

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

Jun 25, 2025 • 58min
The Best Gift For Your Kids: Your Marriage, A Conversation With Mike and Alicia Hernon
In this episode, Dan speaks with Mike and Alicia Hernon of the Messy Family Project, about the challenges and joys of family life, the importance of encouragement for parents, and the foundational elements of a strong family. They discuss the necessity of prioritizing marriage, the role of community, and the transformative power of getaways for couples. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in relationships and the impact of a healthy marriage on children.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 Introduction to Family Life Podcasting07:36 The Importance of Encouragement in Parenting10:20 Foundations of a Strong Family13:13 Balancing Family and Ministry15:47 Building Healthy Habits and Community18:35 The Role of Intergenerational Relationships21:24 Navigating Challenges in Marriage24:19 The Power of Community in Family Life29:47 The Importance of Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone30:47 The Power of Couple Getaways31:38 Creating Space for Connection33:26 The Structure of a Getaway Retreat35:07 Experiencing Spiritual Renewal36:16 Transformative Experiences in Marriage37:55 Investing in Your Marriage41:33 The Impact of Marriage on Parenting43:59 Prioritizing Marriage for Family Health47:47 The Importance of Self-Care in Marriage50:43 Creative Solutions for Date Nights52:25 Modeling Healthy Relationships for Children

Jun 19, 2025 • 31min
Special Archived Episode: Destroying the Myth of Toxic People
In this episode, Dan discusses how language limits possibility. The popular myth of "toxic people" is disputed. You will gain a radically different approach to dealing with and handling the "impossible people" in your life. Learn how to see and speak the language of possibility to people who need it most. Sometimes it's yourself. B-side questions (25min in) will discuss ways to handle and overcome resentments in relationships. FREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business

Jun 16, 2025 • 19min
Before You Medicate: The ADHD Crisis in Modern Kids
In this episode we explore ADHD through the lens of cultural, environmental, and nutritional factors, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting children rather than simply diagnosing and medicating them. FREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business

Jun 13, 2025 • 36min
Special Archived Episode: Surviving the Real Zombie Apocalypse
In this episode, Dan discusses the biggest crisis we all face; a crisis of meaning. In our current world people have made themselves God and the consequences are stark. Our friends, family, neighbors, and country are no longer recognizable. In a culture dominated by death, two types of people now exist, zombies and survivors. Are you infected with the current disease destroying our world from the inside out? Learn how to protect yourself and heal others who are experiencing this ever expanding epidemic. Don't let them eat your brains too!B-side questions (28min in) will discuss ways to smuggle hope into the cult of progressive ideology in our world. FREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessBecome a Hope Smuggler. Email your questions and ideas for future episodes to dlawsonpsych@gmail.com. or voice message by clicking https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dan-lawson1/message. For more information on ways to smuggle more hope into your marriage go to www.heartsrenewed.org for online resources designed to transform Catholic marriages.

Jun 11, 2025 • 30min
When Mercy Meets Regret: Healing After Abortion
1 in 4 women will have an abortion by the time they turn 45. In this episode we discuss the impact of the often times hidden trauma of abortion and its impact on both women and men. Encounter the truth and multiple paths to healing back to wholeness. There is always hope. Abortion healing resources Rachel’s VineyardWeekend retreats for deep emotional & spiritual healing after abortion.🔗 rachelsvineyard.org⸻Project Rachel (Catholic Church)💬 Confidential help, compassionate clergy, and licensed counselors.🔗 hopeafterabortion.com⸻Support After Abortion💬 Healing groups, resources, and coaching—faith-based or secular.🔗 supportafterabortion.com⸻Silent No More Awareness💬 Real stories of healing and forgiveness after abortion.🔗 silentnomoreawareness.org⸻Sisters of Life: Hope & Healing💬 Personal accompaniment & retreat options with Sisters who care.🔗 sistersoflife.org/hope-healing-after-abortion⸻Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small Business

Jun 10, 2025 • 43min
Special Archived Father's Day Episode: Foster-Father, Husband, and Terror of the Demons
Want a crash course in Holy Fatherhood? Learn from the foster-father of Jesus himself, St. Joesph. Reflecting on the life and virtues of St. Joseph, learn how to bring holiness to your family and children. Share this episode with anyone who is a father, grandfather, stepfather, or spiritual father. Purchase Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway hereFREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessBecome a Hope Smuggler. Email your questions and ideas for future episodes to dlawsonpsych@gmail.com. or voice message by clicking https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dan-lawson1/message. For more information on ways to smuggle more hope into your marriage go to www.heartsrenewed.org for online resources designed to transform Catholic marriages.

Jun 5, 2025 • 41min
Special Archived Episode: The Discipline of Desire
(Listener Discretion Advised-Adult Language/themes)Can we maintain/increase desire and have great sex with our spouse after decades of marriage and raising kids? Yes, we most certainly can. In this episode you will learn the keys to maintaining high levels of intimacy and desire throughout the stages of your marriage. Find out on this episode. To take the full course and learn how to deepen your marriage, increase desire, and improve your sex life go to heartsrenewed.org and try the full program for $1 for the first 7days.READ BELOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR FAMILY TODAY AND GAIN ACCESS TO OUR FREE RESOURCE!YOU WILL GET: A springboard to enhance communication and end repeated conflict with your spouse, Enable you to better parent and enjoy your relationship with your children. Reduce your frustration and bring more peace to your home.Provide needed direction as we try our best to navigate dilemmas that naturally spring up around family life. STOP AVOIDING DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR SPOUSE! DO THIS INSTEAD! Download FREE FAMILY CULTURE RESOURCES LINK BELOW!https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmBecome a Hope Smuggler. Email your questions and ideas for future episodes to dlawsonpsych@gmail.com. or voice message by clicking https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dan-lawson1/message. For more information on ways to smuggle more hope into your marriage go to www.heartsrenewed.org for online resources designed to transform Catholic marriages.

Jun 4, 2025 • 22min
The Chemistry of Desire: How Sexual Attraction Works (and How to Cultivate it For Life)
In this episode, we explore the complexities of attraction, discussing its biological, emotional, and psychological underpinnings. The conversation also provides practical advice for both couples and singles on how to cultivate and maintain attraction.FREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 Understanding Attraction: The Basics13:34 The Dynamics of Attraction Over Time20:58 Cultivating Attraction in Relationships

Jun 2, 2025 • 35min
Slaying the Dragon of Lust: How Desire Can Devour You, or Deliver You
In this episode, we explore the complex nature of lust, emphasizing its impact on intimacy and love. The discussion delves into the psychological and spiritual dimensions of lust, the differences in male and female experiences, and practical tools for overcoming temptation. Buy your copy of "Confessions" by St. Augustine of HippoFREE RESOURCES HEREStart Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 Understanding Lust: A Journey Towards Healing06:04 The Paradox of Lust and True Freedom08:24 The Role of Willpower and Grace11:22 Creating Environments of Honor13:53 The Psychological and Spiritual Costs of Lust16:49 The Differences in Male and Female Experiences of Lust19:18 The Role of Saints in Overcoming Lust21:49 Practical Steps to Combat Lust24:44 The Power of Community and Accountability27:14 Transforming Desire: From Lust to Love

May 29, 2025 • 25min
Beyond the Invisible Fence: Overcoming Fears, Phobias, and Anxiety
In this episode Dan explores the nature of fear, distinguishing between survival fear and emotional fear. He shares a parable about facing one's fears and emphasizes that fear can be an invitation to transformation rather than a sign of weakness. The episode provides practical strategies for overcoming fear, including exposure therapy, breath control, and self-compassion. Start Healing Your Marriage and FamilySave 15% at TAN BOOKS use code HEARTSRENEWED15 at checkout click here to shop and save!RESOURCES BELOWBETTER SEX LIFE STARTS HERE! Intimacy Guide:https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/71380525.htmWANT PEACE AT HOME? Family Culture:https://forms.aweber.com/form/19/955349019.htmEbook: https://forms.aweber.com/form/31/202341731.htmWHAT WORKS IN MARRIAGE Webinar: https://forms.aweber.com/form/25/437413425.htmWatch this before you call a divorce attorney:https://forms.aweber.com/form/32/107630932.htmChesterton Academy of BuffaloFind a Chesterton School Near YouMezanine Creative Co: Graphic Design for Small BusinessChapters00:00 The Journey to Enlightenment: A Parable of Fear05:32 Understanding Fear: Biological vs. Emotional08:17 Navigating Fear: Practical Keys to Overcoming Anxiety16:43 Transforming Fear: Finding Meaning and Purpose20:35 Systema: A Martial Art Approach to Fear23:39 Embracing Fear: The Path to Freedom