Pints With Aquinas

In this engaging conversation, Carla Shaw shares her heartfelt conversion story alongside her high school friend Matt Fradd. Carla reflects on their shared journeys of faith, citing the importance of community in overcoming life’s challenges. Father Ben Sillib adds wisdom to the dialogue, discussing transformative moments, the impact of joyful believers, and the humor in cringeworthy conversion experiences. Together, they emphasize the power of evangelization, the significance of genuine relationships, and the joy that comes from a committed faith.

Christopher West, a renowned Catholic author and theologian, shares insights on happiness, sex, and intimacy through the lens of St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body. He explores the significance of vulnerability and divine love, emphasizing how suffering can lead to spiritual joy. West discusses the importance of navigating natural family planning, the connection between Christ's love and marriage, and how our yearning for fulfillment ultimately points towards God. His engaging anecdotes and theological reflections encourage listeners to embrace their desires as part of a deeper spiritual journey.

Dr. Carrie Gress, a prolific author and scholar on feminism, discusses the profound impact of feminist ideologies on women's roles and family structures. She critiques the merging of secular beliefs with Catholic faith and the discontent arising from modern interpretations of independence. Gress advocates for a return to traditional values and understanding of true femininity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships and community support. She also explores the challenges of navigating beauty standards and the complexities surrounding pornography and father-daughter dynamics.

Larry Chapp, a retired theology professor and co-founder of the Dorothy Day Catholic Worker Farm, shares his journey from academia to a hands-on faith life. He discusses the challenges of maintaining authenticity in writing and social media, the evolving identities of Catholic Worker houses, and the tension between liberal and conservative factions in the Church. Chapp critiques the Synod of Synodality and its impact on community dynamics and underscores the importance of unity amidst diverse theological perspectives. He reflects on the significance of personal communication in strengthening relationships.

Devin Schadt, co-founder of the Fathers of St. Joseph and author focused on St. Joseph, shares profound insights on fatherhood. He discusses the crucial role of fathers in children's development and the negative impact of father absence. Schadt emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, deep relationships, and the model of St. Joseph in navigating fatherhood. The conversation touches on emotional challenges men face, the dynamic of father-son bonds, and the transformative power of faith in fostering authentic connections within families.

Siaka Massaquoi, a versatile actor and producer, shares his inspiring journey through addiction recovery and life after Hollywood. He candidly discusses transitioning from a football career to acting, the challenges of sobriety, and the profound impact of community support. Siaka recounts his tumultuous experience during the January 6th rally, revealing the contrast between media portrayals and reality. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights the significance of faith, identity, and storytelling in navigating life’s complexities.

In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Pageau, a French-Canadian icon carver and expert on symbolism and the Orthodox faith, dives into the allure of Orthodoxy for modern seekers of spirituality. He explores the intricacies of fairy tales, delving into the dualities of characters like Baba Yaga and the moral complexities in stories like 'Jack and the Beanstalk' and 'Hansel and Gretel.' Pageau also reflects on the transformative nature of suffering and belief, emphasizing the resonant truths found within narratives and their implications for personal growth.

Nick Freitas, a former Green Beret and current Virginia General Assembly member, shares his insights on faith, fatherhood, and marriage. He dives into the challenges of balancing personal beliefs with political ideologies, particularly regarding free speech and the Second Amendment. Freitas also discusses the impact of pornography on masculinity and emphasizes the importance of genuine faith over cultural trends. With humor and personal anecdotes, he highlights the necessity of communication, respect, and shared values in nurturing strong marriages and parenting.

Take a sentimental journey through the transition to a new studio as the hosts share the personal stories behind their decor. Nostalgia flows as they reminisce about memorable guests and episodes, emphasizing the emotional ties to their past. Plans for future content are sprinkled with gratitude towards their supportive community. Listeners are invited to contribute to the new setup and engage in the excitement of upcoming collaborations, making this a heartfelt reflection on creativity and connection.

Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris, O.C.D., is a Discalced Carmelite priest with deep insights into St. Thérèse of Lisieux. He discusses the transformative journey toward Carmelite spirituality, highlighting the scapular's significance and its role in trust and protection. The conversation touches on the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in religious life, as well as the pivotal contributions of women like St. Teresa. Their exploration of humility, spiritual literature, and the relatable struggles of saints enriches the understanding of faith and personal transformation.