In this conversation, Jesús Canchola Sánchez shares his journey of faith and LGBTQ identity, cultural identity, and artistic expression. He discusses the complexities of growing up in a Mexican Catholic household, navigating political ideologies, and exploring personal relationships. Throughout his journey, he reflects on the importance of family, community, and the role of media in shaping perceptions of faith. Ultimately, he emphasizes the power of storytelling as a means to connect with others and inspire hope, culminating in the release of his debut novel, 'Escape from Natura Meta.'

SHOWNOTES:

https://www.jesuscancholasanchez.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Natura-Jes%C3%BAs-Canchola-S%C3%A1nchez/dp/B0DZBH6P4M

In this conversation, Dr. Greg Bottaro and Charlie Echeverry explore the intersection of psychology, Catholicism, and modern challenges such as AI and psychedelics. They discuss the evolving landscape of mental health, the impact of generational shifts on faith and community, and the importance of integrating spirituality with psychological practices. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of human experience, the role of media, and the potential dangers and promises of new technologies in shaping our lives and faith.

https://catholicpsych.com/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B079NK5BPZ?ccs_id=c3d41844-33ad-43c6-9105-765ca6c6120d

In this episode, Deacon sits down with Michael Lichens — former editor of Catholic Exchange and St. Austin Review, and a seasoned editor of nonfiction, memoirs, short stories, scripts, and more. Known for his passion for strange history and offbeat travels, Michael shares insights from his newest book and dives into a wide-ranging conversation full of fascinating, intriguing topics.

__

https://www.mlichens.com/

Weird Catholic Handbook

https://sophiainstitute.com/product/weird-catholic-handbook/?srsltid=AfmBOor3ltm3FPMdnZPXfXRRSl2T2dKsbWOR09mc_6XGUMzbTrAXxjiV

Being a creative, especially a Catholic creative, has never been more accessible. They feel alone. They are wondering where their community is. Emily Mentock is an award-winning digital strategist, creative director, and producer with a passion for evangelizing through Catholic media. She joins Deacon Charlie to discuss if creativity truly is a calling.

https://www.digitalcontinent.org/about

https://www.avemariapress.com/products/praying-with-the-psalms-lent-2026

Catholic couples are stressed out. They feel alone. They are wondering where their community is. Soren Johnson, co-founder of Trinity House, joins Deacon Charlie to discuss how the icon of the trinity can be a model for the home.

https://trinityhousecommunity.org/

The biggest mistake Catholic schools are making? Not being Catholic enough. Stephanie Saroki de Garcia, co-founder of Seton Education Partners, joins Deacon Charlie to discuss why Catholic schools must provide quality education and be unapologetically Catholic, why technology and lukewarm attitudes are undermining our children’s ability to learn and grow in the faith, and what we can do to reclaim authentic faith-based education.

LINKS:

Seton Education Partners

Read more from Stephanie: Saving America’s Urban Catholic Schools: A Guide for Donors

Father Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D., joins Deacon Charlie Echeverry to explore the crossroads of science and sacred history. They dive into the mysteries of the Shroud of Turin, examine how the Church has long nurtured scientific inquiry, and discuss near-death experiences, AI, and miracles—revealing how a scientific approach can actually deepen our Catholic faith.  

• Christ, Science, and Reason: What We Can Know about Jesus, Mary, and Miracles by Fr. Robert Spitzer. S.J., Ph.D
• Magisterium AI

Catholics and Latter-day Saints (Mormonism): Deacon discusses theological differences and surprising similarities with philosopher and professor, Dr. Francis Beckwith. 

He shares personal faith journey away from the Catholic church, and back. They discuss LDS beliefs, practices, and what Catholics can learn from their community. Whether you're curious about interfaith dialogue or comparative religion, this episode offers a unique and thought-provoking discussion.

The book: A Catholic Engagement with Latter-day Saints

Also at: https://amzn.to/4huz0EB

For more on Deacon Charlie: https://www.deaconcharlie.com/podcast

For more on MAX Studios: https://ustmaxstudios.com

Deacon makes a quick announcement regarding the show.

John Bishop is the founder and Executive Director at Forge which is teaching men how to be good fathers. He discusses with Deacon Charlie the importance of strong men in our families, in the church, and in the world.

The website:

• https://myforge.org