The Manly Catholic: Training Soldiers for Christ

This episode of The Manly Catholic marks a major milestone: our first-ever in-person interview! We’re joined by Roy Shaw, a husband, father, grandfather, Catholic convert, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach who brings a wealth of wisdom and experience to the table. In this candid conversation, Roy dives into his journey from a staunch Protestant upbringing to discovering the richness of the Catholic faith, highlighting how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) aligns with the principles of authentic masculinity and spiritual combat.

Roy shares how BJJ serves as a tool for unlocking the natural law written into every man—the call to protect, defend, and lead with courage and humility. From his military background to his role as a mentor, Roy’s insights are both deeply practical and spiritually profound. This episode is a rallying cry for men to embrace their God-given mission and live boldly for Christ in every aspect of their lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Role of Natural Law in Masculinity: Roy discusses how BJJ reveals the God-given traits in men to guard, protect, and defend, aligning with the call to leadership in the home and society.
2. Lessons from Spiritual Warfare: Roy shares personal stories about spiritual battles, emphasizing the importance of prayer, the sacraments, and living with integrity.
3. Faith Journey and Catholic Conversion: Raised in a Protestant tradition, Roy details his journey to Catholicism and the Eucharist, where he found the fullness of Christ.
4. Practical Applications of BJJ: Roy explains how martial arts teach discipline, humility, and the ability to stay calm in chaos—skills that translate into fatherhood, marriage, and faith.

Sound Bites from the episode: 

• “Every man is called to guard, protect, and defend. It’s written into us by God.”
• “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches you to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations—just like the sacraments prepare us for spiritual combat.”
• “I wept at the elevation of the Eucharist. That was the moment I knew Christ was truly present.”
• “Men are the reason we have radical feminism today. We need to reclaim our role as protectors and leaders.”

Conclusion:

This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights for Catholic men striving to lead their families and live boldly for Christ. Roy Shaw’s journey from Protestant roots to Catholicism, paired with his passion for BJJ, offers a u

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Advent is here, and it’s time to rise to the challenge! From the 1st Sunday of Advent, Fr. Dom dives into the heart of it, unpacking its significance as a season of preparation, gratitude, and vigilance. Drawing from Scripture and Christian teachings, Fr. Dom challenges us to fully embrace Advent as a time to re-center on our faith and align our lives with the coming of Christ.

Here’s the bottom line: Advent isn’t just about preparing for Christmas—it’s about preparing for eternity. He reminds us that our choices, made here and now, have eternal consequences. Will you choose Christ, or will you let the distractions of the world lead you astray?

Making small sacrifices to deepen your faith and staying ready for the second coming of Jesus is something often forgotten in Advent. Whether through prayer, reflection, or the Eucharist, Fr. Dom highlights how Advent traditions can strengthen your faith and bring your family closer together.

Takeaways You’ll Love:

• Advent is more than tradition; it’s spiritual preparation.
• Gratitude for God’s work shapes our past, present, and future.
• The Eucharist transforms us, preparing our hearts for Christ.
• Choices have eternal consequences—choose Jesus daily.
• The second coming isn’t something to fear; it’s our hope and joy.

Powerful Sound Bites:

• "Choose Jesus all the time."
• "Our choices have eternal consequences."
• "Stand erect with your head held high."

Get Ready to Act:
Join us in entering Advent with intention. Deepen your prayer life, reflect on the gift of the Eucharist, and prepare your heart for the ultimate battle of spiritual warfare. Let this season transform your faith and lead your family closer to Christ.

Tune in now and make this Advent a time of spiritual renewal!

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As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost! 

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We have an oldie, but a goodie for you today! One of the most popular episodes of 2024 is back just in time for Advent. Join James, Fr. Dom, and Bishop Athanasius Schneider on this journey to combat heresy. 

\What’s destroying the foundations of religion today? Bishop Athanasius Schneider has the answer, and it’s not what you’d expect. In this compelling conversation, Bishop Schneider takes a deep dive into the spiritual disease of heresy, explaining how it undermines divine revelation and infects the faithful. He warns about the heresy of modernism, calling it "the synthesis of all heresies," and reveals its roots in Kantian philosophy and medieval nominalism.

But this isn’t just a history lesson. Bishop Schneider lays out actionable steps to combat heresy today, from studying the catechism to embracing clear and unambiguous teaching. He explores the Church’s critical role in defending the truth, offering insights into how you can strengthen your faith amidst doctrinal confusion.

If you’re ready to unmask modernism, understand its destructive impact on Catholicism, and learn how to defend the Word of God, this episode is for you. Watch now and equip yourself with the knowledge to stand firm in your faith!

Key Takeaways:

• Heresy is a spiritual disease that distorts and harms the faithful.
• Modernism rejects stable truth, leading to changes in Catholic doctrine.
• Understanding the catechism is essential to defending the faith.

Sound Bites from Bishop Schneider:

• "Heresy is a spiritual disease that infects and harms the faithful."
• "Modernism is destroying completely religion itself and Catholicism."
• "We must defend the holy Catholic faith with clarity and conviction."

Call to Action:
Dive into this eye-opening discussion and discover how you can protect and guide your faith amidst today’s spiritual battles. Click play now!

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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Download the ADVENT GIFT GUIDE

“Every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” On this solemnity of Christ the King, we delve into the profound truth that Jesus reigns over all creation—past, present, and future. This isn’t just a feast; it’s a call to action, a rallying cry for Catholics to bring Christ into every corner of their lives: mind, body, family, and society.

Father Domleads us through a powerful homily, blending history, Scripture, and Church doctrine. He recounts the origins of this feast, instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, a world grappling with the aftermath of World War I. The Pope foresaw the dangers of atheism and secularism sweeping nations and declared Christ’s kingship as the antidote to darkness and despair.

But this message isn’t confined to the past. It’s a stark reminder for today’s world. Father Dom challenges us to reflect: Are we allowing Christ to reign in our minds, hearts, and lives? Or are we, like so many societies before us, pushing Him out and inviting chaos to take His place?

This episode brims with actionable insights:

• Pray for the souls in purgatory this November—your prayers can bring them to heaven, and they will intercede for you.
• Learn about the plenary indulgence offered on this feast, a gift of grace from our King.
• Reflect on Pope Pius XI’s encyclical Quas Primas, which reminds us of Christ’s rightful place in every facet of life, including politics and governance.

Father Dom also reminds us of the incredible power of the sacraments, Christ’s tangible gifts to His Church. These are not mere rituals but channels of grace that transform lives and lead us to the ultimate kingdom of heaven.

Join us for this compelling reflection on Christ the King, a solemnity that reminds us of our true hope and the eternal reign of our Savior. Let’s recommit to His mission and crown Him King of our hearts.

Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support. 

As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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What is Christmas like in heaven?

In this episode, James speaks with bestselling author Anthony DeStefano to uncover the inspiration behind his heartwarming new book, Christmas in Heaven. Together, they dive into the true meaning of Christmas, the boundless joy of heaven, and the importance of processing grief in a healthy, faith-filled way.

Buy the book here!

Anthony shares how his book introduces children to the wonder of heaven while helping families reflect on loss with hope and grace. They discuss the unique challenge of writing for young audiences, weaving profound theological truths into relatable, engaging stories. With vibrant illustrations and a focus on reclaiming the holiness of Christmas traditions, Christmas in Heaven is a powerful tool for teaching both children and adults about the beauty of our faith. 

The conversation expands into the rich meaning of the communion of saints, the role of fathers in modeling Christ’s love, and why Christian families must stand firm against the cultural dilution of sacred holidays. This episode will leave you inspired to live with hope, prioritize family, and anchor your life in the joy of the Gospel! 

Key Takeaways 
- Christmas is about celebrating Jesus’s birthday—and reclaiming its sacred meaning. 
- Children need to learn that heaven is a joyful, hope-filled place. 
- Grieving is part of life, but faith helps us navigate it with peace. 
- Stories and illustrations are powerful ways to teach deep truths to young hearts. 
- The communion of saints offers us comfort, connection, and hope in our spiritual journeys. 

Tune in for a conversation full of insight, practical wisdom, and encouragement to bring Christ back to the center of your family’s Christmas traditions!

Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support. 

As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost! 

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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Imagine risking everything for a single moment with the Eucharist. In this episode of The Manly Catholic, we’re diving into the heart of that kind of courage with Jason Gale, VP of Content and Production at TAN Books, as he uncovers the stories of those who died to protect the Blessed Sacrament. Jason’s journey—from auto mechanic to theologian—is a testament to God’s mysterious call, one that led him to explore the lives of modern martyrs and their powerful, undying devotion to the Eucharist.

The stories in "Martyrs of the Eucharist" aren’t ancient tales; they’re testimonies from our recent past, including courageous souls like the young Li, a girl who risked her life for the Eucharist during anti-Christian purges. Jason shares this and more, exploring what it means to sacrifice and to be consumed by love for Christ. He walks us through the fearless craftsmanship of Nicholas Owen, a saint who designed hiding places for priests, and St. Margaret Clitherow, who died rather than deny her faith.

These aren’t just stories—they’re challenges. Challenges to each of us to deepen our own devotion to the Eucharist, to consider how we’re called to use our talents for God, and to embrace the path of suffering that comes with authentic discipleship. So join us for an episode that will make you pause, reflect, and consider: What would you give for the Eucharist?

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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From the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Dom explores the profound themes of faith, sacrifice, and the significance of the Eucharist and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass within the Catholic Church. He emphasizes the importance of praying for the souls in purgatory, understanding the role of the priesthood, and living out one's faith through acts of sacrifice and love. Fr. Dom connects the readings from scripture to the core beliefs of Catholicism, urging listeners to deepen their understanding and commitment to their faith.

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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In this powerful episode of The Manly Catholic, James sits down with Maria Keffler, co-founder of Advocates Protecting Children, to tackle the alarming spread of gender ideology and its impact on today’s families—especially in our schools. Maria reveals the hidden agendas and financial motivations fueling transgender activism, offering a stark look into the cult-like methods used to push these beliefs onto young people. Together, they dissect the complex history of gender terminology, the pharmaceutical industry’s role, and the devastating toll this movement can have on children and families.

Drawing from her book, Desist, Detrans, and Detox, Maria shares practical insights and guidance for parents, from identifying the early warning signs of gender activism to finding hope and strength in faith. This episode goes beyond surface-level concerns, exposing the painful realities parents face and offering a clear call to action for listeners who want to protect their children from a culture in crisis. It’s a deep dive into truth, resilience, and the urgent need for community support—delivered with a message of redemption and hope that will leave you ready to take a stand.

Make sure you buy the book here!

Check out Advocates Protecting Children here!

Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Patreon page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support. 

As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost! 

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Support the show

Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost!

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Politics and religion are two topics that should "never" be discussed in one episode. With the upcoming U.S. election, James thought it prudent to encourage Catholic men and women to get out and vote. In this episode of Manly Catholic, he discusses the importance of informed voting for Catholics, especially in light of the upcoming elections. He emphasizes the need for a well-formed conscience that aligns with Catholic teachings, particularly on issues like abortion, marriage, and family values. He  argues against voting for candidates who oppose fundamental Catholic principles and encourages listeners to engage in the political process with a moral framework. He provides resources for further guidance and calls for Catholics to be unapologetic in their faith and civic duties.

Takeaways

• Voting must align with the moral teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Catholics should prioritize their faith over political affiliations.
• A well-formed conscience is essential for making voting decisions.
• Voting is a moral action that reflects our values and beliefs.
• Candidates who oppose fundamental Catholic teachings should not be supported.
• The family is a foundational element of society that needs protection.
• Engaging in politics is a responsibility for Catholics.
• Voters should be aware of non-negotiable moral issues when voting.
• It's important to choose the lesser of two evils when necessary.
• Catholics must be unapologetic about their faith in public life.

Sound Bites

"You cannot in good conscience vote for Harris."
"Voting is a moral action, not just a civic duty."
"Our Catholicism needs to bleed through us."
"Don't be afraid to be unapologetically Catholic."
"Let's pray for our nation and fair elections."

Resources Mentioned:

1. EWTN Voting Guide
2. Rite to Life Pro-Life Voting
3. Voter's Guide for Serious Catholics
4. Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

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Support the show

Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost!

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If you are looking for the perfect arsenal for the spiritual battle, this episode is for you! In this episode of the Manly Catholic podcast, James speaks with Steve Kerekes, founder of Scapulars.com. They discuss the history and significance of the scapular, its role in spiritual warfare, and the importance of pilgrimages. Steve shares his personal journey with the scapular and the mission behind his company, emphasizing the need for hope and devotion in today's world.

Takeaways

• The scapular is a symbol of divine protection through Our Lady.
• Wearing the scapular requires a commitment to remain in a state of grace.
• The scapular is not a 'get out of hell free card' but a call to holiness.
• The rosary and scapular are complementary in spiritual warfare.
• The Sabatine privilege offers additional spiritual benefits to scapular wearers.
• Hope and desire for God are essential in navigating life's challenges.

Check out our personal favorites below:

1. Brown scapular
2. Rosary
3. St. Benedict Medal
4. Miraculous Medal
5. Marian bundle (James' personal favorite)

Be sure to use the code "manlycatholic" to get 10% off your order and help support the podcast as well!

Find more great products at scapular.com!

Go on a pilgrimage with Steve at JMJYouth.com!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction t

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Please prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page. to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.

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As always, please pray for us! We are men who strive daily to be holy, to become saints and we cannot do that without the help of the Holy Ghost!

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