In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet sits down with Dr. Larissa Rossen, Assistant Professor of Counseling Psychology at Trinity Western University, to share her powerful journey from growing up without faith in Australia to converting to Catholicism in 2018 and building a life rooted in Christ in Vancouver. Dr. Rossen opens up about meeting her husband on a beach in Hawaii, her intentional RCIA journey, and how the tragic stillbirth of her firstborn son profoundly deepened her faith and understanding of hope, eternity, and the “dark night of the soul.” Now a wife, mother, professor, and practicing therapist in West Vancouver, she discusses how faith intersects with counseling, the formation of future therapists, navigating accreditation within a Christian university, and her clinical work using Internal Family Systems through a Catholic lens. This heartfelt conversation explores grief, resilience, vocation, and how authentic faith can transform both personal suffering and professional calling.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:00) - Intro

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, Troy Van Vliet speaks with historian Dr. Cheryl White of Louisiana State University at Shreveport to explore the enduring mystery of the Shroud of Turin. Dr. White shares her powerful journey as both a convert and revert to the Catholic faith, and explains why the Shroud - an ancient 14.5-foot linen cloth bearing the image of a crucified man - continues to challenge historians, scientists, and skeptics alike. From forensic evidence of Roman scourging and crucifixion to modern light-pulse experiments that still cannot reproduce the image, the conversation unpacks the Shroud’s profound intersection of faith and reason. Addressing the controversial 1988 carbon dating, recent research developments, and stories of personal conversion sparked by encounters with the Shroud, this episode invites listeners to confront one of history’s greatest mysteries—and consider what it ultimately means.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:00) - Intro

This episode of Catholic Education Matters features Troy Van Vliet in conversation with Darren Watt and Jose Vargas of St. John Paul II Academy. They reflect on the school’s growth, its impact on students and families, and the power of a faith-centered education. Through personal stories of their children’s journeys—from homeschooling and small-school environments to thriving at major universities—the discussion highlights the Academy’s strong academic preparation, supportive community, and inspiring new campus. 

The conversation also focuses on the May 14 Alumni Golf Tournament and other fundraising events that support the school’s bursary program, ensuring no family is turned away for financial reasons, while building a broader Catholic community committed to accessible, excellent education rooted in faith. 

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:00) - Intro

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet chats with Kyle Neilson to explore his powerful journey from an evangelical Protestant upbringing to a deep and thoughtful conversion to Catholicism. Kyle shares how a secular pursuit of success and a passion for golf gradually gave way to a profound encounter with Christ, sparked by Scripture, study, and an honest search for truth. Through examining Church history, authority, and key theological questions—such as sola scriptura, the canon of Scripture, and the nature of worship—Kyle discovered the coherence and fullness of the Catholic faith, a journey he ultimately shared with his wife and, over time, his entire family. The conversation also weaves in Troy’s own reversion story as a cradle Catholic and his passion for Catholic education, highlighting how faith, discipline, and authentic community can transform lives. Together, they reflect on the beauty of the Church, the importance of formation, and the hope found in vibrant Catholic initiatives like the NAPA Institute, underscoring why Catholic education and faithful leadership matter now more than ever.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
🌐 https://www.sjp2academy.com/

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• (00:00) - Intro

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet sits down with Murray and Patty Neilson to share their powerful family journey from Protestantism to Catholicism, sparked by their son Kyle’s studies in Christian history and theology. The Neilsons reflect on confronting long-held misconceptions about the Catholic Church, discovering the beauty, continuity, and sacramental life of the faith—especially the Eucharist—and how their conversion in 2005 deeply transformed their family, ultimately leading all three of their children and 14 grandchildren into active Catholic life. The conversation also explores the importance of Catholic education as a “third leg of the stool” alongside family and parish life, the role of conversion and reversion stories in deepening faith, and a strong commitment to stewardship and philanthropy. 

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:01) - Welcome to Catholic Education Matters

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, Archbishop Richard Smith joins host Troy Van Vliet to reflect on his transition to the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the city’s remarkable cultural diversity, and the unique challenges and blessings of Catholic education in British Columbia. He contrasts BC’s partially funded system with fully funded models elsewhere in Canada, emphasizing the importance of intentionality, sacrificial giving, and permeating every aspect of education with the Catholic faith. The discussion highlights the transformative impact of St. John Paul II Academy, the vital role of families, parishes, and schools working together, and the hope young people find in Christ. Archbishop Smith also shares his early experiences visiting Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, speaking candidly about the profound suffering caused by addiction and homelessness, the dignity of every person, and the need for deeper collaboration and creative solutions. Through themes of mission, compassion, and community, the episode underscores the heart of Catholic education and the call to serve those most in need.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:01) - Welcome to Catholic Education Matters

This episode of Catholic Education Matters features a deep, wide-ranging conversation between host Troy Van Vliet and philosopher and Catholic educator Rolando Islas (making his second appearance on the show) on the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic education today. The discussion explores the meaning and purpose of Catholic liberal arts, the importance of grounding students in moral philosophy, and the historical shift from an outward, God-oriented worldview to an excessive inward relativism that shapes modern culture. Rolando reflects on how secularism, consumerism, and the speed of technological change—especially the early introduction of smartphones—create overwhelming networks of influence that families and schools struggle to counterbalance. Using philosophy, history, and storytelling, he highlights the need for strong moral formation, intentional family-school partnership, and education that helps young people develop maturity, resilience, and a firm grounding in truth in an increasingly complex world.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:01) - Welcome to Catholic Education Matters

In this inspiring episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet welcomes Canadian musician and mental health advocate Robb Nash, whose near-fatal car crash at 17 transformed his life and mission. Robb shares how his recovery journey - from physical trauma and suicidal despair to rediscovering faith and purpose - led him to create The Robb Nash Project, a movement using music to open conversations about mental health, hope, and redemption. Through powerful storytelling, Robb discusses how tragedy can hold potential, not purpose, and how choosing to help others gave his life new meaning. Now, after more than 12 years touring schools, prisons, and communities across Canada, Robb has collected nearly 1,000 suicide notes from youth who decided to live after hearing his message. This heartfelt conversation explores faith, purpose, the dangers of “everything happens for a reason,” and the urgent need to restore hope, truth, and connection in today’s culture.

View Robb's documentary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yv36pj61oYs

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
 🌐 https://www.sjp2academy.com/

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In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet engages in an inspiring conversation with philanthropist and businessman Andy Szocs, exploring his journey from humble beginnings in northern Manitoba to building and eventually transferring ownership of his successful company to his employees. Andy shares insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of valuing people, mentoring others, measuring success, and recognizing excellence within an organization. After retiring early, he turned his focus toward faith and philanthropy, founding initiatives in mental health advocacy and Catholic education, and embracing the philosophy of “giving while living.” Through heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, Andy reflects on rediscovering his Catholic faith, the transformative power of generosity, and how intentional leadership and compassion can make a lasting impact on others’ lives.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
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• (00:00) - Intro

In this episode of Catholic Education Matters, host Troy Van Vliet welcomes David Hunt for an inspiring conversation about faith, education, and conversion. David shares his remarkable journey from growing up as a Protestant pastor’s son to finding truth and unity in the Catholic Church. Through deep study of Church history, the writings of the early Fathers, and prayerful wrestling with God, he came to recognize the fullness of truth in Catholicism. With honesty and humility, David recounts the intellectual, spiritual, and relational struggles of his conversion—especially within his marriage—and the profound peace he found in surrendering to God’s call. This heartfelt story reveals the beauty of obedience, the challenge of faith in action, and the transformative power of grace at work in one man’s life.

If you are interested in our school, make sure to check out our website:
🌐 https://www.sjp2academy.com/

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• (00:01) - Welcome to Catholic Education Matters