The Catholic Man Show

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 awarenessAction 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.comKeywords: 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

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.

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.

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 Marriage: Display complementary masculinity and femininity; prioritize virtue over legalism to teach children marriage’s value.Protect Prayer: Safeguard communal and individual prayer times (e.g., great silence, 10 minutes for spouse’s contemplation).Set Family Mission: Articulate and live the mission to heaven through intentional decisions, building trust and identity.Support the Show: Join Patreon at catholicmanshow.com for access to Leo XIII encyclical audiobooks and more.Read Berry: Revisit Wendell Berry’s essays for beautiful, if idealistic, reflections on work and society.Sponsor MentionsSelect International Tours: selectinternationaltours.com

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 facilities.Sponsor MentionsSelect International Tours: selectinternationaltours.com

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).

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 livingResources 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.

OverviewIn this episode, David Niles and Adam Minahan sip on Brothers Bond bourbon, celebrate the election of an American pope, and share updates on farming and upcoming interviews in Nashville. The main discussion focuses on the importance of prayer, particularly in moments of temptation, drawing from scripture, saints, and practical advice for building a prayerful life. The hosts also promote their upcoming pilgrimage and Patreon support.Key Topics1. Celebrating an American PopeAmerican Pope Enthusiasm: The hosts humorously declare “everything is American now” with the election of an American pope, jokingly claiming spaghetti and the Catholic Church as American.Cultural Shift: They playfully note the Church is now “more profitable” with an American pope, reflecting their excitement for this historic moment.2. Personal Updates and Farming AdventuresDavid’s Farming Efforts: David shares his experience planting 576 kernels of corn (16 rows of 36) without tilling, following a “Back to Eden” approach using wood chips. He discusses challenges with nitrogen depletion in the soil, leading to poor growth, and plans to amend it.Family Teamwork: David describes a rewarding family moment planting with his daughters, using a power drill and raking to plant seeds, fostering teamwork and bonding.Farm Life: Updates include a nearly completed garden fence to keep out rabbits, 41 chickens, and a rooster confrontation. David’s son, Luke, caught his first rabbit, soon to be fried for dinner.Anniversary Trip: David and his wife, Haley, celebrated their 13th anniversary in Mexico, briefly mentioned as a joyful getaway.3. Upcoming Interviews and Patreon PromotionNashville Interviews: The hosts are heading to Nashville to interview Father Mike Schmitz, Michael Knowles, Matt Walsh, Harrison Butker, and possibly Candace Owens, among others. These interviews will be posted first on their Patreon page.Patreon Support: They encourage listeners to support The Catholic Man Show on Patreon to help spread the gospel in a manly way, with exclusive access to upcoming interviews. Visit thecatholicmanshow.com for details.Guest Teaser: The hosts announce an upcoming episode with Dr. Kent Litnoski, who offered insights on living Lent as a married man, with plans for him to return to Tulsa for further discussion.4. Discussion on Prayer and TemptationScriptural Foundation: The hosts focus on Matthew 26:41 (“Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak”), reflecting on Jesus’ Agony in the Garden and the apostles’ failure to stay awake and pray.Theological Importance of Prayer:Union with Christ: Prayer during temptation unites us with Christ, who modeled prayer in distress, revealing man’s supreme calling (Catechism reference).Humility and Dependence: Prayer crushes pride and fosters reliance on God, countering the modern tendency to act independently of Him.Obedience: Jesus’ command to pray in temptation is reason enough to do so.Saints’ Wisdom:St. Alphonsus Liguori: Willfully neglecting prayer for a day is a venial sin, but neglecting it during temptation could be mortal, emphasizing prayer’s gravity.St. John Chrysostom: Prayer is owed to God as a matter of justice, regardless of one’s state in life, with a suggested minimum of 15 minutes daily.Origen and St. Jerome: The apostles’ failure to pray in the Garden shows the need for constant prayer to avoid falling into temptation, as temptation is inevitable but succumbing is not.James Montgomery Poem: “Prayer is the Christian’s vital breath, the Christian’s native air, the watchword of the gates of death, he enters heaven by prayer,” highlighting prayer as essential for salvation.Practical Applications:Breaking the Cycle: Prayer disrupts the “daydream” of temptation, engaging rational faculties to resist sin’s allure.Specific Prayers: Simple prayers like “Jesus, I trust in you,” the Jesus Prayer (“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner”), “Mary, Mother most pure, pray for me,” and the St. Michael Prayer are highly efficacious during temptation.Change Location: Physically removing oneself from the source of temptation (e.g., leaving a computer or bar) can weaken its pull.Family Prayer: Quoting Fr. Clement Crock, family prayer offers a “holy violence to heaven,” infallibly drawing God’s blessings. The hosts discuss building habits like meal prayers to foster a prayerful family culture.Habit Building: Regular prayer, confession, and examination of conscience build resistance to temptation over time, often unnoticed until reflected upon later.Parenting Insight: A family’s rule allowing teenage sons to go for a run without questions to combat temptation (e.g., sexual) was praised for fostering open communication and practical solutions.5. Pilgrimage PromotionSelect International Tours: The hosts promote their October 2025 pilgrimage to Orvieto, Florence, Siena, Assisi, Cascia, San Giovanni Rotondo, Lanciano, and Rome, including a Wednesday papal audience. Listeners are invited to bring babies for a potential papal blessing.Details: Visit selectinternationaltours.com for more information on this and other pilgrimages, sponsored by a trusted partner for over 34 years.6. Whiskey TastingDrink of the Episode: Brothers Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a four-grain, high-rye bourbon at 40% ABV.Tasting Notes: Classic bourbon flavor with a baklava-like finish. Despite the rye, it lacks a strong rye flavor, making it smooth and enjoyable.Jim’s Rating: 3/10 on the “yummy scale,” surprising the hosts who found it delightful.Memorable Quotes“Prayer is the Christian’s vital breath, the Christian’s native air, the watchword of the gates of death, he enters heaven by prayer.” – James Montgomery“The union of family prayers offers a holy violence to heaven and, where practiced, infallibly draws down God’s special blessing upon that home and that family.” – Fr. Clement Crock“Sin is actually insanity… when we engage in sinful activities, we’re being idiots.” – Adam MinahanCall to ActionJoin the Pilgrimage: Sign up for the October 2025 pilgrimage at selectinternationaltours.com to visit holy sites and attend a papal audience.Support on Patreon: Visit thecatholicmanshow.com to become a patron, access exclusive interviews, and suggest questions for upcoming guests.Explore Prayer Resources: Incorporate simple prayers like “Jesus, I trust in you” and the St. Michael Prayer into daily life to combat temptation.SponsorSelect International Tours: Leading pilgrimages to holy sites worldwide for over 34 years. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details.ClosingThe hosts close with their signature toast: “We’re on the Lord’s team. The winning side. Raise your glass! Cheers to Jesus!”

OverviewIn this lively episode, the hosts express enthusiasm for the election of Pope Leo XIV, share personal stories, including a wedding-crashing adventure in Mexico, and dive into a deep discussion on the virtue of humility, drawing from Father Beleckias' book Solid Virtue. The episode blends humor, personal reflection, and spiritual insights, with a focus on Catholic faith and living a virtuous life.Key Topics1. Excitement Over Pope Leo XIVNew Pope Announcement: The hosts are thrilled about the election of Pope Leo XIV, an American cardinal with a Tulsa connection, having served on the board of Cascia Hall, a Catholic preparatory school in Tulsa.Historical Context: They discuss Pope Leo XIII, a significant influence (one host named a child after him), and note Leo XIV's choice of name as a nod to this legacy.Conclave Insights: The quick election (likely on the fourth ballot) suggests strong consensus among the cardinals. The hosts avoid speculating on insider details due to the sacred nature of the conclave.Fun Facts: Pope Leo XIV is a White Sox fan, not a Cubs fan, as initially reported. The hosts humorously claim him as "basically from Tulsa."Prophetic Banter: A playful exchange about predicting the length of Leo XIV’s pontificate (jokingly suggested as 25 years) and his potential holiness.2. Personal Stories and Anniversary CelebrationDavid’s Anniversary Getaway: David shares how he and his wife, Haley, celebrated their 13th anniversary with a phone-free weekend in Mexico to focus on their time together.Wedding Crashing in Mexico: David recounts crashing an Indian wedding at a resort in Mexico, joining the groom’s procession with a hype man, music, and dancing. He and Haley briefly joined the celebration before slipping away.Hype Man Discussion: The hosts humorously explore the idea of having a hype man for life events, likening it to a boxer’s ring walk or a DJ hyping up a crowd.3. Eucharistic Miracle of LancianoHistorical Miracle: David shares the story of a 12th-century Eucharistic miracle in Lanciano, Italy, where a doubting monk witnessed the host turn into flesh and the wine into blood during Mass.Scientific Studies: In 1977, 1978, and 1987, tests confirmed the flesh as living heart tissue and the blood as human, preserved for over 1,200 years.Spiritual Significance: The hosts emphasize the miracle’s importance for reinforcing belief in the Real Presence, while noting that every Mass holds the same ontological reality.Pilgrimage Plans: The hosts invite listeners to join their October 2025 pilgrimage to Lanciano to celebrate Mass in the presence of this miracle.4. Discussion on HumilitySource Material: The hosts draw from Solid Virtue by Father Beleckias, S.J., to discuss the three degrees of humility.First Degree: Complete obedience to divine law, refusing to commit mortal sin even if offered the world or threatened with danger.Second Degree: Holy indifference to wealth, poverty, honor, or disgrace, refusing even venial sin for worldly gain. The hosts reflect on the challenge of achieving this in a materialistic world.Third Degree: Actively choosing poverty, contempt, and disgrace to imitate Christ’s humility, as exemplified by saints like Francis and Katharine Drexel. The hosts acknowledge the difficulty of this level, especially for family men.Practical Insights:Humility is not thinking less of oneself but thinking rightly about oneself in relation to God and others.Confidence and humility are intertwined, rooted in truth and trust in God’s will.The hosts critique the popular C.S. Lewis quote (“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less”) as incomplete, emphasizing self-reflection to align with God’s purpose.Application for Listeners: Living in a state of grace, surrounding oneself with virtuous people, and choosing entertainment that aligns with spiritual goals are key to growing in humility.5. Pilgrimage PromotionSelect International Tours: The hosts promote their upcoming pilgrimage with Select International Tours, a long-time sponsor, encouraging listeners to join them in October 2025 for a Papal audience and Mass in Lanciano.Details: Visit selectinternationaltours.com for more information on the pilgrimage.6. Whiskey TastingDrink of the Episode: The hosts enjoy an 11-year-old Coal Ila whiskey from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society.Tasting Notes: Described as having big smoky notes with a sweet and spicy side. When diluted, it evokes “slurping an oyster with a smoky, zesty, and sweet chili dressing.”Jim’s Rating: 3.89 on the “yummy scale.”Memorable Quotes“Humility isn’t about not thinking about yourself, but it’s about thinking rightly about yourself.” – David Niles“What we do in this life echoes in eternity.” – Adam Minahan (paraphrasing Gladiator)“You can’t be holy if you’re not humble.” – Adam MinahanCall to ActionJoin the Pilgrimage: Sign up for the October 2025 pilgrimage at selectinternationaltours.com to experience a Papal audience with Pope Leo XIV and Mass in Lanciano.Explore Solid Virtue: Check out Solid Virtue by Father Beleckias, S.J., from Cor Iesu Press for deeper insights into humility.Engage with the Show: Visit thecatholicmanshow.com for more episodes, resources, and to connect with the hosts.SponsorSelect International Tours: Offering pilgrimages to holy sites worldwide for over 34 years. Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details.ClosingThe hosts wrap up with their signature toast: “We’re on the Lord’s team. The winning side. Raise your glass!”

Opening Story: Country Mart in Coweta, AmericaHost shares a humorous experience at the Country Mart grocery store in Coweta, Oklahoma, a beloved local spot with no self-checkout and bag boys who carry groceries to cars.After Mass, dressed in a suit, the host is mistaken for a preacher by four different people (a passerby, a deli customer, the cashier, and a bag boy).Jokes about leveraging his "preacher hair" and suit to become the mayor and preacher of Coweta, introducing the concept of "nondenominational Catholic" (a playful term explained as Catholics not being a denomination, derived from Latin de nominae meaning "other name").Reflects on the Christian culture of the store, where such assumptions are a kind gesture.Coweta Anecdote: Natural Family Planning (NFP) StoryHost recounts a family story about his parents, the first NFP teachers in Oklahoma, teaching the Couple to Couple League’s symptothermal method.A humorous moment from a class where a participant mispronounced "coitus" as "Coedes," leading to an ongoing family joke about Coweta (pronounced similarly).Mentions his in-laws’ involvement in promoting NFP classes and their eventual move to Coweta, tying it to the town’s significance.Listener Question: Plenary Indulgence During Sede VacanteListener query: Can a plenary indulgence be received during a sede vacante (when there is no pope), given the condition of praying for the pope’s intentions?Hosts ponder without definitive answers, suggesting:Prayer is outside linear time, so praying for the next pope or the recently deceased pope’s soul might satisfy the condition.Pope Francis’ intentions for the month (published in advance) could still be prayed for.No prayer is wasted; God applies it appropriately, even if the target (e.g., a soul in hell or heaven) cannot benefit.Encourage canon lawyers or experts to clarify, acknowledging their limited knowledge on the topic.Brief mention of Polymarket, a prediction market where bets can be placed on the next pope, highlighting absurd betting trends.Pilgrimage PromotionPromotion of Select International Tours, a long-time sponsor offering pilgrimages to holy sites worldwide for 34 years.Visit selectinternationaltours.com for details on their high-quality tours with excellent hotels and guides.Clarification from Previous EpisodeCorrection from a prior episode about papal eligibility: Any baptized Catholic man can theoretically be elected pope, not just clergy.Hypothetical first act as pope:One host would set a date for Blessed Carlo Acutis’ canonization, expected to be a priority for the next pope.Other host jokingly suggests suppressing the Jesuits, quickly clarifying it’s a jest, praising Jesuits like Father Mitch Pacwa and noting their potential as Dominicans.Main Topic: Time Management for Catholic DadsIntroduction and Context:Host shares a chaotic day (e.g., a cow in the wrong pasture) to humorously underscore the need for time management, the episode’s focus.Aimed at Catholic dads balancing work, family, and prayer life.Philosophical Understanding of Time:Time is a gift from God, not an enemy, akin to grace—available only in the present moment, not to be saved or earned.Avoid the mindset of “just getting past this weekend” to reach holiness; every moment is an opportunity for sanctity through fulfilling one’s vocation.Busyness does not equal holiness; faithfulness and resignation to divine providence do.References a conversation with Dr. Carlo Broussard defining time as “the measurement of change,” emphasizing human agency in shaping incremental changes toward holiness.Stewardship of Time:Inspired by St. Louis de Montfort’s feast day and Mary’s fiat, time belongs to God and should be wholly available to His will, not divided into “God’s time” and “personal time.”Stewardship involves giving 100% of time back to God, not just a portion, mirroring the Trinity’s interplay of love.Children are the highest form of stewardship; parents form their souls to return them to God.Practical Time Management Principles:Act Promptly and Orderly: Inspired by Mary’s haste to visit Elizabeth, act promptly when God’s will is clear. Father James Schall (from The Life of the Mind) states, “Promptness in action flows from love of the good.” Avoid paralysis or using discernment as an excuse for inaction (St. Joan of Arc: “Act, and God will act”).Guard and Structure Time: Time management is about saying no to lesser goods to say yes to greater ones. Protect time for intellectual and spiritual growth for yourself, your wife, and children.Routines vs. Flexibility: Routines are crucial but should serve love, not become idols. Flexibility increases as habits form, especially with older children, but deviation without established habits risks chaos.Calendar as a Reflection of the Soul: Father Schall’s insight: “We do not really believe what we do not live.” A calendar reveals priorities. Examples:Daily 3 PM alarm for Divine Mercy hour to reorient toward Christ.Scheduling monthly family confessions to ensure regularity.Waking up early for prayer and reading, sacrificing comfort for spiritual/intellectual growth.St. Alphonsus Liguori’s 12 Steps of Holiness: Focus on one virtue per month (e.g., mercy in April) to build family habits. Articulate and reinforce the virtue in daily interactions (e.g., emphasizing forgiveness during sibling disputes).Well-Ordered Family: Suggests setting yearly, monthly, and weekly family goals with family meetings to track progress. Caution against overly businesslike approaches to avoid utilitarian family dynamics.Balancing Business Principles and Family:Critique of equating business culture with family (e.g., “we’re a family” in workplaces is utilitarian, as employees can be fired, unlike family).Distinction: Applying business tools (e.g., goal-setting) to family is valid if ordered toward charity and disinterested service, not utilitarian ends. Every family member has a duty to serve others selflessly (per John Paul II and the Catechism).Incremental Change for Holiness:Holiness requires incremental changes, not instant sainthood (e.g., can’t bench press 500 pounds without training or become St. Francis overnight).Reference to Solid Virtue (prior episode): Focus on amending faults in small, daily increments (e.g., half-day resolutions) rather than lifelong commitments to avoid overwhelm.Practical Tips for Catholic DadsPrioritize Spiritual and Intellectual Time: Block off time for prayer and reading, even if it means sacrifices (e.g., earlier wake-ups, shorter lunches).Set Family Virtue Goals: Adopt St. Alphonsus Liguori’s model to focus on one virtue monthly, reinforcing it in family language and actions.Use a Calendar: Schedule critical spiritual activities (e.g., confession, prayer) to ensure they aren’t neglected.Establish Routines with Flexibility: Build habits early, especially for prayer, but allow prudent flexibility as children grow and habits solidify.Avoid Busyness as a Holiness Metric: Focus on faithfulness and love, not task volume.Act Promptly: When God’s will is clear, act without delay, trusting He will guide.Drink of the EpisodeGlentauchers 8-Year-Old Scotch (Scotch Malt Whisky Society, “Smokehouse on the Beach”)From the Campbeltown region, with a coastal, briny flavor, blending Islay and Highland characteristics.ClosingInvitation to join the hosts’ October pilgrimage to Assisi, Italy, to see Blessed Carlo Acutis, St. Francis, and St. Clare (incorrupt saints). Assisi is a highlight, with two days planned for a deeper experience.Dedication of the episode to the hosts’ wives, Pamela and Hailey.Cheers to Jesus!Sponsors: Select International Tours (selectinternationaltours.com)Recommended Reading:The Intellectual Life by SertillangesThe Life of the Mind by Father James SchallThe 12 Steps of Holiness by St. Alphonsus LiguoriWell-Ordered Family by Mike O’Connor (TAM Publishing)Solid Virtue by Father Balakius (Coresu Press)Note: Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their calendars and share feedback on time management strategies for Catholic dads.