

Godsplaining
Dominican Friars Province of St. Joseph
Welcome to Godsplaining: a podcast featuring contemplative preachers and their contemporary age. Considering topics philosophical, theological, cultural, and beyond, Godsplaining presents ideas from the Church’s tradition and brings them to bear on our lives’ most urgent questions. Each week, join the Dominican friars as they muse on all things Catholic.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 26, 2024 • 34min
How Does Temptation Work?
Dive into the fascinating exploration of temptation and its various forms. Discover the intricate distinction between temptation and sin through personal stories. Learn how seasonal changes reflect our internal struggles and the importance of self-awareness in navigating temptations. The discussion highlights the transformative power of baptism and the sacraments, illustrating their role in resisting temptation. Join a community of support, prayer, and humble reflection on this vital aspect of the spiritual journey.

Sep 19, 2024 • 30min
The "Virtue" of Tolerance
Is tolerance truly a virtue? The hosts share humorous anecdotes highlighting interpersonal challenges, like a memorable airplane encounter. They navigate the complexities of modern tolerance, questioning its true value and motivations. With witty reflections, they explore how personality impacts social interactions. Deeper discussions reveal the tension between superficial acceptance and genuine mercy, emphasizing the importance of faith in fostering understanding and personal growth in relationships.

Sep 16, 2024 • 32min
Guestsplaining: Mary Margaret Olohan on Documenting De-Transitioners
Mary Margaret Olohan, an author dedicated to documenting de-transitioners' experiences, dives into the complex issues surrounding gender ideology. She shares powerful stories from her book, highlighting the often-ignored narratives of those who've stepped back from transitioning. Discussions include the profound implications of gender-affirming care on vulnerable individuals, the emotional challenges faced, and how the Catholic community can offer vital support and compassion for those navigating these difficult paths. Explore these critical conversations, rooted in empathy and understanding.

Sep 12, 2024 • 29min
What Marx Got Right
Fr. Patrick and Fr. Bonaventure, two insightful priests, delve into the intriguing connections between Marxism and Catholicism. They explore how Marx's philosophy aligns with Pope John Paul II's teachings on work, human flourishing, and the transformative power of labor. The conversation highlights the impact of economic structures on family life and re-evaluates the meaning of work in today's society. With personal anecdotes and a deep dive into Marxist language in modern culture, this discussion challenges listeners to reflect on these complex themes.

Sep 5, 2024 • 28min
Is It Okay to Doubt?
Doubt is a natural part of faith, and this discussion tackles its complexities. The hosts examine how questioning can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. They emphasize that true obedience stems from love and trust. Delving into biblical examples like 'doubting Thomas,' they highlight how skepticism can strengthen belief. Practical tips for overcoming doubt, including prayer and support, encourage listeners to embrace their spiritual journeys with resilience.

Sep 2, 2024 • 33min
Guestsplaining: Sean Bryan on Evangelization as the Papal Ninja
Sean Bryan, the Papal Ninja, shares his unique journey blending faith and fitness as a competitor on American Ninja Warrior. He discusses how the discipline of training reflects spiritual growth and the transformative power of community support. Sean emphasizes the importance of authentic witness in evangelization and how individual holiness fosters courageous faith-sharing. The conversation also highlights building inclusive communities and the impact of small groups in church life, all while encouraging viewers to embrace their unique gifts in daily living.

Aug 29, 2024 • 28min
Lewis, Tolkien, and Allegory
In this engaging discussion, C.S. Lewis, renowned for his Christian-themed fantasy, and J.R.R. Tolkien, the creator of Middle-earth, dive into the realm of allegory in literature. They explore how their distinctive writing styles reflect their theological perspectives. Lewis’s 'Chronicles of Narnia' is examined through medieval cosmology, while Tolkien's intricate world-building is compared to Lewis's allegorical narratives. Their contrasting views on creativity, shaped by their backgrounds, reveal how each author’s work can lead readers towards deeper truths.

Aug 22, 2024 • 35min
Podcasting About Podcasting
Join the friars for a lively chat about the podcasting landscape! They humorously debate their own podcast's merits while comparing it to others they admire. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as they discuss the emotional ties listeners have with podcasts. They explore the balance of entertainment and education and celebrate the sense of community within the podcasting world. With tales of sushi and language learning, this discussion reveals how varied and enriching the medium can be.

Aug 19, 2024 • 34min
Guestsplaining: Erika Bachiochi on Catholic Feminism
Erika Bachiochi, a legal scholar and feminist theorist, shares her insights on Catholic feminism and the evolving role of women. She discusses the importance of reimagining women's rights through a historical lens, advocating for a nuanced understanding of gender roles. Topics include the complexities of marital headship, emphasizing mutual respect, and the concept of complementarity in relationships. Erika also highlights the societal challenges women face today and the significance of faith and love in overcoming these obstacles.

Aug 15, 2024 • 35min
Against Young Adult Ministry?
Dive into a lively discussion on the evolving language of positivity and the joys of community events. With humorous anecdotes from a horse race, the speakers emphasize the significance of building relationships in young adult ministry. They advocate for incorporating diverse age groups to combat isolation and enhance spiritual life. Explore strategies for breaking anonymity in congregations and fostering connections that thrive beyond singles events, paving the way for inclusivity and growth.