Smuggling Hope
Dan Lawson
A podcast designed to bring Catholic Counsel to the Community. Inviting listeners into therapeutic conversations to navigate the current landscape of family, faith, marriage, mental health, and growing cultural concerns. This podcast will benefit anyone who wants to increase in Truth, Freedom, and Love. Change the world, by changing yourself. Smuggle more hope into your life today.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 16, 2025 • 52min
Special Archived Episode: Arcade or Adventure?
On average children 8-17yrs old, play 1.5-2hrs of video games daily. Learn how the gaming culture is effecting our families and children. How do we manage to succeed in a world of comfort and constant entertainment? NEW PODCAST OUT NOW FOR MARRIED COUPLES-START LISTENING!Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!Messy Family Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia Hernon to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
Aug 11, 2025 • 25min
Watch Your Mouth: How Profanity Weakens Your Soul, Psyche, and Relationships
In this episode, Dan explores the profound impact of language on our lives, particularly in stressful situations. He emphasizes the importance of controlling our language, especially in moments of anger or frustration, and discusses the psychological and spiritual implications of cursing. NEW PODCAST OUT NOW FOR MARRIED COUPLES-START LISTENING!Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 Leadership in Crisis: Words Matter02:08 The Power of Language in Stressful Situations05:18 Understanding Triggers for Profanity09:35 The Psychological Impact of Cursing14:40 Spiritual Consequences of Language18:19 Replacing Curses with Blessings21:21 Creative Alternatives to Profanity
Aug 7, 2025 • 33min
The Satisfaction of Being Unbalanced
In this episode, we explore the myth of work-life balance and advocate for a more meaningful pursuit of satisfaction. Gain ways to audit your satisfaction and create meaningful habits.NEW PODCAST OUT NOW FOR MARRIED COUPLES-START LISTENING!Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 The Zen Story of Life's Balance03:12 Dismantling the Myth of Balance06:09 The Satisfaction Spectrum08:40 The FACTS Framework for Satisfaction11:37 The Importance of Reflection and Recalibration14:15 Building a Satisfying Life17:29 The Role of Time and Structure20:34 Creating Meaningful Connections23:07 Practical Takeaways for Satisfaction
Aug 2, 2025 • 40min
Special Archived Episode: Why Being an Alpha Male is Overrated
In this episode of the Smuggling Hope podcast, Dan discusses the concept of alpha males and why aspiring to this identity may not be beneficial. He explores the dangers of the alpha male mentality, particularly for young men and women in the dating scene. Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
Jul 29, 2025 • 22min
Silencing the Inner Critic
In this episode, Dan explores the concept of the inner critic, the internal voice that often undermines our self-worth and confidence. He discusses its origins, the neuroscience behind self-criticism, and the impact of mindsets on our perception of ourselves. Learn the tools to silence your Inner Critic now.Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 Understanding the Inner Critic02:53 The Neuroscience of Self-Criticism05:22 Mindsets: Fixed vs. Growth08:14 The Impact of Lies on Identity10:41 Spiritual Warfare and Self-Deception13:42 Tools for Overcoming the Inner Critic16:13 Embracing Your True Identity
Jul 22, 2025 • 35min
Don't Get Coldplayed: Preventing Infideliy
In this episode, Dan explores the complexities of infidelity, discussing its roots, the importance of emotional fidelity, and practical strategies for preventing cheating in relationships. He emphasizes that infidelity is often not just about physical attraction but stems from unmet emotional needs and disconnection. Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 The Importance of Connection in Relationships05:35 Understanding Infidelity: Why People Cheat09:55 Root Causes of Infidelity: A Deep Dive23:28 Preventing Infidelity: Building Stronger Relationships33:11 Healing and Moving Forward After Betrayal
Jul 15, 2025 • 50min
Special Archived Episode: Digital Dementia and Forgotten Childhoods
Gen Z (born 1990'-2010's) has the poorest mental health of any generation. The first generation raised with smartphones has a lot to teach us about mental health and how to raise the next generation and heal ourselves. In this episode we review the research on what scientists call "digital dementia" and constructive paths to ensure the next generation of children don't lose their childhoods.Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt-purchase hereCouples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
Jul 11, 2025 • 19min
Balanced by Design: How to Balance Your Hormones Naturally
In this episode, Dan explores the intricate relationship between hormonal health and women's well-being. He discusses the historical context of hormonal understanding, emphasizing the importance of estrogen and progesterone in mental clarity and emotional stability. Learn practical tools for managing hormonal health, including lifestyle changes, dietary recommendations, and stress management techniques. Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 The Historical Context of Alzheimer's Disease04:29 Understanding Hormones and Their Impact06:57 The Biophysics of Hormonal Health09:37 The Symphony of Hormones: A Deeper Dive13:16 Natural Tools for Hormonal Balance16:32 Practical Strategies for Hormonal Health17:36 The Importance of Hormonal Balance18:30 Embracing the Feminine Design
Jul 8, 2025 • 41min
Special Archived Episode: Dangerously Useful: Defeating Toxic Masculinity
Do you want to raise strong men in a culture that hates men, this episode covers the origins and the antidote to what the mainstream cancel culture calls "toxic masculinity." Share this with the men in your life, or those who are raising sons. Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
Jun 30, 2025 • 40min
Special Archived Episode: God Doesn't Believe in Failure
People are more than their mistakes. In this episode learn why God doesn't believe in failure. In order to maintain the fortitude needed to grow into the people God calls us to be, we need a growth mindset. Learn a dynamic strategy the saints employed to maintain real confidence and real humility. B-side questions (30min in) discusses ways to parent amidst a culture of hedonism and chaos. Couples Getaway-Travel with Mike and Alicia to Austria or Bahamas! Sign up here! Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!TOP FREE RESOURCES WANT A BETTER SEX LIFE? Get the Intimacy GuideWANT PEACE AT HOME? Transform Your Family Culture here! Get Dan's Marriage Ebook-6 Maxims of a Remarkable Marriage EbookWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: Watch this before you call a divorce attorneyPODCAST SUPPORTERSChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business
