountaintop experiences or avoiding sin alone but pursuing a deeper relationship with Christ through intentional, humble efforts. Faber’s five signs encourage men to embrace discontent as a spur to holiness, persevere through fresh starts, set specific goals, respond to God’s unique call, and act on desires for perfection. By avoiding prideful self-measurement and trusting in God’s grace, we can grow in love and freedom.Call to ActionJoin the Pilgrimage: Sign up for The Catholic Man Show’s pilgrimage to Italy, visiting Rome, Assisi, and the incorrupt bodies of Carlo Acutis, Saint Clare, and Saint Francis. Limited spots remain (less than 10). Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details.Subscribe: Stay updated with The Catholic Man Show by subscribing on your preferred podcast platform and leaving a review to support the show.Read Growth in Holiness: Purchase Father Frederick Faber’s book from Cor Iesu Press to deepen your spiritual journey.Reflect: Write down what makes a “good day” for you, focusing on habits that foster spiritual and personal satisfaction, and strive to replicate them.

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

BBQ Judging, Scythe Harvesting, and Christian MarriageBarbecue Competition Judging: Adam shares his first experience as a barbecue competition judge at a local Catholic church and school fundraiser in Tulsa, where he was joined by his son Jude (assistant judge) and two priests.Judged four categories: chicken, pulled pork, ribs, and brisket (Adam insists brisket is the primary measure; David (wrongly) argues for ribs).12 pit masters competed; judged on appearance, taste, tenderness, texture, uniqueness, and overall (max score 25).Advice from Joe Martin’s son: Take one bite per entry to avoid overeating (48 bites total across 40 minutes).Adam judged strictly (e.g., scores as low as 14, zero for appearance), while priests gave higher scores (23–24), highlighting differing standards.Event fostered camaraderie among pit masters (12 hours together) and service to attendees, teaching kids sacrifice, friendship, and craft articulation.Shout-out to Brian Schooley for organizing; Adam and David plan to enter as The Catholic Man Show next year, with Jim in a dunk tank. Main DiscussionWheat Harvest with a ScytheDavid’s Experience: David harvested two 45x45-foot wheat plots using a scythe, finding it soothing, peaceful, and in tune with nature despite being exhausting.Quotes Wendell Berry: “The means we use to do our work almost certainly affects the way we look at the world” (via an X account, @minahan8).Compared to last year’s sickle (felt “commie”), the scythe was efficient for small-scale farming; not practical for large-scale but satisfying.Kids raked straw (post-harvest, nutritionless due to seeding) for pig bedding or garden mulch; straw vs. hay explained (hay retains nutrition).Adam plans to borrow David’s scythe for his own wheat harvest, nervous about back strain.Wendell Berry Reflection: Hosts revisit Berry’s essays, appreciating his beautiful, idealistic conclusions but finding his reasoning insufficient (e.g., abandoning tractors would starve people).Compare Berry’s idealism to J.R.R. Tolkien and Guardini's Letters at Lake Como; both depict lovely worlds but lack practical solutions for modern challenges. Christian Marriage and Pope Leo XIIIIntroduction to Pope Leo XIII: Adam introduces Pope Leo XIII (1810–1903), a prophetic figure who addressed modernity’s challenges (secularism, communism, liberalism) in the late 19th century.Known for Rerum Novarum (1891, Catholic social teaching), reviving Thomism in seminaries (to counter Nietzsche, Hegel, and communism), and engaging modern society.His encyclical Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae (1880) emphasizes Christian marriage as a divine, not secular, institution, foundational to society.Critiqued rise of divorce, moral relativism, and civil interference undermining marriage’s sanctity; argued church, not state, holds primary authority over marriage.Marriage as Trinitarian Image: Marriage mirrors the Trinity’s relational society, where spousal love is so real it produces a third (child), reflecting Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Secular view (Enlightenment-era and today) reduces marriage to a consensual contract, ignoring its sacramental, stable, and permanent nature.State has a role in regulating marriage per natural law, but church’s supernatural authority supersedes. Ephesians 5 and Mutual SubmissionScriptural Basis: Leo XIII references Ephesians 5 (footnoted), where St. Paul instructs mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, with specific roles: wives submit to husbands, husbands love wives as Christ loved the church.Secular society fixates on “wives submit,” ignoring mutual submission and husbands’ sacrificial love.Submission Defined: Adam posits submission stems from extreme trust (in a good relationship) or fear (in a bad one); David nuances that even small decisions involve trust or fear, and submission means aligning with another’s mission (e.g., heaven).Ideal marriage: Both spouses are so submissive they forget themselves, sharing one mission (heaven), as exemplified by Mary and Joseph (near-perfect).Practical Mission: Couples must articulate what “getting to heaven” means (e.g., prioritizing Mass over sports, family dinners, or vacation choices).Early marriage decisions set family identity, reducing conflicts when children’s desires arise; trust builds when both spouses prioritize each other’s salvation.Example: Blessed Karl of Austria to Zita: “Now we must get to heaven together,” requiring intentional, sometimes extreme steps. Break 1: Pilgrimage SponsorSelect International Tours: Leading pilgrimages for 34 years with top guides and hotels. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details. Second Segment: Roles in Christian MarriageHusband as Leader: Husband is head of the household (per Genesis), leading with love, not dominance, kneeling beside his wife in prayer.David prays daily for the Holy Spirit to inspire Pamela’s intuition, valuing her as a “helper” (biblical term for Holy Spirit), taking her insights seriously for family decisions.Adam prays during Adoration for Haylee to grow closer to Mary, modeling humility and femininity.Leadership Analogy: Like business, where employees leave due to poor leaders, not the mission, wives stay committed if husbands lead with love toward heaven.Neglecting presence or duties undermines the mission, making separation easier despite shared goals.Formation: Husbands must prioritize prayer, Holy Spirit inspiration, and faith learning to pass tradition to children, adapting as family life grows louder and more complex. Family Prayer ChallengesDavid’s Routine: Observes “great silence” mornings to foster prayer and silence as a virtue, though young kids (e.g., 2-year-old Susanna) need reminders.Older siblings model behavior, reinforcing communal prayer (before/after meals, morning, bedtime).Adam’s Struggle: Excels at communal prayer but struggles to safeguard individual prayer time for Haylee (10 minutes of silent contemplation); sees it as his role to protect her prayer, and vice versa.Homeschooling complicates silence (starts at 6 AM when kids sleep); mutual submission includes guarding each other’s prayer time.Husband’s Role: Create space for wives to flourish in femininity, free from burdens men ideally handle, requiring intentionality. Break 2: Return to DiscussionSacramental Calling: Marriage is a sacramental vocation for salvation, under church authority (Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae); natural institution (state-regulated) but primarily supernatural (church-governed).Polygamy isn’t against natural law, but church elevates monogamy as supernatural ideal.Instilling Marriage’s Importance in Children: In a secular world of promiscuity and dating apps, parents must:Model Complementarity: Display masculine men and feminine women (e.g., dresses enhance femininity, not mandatory) to show distinct, complementary roles.Shield from Technology: Delay exposure to apps like Tinder, which allure with shallow choice over marriage’s depth.Promote Virtue: Teach what to do (virtue) over what not to do, fostering human flourishing, not legalism.Measure Virtue: Name virtues (e.g., generosity, kindness) to give them value, like business metrics or Snapchat streaks, making them family goals.Set Mission: Reinforce family mission (heaven) through consistent leadership, building trust in parents’ heavenly intent. Podcast-Exclusive Segment: Encyclicals and LegacyLeo XIII’s Legacy: Oldest pope at death (93), first recorded/photographed; addressed Freemasonry (1880s, less relevant today).Recommended reading: The Church Speaks to the Modern World (Doubleday, Image Books) compiles Leo XIII’s social teachings, available on abooks.com.Suggests great book groups intersperse encyclicals (e.g., Rerum Novarum, Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae) with classics for rich discussion.Patreon Support: Offers audiobooks of five Leo XIII encyclicals, professionally recorded by humans (pre-AI), at catholicmanshow.com.Father’s Goal: Reflect the Father’s love, giving children a glimpse of divine love through husbandly and fatherly sacrifice, despite failures. Closing ThoughtsTakeaway: Christian marriage, as Leo XIII taught, is a sacramental foundation of society, requiring mutual submission, trust, and a shared mission to heaven, modeled through virtuous leadership and complementarity.Encyclical Recommendation: Read Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae (1880) for a primer on Christian marriage’s divine role.Final Cheers: “We’re on the Lord’s team, the winning side. Raise your glass! Cheers to Jesus!” Action Items for ListenersRead Encyclicals: Explore Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae (1880) and Rerum Novarum (1891) for Leo XIII’s insights on marriage and society.Model...

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

Tornado Watches, Snakes, and the Holy SpiritTornado Watch Context: Hosts record during a tornado watch in Tulsa, Oklahoma, joking about their indifference to watches (less severe than warnings) and the confusing terminology.David humorously claims to become a "seasoned meteorologist" each spring, sensing storms "in his bones" and using terms like "hook echo".Brief tangent on Ralph Nader, who ran for president (circa 2000, Bush vs. Gore) and claimed never to have eaten McDonald’s, deemed unbelievable at the time due to McDonald’s ubiquity and lack of stigma. Main DiscussionMinihan Household AdventuresPossum Incident: While Adam was away, his wife Haylee killed a possum in their chicken coop with a .44 Magnum (jokingly exaggerated), impressing Adam via text.Snake in the House: Upon returning from a trip, Adam’s family found a large snake (not a rat snake, possibly a king snake) in their home.A child’s blood-curdling scream alerted Haylee; Adam initially deferred to her but helped after learning of the snake.Snake was fast, striking, and required corralling kids into a closet for safety; Adam trapped it using a box and cardboard, later regretting not feeding it to their seven roosters.Diocesan Rat Snake Story: Adam recalls handling a 5+ foot rat snake at the Diocese of Tulsa early in his job, earning awe from coworkers and a social media post. Nashville Recording MishapsForgotten Suit Pants: At a black-tie event in Nashville with Fr. Mike Schmitz, Matt Walsh, Michael Knowles, and Harrison Butker, David forgot his patterned suit pants, non-replaceable due to the unique design.Father-in-law Dan O’Brien and Jim Spencer overnighted them via UPS, arriving 45 minutes before recording.Equipment Failure: Their recording case’s main power supply cord was severed in transit, requiring significant pivoting.David predicted the need to “pivot” before the trip, likening their adaptability to NBA players; the weekend involved constant problem-solving but was ultimately fun. Catholic Radio Station LaunchMcAlester Station: David and Adam helped launch 90.9 FM in McAlester, Oklahoma, a full-power Catholic radio station built on a shoestring budget.Located on parish grounds (no studio costs, using existing internet/power), it reaches McAlester’s community, including three correctional facilities (e.g., “Big Mac” maximum security prison).Launched on the Feast of the Ascension (moved to Sunday in Tulsa’s mission diocese), aligning with the Great Commission to evangelize.Aims to evangelize incarcerated individuals without the red tape of prison ministry; David gave a speech post-Mass, nearly upstaged by Adam’s readiness to intervene.Prayer request for the station’s success. Eucharistic Procession in TulsaNational Eucharistic Procession Stop: Tulsa hosted a stop in the nationwide procession, attended by 500–800 people (David’s estimate).Counter-evangelists (not protesters) with megaphones followed the procession, slandering the Church; persistent but civil, they lacked goodwill due to rudeness.Police (not necessarily Catholic) found them annoying; hosts advise listeners to prepare for similar disruptions at other stops.Defense of Faith Question: David ponders if modern Christians are too pacifist compared to Crusade-era defense of faith, citing G.K. Chesterton’s The Ball and the Cross (an atheist’s slander of Mary prompts a Catholic to challenge him to a duel).Asks Adam if the pendulum has swung too far from defending honor; discussion deferred to post-break. Break 1: Pilgrimage SponsorSelect International Tours: Leading pilgrimages for 34 years with top guides and hotels. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details. Second Segment: Defense of Faith and Holy Spirit IntroductionDefense of Faith (Continued):Adam rejects pacifism as un-Christian but also opposes militancy (e.g., raiding abortion clinics); struggles with nuance of defending honor, especially for Our Lady vs. personal family.Honor culture’s decline reduces cultural awareness of slander’s gravity; suggests a “shortsword” or “backhand glove” metaphorically, emphasizing prudence and charity in response.No clear answer but encourages pondering the balance between passivity and aggression.Holy Spirit Topic Introduction: With Pentecost approaching, David aims to explore the Holy Spirit’s role, often the least discussed Trinity person, using the Catechism.St. Paul: Can’t say “Jesus is Lord” without the Holy Spirit; knowledge of the Father and Son depends on the Spirit.Catechism (quoting St. Gregory of Nazianzus): Trinity’s revelation progresses—Old Testament reveals Father, New Testament reveals Son, and now the Spirit dwells among us for clearer vision.Holy Spirit as “CEO,” executing divine action, though all Trinity persons act together (avoids heresy with disclaimer). Question on Divine RevelationAdam notes God’s slow self-revelation (Father in Old Testament, Son over 30 years, Spirit post-Ascension) mirrors Jesus’ gradual revelation, suggesting a model for manhood.Contrasts with modern “microwave culture” and social media’s demand for instant openness (e.g., sharing deepest secrets), lacking decorum and dignity.David agrees: Over-sharing is “ennoble”; small, face-to-face communities historically allowed meaningful relationships without forced exposure. Break 2: Return to DiscussionDivine Hiddenness (Continued):God’s slow revelation was for humanity’s readiness; social media fosters a consumer mentality where people “consume” others’ lives without true relationship.Example: Atheist Bible scholars know Jesus’ life but lack relationship, unlike personal encounters built over time.Holy Spirit’s Role: Through sacraments (e.g., Baptism, Confirmation), the Spirit subtly leads us to the Son, then the Father, reversing the Trinity’s condescension.Catechism: Holy Spirit is the “oil” anointing the Son, encountered first in meeting Christ; a free gift requiring only acceptance.Paragraph 1699: “Life in the Holy Spirit fulfills the vocation of man,” often taken for granted. Break 3: Confession StoryDavid’s Confession Experience: At the 2025 Oklahoma Catholic Men’s Conference, David confessed to a Lebanese priest he initially judged (due to communication concerns).Priest’s directness (“This is very bad. You cannot do this”) was refreshing, avoiding excuses; best confession due to tough love.Penance: Say “Come, Holy Spirit” 12 times throughout the day, not consecutively.Impact: Noticing the Spirit’s quick response in daily moments led David to habitually invoke the Spirit, enhancing awareness. Podcast-Exclusive Segment: Fruits of the Holy SpiritCharismatic Movement Hesitation:Adam admits invoking the Holy Spirit transactionally (in tough situations) rather than relationally, due to mystery and past experiences.Poor catechesis in the charismatic movement (1960s–1990s), influenced by Protestant culture (e.g., TV preachers), caused confusion; practices like “re-baptism in the Spirit” raise red flags.Mother Angelica’s experience: Allowed charismatic prayers but later distanced herself, reflecting nuanced concerns.Adam recognizes intellectual error in dismissing the Spirit (“throwing baby out with bathwater”) but struggles emotionally due to cultural baggage.Fruits of the Holy Spirit: David shifts to Catechism’s teaching that the moral life is sustained by the Spirit’s gifts (unearned, permanent dispositions for docility).Fruits (from children’s song): Charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, chastity.Encourages simple invocations like “Come, Holy Spirit” or the Jesus Prayer to acknowledge the Spirit’s constant work.Praying in the Spirit: David references Fr. Mike Schmitz’s mention of “praying in the Spirit” (from Nashville interview), unsure of its meaning vs. regular prayer.Cites biblical examples (e.g., Simeon/Anna “in the Spirit” at the Presentation); hopes to clarify with Fr. Mike later. Closing ThoughtsTakeaway: Increase awareness of the Holy Spirit through simple prayers (“Come, Holy Spirit”) to fulfill man’s vocation and sustain moral life.Catechism Recommendation: Read paragraphs 683–780 for insights into the Holy Spirit’s names and symbols. Action Items for ListenersInvoke the Holy Spirit: Say “Come, Holy Spirit” in daily moments to increase awareness and docility.Read Catechism: Explore paragraphs 683–780 on the Holy Spirit’s role, names, and symbols.Pray Simply: Use short prayers like the Jesus Prayer or “Come, Holy Spirit” for instant connection.Reflect on Honor: Ponder the balance of defending faith with prudence and charity in modern contexts.Support McAlester Station: Pray for 90.9 FM’s success in evangelizing McAlester and its correctional...

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

Family Adventures, Cattle Auctions, and Catholic Entrepreneurship with Karl GrahamIntroduction: David and Adam welcome listeners to the 9th anniversary episode of The Catholic Man Show, started in 2016 as a Catholic radio show before becoming a podcast.Drink Announcement: Celebrating with Old Rip Van Winkle 10-Year Bourbon, a gift from friend Blake Burger for their 100th episode, sourced again for this milestone. Main DiscussionFamily Adventures at the Wanamaker Gun ShowAdam shares his family outing to the Wanenmacher Gun Show in Oklahoma, one of the largest in the U.S., with ~10,000-15,000 attendees.First weekend home in weeks; decided to spend time with family despite cold, rainy weather.Spent 3 hours exploring ~40% of the massive expo (quarter-mile long).All kids (except 2-year-old John) got pocket knives; Anna (Adam’s daughter) showed hers off at Mass.Only one Band-Aid needed (Anna’s finger), considered a "miracle" for 4 pocket knives. Cattle Auction ExperienceAdam recounts taking his 6-year-old son, Leo, to a cattle auction in Checotah, Oklahoma (hometown of Carrie Underwood).First-time experience; fast-paced, intimidating environment with bids decided in 5-10 seconds.Auctioneers provide rapid info (weight, heifer/steer, vaccination status) while cows move in and out.David bought two heifers and accidentally bid on a bull, later corrected to a steer with help from friend Jimmy Ritchie.Leo loved the action-packed atmosphere, unaware they’d bought cows until Adam explained.Cows are alive, thriving, and haven’t escaped fences yet. Farm Life and Pig ProcessingDavid awaits delivery of half a pig (named Chocolate Chip) from friend Juan Posadas, processed by Brandon Sheerd.Juan sold piglets from David’s heifer; funny story of Juan transporting pigs to a baptism at Christ the King in summer heat.Excitement for natural bacon cured with salt, free of commercial feed chemicals that affect fat flavor. Guest Introduction: Karl GrahamKarl, a longtime friend from the Diocese of Tulsa, joins to discuss his journey as a geologist, family man, and Catholic entrepreneur.Background: Grew up in Tulsa, studied geology in Colorado, returned in 2010, moved to San Antonio (2014), Houston, and back to Tulsa (2017).Married to Lindsey (nurse); father of six, including twins born in San Antonio.Professional path: Oil and gas industry (10+ years), MBA from University of Chicago, transitioned to entrepreneurship. Break 1: Pilgrimage SponsorSelect International Tours: For 34 years, leading pilgrimages worldwide with top guides and hotels. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details. Second Segment: Karl’s Professional JourneyGeology Career: Started in oil and gas in Tulsa post-undergrad, worked for a global company with offices in Perth, Cairo, Houston, etc.Moved to San Antonio for a “skunk works” project; loved the ordinariate parish (Our Lady of the Atonement).Realized geology wasn’t enough; aimed to become a business executive.MBA Experience: Attended University of Chicago while working full-time, traveling every other weekend.Moved from San Antonio to Houston during school; had twins and fourth child; graduated with five kids after moving back to Tulsa.Industry contracted during this time, closing offices he’d hoped to work in (e.g., Cairo, Perth).Wake-Up Call: Realized corporate life diverged from family goals; noticed family members thrived as entrepreneurs in smaller communities.Left corporate job in Houston (despite stability) to join a small oil and gas startup in Tulsa with colleague Chris (now business partner).Risky move: Lower salary, invested personal savings, rented home after multiple moves. Break 2: Exodus 90 SponsorExodus 90: A 90-day journey to freedom in Christ for men. Download the app to join thousands worldwide. Third Segment: Entrepreneurship and RiskOil and Gas Startup: Joined a 20-person company (down from 3,000 in corporate role).Wore multiple hats, executed own ideas, gained confidence despite moderate success.2020 Challenges: COVID and negative oil prices (-$28/barrel) led to triage mode, layoffs (30 to 11 employees), and weekly vendor payment decisions.New Venture: Co-founded Luminess Capital (real estate investment firm) with Chris, focusing on self-storage facilities.Simpler than oil exploration; clear risks and opportunities.Grew to 16 employees across four continents (U.S., Philippines, Zimbabwe, Panama, El Salvador, Mexico).Rewarding to offer global team flexible work (e.g., no long commutes); 100% Catholic employees initially (unplanned, due to hiring in Philippines).Entrepreneurial Mindset: Bet on skills, create opportunities for others, provide meaningful Christian work environments. Break 3: Return to DiscussionParish Involvement: Karl emphasizes using professional skills to serve the local parish, not as a factory but as stewards of resources (money, buildings, beauty).Example: Volunteering on finance and school councils, proposing longer meetings (1 to 1.5 hours) to solve complex problems.Encourages men to offer expertise (e.g., landscaping, maintenance) to save funds for higher-impact uses (e.g., Catholic education). Podcast-Exclusive Segment: Evangelization and MagnanimityPrestige and Humility: Pursuing professional excellence builds a platform for evangelization.Example: JD Vance’s Catholic faith enhances his credibility as a statesman, inspiring others.Opus Dei examination of conscience: Are you using professional prestige to spread faith?Stereotype of poor Christians (e.g., Franciscans) shouldn’t deter success; wealth is a talent to steward, not squander.Entrepreneurship Benefits: Creates jobs, fosters Christian work environments, offers opportunities (e.g., Good Friday off for Filipino employees).Parish Engagement Challenges: Men’s clubs often feel like “another meeting”; Karl’s Knights of Columbus experience in San Antonio (casino trip focus) was uninspiring.Solution: Social organizations should prioritize relationships (like Jesus’ three years with disciples), not formalities.Example: Invite neighbors to casual parish events (e.g., BBQs) to share life, not just preach.Stewardship Mindset: Treat parish resources (and personal gifts like homes, bodies) as God’s, fostering buy-in.Example: Men landscaping parish grounds saves money for education and builds community stake (like past generations who built parishes).Wichita’s model: Active parishioners get tuition discounts for volunteering time, creating a culture of giving.Faith and Work: Kids didn’t shift Karl’s work focus initially (already driven), but now with six kids, he values flexibility to volunteer at school/parish.Prayer to St. Joseph warns against “vain complacency in success”; Catholics should strive for constant excellence to reflect faith.If Catholics excelled maximally, employers would seek them out. Closing ThoughtsEncouragement for Men: Don’t shy away from parish involvement; offer specific skills (e.g., “12 guys to solve a problem”) without needing formal workdays.Example: Karl’s parish has 90+ RCIA candidates; needs space solutions.Story: RCIA candidate Curtis saw friend Anthony’s Catholic conversion change him, sparking his own journey.Magnanimity: Use God-given talents for greatness in secular and church life to build the Kingdom.Final Cheers: “We’re on the Lord’s team, the winning side. Raise your glass! Cheers to Jesus!” Action Items for ListenersParish Involvement: Reach out to your pastor with a specific offer (e.g., “I’ll get 10 guys to landscape the grounds”).Stewardship: Reflect on how you can use professional skills to serve your parish (e.g., finance, maintenance, education).Evangelization: Build relationships through social parish events to share your faith naturally.Magnanimity: Pursue excellence in your career to reflect Christ and expand your influence for the Kingdom. Additional Notes9th Anniversary Context: Show started when podcasts were niche; now over 500 episodes, outlasting most (average podcast stops after 3-5 episodes).Old Rip Van Winkle: Exceptional bourbon; no alcohol burn, flavorful kick, lingers pleasantly. Shared generously per “festivity” philosophy (per Pieper).Luminous Capital: Karl’s real estate firm grew from a self-storage thesis to a global team, emphasizing a Christian work culture.Catholic Education: Reference to Bishop Connolly’s pastoral letter on stewardship in Catholic schools (e.g., Wichita’s model).

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Episode OverviewJoin hosts David Niles and Adam Minahan on The Catholic Man Show as they welcome Dr. Kent Lasnoski, a theology professor and key figure in founding San Damiano College for the Trades. In this lively episode, recorded with David’s godson Luke present for the first time, the trio explores the dignity of work, the role of masculinity in Catholic life, and the interplay of work, leisure, and virtue. From ultimate Frisbee to speculative theology about the Garden of Eden, this episode blends humor, faith, and deep insights into living as a Catholic man.Key Themes and DiscussionsMasculinity and Feats of Strength: The episode kicks off with a lighthearted recount of an impromptu ultimate Frisbee game, sparking a discussion on how friendly competitions—like stone-throwing or wiffle ball derbies—foster community and allow men to embrace their God-given strength. Dr. Lasnoski highlights how such activities echo the heroic spirit of figures like King David, who boasted of slaying bears and lions.The Dignity of Work: Drawing from Genesis and Pope St. John Paul II’s Laborem Exercens, Dr. Lasnoski explains work as a fundamental human vocation to imitate God’s creative act. Work involves earning daily bread, extending dominion over creation, and elevating culture toward God. The subjective element—who performs the work—gives it value, distinguishing human labor from robotic tasks.Work Before and After the Fall: The hosts dive into speculative theology, debating whether work existed before the Fall. Dr. Lasnoski argues that Adam’s role to “tend and till” the Garden was work, but without the toil introduced by sin. Post-Fall, work became punitive due to man’s interior disorder, yet it retains a redemptive quality through participation in Christ’s restoration of creation.Home as a Place of Production: Dr. Lasnoski challenges the modern view of the home as merely a place of consumption (e.g., entertainment, food). Historically, homes were productive spaces where men and women collaborated in family economies. He encourages Catholics to see the home as a domestic church, fostering virtue and fruitfulness in alignment with God’s plan.Work, Leisure, and Contemplation: Referencing Josef Pieper, the discussion distinguishes work (done for extrinsic goods) from leisure (done for its own sake, touching the foundation of reality). Leisure prepares the soul for contemplation and union with God, while a consumerist mindset can hinder true rest. The hosts also explore whether prayer or routine tasks like tying shoes qualify as work.Men’s and Women’s Roles in Work: Dr. Lasnoski reflects on the complementary roles of men and women in work, rooted in their biological and spiritual natures. Women’s work often involves nurturing and making a home, while men’s work is more extroverted, pouring themselves out to make creation fruitful, as seen in Genesis and John Paul II’s Theology of the Body.Retirement and Multigenerational Living: The modern concept of retirement—focused on leisure without purpose—can lead to a loss of meaning. Dr. Lasnoski advocates for a retirement that continues giving oneself through service, like volunteering or mentoring. He also champions multigenerational households as a gift, fulfilling the biblical call to honor parents and enrich family life.San Damiano College for the Trades: Dr. Lasnoski shares the mission of San Damiano College, a three-year program integrating trade skills, a Great Books education, and spiritual formation. Students graduate debt-free by working through the program, learning to live as virtuous men who rebuild the Church through skilled labor and faith. Featured GuestDr. Kent Lasnoski: Theology professor, author of Vocation to Virtue and Thirty Days with Married Saints, and a founding member of San Damiano College for the Trades in Springfield, Illinois. His work focuses on integrating faith, work, and family life for Catholic men and women. Action Items for ListenersEmbrace Masculine Community: Organize or participate in friendly competitions (e.g., sports, feats of strength) to build fraternity and celebrate God-given masculinity.Reclaim the Home as Productive: Reflect on how your home can be a place of virtue and productivity, not just consumption. Consider small acts like gardening or teaching skills to family members.Integrate Work and Faith: Evaluate how your daily work—whether physical or intellectual—can be a gift of self, imitating God’s creative love. Offer your tasks to God in prayer.Support Catholic Education: Explore San Damiano College for the Trades at sandamianotrades.org. Consider donating to support its mission or encouraging young men to apply. Notable Quotes“Work is anything that man does to earn his daily bread, to extend the dominion of man over creation in imitation of God the father, and to elevate culture up to a higher contemplation of the good.” – Dr. Kent Lasnoski, citing Laborem Exercens“The home isn’t something I have to run from to be productive… it can be part of my vocation to imitate God, the loving and wise father.” – Dr. Kent Lasnoski“We’re here to be burdens for each other to get to heaven.” – Dr. Kent Lasnoski on multigenerational living Resources MentionedVocation to Virtue by Dr. Kent Lasnoski: A deep dive into the theology of marriage and virtue.Thirty Days with Married Saints by Dr. Kent and Camille Lasnoski: A devotional for couples to grow in faith and intimacy.San Damiano College for the Trades: Learn about the program or donate to support Catholic trade education.Laborem Exercens by Pope St. John Paul II: Encyclical on the dignity and spirituality of work.Leisure: The Basis of Culture by Josef Pieper: Explores the distinction between work and leisure. Call to ActionSubscribe to The Catholic Man Show on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to support the show.Visit sandamianotrades.org to learn more about Dr. Lasnoski’s work or to donate to San Damiano College.Check out selectinternationaltours.com for Catholic pilgrimages to deepen your faith.Join the conversation on social media using #CatholicManShow and share how you integrate work and faith in your life. Episode HighlightsWhiskey Tasting: The hosts enjoy a barrel-proof Highland Scotch from Loch Lomond Distillery, courtesy of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, noted for its honey, berry, and heather notes without peat.Firsts on the Show: David’s godson Luke joins for the first time, and the hosts celebrate two firsts, including Dr. Lasnoski debunking David’s speculative theology about the Garden of Eden.Speculative Theology: A playful debate on whether Adam commanded trees to bear fruit before the Fall, with Dr. Lasnoski emphasizing the interior harmony of pre-Fall work. Closing ToastRaise your glass to living as Catholic men who embrace the dignity of work, build virtuous homes, and strive for union with God. Cheers to Dr. Kent Lasnoski and San Damiano College for inspiring the next generation of Catholic tradesmen!Support the ShowFollow The Catholic Man Show on thecatholicmanshow.com or your preferred podcast platform.Connect with Dr. Lasnoski and support San Damiano College at sandamianotrades.org.

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025