Evangelization & Culture Podcast

Recently, Fr. Stephen Gadberry found an otherwise idyllic Saturday morning upset by a searing engagement with a parishioner in need. Reflecting on the experience later, he mused, “You have a plan and God has a plan and your plan doesn’t matter.” Join me and Fr. Stephen Gadberry as we discuss life’s uncertain paths and the loving God who forever accompanies us.  Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

In the wake of a willful youth and a harrowing brush with death, Tammy Peterson discovered something: she is not in control. Through reluctant surrender and a budding trust, a prayerful companion, and a grandmother’s Rosary, Tammy Peterson found her way to the Catholic Church. Join Tod and Tammy Peterson as they explore her winding road and exhilarating entry into the rich graces of the Catholic faith.   Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

Join Tod and Dr. Jason Paone as they discuss the need for a 'New Ressourcement' in the Catholic intellectual tradition post-World War II. They explore the Ressourcement movement, the influence of C.S. Lewis on Paone's faith journey, and the importance of balancing tradition with present and future needs in Catholic theology. The podcast highlights key figures in the Ressourcement movement, the significance of physical print journals, and the importance of returning to the sources of Catholicism for spiritual enrichment.

Professor Randall Poole discusses Catholic humanism, human dignity, and the intersection of humanism with religion. They explore the development of humanism, religious anti-humanism, and the religious foundations of Renaissance humanism. The conversation delves into the evolution of humanism from religious roots, the concept of personalism, and the importance of personhood in religious humanism.

“The truth doesn’t change according to your ability to stomach it emotionally.” So said the ingenious, straight-talking novelist Flannery O’Connor. Who profoundly influenced the faith and fiction of one of the finest (and most shocking) writers of the twentieth century? None other than St. Thomas Aquinas. Join Tod and Fr. Damian Ference as they explore the thought of Flannery O’Connor in his powerful new book, Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

What would happen if a brilliant philosopher penned influential works that undermine the religious and moral underpinnings of society only to replace them with utility and appetite? It doesn’t end well. Join Tod and Professor Aaron Alexander Zubia as we dive into his new book, The Political Thought of David Hume. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

Join Professor Flagg Taylor as he delves into Václav Havel's powerful essays that challenged Communist oppression. Explore the evolution of totalitarian societies and the importance of dissent in resisting oppressive regimes. Unpack the nuances of authoritarian vs totalitarian regimes and the risks of conformity and dissent in such systems.

Sal Di Stefano, a fitness trainer and author, dives into the myths plaguing the fitness industry, arguing that embracing true health is an act of rebellion. He shares his journey from self-doubt to empowerment, emphasizing a balanced and sustainable approach to fitness. Sal advocates for common sense over quick fixes, the importance of self-discipline, and the need for honesty in health discussions. He also explores the profound connections between mind, body, and soul, urging listeners to cultivate a genuine relationship with their health.

The year was 1984 when a sixteen-year-old Mike Piazza had a visitor come to watch him hit baseballs in the batting cage his father crafted at their Phoenixville, PA home. The keen-eyed and deeply impressed visitor was none other than Ted Williams, the greatest baseball hitter of all time. Join me and Hall of Fame catcher Mike Piazza as we explore his life in baseball and his Catholic faith. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.  

Join Joseph Pearce, an internationally acclaimed author and visiting professor at Ave Maria University, as he explores the intricate dance between goodness, beauty, and the flaws of humanity throughout Catholic history. Discover the vital role of saints and art in deepening faith, the archetypes of pilgrims and the proud, and the challenges of historical writing. Pearce emphasizes the need for historical awareness to combat modern relativism and showcases the resilience of the Church through the ages, urging a richer engagement with the past.