

The Patrick Madrid Show
Relevant Radio
The Patrick Madrid Show is your source for the latest in current events and contemporary issues. Join host Patrick Madrid for compelling insights, lively conversations, and encouragement for your day!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 1, 2025 • 8min
"Altar Serving Has Helped Me Grow in My Faith." (Special Podcast Highlight)
On The Patrick Madrid Show, 11-year-old Walter from Orlando calls in to share how being an altar server has helped him grow closer to Jesus. He talks about his favorite parts of serving – ringing the bells, carrying incense, and bringing the water and wine to the priest – and explains how those moments help him believe in the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Walter even says that he often thinks about becoming a priest one day, and Patrick encourages him to keep listening for God’s call. The two swap stories about their own altar boy experiences, from serving multiple Masses on feast days to treasured memories of Holy Week. This uplifting exchange shows how altar serving plants seeds of faith and vocation in young hearts. If you’ve ever wondered what altar serving means for kids today – or how it can inspire the priests of tomorrow – you’ll love this heartwarming conversation.

Oct 1, 2025 • 4min
Should a 14-Year-Old Have a Phone? (Special Podcast Highlight)
When it comes to raising teenagers in today’s digital world, parents often face this big question: “Should my teenager have a phone?” It’s about safety, responsibility, and protecting kids from the bad corners of the internet. On The Patrick Madrid Show, a young listener named Jacob from Massachusetts calls in with a bold request. His parents had told him that if Patrick gave the green light, they’d buy him a phone. So, what is Patrick’s advice? Smartphones vs. “Dumb Phones” Patrick says that if Jacob had asked for an iPhone or Android, the answer would have been a resounding “no.” Why? Because, as Patrick put it, “Handing a 14-year-old a smartphone is like giving him a stick of dynamite.” The dangers are real: -Easy access to inappropriate content -Predators who target young teens online -Addictive apps like TikTok and Snapchat -A constant stream of distractions that interfere with school, prayer, and family life Instead, Patrick recommends what he calls a “dumb phone” – a device designed for communication, but without the traps of social media or unrestricted internet access. Safe Alternatives for Teens Patrick gives Jacob a few options worth considering: Flip Phones (Charity Mobile)These simple phones make calls and send texts but offer little else. Patrick praises the show sponsor Charity Mobile, a Catholic-owned provider that offers flip phones while donating a portion of every bill to pro-life and Catholic charities. They do allow limited access to internet, which would be great for Jacob when he's a bit older. Gabb PhoneSpecifically built for kids and teens, the Gabb Phone looks like a smartphone but comes without an internet browser, app store, or social media. Parents get peace of mind, and kids get freedom to call and text. The Light PhoneThis sleek, minimalist phone allows calls, texts, directions, music, alarms, and notes – but nothing more. There's no Instagram, YouTube, or web surfing. It’s designed for people who want to stay connected without falling into digital overload. Each of these options provides what Patrick believes every teen needs: a way for parents and kids to stay in touch in case of emergencies – without opening the door to unnecessary temptations. A Catholic Approach to Parenting in the Digital Age Parents face an uphill battle. On one hand, kids need a way to call home after sports practice or text if there’s a problem. On the other hand, unrestricted digital access can undermine their spiritual, mental, and emotional growth. Patrick’s advice to Jacob shows a balanced approach: -Safety first. Phones should protect, not endanger. -Limited freedom. Give kids responsibility gradually. -Family values. Choose options that align with Catholic teaching and protect innocence. By starting with a Gabb Phone, Light Phone, or flip phone, parents can help their children build healthy habits before eventually upgrading – if and when they’re ready for the responsibility. For Catholic families, the lesson is clear: give your teen a safe tool, not a digital temptation. The goal is about helping them grow in virtue.

Oct 1, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: October 01, 2025 - Hour 1
Patrick returns and jumps straight into controversy, taking on Netflix’s targeting of kids with transgender themes and tallying up the national backlash which includes waves of subscribers cutting ties. He fields passionate listener calls on cultural pressure points, flags shifts in military policy away from social experiments, and shares his no-nonsense take on how families can actually respond, from Halloween traditions to uncomfortable moments at church. The conversations teeter between sharp realism and practical advice, leaving little room for sugarcoating. Cancel your Netflix – New show pushes trans ideology on 7 year olds (01:40) Jose - I have been away from Netflix since 2018. I remember they had an issue with Georgia's anti-abortion law and also had a show depicting Jesus as a homosexual. (12:51) Pete - I love what you are saying Patrick but this Netflix thing is still a drop in the bucket. This is like chopping off a leaf. (16:26) Secretary of War Pete Hegseth: "If women can make it, excellent. If not, it is what it is... It will also mean that weak men won't qualify — because we're not playing games. This is combat. This is life or death." (25:16) LAFD Assistant Chief Kristine Larson: "Am I able to carry your husband out of a fire? He got himself in the wrong place." (29:54) Megan - I want to thank Relevant Radio. Patrick, your show is so refreshing. I just want to share my gratitude. (34:58) Jacqueline - Do you have any thoughts on Halloween and trick-or-treating? (38:23) Macy – There are two women at our church who are in a same sex relationship and one of them received Communion. Should I leave this Church? (48:43)

Oct 1, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: October 01, 2025 - Hour 2
Patrick returns to the mic and responds to a series of heartfelt listener calls: Macy’s concerns about parenting in the Church amid public same-sex relationships, Nathan’s struggle between finishing an engineering degree or pursuing missionary work, Mary Ellen’s anxiety over confession, Diane’s questions about Catholic school policy for children of same-sex couples, and Sandra’s challenge explaining Mary’s Immaculate Conception to Protestants. He addresses these situations with a mix of honest counsel, humor, and direct references to Catholic teaching, offering both spiritual reassurance and practical advice. Through it all, Patrick’s warmth and clarity stir real engagement with issues of faith, family, and conscience. Macy – There are two women at our church who are in a same sex relationship and one of them received Communion. Should I leave this Church? (01:08) Nathan - I am about to drop out of engineering school to do missionary work. Is it worth getting a college degree if I want to work in the Church? (08:38) Richard - How graphic do I need to be with the priest in Confession? (19:36) Diane – What if a gay couple wants to put their kids in a Catholic school? (32:40) Sandra – Is it true that if Mary is without sin, then she doesn't need Jesus? (40:11) Maggie - I am concerned about my daughter's ex-husband wanting to introduce his girlfriend to their children and grand-children? (47:30)

Oct 1, 2025 • 50min
The Patrick Madrid Show: October 01, 2025 - Hour 3
Patrick takes questions that pour in about parish boundaries, tithing, and the freedom to choose a church home. He listens intently as callers open up about struggles with faith, sexuality, personal trauma, and trusting God, responding with a blend of practical insight and empathy. Conversations stretch from Catholic teaching on financial support to raw stories of overcoming abuse, from missionary life’s sacrifices to nuanced debates on the death penalty, with each moment steeped in authenticity and spiritual encouragement. Shelly - Are we obligated to join a parish that is within parish boundaries? (00:43) Jake - How does God feel about homosexuality? (06:28) Connie - It is great that young people go and serve as missionaries, however I don't think they consider how they have to fund themselves. (23:30) Mike - How is being against the death penalty and immigration not being prolife? (30:23) Scott - I have struggled with homosexuality. I was abused at 11 years old. I think your early experiences can also shape how you view things. (39:42) Patrick in Trenton, NJ - There is someone who comes in for Communion who drinks the entire chalice in one gulp. Is this an issue? (48:31)

Sep 30, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: September 30, 2025 - Hour 1
Special Guest Host Cale Clarke opens the episode with lively exchanges and movie nods, then shifts to reflect on the feast of the Archangels and an unexpected presidential statement about St. Michael, sparking questions about faith in public life and spiritual warfare. As the episode progresses, Cale weaves together personal stories, biblical reflections, and calls from listeners, balancing humor with weighty discussions on guardian angels, recent attacks on churches, and the responsibilities of religious educators. Reflection, surprise, and candid dialogue pulse through every minute. Presidential Message on the Feast of Saint Michael the Archangel (03:14) Is it a requirement for Catholics to believe in Guardian Angels? (12:59) Cale shares his Guardian Angel Moment (14:27) Ronny - Great insights from Cale. I used to listen to Protestant radio but now I just listen to Relevant Radio! (39:56) Linda – Should teenagers be forced to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation? (47:03)

Sep 30, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: September 30, 2025 - Hour 2
Special Guest Host Cale Clarke guides listeners through challenges of parenting, faith differences, and tragic violence targeting religious groups. The focus lands on a listener worried about his son’s friendship with a Mormon peer, exploring parental authority and the importance of honest conversation. Tragedy in Michigan prompts Cale to call for genuine solidarity, encouraging empathy over argument as faith communities reel from loss and uncertainty. Pedro (email) - My son he goes to a public school, and his best friend there is Mormon. Sometimes he goes to the friend's house, but I don't want him to be exposed to Mormonism. (01:51) Cale comments on the Mormon Church that was attacked (19:04) Russell M. Nelson: We All Deserve Dignity and Respect (27:41) Josiah - It is importance for Christians to be peace makers but not conflict avoiders. (40:52)

Sep 30, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: September 30, 2025 - Hour 3
Special Guest Host Cale Clarke draws on a recent tragedy in Grand Blanc, Michigan to reflect on faith, community, and how Catholics might learn from the service and strong family focus often found among the LDS. He invites honest conversations about apologetics, examines why Catholic families sometimes lag behind in Bible knowledge and community engagement, and features callers sharing practical ways to deepen Catholic faith day-to-day. Each moment is grounded in real stories and challenges, often surprising and direct, always encouraging listeners toward meaningful growth. Alma - Lots of Mormons in my community and they are great people who teach their kids how to be missionaries. (20:04) Sarah - The Catholic Church's that are the fullest have priests that are asking more of the parishioners (26:25) Billy (email) – Why didn’t Jesus ever talked about dinosaurs (39:13)

Sep 29, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: September 29, 2025 - Hour 1
Patrick fields questions about Marian teachings, breaks down what the Church means by the sixth commandment, and addresses concerns from listeners wondering how doctrine shapes daily Catholic life. Confession, purity, smartphones, the avalanche of national debt—he juggles it all, sometimes pausing to encourage, other times dropping startling perspectives or a wry observation. Why does it matter to our salvation if Mary was immaculately conceived, ever-virgin, or assumed into heaven? (03:13) Megan - What is included under the commandment of 'do not commit adultery'? (09:57) AUDIO: Jerome Powell, the Chair of the Federal Reserve. The US national debt is now rising by $1 Trillion every 180 days - A million seconds ago was May 23rd A billion seconds ago was 1993 A trillion seconds ago was 30,000 B.C. (22:15) Audio: George Carlin on the fake climate crisis (26:18) Kyle (email) - Please consider being our first Dumb Phone Convert. (28:15) Laura (email) - When we say the glory be prayer, are we supposed to make a physical Sign of the Cross? (32:39) Tim (email) – I use an app called "Brick" that essentially makes my phone as "smart" or "dumb" as I need it to be. (38:16) Steve - We have reached a place in society where having a dumb phone is unrealistic (40:08) Seena - We have free speech, but we allow some people to be anti-Semitic but not racist. Where is the line? (44:57) Originally Aired on 06/04/2025

Sep 29, 2025 • 51min
The Patrick Madrid Show: September 29, 2025 - Hour 2
Patrick starts with news from Iowa about a federally funded health care center halting hormone therapy for transgender patients, questioning what genuine compassion looks like and highlighting the debates over “gender-affirming care.” Listeners chime in about whether Catholic media focuses too much on particular hot-button issues, giving Patrick a chance to explain his approach, grounded in Catholic teaching rather than political turmoil. Iowa health care center ends gender-affirming care for adult transgender patients (00:29) Hegseth orders Navy to rename ship honoring gay rights activist Harvey Milk (02:57) Johnathan - Do you think the rapid advancement of tech is connected to the mark of the beast? (08:50) Vince (email) - I saw the COVID shots as a possible mark of the beast. They made an untested injection that did not actually prevent the disease an employment requirement or precondition to physically enter many places and were moving toward tracking mechanisms for who did and did not accept the shots. (20:59) Stephen - If the country could get the money for the debt, who would it go to? Who are we paying? (22:12) Stephen - Why does Patrick spend more time on the Gays and Abortion and gloss over topics like Palestine? (28:57) Kathy - I think you are a political show. I’m scared for Relevant Radio. (36:08) Nicole - I want to defend Relevant Radio. By living our faith, we have to be political to defend our faith. (46:34) Originally Aired on 06/04/2025