This is both dated, and current. It's from a Substack Live session I hosted back in April, but I never got around to making it available on-demand. In this episode I discuss the theology behind Heaven, Hell, and the Catholic teachings regarding who goes where based on an essay I published in April, titled "Heaven, Hell, and My Prescription for What We Should Be Focused on".
We'll explore the concepts of mercy, justice, and the importance of staying true to Church teachings. I'll share personal anecdotes, and outline the essentials for salvation—baptism and belief in Jesus Christ. I also tackle complex questions surrounding unbaptized souls, the impact of good works, and the nuanced theology that makes Catholicism both rich and challenging. Are nice people guaranteed a place in Heaven? Let's find out!
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Essay: "Heaven, Hell, My prescription..."

In this abbreviated episode (Full version, for paid subscribers) I share my initial reactions to the election of Pope Leo XIV, my initial hope for Cardinal Sarah, and what I think of Pope Leo so far. Learn why I felt a sense of both surprise and optimism when I saw the new pope, and hear my thoughts on the damage done during Pope Francis's papacy – not as an attack, but as a cautionary tale for the future. For those passionate about understanding the Catholic Church's direction, this episode is a must-listen.
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Let's dive into this important moment in church history together!

00:00 Introduction to the Catholic Experience Podcast

01:03 Subscription Details and Benefits

01:44 Starting the Show: Reactions and Thoughts

03:42 The Election of Pope Leo: A Personal Account

08:48 Comparing Pope Leo and Pope Francis

26:24 The Importance of Tradition in the Church

33:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

NOTE: I keep saying “abrogates” when what I meant was “abdicates” (when a pope (or a king) steps down). Sorry for any confusion.
In this live episode of the Catholic Adventurer Podcast, broadcasted on Substack, I respond to the shocking yet not entirely surprising news of Pope Francis' death on April 21, 2025. I discuss my initial reactions, the historical context of such an event, and what I expect the reaction among Catholics, especially those in the traditionalist camps, will be. The episode explores the importance of unity within the Church and reflects on the complexity of Pope Francis' pontificate, emphasizing the Church's need for a leader capable of addressing contemporary issues. I also touch on the challenges of evangelizing in today's world and the impact of social media.

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Chat about your main takeaway from the Francis pontificate over at my Substack's weekly chat thread. You have to be a subscriber to participate, but it's free. App is not required, it works in a browser on a computer, but the app is better than doing it in a browser on your phone. It's a great app, you won't regret downloading it.

In this special free episode of the Catholic Adventurer Podcast, we explore the crisis of modern masculinity. Originally intended as a casual check-in, this discussion evolved into a thorough examination of the struggles men face in today's world. We touch on the impact of feminism, the emotional challenges men encounter, and the broader cultural shifts that have contributed to this crisis. The host encourages listeners to share their thoughts and emphasizes the importance of true masculinity, which is rooted in quiet strength and integrity. Future episodes will continue this conversation, providing a more in-depth analysis with guest co-hosts.
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The Chat thread I mentioned in the episode: https://substack.com/chat/1536946/post/25bf3577-6b69-4958-a6ae-1838de83532b?utm_source=thread_embed
Essay: "Hold On, Men"

Total Trust and Surrender are difficult when we feel that God is like a thief waiting to rob us of all happiness. But are we seeing it all wrong? How do we reconcile that fear with our faith?
I share my personal struggles with the idea of abandoning everything to God Drawing on Father Jacques Philippe's book 'Finding and Maintaining Peace,' I reflect on a common fear that surrendering everything to God might lead to losing everything we value in our lives, and I explain why it’s an irrational fear…even if I struggle with it in my own heart.

This episode is loaded with applicable and peripheral wisdom and practical advice. The Holy Spirit was in on this one in a big way, and I hope you enjoy it.

In today's episode, I share my struggles with trusting in God .I hope that by sharing my journey, it might resonate with you and perhaps help you in your own walk of faith. Join me as I open up about these difficult moments and the lessons I'm learning along the way.

00:00 Introduction to the Catholic Adventure Podcast
00:17 Struggles with Trusting in God
00:49 Personal and Professional Challenges
02:03 The Catholic Experience Podcast Journey
19:55 Fiat Media and Continued Hardships
30:01 Dizzy with Rage: A Personal Struggle
30:56 Trusting God's Providence: A Leap of Faith
32:56 Questioning Faith: Personal Reflections
35:48 The Role of Faith in Life's Challenges
44:21 A New Direction: Embracing Change

With Joe Biden recently joining the Freemasons, I decided to re-publish this classic episode on Freemasonry.

We're starting off with a riveting conversation that explores the intriguing intersections of Catholicism with Freemasonry, Satanism, and Humanism. Listen in as we unpack the complexities of these topics, peppered with some of the latest unusual news stories that mirror the current state of our society. You won't want to miss the insights from today's Mass reading from the book of Maccabees and the significance it holds within our faith and historical context.

Then we examine the concept of unity and its potential parallels to communism and Freemasonry, discussing the Catholic Church's stance against the latter. With a keen eye on the growing popularity of Freemasonry

Hear my take on the establishment of a Satanic Temple's after-school club in Connecticut and how it ties into broader philosophical movements. We'll also reflect on the unfortunate news of an Ohio priest's sentencing, shedding light on the dark undercurrents in modern culture, and revisit Pope Leo XIII's historical perspective on Freemasonry.

Finally, wrap up this episode with a profound reminder of the importance of keeping our faith alive through prayer and Mass. I share with you the power of communion with the divine, and how frequent encounters can bring restoration and truth into our chaotic world.

Resources

Satanic Temple announces launch of ‘After School Satan Club’ at Connecticut elementary school

Why Can't Catholics Be Freemasons?

Vatican doctrine office reaffirms that Catholics cannot be Freemasons

This one is heated, so brace yourselves! I discuss three major issues facing the Church today: theology, holiness, and the sacraments. I share personal experiences, including an encounter with a young man at confession, and provide my thoughts on the Cardinal Blaise Cupich's recent letter advising Catholics to receive Holy Communion standing. I emphasize the importance of authentic catechesis, the damaging effects of the 'hippie gospel,' and 'Teddy Bear Jesus,' and the need for personal holiness to transform the Church and the world.
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