Alto

Stephen J. Caruso, Oliver Pappas and myself recently launched and completed a 13 Day Virtue Challenge hosted on Instagram Live.  Daily conversations exploring Ben Franklin’s 13 human virtues as a framework to elevate our clarity, up our performance and to inspire us to strive for excellence in life and in Faith.  We are relaunching all episodes on the Alto podcast!

In this conversation we explore and unpack the virtue of Temperance "Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation" w/ Scott Weeman. 

Scott Weeman is the Founder and Director of Catholic in Recovery, a Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, a published author, and a speaker who resides in San Diego, CA with his lovely wife and two young daughter. Finding himself powerless to overcome his destructive alcohol addiction in his youth and early twenties, Scott found healing, hope and new life when he turned to community and Faith. After gaining freedom from alcohol, Scott established Catholic in Recovery, rooted in the sacraments and the Faith, to support those recovering from substance abuse and other addictions.

Learn more and support Scott's work at:

CIR Mission: www.youtube.com/watch?v=36jAThQD7aU

Website: www.catholicinrecovery.com

instagram: @catholicinrecovery

facebook: @catholicinrecovery

twitter: @Catholic_IR

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on insta @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter. 

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to raw and authentic conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together!

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to raw and authentic conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together!

Leo, founder of Libertas and host of the Alto podcast, shares thoughts on challenging ourselves, running's spiritual and psychological dimensions, and recaps a 100 mile ultra-marathon experience that he didn't finish!

Topics Discussed:

Running as a freeing, peaceful experience that can open you up for a powerful connection with God.

Running as a way to strip away surface level preoccupations to enhance your clarity in life and Faith.

Running as a way to cultivate and grow your capacity to fight interior battles and combat complacency and mediocrity. 

Learn more about Libertas and shop our Faith inspired merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcherLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to raw and authentic conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together!

Dr. Greg Bottaro, a Catholic psychologist, and the director of the CatholicPsych Institute and the developer of the Catholic Mindfulness online course. Before getting his doctorate, he spent four years living as a Franciscan friar, serving the poor in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi. He ultimately discerned a call to pursue family life. Six years after leaving NYC as a friar, Dr. Bottaro returned as a psychologist. His aim is fundamentally the same to serve. Instead of serving those suffering material poverty, he now seeks to serve those with psychological needs..

In our powerful conversation we explored Dr. Greg's journey: his conversion inspired by St. John Paul II's book Love and Responsibility and encouraged by Peter Kreeft, serving the poor and learning to pray deeply as a Friar with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in the Bronx, and his mission to integrate a Catholic understanding of the human person with the best practices in modern psychology. Dr. Greg also shares how prayer and intimate time with God helped him heal from the wounds of his parents divorce and how a disciplined practice of Catholic mindfulness can help others experience a greater sense of peace and God's love.

You can learn more about Dr. Greg, take one of his courses and/or schedule a counseling appointment at:

www.catholicpsych.com

Follow him on Instagram @catholicpsych and Facebook @CatholicPsych

Shop his book The Mindful Catholic: Finding God One Moment at a Time

 

Learn more about Libertas and shop our Faith inspired merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcherLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to raw and authentic conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together!

Stephen J. Caruso is a Catholic digital marketing strategist and Air Force photojournalist. He and his wife, Nicole, have three children and live in Washington, D.C. His mission is to inspire Catholic young professionals to discover, invest in and share their unique talents with the world. He draws on his wide experiences in the business world, the military and as an international missionary, speaking and writing on the topic of Catholic personal development. He believes that our strengths and talents are tools God gives us to become saints, but we need to design a lifestyle that helps us fully leverage them. As a former CrossFit Level I coach, he is also very passionate about healthy living and believes maintaining high energy is a secret to his success. He follows a keto diet, drinks copious amounts of Bulletproof coffee and sneaks in the occasional CrossFit WOD when he’s not holding a baby.

In our conversation we delved into various powerful topics, such as how Stephen's passion for personal development evolved in his life, his vision for how we are called to live from our talents out for God and others, and his interesting and dynamic Faith journey, including a profound conversion encounter while partying on Bourbon St., serving as a missionary in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and participating in a Catholic leadership program in Rome. Stephen's energy is contagious and motivating, you are going to enjoy this one!

Find out more about 10x Your Talents and stay tuned for his upcoming blog launch at https://mailchi.mp/5c8cee0884f8/10xyourtalents

Follow him on Instagram @stephenjcaruso

Read his recent article Staying Healthy, Aiming High Despite Coronavirus

Learn more about Libertas and shop our Faith inspired merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Joe Melendrez is one of America's most energetic and electrifying Catholic keynote speaker, performer, MC and event/retreat leader. He has released four major Catholic hip-hop albums and travels the country and world sharing the Gospel with young people everywhere. Joe is the founder and CEO of God Swagg Apparel and the host of the Mission Driven Podcast. He holds a BA in Religious Studies from the University of Dayton and lives in the Simi Valley, CA area with his lovely wife and two young children.

In our conversation we touched on various powerful topics, such as Joe's profound encounter experience with the Lord at age 15, how he came to grow in Faith and embrace his vocation and mission as a son of God, performer, and husband/father, and the mindsets and habits he uses on a daily basis to stay productive, energized and close to the Lord. Joe's charisma and passion for the Lord is truly unique and special, our conversation is going to inspire and motivate you!

 

Follow Joe, invite him to come perform and cop some merch!:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joemelendrez/Podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1471711284?to=pageTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joemelendrezmusicLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemelendrez/Twitter: https://twitter.com/joemelendrezFacebook: https://facebook.com/joemelendrezSnapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/joemelendrezWebsite: https://www.joemelendrez.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RosaryRapSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/16Li9B5ac8F6xKLZzS5Eix?si=UDPsfc70QMKJx26eW8DIxg

Learn more about Libertas and shop our Faith inspired merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Joshua Mazrin is a Catholic Speaker and Writer. He is currently the Director of Evangelization for the Diocese of Venice in Florida. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville with a Bachelors and Masters in Theology. Joshua is currently working on a PhD in Systematic Theology at Ave Maria University

In our conversation we touch on various interesting topics, such as Joshua's resilient mindset and attitude during COVID-19, St. Maximilian Kolbe's unique understanding of the Blessed Mother, and how fitness and discipline are integral to being our best Christians. Joshua powerfully articulates his own Faith journey - how he encountered the Lord, profound mystical experiences throughout his journey, and how he has trustingly embraced a sense of mission in sharing the Faith. You are going to be inspired and energized as you listen to our conversation! 

Learn more about Joshua and invite him to come speak at your event:

Instagram: @jmazzy17

Website: www.joshuamazrin.com

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Zander is a vibrant pop / reggae artist who has shared the stage with Ziggy Marley, Train, Fall Out Boy and other big names. His upbeat music has received a great reception all over the world. Travel to Australia and Latin America has connected Zander with his over 250,000 social media followers. With over 4 million streams on Spotify and YouTube, he reaches a worldwide audience that appreciates his unique performance and encouraging music. Zander has the rare ability to touch his fans in a way that gives them hope and confidence.

In our conversation we touch on various topics, such as Zander's experience as a successful secular artist, his love for the ocean, surfing and being active, his unique Island Worship style, and his moving conversion story. You are going to be inspired and moved by listening to Zander as he recounts his journey in growing in Faith and bravely trusting the Lord to help him navigate a major life and career transition. He is a humble and authentic soul you are going to enjoy this one!

Order a rad Zander Little Way tee here!

Learn more about Zander and stream his music at:

Instagram: @zanderwaves

Website: www.zanderwaves.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrHs-ZmINoGYKdSRb1CIVzw

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0gMR4IlYgNQHl7smugxuWN

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Fr. Stephen Gadberry is a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Little Rock, Arkansas. While studying at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome he specialized in the Theology and Spirituality of St. Augustine and Joseph Ratzinger. He is an avid Crossfit practitioner, hunter and competed on the hit television show American Ninja Warrior. He is also an Air Force veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007 and as a fellow of Bishop Robert Barron's Word on Fire Institute.

In our conversation we touch on various compelling topics, some of which are Fr. Gadberry's story: from the Air Force to the Priesthood, hard work, fitness and Crossfit, and competing on American Ninja Warrior. But perhaps the most powerful parts of our conversation is when Fr. Gadberry shares on facing our weakness to grow and succeeding even in failure. Fr. Gadberry is a special, humble and unique person. I know this one is going to inspire and motivate you!

Learn more about Fr. Gadberry at and click icons to listen now:

Instagram: @fr_sjgadberry

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Austin M.D. Quick, The Basic Catholic is the President & COO @catholicconnect, an Ambassador for @turningpointusa and a Fellow @leonine_forum. He brings with him years of experience in the U.S. Navy, politics, and seminary formation. Austin is an internationally acclaimed Catholic speaker who is a convert from Judaism. Austin credits his Catholic faith for bringing him the most joy in life.

In our conversation we touch on various compelling topics, some of which are Austin's conversion experience and the mission of Catholic Connect LLC. But perhaps the most powerful part of our conversation is when Austin passionately encourages us to recognize that we have to battle for what is right and to not be afraid to firmly uphold the beliefs of our Faith. Austin is a great guy who loves God and others. I know you are going to enjoy this one!

Learn more about Austin and support his work:

Instagram: @thebasiccatholic

Website: www.thebasiccatholic.nyc

 

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on Instagram @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Please subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Alto by Libertas is inspired by the Italian phrase "Verso l'alto", which means "to the heights" and is inspired by the heroic life of Pier Giorgio Frassati. Listen to conversations on Faith, Culture, Fitness and Mission-Driven Entrepreneurship that will help us pursue "the heights" together.

Coach Anthony Simon is the #1 Best-selling Author of “Life’s Greatest Gift: P.A.I.N.”, Anthony Simon, is a charismatic motivational speaker, author, life coach, personal trainer, former D1 student-athlete and founder of, Ant Inspires You. He graduated from UC Davis with degrees in Biopsychology (B.S.) and Communications (B.A.). Speaking and empowering over 10,000 people around the United States, Ant is deeply passionate for the personal development of students, youth and young adults in mind, body and spirit. Ant lives by his mantra, “Strive. Thrive. Be Alive" and teaches and encourages others to do the same.

In our conversation we touch on various interesting topics, some of which are Ant's powerful story of battling through depression and spiritual warfare as a youth, working towards his dream of becoming a D1 College basketball player, and his vision of how struggle and adversity can be channeled as a redeeming force for Good. Ant's energy, charisma and joyfulness is truly unique and contagious. I know you are going to enjoy this one! Be sure to keep an eye out for Ant's newest book coming out soon!

Learn more about Coach Anthony Simon and support his work:

Website: www.coachanthonysimon.com

instagram: @coachanthonysimon

Book Ant to speak: www.coachanthonysimon.com/booking

 

Learn more about Libertas and shop merch at www.libertasalive.com. Use code alto10 for 10% OFF at checkout! Follow us on insta @libertas_alive and sign up for our newsletter! Subscribe, rate, review and share!

Shout outs:

Taylor Shroll who produced and edited this episode. Check him out!

Dope Music:

Dream Catcher by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4650-dream-catcher

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

 

Wholesome by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5050-wholesomeLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/