"The gospel is good news. And when you have good news, you want to share it with people. That's really why our faith should be relentlessly public, because if you have really good news, you just want to shout it from the rooftops. And I would encourage people to remember that it's that times a million when it comes to Christ's saving love." Join us for an inspiring conversation with Maria McCann, pro-life advocate and public speaker, as we explore what it means to live out our Catholic faith courageously in the public sphere.

Our discussion explores:

- Why Bishop Robert Barron calls Christianity a "relentlessly public religion" and what that means for everyday Catholics- The spiritual challenges of pro-life advocacy and confronting cultural brokenness daily

- How to avoid both savior complex and abdication of responsibility in social issues

- Why changed behavior, not just changed minds, is the true measure of transformation

- The danger of "cafeteria Catholicism" and treating faith as merely intellectual assent rather than lived reality

- Practical steps to act yourself into a new way of thinking rather than waiting to feel motivated

- How proximate justice differs from utopian thinking while still pursuing meaningful societal change

- The importance of being equipped with solid apologetics to have effective conversations

- Simple ways to publicly witness your faith: praying before meals, crossing yourself near churches, wearing religious medals

- Maria's experience with Cardus's NextGen Fellowship for Christian young professionals

Maria shares powerful insights from nearly a decade in the pro-life movement, emphasizing that engaging in public life isn't just about political activism—it's about having mercy on our vulnerable neighbors and letting our hearts be broken by injustice. She offers encouragement for Catholics who feel intimidated about speaking up, reminding us that we can pursue meaningful change without expecting to create utopia.

This episode challenges the prevailing Canadian culture of niceness that discourages public expressions of faith, calling Catholics to remember their task as Christian citizens: to help see Christ's love and freedom preside over all aspects of modern life.

Resources:

Maria McCann's website: mariamccann.ca

For Life London Association

London Against Abortion

Cardus NextGen Fellowship: nextgen.ca

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"The more an individual takes their Islamic faith seriously, the more they become like Muhammad, and the more a Christian takes their faith more seriously, the more they become like Jesus. You just have to read their biographies and figure out what is the difference." Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ismail Youssef, a former Muslim turned Catholic Christian, as we explore the theological and practical differences between Islam and Christianity, and how to charitably witness to Muslims.Our discussion explores:- Ismail's viral appearance on Pints with Aquinas and how it transformed his life overnight- Why questions about women's rights and human dignity first led Ismail to question Islam- The fundamental difference between Islam and Christianity: can God become part of creation?- How Muslims view Jesus as the greatest sinless prophet who never died, but deny His divinity- The surprising overlap between Islamic and Catholic views on the Virgin Mary- Why Islam is considered a "Christian heresy" rather than a completely separate religion- The problematic claim that "Islam is a religion of peace" and what Islamic texts actually teach- Common misconceptions Christians have about Islam and Muslims have about Christianity- Translation issues in modern English Qurans that obscure controversial teachings- The inside/outside mentality in Islam that creates a hierarchical caste system- Why you should never assume you understand what any individual Muslim believesIsmail provides invaluable insights from someone who lived Islam deeply before finding Christ, explaining how the Muslim conception of God differs radically from the Christian understanding that "God is love." He shares practical wisdom for Christians seeking to evangelize Muslims, including why starting with "Jesus as the Son of God" can create immediate barriers to meaningful dialogue.This episode equips Catholics to understand Islam more accurately while maintaining genuine charity toward Muslim neighbors, recognizing that authentic evangelization requires both truth and love.Resources:Follow Ismail: @ishsofarabia on Instagram and YouTubeSupport his ministry: PayPal @ishsofarabiaWatch Ismail's full conversion story on Pints with Aquinas with Matt FraddWe want to hear from you! Please feel free to email us at [email protected] with any feedback and let us know what you think.Subscribe on our Website: https://www.cofcomcat.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CofComCatLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coffee-commerce-catechesis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cofcomcatTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cofcomcatFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Coffee-Commerce-Catechesis-Podcast/61556073063795/

"I've always underestimated what God can do with my calling. I could never really believe in it because it was just too big and too far away and too inaccessible. But I think I underestimated in a massive way how generous God's people would be if I stepped forward and put the flag in the ground and said, we're gonna take this ground for the cross." Join us for an inspiring conversation with Anthony Dambrosio, Catholic filmmaker and founder of Sherwood Fellows, as he shares the final stages of bringing his film "Triumph of the Heart" about St. Maximilian Kolbe to theaters.

Our discussion explores:

- The decade-long journey from concept to completion of a feature film about St. Maximilian Kolbe

- Why a director must be "a cross between a poet and a general" when making films

- The challenges of creating Catholic content within Hollywood's distribution system

- How Catholics have ceded cultural ground to the left and why we must reclaim storytelling

- The importance of excellence in Catholic media - meeting or exceeding secular standards

- Why St. Maximilian Kolbe's story offers a powerful answer to our culture's questions about suffering and the purpose of life

- The vision for building a Catholic alternative to Disney's $250 billion cultural influence

- How AI might democratize filmmaking while maintaining quality storytelling

- The unique crowdfunding approach allowing communities to secure local theater screenings

Anthony shares candid insights about the sacrifices required to create meaningful art, comparing the filmmaking team to "templars going on a crusade." His story demonstrates how saying yes to God's calling—even when it seems impossible—can lead to extraordinary outcomes through divine grace and the generosity of faithful supporters.

This episode challenges Catholics to support excellent storytelling that competes with secular media while staying true to our deepest beliefs about human dignity, sacrifice, and love.

Resources:

"Triumph of the Heart" film: https://triumphoftheheart.com

Crowdfunding campaign: https://triumphoftheheart.com/militia

Sherwood Fellows: Anthony's creative agency

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"It really is madness. It's absolute madness. And yet it has such a powerful grip on society."

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Matthew Petrusek, senior director of the Word on Fire Institute and professor of Catholic ethics, as we unpack the complex and controversial phenomenon known as "wokeism." In this insightful episode, Matthew challenges the logic, coherence, and ethical underpinnings of contemporary progressive ideologies, describing them as a shifting "Frankenstein" of political beliefs.

Our discussion explores:

- The historical roots and contemporary misappropriation of the term "woke."

- How wokeism sets up epistemological barriers, stifling true dialogue and discourse.

- The dangers of mob mentality and ideological purity tests within woke culture.

- The dehumanizing impact of woke rhetoric, leading potentially to violence.

- Matthew's firsthand experiences in academia and insights into the infiltration of woke ideology in Catholic universities.

- Practical advice on how Catholics can navigate professional environments increasingly dominated by woke ideology.

- The importance of courage, prudence, and integrity when responding to ideological threats.

- The stark contrast between woke virtue signaling and authentic Catholic virtue grounded in truth and responsibility.

- Why young people, especially young men, are increasingly rejecting wokeism and seeking alternative worldviews like those presented by figures such as Jordan Peterson.

Matthew offers sharp, clear insights into why wokeism isn't just flawed but dangerous, emphasizing that engagement with the world must be grounded in robust Catholic principles. His perspectives are essential for anyone seeking clarity and courage in an era of cultural confusion.

Resources:https://wordonfire.institute

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"God was the one that saved my son. It was Him. It was God. He was meant to live. He was made for a purpose." Join us for a powerful and deeply personal conversation with Paula Diaz as she shares her courageous journey of choosing life amidst overwhelming circumstances. From her upbringing in Colombia to facing profound struggles as an immigrant teenager in North America, Paula's story is a testament to the grace and mercy of God.

Our discussion explores:

* Paula's childhood experience in Colombia, including the impact of the Catholic Renewal Movement

* The emotional turmoil of immigrating to a new country as a young teen and the profound sense of loss and isolation that followed

* Navigating adolescence without strong parental support and the quest for unconditional love

* The consequences of teenage rebellion, the search for belonging, and the destructive paths it can lead to

* Paula's unexpected pregnancy at age 17 and the intense pressure to have an abortion

* The critical turning point when she reached out for prayer, sparking a profound intervention from a compassionate youth minister

* Paula's courageous decision to choose life, moving to Canada, and the powerful ways God protected and provided for her

* The support systems and resources available for women facing unplanned pregnancies, including Paula's personal recommendation of the Sisters of Life

Paula's journey is a vivid reminder that even in the most challenging and seemingly hopeless situations, God's love and grace can transform lives and create beauty from brokenness. Her testimony encourages anyone facing difficult decisions to trust in God's providence and reminds all of us to extend love and support to those who most need it.

Resources:

* Sisters of Life: https://sistersoflife.org/

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"I believe the Lord has a raging fire spirit in Him. God the Father is this kind of passionate God." Join us for a profound conversation with Matthew Pinto, founder of Ascension Press, as we dive deep into the intersection of Catholic faith and entrepreneurship. Matthew shares his inspiring journey of how embracing his faith transformed him from a young entrepreneur into a leading figure in Catholic publishing and media.

Our discussion covers:

• The unique challenges and rewards of building successful ventures within the Catholic ecosystem.

• How Matthew’s early entrepreneurial experiences and family background shaped his innovative mindset.

• His transformative conversion journey ignited by evangelical evangelization, leading to a profound commitment to the Catholic faith.

• Why integrating secular skills into church initiatives can initially feel jarring but ultimately be incredibly fruitful.

• The importance of risk-taking, passion, and prudent boldness in Catholic entrepreneurship.

• Practical lessons Matthew learned while growing Ascension Press from a single book project to a globally recognized Catholic publisher.

• Essential spiritual safeguards Matthew recommends, such as consecration, tithing, regular confession, and cultivating a generous spirit.

• Why Matthew emphasizes maintaining a balance between work, family, physical health, and spiritual well-being.

Matthew candidly shares insights into common entrepreneurial pitfalls, such as neglecting personal well-being, failing to celebrate wins, and undervaluing strategic leverage. He explains the concept of "booze, bingo, and dancing" to illustrate Catholicism's confident and balanced approach to engaging with the secular world without compromising faith.

Whether you're building a Catholic venture, wrestling with workplace ethics, or discerning how to authentically live your faith through your career, Matthew's wisdom offers essential guidance for aligning professional ambition with eternal values.

Resources:

• The Genesis Group: https://catholicfund.com

• Catholic Catalyst: https://catholiccatalyst.com

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"Be not afraid. Open wide the doors to Christ!" Join us for an enlightening conversation with George Weigel, distinguished senior fellow at Washington's Ethics and Public Policy Center, Catholic theologian, and renowned biographer of Pope St. John Paul II, as we explore the extraordinary life and lasting impact of one of the Church's greatest modern saints.

Our discussion explores:

* How John Paul II helped catalyze the collapse of European communism through a revolution of conscience.

* Why John Paul II's pontificate reshaped how we understand Vatican II and its ongoing relevance.

* The misconceptions surrounding John Paul II, from accusations around the abuse crisis to misunderstandings of his theology.

* John Paul II’s groundbreaking Theology of the Body, and how it offers a profound response to the modern crisis of human sexuality and identity.

* The critical distinction between authentic freedom and mere willfulness, and why this matters profoundly for today's culture.

* Understanding the "law of the gift"—why recognizing life as a gift shapes how we interact with others.

* The urgent necessity of the New Evangelization and why every Catholic must view themselves as a missionary.

* Practical advice for Catholics seeking to live their faith courageously in a secular world.

George Weigel provides profound insights into John Paul II's vision, which goes beyond simplistic political categories and invites all Catholics to live a vibrant, courageous, and evangelically potent faith. His message reminds us that authentic witness, driven by genuine encounter with Christ, is the most powerful tool for evangelization.

Whether you lived through John Paul II's transformative papacy or are discovering him anew, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and a compelling vision of Catholic life in the modern world.

Resources:

* George Weigel's Books and Writings: https://eppc.org/author/george_weigel/

* Ethics and Public Policy Center: https://eppc.org

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"If you believe what you like in the Gospels and reject what you don't like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself." Join us for a compelling conversation on cafeteria Catholicism, as we explore why selectively choosing which Catholic teachings to follow undermines authentic faith. This episode delves into:

* What cafeteria Catholicism is and why it is spiritually dangerous

* The necessity of full submission to Church teachings, regardless of personal feelings

* Real-life examples and temptations toward cafeteria Catholicism, including prominent political figures

* The critical importance of humility and ongoing catechesis

* Practical advice for resisting cultural pressures to compromise on difficult teachings

* Personal stories from our own struggles and growth in authentic Catholic living

This episode emphasizes that being Catholic means submitting fully to the teachings of Christ and His Church, not picking and choosing based on comfort or societal acceptance. In this episode, you will find guidance and resources for Catholics seeking deeper understanding and genuine faithfulness.

Resources:

* Catechism in a Year Podcast: https://ascensionpress.com/pages/catechisminayear

* Truthly AI: https://truthly.ai

* Magisterium AI: https://magisterium.ai

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"We are called to be stewards of money because it's actually God's money, entrusted to us." Join us for a transformative conversation with Daniel Catone, founder and CEO of Arimathea Investing, as we delve into the vital intersection of faith and finance. From managing billions in assets to pioneering Catholic ethical investing, Daniel shares his compelling journey of aligning professional success with deep spiritual conviction.

Our discussion explores:

* The pivotal moments that led Daniel from secular finance to founding Arimathea Investing

* The troubling disconnect between traditional investment practices and Catholic moral teachings

* Practical ways Catholics can align their investments with their faith, avoiding support for abortion, pornography, and unethical labor practices

* The theological and ethical shortcomings of secular ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investing standards

* How Catholics can confidently bring their faith into professional settings without fear

* Simple yet powerful practices to spiritually anchor daily professional interactions* Daniel’s personal journey from being a "practical atheist" to experiencing a profound reversion to Catholicism

* Why retirement-focused financial planning might not align with authentic Catholic values and what the alternative looks like

* Encouraging stories and practical advice for Catholics seeking to responsibly steward their finances

Daniel offers candid insights about his mission to reclaim Wall Street for Christ, emphasizing how authentic Catholic values not only enhance financial decisions but also transform the professional world. Whether you're wrestling with integrating faith into your finances, seeking purpose beyond material success, or wanting practical guidance on ethical investing, Daniel's wisdom provides clarity and courage.

Resources:

* Arimathea Investing: https://arimatheainvesting.com

* Daniel's Podcasts: Theology of Money & Treasures in Heaven

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“God has not created us for the perishable and transitory things of earth, but for things heavenly and everlasting.” Join us for a provocative and faith-filled conversation on artificial intelligence, truth, and the Catholic worldview. In this episode, Rigel and Travis explore an extraordinary ChatGPT transcript in which an MIT student leads the AI model to a bold conclusion: that Catholic Christianity is the most rational, historical, and logically coherent worldview.

Our discussion explores:

- How ChatGPT responds to theological and philosophical questions when rigorously prompted

- The danger of relativism and the cultural bias embedded in most modern discourse

- Why miracles—if even one is true—are sufficient to validate the supernatural claims of the Church

- What the Church teaches about miracles and how they’re rigorously tested (including examples like Lourdes)

- The difference between scientism and true scientific reasoning—and why science alone can’t explain the fullness of human experience

- How prompts and custom instructions shape AI output—and what that tells us about modern epistemology

- Simulation theory, Elon Musk’s worldview, and how scientism circles back to belief in a “creator” of a different kind

- A call for intellectual humility and a rational path toward faith in Christ and the Church He founded

Whether you’re a believer, skeptic, or simply curious about how AI intersects with metaphysical questions, this episode will challenge you to consider not just what is true—but how we come to know it. Rigel and Travis emphasize that while AI can offer clarity, it must never become a substitute for truth itself. Instead, it can serve as a powerful tool—when wielded carefully—to highlight the profound coherence of the Catholic faith.

Resources:

Want to read the full ChatGPT conversation? Reach out to us at [email protected] and we’ll send it to you.

SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by Holy Habits, the app helping Catholics overcome habitual mortal sin and grow in holiness—one day at a time. It’s like having a spiritual director in your pocket.

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