Avoiding Babylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!A single viral moment can do what a shelf of encyclicals can’t—and that’s exactly what we unpack. A papal quip about the death penalty, a glossy “ice blessing” clip, and days of Twitter crossfire reopened old wounds about the “seamless garment” and whether the Church is speaking with a clear voice. We talk frankly about why many Catholics who lived through John Paul II and Benedict bristled at the language of “inadmissible,” how prudential judgments differ from absolute moral norms, and why it matters for trust in the Magisterium. No strawmen, no gotchas—just the real stakes underneath the noise.We also get honest about the rift between trads and normies. Converts often defend the papacy out of genuine gratitude for authority after Protestant fragmentation. Trads speak with urgency that can read as judgment, especially online. We explore how form shapes faith—why the quiet gravity of the Latin Mass naturally invites reverence, dress, and silence—and how Novus Ordo communities can cultivate the same without culture wars. Along the way, we ask hard questions about optics: when Catholic leaders cozy up to climate theater, do we risk laundering ideology that sidelines the unborn, the family, and subsidiarity? Stewardship of creation is good; ceding our moral voice to technocratic agendas is not.What do we do next? Steelman the other side. Drop the labels. Seek clarity from Rome that upholds the unique horror of abortion while acknowledging legitimate debate on the death penalty. Build locally—beautiful liturgy, solid catechesis, and real friendship travel further than hot takes. If authority wants trust, it must choose precision over vibes. If we want renewal, we must choose reverence over rage. Hit play, then tell us where you stand and why—we’ll read and respond. And if this conversation helped you think more clearly, subscribe, share the show, and leave a review so more people can find it.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Fr. Chad Ripperger, a traditional Catholic priest and skilled exorcist, dives into the chilling connection between demonic activity and recent violent acts, explaining the nuances of obsession versus possession. He discusses the societal impact of malformed consciences and the cultural shifts leading to spiritual confusion. Ripperger highlights Generation Z's pull towards both the occult and traditional Christianity, while emphasizing the urgency of preserving sacramental life to combat demonic influences. He also tackles the spiritual implications of tattoos and the efficacy of curses.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!There’s no soundtrack when a room erupts—just noise, panic, and seconds that matter. We brought in Christopher, a paramedic with 30 years of experience, to walk us through what actually saves lives before an ambulance arrives. This is a clear, no-drama guide to the tools and decisions that work under pressure.We start with tourniquets: which ones to buy (CAT, SOFT-T, etc), how to spot counterfeits, and why the initial strap pull matters more than endless windlass turns. We cover when to apply a TQ (think bright, pulsing arterial bleeds), why legs often need two, and how to improvise using wide cloth and a rigid windlass if you’ve run out of commercial gear. Then we shift to the “box”—chest and torso—where pressure isn’t enough. You’ll learn to find every hole, use chest seals (and their packaging) to manage sucking chest wounds, and “burp” a seal if breathing worsens. For non‑tourniquet bleeds (groin, shoulder, neck), we get hands-on with wound packing and explain why hemostatic gauze beats powder.The small details save lives. Hypothermia ruins clotting, so we talk warming casualties even in summer with space blankets and layers. We unpack a lean IFAK you’ll actually carry: real tourniquets, compressed gauze, chest seals, serious tape, shears, and an elastic wrap. On the meds front, we keep it simple and strong: Tylenol for pain and fever, ibuprofen for inflammation, and diphenhydramine for nausea, anxiety, and spasm—plus how to dose when someone can’t swallow. We also get practical about triage: move people out of danger first, then treat. The OODA loop gives you a mental map to make a decision fast when your hands shake and your heart pounds.This isn’t theory. It’s the stuff a parent, usher, or bystander can do in a church, a parking lot, or on a road shoulder and feel confident they made the right call. You’ll use a med kit before a gun; and if you ever use a gun, you’ll need the med kit. Build yours, train your hands, and be ready to act. If this episode helped, share it with someone you’d want next to you on a bad day, and subscribe so you never miss a life-ready conversation.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The Catholic world stands at a crossroads following Pope Leo's election, with traditional Catholics debating the best path forward. Should they maintain the same vocal criticism that characterized the Francis era, or adopt a more measured approach that might secure broader access to traditional liturgy? This tension has sparked heated debate within Catholic media circles.Matt Gaspers joins the conversation, expressing his growing skepticism about Pope Leo. Despite the new pontiff's improved aesthetics and more dignified demeanor, Gaspers argues Leo appears substantively aligned with his predecessor on doctrinal matters. This observation leads to a profound discussion about the nature of the Church in our time - is she experiencing her Passion, much like Christ after His scourging?The hosts examine Chris Jackson's recent article criticizing what he terms the "indult for quiet" strategy - the notion that traditional Catholics should soften their criticism in exchange for liturgical permissions. This debate reveals deeper divisions about effective resistance in an era where doctrinal confusion seems to reign, while the traditional Latin Mass faces increasing restrictions.The conversation takes on apocalyptic dimensions as the hosts consider whether we're witnessing the culmination of Christian history. References to unfulfilled aspects of the Fatima message, particularly regarding Russia's conversion, suggest divine intervention may be necessary where human solutions fall short. Yet, amid these sobering reflections, a call for personal sanctity and faithful witness remains.What emerges is a thoughtful exploration of how to preserve authentic Catholicism when the visible structures appear compromised. Is strategic prudence the wisest approach, or does it risk surrendering essential truths? The answers aren't simple, but the questions deserve our serious consideration as we navigate these unprecedented waters together.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What you carry every day speaks volumes about your priorities and preparedness. In this deep-dive exploration of everyday carry philosophy, we break down the essential components of a thoughtful EDC system that goes far beyond just firearms.The modern preparedness mindset requires careful consideration of what deserves space in your pockets and on your person. We unpack the logic behind carrying specific items, from quality flashlights that see daily use even in daylight hours, to reliable folding knives, medical equipment, and spiritual items that provide protection on multiple levels. Through practical demonstrations and candid discussion, we reveal our personal carry setups while explaining the reasoning behind each choice.Firearms selection takes center stage as we debate carry positions, holster designs, and why most shooters don't need to modify their carry guns. The conversation extends to off-body options like fanny packs (aesthetic concerns aside) and vehicle preparedness considerations that might make the difference in a crisis situation. We tackle tough questions about family acceptance of firearms, bugging in versus bugging out, and maintaining spiritual readiness in increasingly turbulent times.Whether you're new to self-reliance or a seasoned veteran looking to refine your system, this episode provides actionable insights on balancing practicality with preparedness. The world isn't getting safer—your everyday carry decisions today could determine your options tomorrow. Join our growing community through the Telegram link in the comments and connect with like-minded individuals committed to thoughtful preparation.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Have you noticed the seismic shift happening in Catholic media? The comfortable patterns established during the Francis papacy have been utterly disrupted by Pope Leo's different leadership style, leaving content creators scrambling to adapt.For ten years, Francis provided a steady stream of controversial statements and actions that united conservative and traditional Catholics in shared concern. As Anthony observes, "Francis made normal Novus Ordo conservative Catholics feel like they had more in common with trads than they did with the Pope." This environment spawned an entire industry of Catholic media outlets that thrived on daily papal headlines.Enter Pope Leo, who speaks in what Anthony calls "squishy platitudes that allow everyone to hear what they want." This dramatic change has exposed the unsustainable nature of outrage-driven content. We're witnessing former allies taking shots at each other not because they disagree on substance, but because they're struggling to find new approaches in this changed landscape.Christian challenges fellow Catholic content creators to examine their mission: "The call of the Catholic is to take over the world, is to say that Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ is coming again." He argues that many talented people in Catholic media have been wasting their gifts on sensationalizing papal news rather than creating content that advances Christ's kingdom.The conversation extends beyond just traditional Catholic circles, touching on how liberal Catholic media outlets like "Where Peter Is" are similarly affected. Both hosts advocate for a return to substance over sensation, relationship-building over viral moments, and reconciliation between Catholic media figures who found temporary unity under Francis.Whether you're a content creator yourself or simply a consumer of Catholic media, this episode offers crucial insights into the changing dynamics of faith communication in the digital age. How will Catholic media evolve in the Pope Leo era? What strategies will prove sustainable? Join us as we explore these questions and more.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Pope Leo XIV's first major interview since his historic election as the first American pontiff raises more questions than it answers. Released through veteran Vatican correspondent John Allen Jr.'s Crux media platform (albeit with surprisingly poor production quality), the conversation offers fascinating insights into Leo's vision for his papacy.Leo strikes a delicate balance throughout the interview, emphasizing his desire to reduce polarization while hopefully upholding Catholic teaching. "I'm trying not to continue to polarize," he states plainly, acknowledging the tensions that have characterized recent years in Catholic life. This approach becomes particularly evident when addressing hot-button issues like LGBT concerns and liturgical preferences.Perhaps most anticipated by many Catholics was Leo's discussion of the Traditional Latin Mass, which had faced restrictions under Pope Francis. Significantly, he mentions upcoming opportunities to meet with advocates for the Tridentine rite, signaling an openness to dialogue that many felt was missing under the previous papacy.What emerges is a portrait of a pontiff attempting to be a bridge-builder during extraordinarily polarized times – recognizing that the Catholic Church, like society at large, stands at a precarious crossroads. Leo appears keenly aware of his challenging position, seeking to prevent further fragmentation within Catholicism while hopefully maintaining the Church's distinctive voice in a rapidly changing world.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The assassination of Charlie Kirk has shattered America's political landscape, leaving many wondering how to process the tragedy and what comes next. As our nation grapples with this shocking act of violence, the most revealing aspect isn't just who pulled the trigger—it's how half the country responded.While grief and outrage have united many conservatives, disturbing celebrations from certain corners of the political left expose the dangerous division at America's core. Can a nation survive when political opponents see each other not just as wrong, but as enemies deserving elimination? This question looms over every aspect of this tragedy.The fog of conflicting narratives exemplifies what military strategists call "fifth generation warfare"—a battle for information that creates such confusion that citizens become paralyzed, unable to determine what's true. "You don't know what to believe, so you sit there and don't act," as one host explains. "You don't unite with the people you should unite with. You don't fight against the people you should fight against." This information chaos serves those who benefit from a fractured, inactive populace.Equally concerning is how some conservative figures have responded by adopting progressive frameworks they once opposed. When ex-Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi declared "There's free speech and then there's hate speech," she undermined long-standing conservative principles—the same principles that protected religious liberty in cases like the famous wedding cake controversy. This inconsistency suggests a troubling opportunism that could backfire dramatically when political winds shift.As Catholics and people of faith navigate this tragedy, we face profound questions about balancing free expression with moral imperatives. While absolute free speech may not align with traditional Catholic teaching, defining boundaries requires wisdom to avoid partisan traps that ultimately harm everyone.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!"The middle children of history, man, no purpose or place. We have no great war, no great depression. Our great war is a spiritual war." These opening words set the tone for a profound conversation about navigating our rapidly changing cultural landscape.In this deeply relevant episode, we're joined by George from Chivalry Guild to discuss how recent political violence has signaled a fundamental shift in American society. The conversation opens with a sobering reflection: we've crossed a precipice from which there's no return. The America many of us grew up in no longer exists, and our children face a harder future than we did.George offers invaluable insights into reclaiming authentic Christian masculinity in troubled times. Drawing from Aquinas and CS Lewis, he challenges the misconception that meekness equals weakness, instead revealing it as "strength under control"—the virtue that allows righteous anger while maintaining good judgment. This framework provides a path for responding to injustice without surrendering to either rage or apathy.The discussion turns practical as we explore building resilient communities. We emphasize developing your "fire team"—three to four dependable people who will answer your call at 3am without question. These local, tangible relationships form the foundation of resilience when institutions fail. We cover church security considerations, personal protection strategies, and the importance of getting involved in local politics where your influence can make real differences.Throughout the conversation runs a thread of hope—not naive optimism, but the grounded confidence that comes from preparation and purpose. By strengthening your family, building committed communities, and developing personal virtue, you can face uncertain times with courage rather than fear.Join us for this essential conversation about making yourself "a little bit better every day" physically, mentally, and spiritually. The highway ahead may be dangerous, but with proper preparation and strong communities, we can navigate these challenging times together.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, a profound sense of disillusionment has settled over many Americans. This episode delves into the raw emotional aftermath of this tragedy through the lens of faith, examining how Erica Kirk's remarkable testimony in the face of devastating loss offers a powerful counterpoint to our sick and disordered culture.The conversation begins with a candid discussion about the problem of performative faith in Catholic social media—where many believers present one face in religious settings while living differently in their everyday lives. This compartmentalization represents a fundamental failure of authentic spiritual integration and contributes to broader cultural dysfunction. When faith becomes merely a performance rather than a transformative force, we lose the ability to witness effectively in a broken world.Erica Kirk's speech following her husband's murder emerges as a central focus—a moment of extraordinary courage where she expressed gratitude to God and unwavering commitment to continuing her husband's mission. Her response challenges us to consider how we might react in similar circumstances and reveals the transformative power of genuine faith under unimaginable pressure.The hosts argue persuasively that America stands at a breaking point where political differences have escalated into existential threats. They reject the simplistic framing of current conflicts as merely "left versus right," suggesting instead that we're engaged in a deeper spiritual battle requiring more than political solutions. The dehumanization of opponents—to the point where some celebrate political violence—signals a dangerous threshold that threatens civil society itself.Despite this darkness, the conversation turns hopefully toward signs of authentic spiritual revival, particularly among younger generations seeking meaningful faith experiences. The path forward isn't found just in politics but in the difficult work of integrating faith with every aspect of life, standing firm in truth while refusing to dehumanize those with whom we disagree.How will you respond to this cultural moment? Will you choose authentic faith over performance, dignity over dehumanization, and courage over comfort? The time has come to decide what kind of witness we'll offer a fractured world desperate for healing.Support the showTake advantage of Recusant Cellar's "Christ the King" sale by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "REXCAELORUM" for 20% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon