
Avoiding Babylon
Avoiding Babylon was started during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During these difficult and dark days, when most of us were isolated from family, friends, our parishes, and even the Sacraments themselves, this channel was started as a statement of standing against the tyrannical mandates that many of us were living under. Since those early days, this channel has morphed into an amazing community of friends…no…more than friends…Christian brothers and sisters…who have grown in joy and charity. As we see it, our job here at Avoiding Babylon is to remind ourselves and those who enjoy the channel that being Catholic is a joyful and exciting experience. We seek true Catholic fraternity and eutrapelia with other Catholics who, like us, are doing their best to live out their vocation with the help of God’s Grace. Above all, we try to bring humor and joy to the craziness of this fallen world, for as Hillaire Belloc has famously said:“Wherever the Catholic sun doth shine,There’s always laughter and good red wine.At least I’ve always found it so.Benedicamus Domino!”
Latest episodes

Aug 25, 2023 • 1h 22min
Clear Creek Abbey: Insights from a Monastic Retreat - w/ The Traditional Thomist
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!Ever felt caught in the monotonous cycle of everyday life and yearned for an escape? Well, Nicholas Cavazos, the Traditional Thomist, found his escape at Clear Creek Abbey. Journey with us as we recount Nick's fascinating and spiritually enriching escapade to a serene monastery. We dive deep into an assortment of hilarious podcast reviews before directing the conversation towards a significant transformation. Yes, we’re talking about the remarkable shift in Nick's understanding of the Catholic faith that occurred during his monastery retreat.Our comical podcast reviews set the stage before we navigate toward a profound discussion about the unique building techniques of the monastery and the deeply spiritual lives of the monks. The journey, filled with intriguing conversations and insightful comments, not only reshaped Nick's thoughts and beliefs but also revolutionized his prayer life. We delve into how prayer transitioned from a mere repetitive form to a contemplative one and found joy in sitting with Our Lady while praying the Rosary. And we didn't stop there; we went ahead to tackle the challenges of reading Aquinas and the resources available to make it easier.Towards the end, we reflect on the importance of toning down negativity on Catholic YouTube and discerning our will to glorify God. We give insights into the daily life at the monastery, highlighting the sacredness, holiness, and significance of silence. We share our thoughts on the crisis of fatherhood in the church and the evil forces looming over us. Additionally, we discuss Nick's plans for a documentary and extend an exciting invitation for a trivia night. So, get ready to embark on a spiritual rollercoaster ride as we navigate through Nick's enlightening journey to Clear Creek Abbey.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 23, 2023 • 1h 6min
Catholic Sci Fi and Ecumenism with the Devil - w/ author Andrew Gillsmith
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!Get ready to embark on a journey where faith and fiction intertwine. This episode features a captivating conversation with Andrew, a Catholic sci-fi author whose conversion story from Protestantism to agnosticism and finally settling in Catholicism is sure to leave you riveted. He generously shares how his mother's battle with brain cancer influenced his faith evolution, his admiration for Pope John Paul II, and how he found solace in his new church home.But wait, there's more! We wrap up our chat by exploring Catholic themes in popular movies. We discuss everything from The Mission to The Lord of the Rings, highlighting how these films subtly introduce deeper thoughts and engage viewers in profound conversation. We also touch upon timely Catholic news, such as the upcoming 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions, and raise our concerns about ecumenism in the Catholic Church. This is one conversation you won't want to miss!https://www.amazon.com/Our-Lady-Artilects-Andrew-Gillsmith-ebook/dp/B09Z7F81WD/********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 16, 2023 • 1h 22min
Getting Out of Our Echo Chambers - w/ Trent Horn
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!Pull up a chair and immerse yourself in a heartfelt conversation with none other than Trent Horn, a towering figure in the Catholic realm. This episode spins an engaging yarn of Trent's spiritual journey from deism to Catholicism, laughing at our podcast reviews, and appreciating the depth of the Eastern liturgical tradition. We also take a moment to acknowledge Trent's significant contributions to Catholic thought and his talent for captivating debate.Venture with us as we traverse the often-under-discussed terrain of unity, diversity, and tribalism within the Catholic Church. Buckle up for a fun twist involving DJing priests and reflective discourse on the societal implications of challenging the Church's stance. We dissect the controversy surrounding a Catholic priest DJing at a gathering, the contentious question of a Catholic defending evolution, and how the moon landing might provide an interesting perspective.As we wind down, we reflect on the role of the Church in a rapidly shifting world and the current Synod. We ponder over the challenges of simplifying our faith and the delicate balance between rigidity and flexibility when engaging with believers and non-believers alike. Lastly, we navigate the perils of online discourse, the art of engaging in healthy debates, and the crucial role of empathy. So tune in for a fascinating exploration of the Catholic faith from multiple angles.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 11, 2023 • 2h 7min
Keith Nester's Conversion Story: From Protestant Pastor to Passionate Catholic
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!We're opening up an intimate conversation with Keith, a former Protestant pastor who underwent a transformative journey to Catholicism. Keith's intriguing narrative paints a raw picture of his internal struggles with shifting religious beliefs and the effect it had on his life and relationships. He shares his profound experiences from his pilgrimage to Medjugorje, which played a significant role in his conversion process by shifting him from skepticism to a fervent believer.Our conversation also explores the interplay between traditional Catholicism and Protestantism, providing insights into why Catholic listeners are so drawn towards conversion stories from Protestantism. We highlight the admirable aspects of the Protestant community - their profound love for scriptures and their close-knit bonds, which present valuable lessons for Catholics. The conversation takes a light-hearted twist as we discuss the importance of laughter and joy in bearing witness to the Catholic faith.As we wind up this enlightening episode, we offer some guidance for converts and those grappling with their faith. Trust, obedience, and the beauty of centuries-old rituals are emphasized. We particularly draw attention to the significance of confession and the trust we need to place in God's grace and mercy. Finally, we reflect on the impact our discussion has had on our listeners, relishing the touching feedback. So buckle up for an invigorating discussion that spans faith, transformation, and the journey of a Protestant pastor's dive into the heart of Catholicism.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 9, 2023 • 1h 30min
The Rise of the Occult - w/ author Charles D Fraune
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!Brace yourselves for an invigorating conversation with Charles Fraune, an author with an extraordinary spiritual journey. Charles recounts his transformation from a 'hellbound pagan' to a fervent believer, an evolution sparked by a series of miraculous events during his darkest period, gripped by depression and anxiety. Tune in as Charles takes us across his faith journey, from hitting rock bottom to discovering divine providence and his entrance into the seminary in 2002.Our conversation dips into various complex subjects that Charles explores in his books, such as the resurgence of occult practices and the re-emergence of ancient gods in recent years. Ever wondered about the controversy surrounding yoga in Christian circles and the potential perils of Christianized yoga? Charles lays it bare with his insights. The discussion also delves into Charles's and his wife's exploration of the traditional Latin Mass and the profound impact it had on their spiritual lives.But our conversation transcends personal faith. We scrutinize the current state of the Catholic Church, its challenges, and the potential for spiritual renewal. The critical role of husbands and fathers within the family, paralleling the role of a priest, is also brought to the fore. Charles shares his thoughts on the call to embrace masculine virtue and the influence of symbolism in modern storytelling on Christian culture. This episode, packed with potent anecdotes and thoughtful discussions, will undoubtedly confront and inspire listeners on their faith journey.https://www.youtube.com/c/TheSlayingDragonsApostolate-CharlesDFraunehttps://slayingdragonspress.com/********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 4, 2023 • 1h 7min
REPLAY - Meeting your Birth Mom at 20 - From Adoption to Catholicism with Rob's Wife, Hope
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!This is one of our older episodes from almost a year ago. Anthony interviewed Rob's wife, Hope. If you're new to the podcast and have not heard it yet make sure to check it out! Description below:Have you ever felt the raw, visceral pull to understand your roots, and how it shapes your faith and relationships? Join us as we explore these profound questions with our guest, Hope, who unravels her complex life story. From meeting her birth mother at the age of 20 to the intricate dynamics of her adoptive family and her eventual spiritual journey toward Catholicism, Hope's tale is a testament to the power of faith and resilience amidst life's trials.Weaving through Hope's recollections, we explore her adoptive parents' struggle with infertility and understand the deep-seated influence of religion on her upbringing. She candidly shares the challenges she experienced while dating a Catholic, sparking a ripple of reactions within her family. Listen as we navigate her transformative spiritual revelation during her first Mass at the Cathedral of St Paul and her subsequent journey toward Catholicism. The discussion further delves into how Hope navigates emotional tumult after uncovering her father's infidelity and his impact on her trust in men.In the concluding part of our conversation, Hope recounts her poignant experience of discovering her birth mother on Facebook after a long, arduous search. We also revisit how her adoptive parents' reactions to her Catholic boyfriend influenced her spiritual journey. Hope brings to light the importance of a stable home life. She candidly shares the joys of female companionship and the benefits of social media detox. Join us for this deeply personal and engaged discussion that navigates the labyrinth of faith, adoption, betrayal, and the power of relationships.https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comSpiritusTV: Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 4, 2023 • 1h 15min
My Name is Philomena - w/ author Fr Peregrine Fletcher, OPraem
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!Are you ready to embark on an enlightening spiritual journey with us? Join us as we converse with Father Peregrine Fletcher, author of an intriguing book from TAN Publishing on St. Philomena (My Name is Philomena: A Saint's Story) and a Norbertine priest, who shares his riveting journey to the Norbertine Abbey and beyond. This episode takes us through the inspiring life and martyrdom of St. Philomena, a Greek princess, her courage, faith, and profound influence as a powerful intercessor that continues to inspire us today. A special mention to young men and women struggling with chastity - St. Philomena's story might just be the guide you need.We continue our voyage into the world of early Christianity, dissecting the sacrifices of St. Thomas Beckett for his faith and how the early church managed to spread with a solid Catholic faith. The differences between the traditional practice of Communion on the tongue and the current modern practice are also laid bare. A thought-provoking discussion awaits you, that may leave you pondering about current church practices and their alignment with the teachings of early Christianity.All this and more await you in this episode. So, sit back, relax, and allow us to transport you into a world of faith, perseverance, and unwavering love for Christ, with the teachings of St. Philomena and Father Peregrine Fletcher's journey serving as the guiding light.Where can I purchase this wonderful book?https://tanbooks.com/products/books/my-name-is-philomena-a-saints-story/********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Aug 2, 2023 • 1h 48min
World Youth Day, the Collapse of Faith, and Prayers for Pee Wee Herman
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!Step into the rich tapestry of our discussion as we navigate an array of fascinating topics and discuss future guests like Father Peregrine Fletcher, an enlightening Norbertine author, and Keith Nester, a Protestant convert with a captivating story. From boat adventures to theological discourse and from the influence of Pope John Paul II to the declining religiosity in Italy, our conversation offers intriguing insights, stimulating thought, and a celebratory spirit for our growing listener community. Join us as we consider the ethics of children role-playing mass. Feel the adrenaline rush as we watch a crazy zip line adventure. Share in the excitement as we contemplate the impact of celebrity popes like John Paul II on the Catholic Church and the potential alternate paths the Church could have taken. Join us as we explore the proposed indigenous Mayan liturgical adaptation of the Mass by the Mexican bishops conference and the potential repercussions. Reflect on the ongoing US-Russia proxy war in Ukraine and its ethical considerations. Celebrate the joy of hitting the 4,000 subscriber milestone with us and share our anticipation for the special trivia show we plan to host when we cross the 5,000-subscriber mark. We are grateful for your support, and we are looking forward to many more enlightening episodes ahead.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Jul 28, 2023 • 1h 45min
Probing the Depths of Biblical Stories and Moral Codes - w/ Kennedy Hall
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!Ever thought of how biblical narratives could shape justice systems? Or how morality cannot stem from evolution? Our latest conversation is a deep plunge into such thought-provoking themes, where we begin with some intriguing tales from our childhood and our experiences with the Catholic charismatic renewal movement. We also discuss speaking in tongues, a phenomenon that can be as confusing as it is fascinating.Our discussion takes a sharp turn as we explore Jordan Peterson's biblical insights, a topic that sparks a lively debate and an analysis of his thought-provoking conversation with Bill Maher. We also delve into the intriguing tale of Sodom and Gomorrah, exploring how this biblical narrative has influenced our justice system. That's not where our exploration of biblical influences ends though! We also scrutinize the story of Jonah and its profound implications on our understanding of morality and the Christian faith.In our dialogue, we also touch on somewhat controversial issues, such as the implications of atheism on society and the significance of marriage. The role of pheromones in attraction makes for a rather unexpected but intriguing discussion. Our conversation also zeros in on the challenges facing the Catholic priesthood and the impact of excommunication within the Church. This conversation promises to be an insightful, thought-provoking journey. So, tune in and join us on this intellectual exploration!********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Jul 26, 2023 • 1h 49min
LeftCaths Lose Their Collective Mind as Schism Approaches
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!Are you ready to challenge your perspectives and deepen your understanding of relationships, faith, and societal issues? Join us as we navigate through these thought-provoking topics and more. We'll unpack the power of mindfulness in conversations, navigate the effects of viral trends in rural towns, and discuss the significant role the Pope plays as a unifying figure within the Catholic Church.Our journey doesn't stop there. We will also delve into controversial topics such as the effects of violence in society & the pro-life movement of the radical leftist group PAAU. Listen as we share our personal conversion stories, exploring the influence of discipline, virtue, and how music and culture can shape our lives. Finally, we'll wrap up with our reflections on the possibility of a schism in the Catholic Church, the need for a charitable Pope, and the power of excommunication. So whether you're interested in understanding the role of the Pope and the Catholic Church, or are simply searching for meaningful conversations around faith and society, tune in. This episode will challenge, inspire, and ignite deep thoughts that will stay with you long after you've hit the stop button.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comStore: https://avoiding-babylon.sellfy.store/RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonSupport the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon