Godsplaining
Dominican Friars Province of St. Joseph
Welcome to Godsplaining: Each week Dominican friars tackle the questions that keep you up at night—faith, doubt, culture, philosophy, theology, and real life. Expect clear Catholic answers, big ideas, and conversations that spark “aha” moments without (too much) jargon. Whether you’re a cradle Catholic who loves Thomas Aquinas or just curious, pull up a chair and think deeper with us. New episodes every Thursday—subscribe now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 31min
Luce the Catholic Mascot
Discover the intriguing world of Luce, the controversial Catholic anime mascot, and her impact on modern spirituality. Explore the connection between childhood nostalgia, popular culture, and faith, as the hosts discuss how Luce represents tradition amidst contemporary challenges. Delve into the role of celebrity endorsements in shaping prayer habits and discover how the Church strives to engage younger audiences. This conversation sparkles with humor, addressing the complexities of identity, community, and the balance between authenticity and tradition.
Jan 6, 2025 • 34min
Guestsplaining: Katy Carl on Catholic Literature
Katy Carl, an author and editor with Word on Fire Publishing, dives deep into the role of Catholic literature in shaping faith and community values. She emphasizes the importance of physical books and how literature can enhance our morals through active receptivity. The conversation also highlights the need to revive Catholic classics, discussing their impact on American culture and navigating modern society. Katy touches on the complex nature of literature, citing Dostoevsky's works as essential for enriching our understanding of human experience.
12 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 29min
The Jubilee Year
Explore the concept of Jubilee Year, a sacred time for mercy and forgiveness. Discover what makes a genuine pilgrimage versus mere spiritual tourism, delving into personal journeys and deep traditions. Learn about plenary indulgences and how 2025's upcoming jubilee will foster hope and renewal. The speakers discuss contemporary challenges and the importance of maintaining hope amid chaos, inviting listeners to embrace community and forgiveness during this transformative spiritual period.
Dec 30, 2024 • 35min
Guestsplaining: Andrew Whitmore on Moral Theology
Andrew Whitmore, an Associate Professor of Theology and author of 'Saintly Habits,' dives into the intricacies of moral theology. He emphasizes the role of reason in understanding virtue and the synergy between grace and human effort. The conversation highlights practical wisdom for everyday application of virtue, using engaging analogies to demonstrate moral complexities. Whitmore also discusses challenges in teaching virtue ethics, advocating for a hands-on approach to foster genuine moral growth among younger audiences.
6 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 29min
Mystics and Mysticism
Dive into the intriguing world of mystics with captivating insights on figures like St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Catherine of Siena. The hosts share personal reflections on the impact of spiritual classics and the transformative nature of mysticism in everyday life. They emphasize the significance of a personal relationship with God through contemplative prayer, and explore how mysticism enriches the Christian journey. With recommended readings and a call for audience engagement, this conversation invites listeners to reflect deeply on their spiritual paths.
6 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 1h 7min
Guestsplaining: Shayne Smith and Exploring Humor
Join comedian Shayne Smith, known for his insightful and humorous takes on faith, as he dives into the intersection of comedy and authenticity. He shares his conversion journey while exploring the power of humor in storytelling, discussing its role in coping with life's challenges. The conversation touches on the balance comedians face between authenticity and performance, and how personal anecdotes intertwine with deep reflections on mercy and meaning. Plus, he hilariously navigates the quirks of life from mustache maintenance to angelic hierarchies.
Dec 21, 2024 • 28min
Lectio: Fourth Sunday of Advent
The discussion starts off with birthday desserts, sparking a light-hearted debate on favorite cakes and nostalgic treats. They cleverly connect the unassuming Bethlehem to profound themes of humility and sacrifice. A lively reflection on Mary and Elizabeth underscores the importance of love and community in faith. The show wraps up with calls for participation in an upcoming young adult retreat, inviting listeners to deepen their spiritual journey together.
Dec 19, 2024 • 34min
What Devotions Should I Do?
Dive into the fascinating world of Catholic devotions as hosts explore their significance and how they differ from liturgical prayers. Discover tips on selecting a personal devotion that resonates with your spiritual journey, and the importance of flexibility as your life changes. The discussion embraces the richness of tradition while encouraging dialogue about diverse practices in faith. You'll also find a mix of humor and insight that makes the serious themes of spirituality relatable and engaging!
Dec 16, 2024 • 36min
Guestsplaining: Johannes Hartl on Humanity & Beauty
Johannes Hartl, a prominent German philosopher and theologian, discusses the intersection of beauty, humanity, and evangelization. He explores how modern society's obsession with environmental issues can overshadow the essence of what it means to be human. The conversation shifts to the power of beauty in fostering genuine connections and enhancing religious experiences. Hartl advocates for adapting faith communication to resonate deeply with younger generations, emphasizing the need for humility and creativity in conveying spiritual messages.
Dec 15, 2024 • 32min
Lectio: Third Sunday of Advent
The friars share nostalgic tales of cherished childhood Christmas gifts, including LEGO sets and legendary Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. They dive deep into the true essence of joy, exploring the spiritual significance of the third Sunday of Advent and how it ties to God's presence in our lives. The conversation shifts to the critical role of John the Baptist in recognizing the true Messiah, highlighting themes of patience and discernment. They emphasize the importance of hope and expectation as we approach Christmas, encouraging listeners to seek joy and self-acceptance.


