The Monk and The Meathead

By Father Craig Holway

Men today know the value of discipline—whether it's in the gym or golf course or at work at the office, warehouse or boardroom. You push yourself, commit to the grind, and chase excellence. But when i... more

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FAQs about The Monk and The Meathead:

How many episodes does The Monk and The Meathead have?

The podcast currently has 66 episodes available.

The Monk and The Meathead episodes:

November 17, 2025 How We Master Envy Through Sacrifice
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary
In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland continue the discussion of Jordan Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God, exploring the profound nature of gifts and gratitude, emphasizing that everything we have is a gift from God. They discuss the importance of recognizing these gifts and how our actions in response to them serve as a tribute to the divine. The conversation delves into the themes of envy and the contrasting behaviors of Abel and Cain, illustrating deeper spiritual reflections.
Takeaways
Everything we have and enjoy is a gift.
Recognizing our gifts leads to gratitude.
Our actions reflect our appreciation for these gifts.
Envy arises when we fail to acknowledge our gifts.
Tribute to God is shown through our actions.
The story of Abel and Cain illustrates deeper truths.
Gratitude can transform our perspective on life.
Understanding gifts can lead to spiritual growth.
Envy can distort our view of others' blessings.
Acknowledging gifts fosters a sense of community.
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
48min
November 03, 2025 The Real Reason Your Life Feels Chaotic (And How God Fixes It)
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary: Part 2 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God Series
In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the themes presented in Jordan Peterson's book - Chapter 3 - focusing on the story of Adam and Eve. They discuss the nature of creation, the significance of free will, and the role of temptation represented by the serpent. The conversation delves into the concepts of pride and envy, the metaphor of the garden as a representation of life, and the importance of boundaries. They emphasize the role of Jesus in restoring order and the need for personal reflection and self-examination. The discussion also touches on the complementarity of marriage and the collaborative effort required to cultivate a well-ordered life.
Takeaways
We are made in God's image and likeness, but not complete mirrors.
Genesis serves as a metaphor for the human condition.
Pride leads to chaos and disobedience.
The serpent represents temptation and the struggle against God.
Free will allows for both creation and destruction.
Boundaries are essential for a well-ordered life.
Jesus is central to restoring order in our lives.
Self-examination is crucial for personal growth.
Complementarity in marriage enhances the cultivation of life.
Community support is vital in tending to our gardens.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Trailer
03:11 The Nature of Creation and Free Will
06:11 The Role of the Serpent and Temptation
08:59 Pride, Envy, and the Fall
11:42 The Garden as a Metaphor for Life
14:40 The Importance of Boundaries and Limitations
17:28 The Role of Jesus in Restoration
20:22 Personal Reflection and Self-Examination
23:20 The Complementarity of Marriage
26:09 Conclusion and Call to Action
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
44min
October 21, 2025 👉 Stop Trashing Yourself — You’re Made for Greatness
Summary : Part 2 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God Series
In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the various themes present in Chapter One surrounding human dignity and the interpretation of Genesis as presented in Jordan Peterson's book, 'We Who Wrestle With God.' They discuss the essence of human dignity, and the complementarity of men and women. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing our inherent value as individuals created in the image of God, and how this understanding shapes our relationships and societal interactions. Bonus: Fr. Craig and Jimmy answer the first question emailed to [email protected] - please reach out too if you have a question you'd like The Monk & The Meathead to answer!
Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page:
https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025
Takeaways
Human dignity is a fundamental aspect of Christian anthropology.
We are made in the image and likeness of God.
Dignity is a gift from the Creator to every individual.
Complementarity between men and women is essential for family and society.
The concept of inherent value is a distinctly Christian idea.
Isolation is the greatest punishment for humans.
Treating oneself with dignity allows for better treatment of others.
Understanding our divine image helps us recognize our worth.
A church wedding should not be expensive.
The only necessary elements for a wedding are the couple and the minister.
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
46min
October 06, 2025 Why God Wants You to Struggle: Lessons from Jordan Peterson & Genesis
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary - NEW SERIES!
In this episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy begin a new series delving into Jordan Peterson's book 'We Who Wrestle with God', exploring its themes of spirituality, the human experience, and the moral journey. They discuss the significance of the title, the biblical foundations of Western civilization, and the ongoing struggle of wrestling with God. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal growth, the transformative journey from good to better, and the role of the Bible in shaping moral values. Through engaging dialogue, they highlight the call to adventure and the necessity of embracing challenges in life.
Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page:
https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025
Takeaways
Dr. Peterson challenges everyone to aim higher in life.
Wrestling with God is a natural part of the human experience.
The Bible serves as the foundation for Western civilization.
The sanctity of the individual is rooted in Christian values.
Struggles and challenges are integral to personal growth.
God often speaks to us in a still small voice.
The journey from good to better is a continuous process.
Transfiguration symbolizes our potential for transformation.
Opting out of spiritual growth leads to personal peril.
The book refutes the notion of soft Christianity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to 'We Who Wrestle with God'
04:59 Exploring the Title and Its Significance
11:52 The Tension of Wrestling with God
19:19 The Foundation of Western Civilization
27:35 The Call to Moral Excellence
34:13 The Still Small Voice of Conscience
39:58 Looking Ahead: Chapter One Preview
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
44min
October 06, 2025 Why God Wants You to "Struggle" : Lessons from Jordan Peterson & Genesis
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary
NEW SERIES!
In this episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy begin a new series delving into Jordan Peterson's book 'We Who Wrestle with God', exploring its themes of spirituality, the human experience, and the moral journey. They discuss the significance of the title, the biblical foundations of Western civilization, and the ongoing struggle of wrestling with God. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal growth, the transformative journey from good to better, and the role of the Bible in shaping moral values. Through engaging dialogue, they highlight the call to adventure and the necessity of embracing challenges in life.
Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025
Takeaways
Dr. Peterson challenges everyone to aim higher in life.
Wrestling with God is a natural part of the human experience.
The Bible serves as the foundation for Western civilization.
The sanctity of the individual is rooted in Christian values.
Struggles and challenges are integral to personal growth.
God often speaks to us in a still small voice.
The journey from good to better is a continuous process.
Transfiguration symbolizes our potential for transformation.
Opting out of spiritual growth leads to personal peril.
The book refutes the notion of soft Christianity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to 'We Who Wrestle with God'
04:59 Exploring the Title and Its Significance
11:52 The Tension of Wrestling with God 19:19
The Foundation of Western Civilization
27:35 The Call to Moral Excellence
34:13 The Still Small Voice of Conscience
39:58 Looking Ahead: Chapter One Preview The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
44min
September 15, 2025 Say No to the Fetal Position & Embrace the Adventure
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary
In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the theme of faith as an adventure, drawing insights from Bishop Robert Barron's podcast. They discuss the biblical figures of Abraham, Jacob, and Jonah, emphasizing the call to trust in God and the importance of self-giving. The dialogue highlights the struggles of faith, the necessity of wrestling with God, and the transformative power of responding to God's call. The conversation culminates in an invitation to participate in the ACTS Retreat, a spiritual journey designed to deepen one's faith and sense of adventure.
Takeaways
Faith is not just belief; it's a call to adventure.
God invites us to a life of self-giving.
Abraham's story illustrates trust in the improbable.
Wrestling with God is part of the faith journey.
Self-giving love leads to true happiness.
Life's struggles can lead to deeper understanding.
The adventure of faith includes peaks and valleys.
God is always pursuing us, inviting us to engage.
The ACTS Retreat offers a chance to deepen faith.
Finding meaning often requires looking where we least want to.
Chapters
00:00 The Call to Adventure in Faith
18:00 Wrestling with God: The Journey of Jacob
27:41 The Reluctant Prophet: Lessons from Jonah
31:35 Embracing the Adventure of Life
Link to Bishop Barron Episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wof-503-our-call-to-radical-self-gift/id1065019039?i=1000722484340
Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page:
https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
41min
August 25, 2025 Fastpass to Catholic Disneyland : Wrapping Up the Spiritual Disciplines
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
📖 Episode Summary
In this episode, Fr. Craig (the Monk) and Jimmy (the Meathead) dive deep into the final five disciplines of the Catholic Christian life. Using stories from jiu-jitsu training, The Matrix, Tolkien, and even Disney fast passes, they explore what it really means to grow in faith and holiness in the middle of busy, modern life.
From cultivating virtue to reading Scripture without getting overwhelmed, building true community, living generously, and sharing your faith with others, this conversation blends wisdom and humor into a roadmap for spiritual growth.
🕊️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why the moral life is like training for a black belt—it takes a lifetime of discipline.
How to read the Bible in a way that actually makes sense (and doesn’t put you to sleep).
The secret to building deep, lasting friendships in community—even as an adult.
Why generosity isn’t just about money, but a way of living with open hands.
How evangelization is really just “one beggar telling another where to find bread.”
📌 The Nine Catholic Disciplines (Full List)
The Sacramental Life
The Interior Life (Prayer)
Fasting & Abstinence
Silence & Solitude
The Moral Life
Knowledge of Sacred Scripture
The Communal Life
The Generous Life
The Fruitful Life (Evangelization)
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
42min
August 11, 2025 Controlling the Comfort Train: 3 More Spiritual Disciplines
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary
The Interior Life, Silence & Solitude, and Fasting: Spiritual Disciplines for a Magnanimous Heart
In this episode of The Monk and the Meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland continue their series on the Nine Spiritual Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciple, recorded on the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
They explore how St. Ignatius’ dramatic “cannonball conversion” and his Spiritual Exercises offer timeless guidance for growing in prayer, focus, and love. From the difference between civic and religious inquisitions to the benefits of curbing our appetites, this conversation blends practical wisdom with lighthearted storytelling.
You’ll hear:
The interior life — why tending your soul is essential to becoming more loving
The value of silence and solitude in a distracted, noisy world
How fasting and abstinence sharpen self-control and spiritual clarity
Jimmy’s West Point contrast story on why “sleep’s a crutch”
Why cutting certain appetites can free you to focus on what matters most
This is a practical, encouraging guide for living a disciplined Catholic life in the modern world—without losing your sense of humor. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
39min
August 04, 2025 Bonus! Defeating the Noonday Devil with the Hallow App
Join Fr. Craig and Jimmy as they delve into a modern tool for the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, exploring how these practices can enrich the lives of Catholics today and help you defeat the noonday devil! Discover the benefits of using the Hallow app for daily spiritual exercises and the importance of the Eucharistic assembly in nurturing a devout life. The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
11min
July 28, 2025 Are These Sacraments Actually Working? The Spiritual Metric That Matters
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Most Catholics are doing all the right things—attending Mass, going to confession (fasting during Lent etc.) —but are we actually becoming more loving? In this thought-provoking episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland dig into the real reason behind spiritual discipline number 1 in our series of and why simply “working out your faith” isn’t enough.
This conversation explores how spiritual disciplines are means, not ends, and the danger of becoming a “fit Catholic” who never actually transforms. If you’ve ever questioned whether your prayer, fasting, or church attendance is working, this episode is for you.
🛑 What You’ll Learn:
Why the sacraments aren’t “magic” and how to know if they’re bearing fruit
How to measure real spiritual growth (hint: it’s not how often you fast)
Review of the 9 key spiritual practices of a fully engaged Catholic.
The one question that should guide all your spiritual habits
What “beige Catholicism” is—and how to avoid it
🔥 Notable Moments:
“I don't want to be really good at working out—I want to be changed.”
“You can fast at a steakhouse and still be gossiping. That’s not holiness.”
“The Eucharist isn’t just a recharge—it’s a call to community and transformation.”
The Monk and The Meathead is a production of Mary Queen of Peace Parish
is Webster Groves, Missouri.
The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate
entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now
striving to push deeper into his faith.
The Monk: Fr. Craig Holway—Roman Catholic priest, teacher, and spiritual
coach, guiding men to embrace authentic Christian masculinity with
strength, truth, and purpose.
If you’ve got a question or a topic you want us to tackle, send it our
way at [email protected]. And if you’re in the St. Louis area, come
visit us at Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Webster Groves.
Check out Mary Queen of Peace at www.mqpwg.org
RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify.
SHARE this episode with someone.
SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any new episodes!
...more
26min

FAQs about The Monk and The Meathead:

How many episodes does The Monk and The Meathead have?

The podcast currently has 66 episodes available.

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