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 74 episodes available.

The Monk and The Meathead episodes:

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
July 15, 2025 Feeling Spiritually Sluggish? Welcome to the 9 Disciplines
Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life.
- - - - - -
Summary
In this conversation, the monk & the meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy, explore the intersection of spiritual practices, and daily life, emphasizing the importance of discipline and community in achieving a fulfilling life. They kick of a series of nine spiritual practices that can enhance one's relationship with God and promote happiness, while also addressing the challenges of maintaining consistency and joy in these practices.
Today’s Topic: A Introduction to 9 Spiritual Practices
--Creating an Ecosystem that is conducive to Life with God, Sustained Happiness and Hope for Eternal Life
The 9 Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciple
a. The Sacramental Life
b. The Interior Life
c. Fasting and Abstinence
d. Silence and Solitude
e. The Moral Life: Christian Perfection and Holiness
f. Sacred Scripture
g. The Communal Life: Community and Stewardship
h. Christian Charity: The Generous Life
i. The Fruitful Life: Evangelization
Takeaways
Silence and structure are essential for a balanced life.
Fasting can lead to greater happiness and mental clarity.
Nine spiritual practices can create a fulfilling life.
Discipline is key to achieving freedom in life.
Consistency in spiritual practices leads to optimal living.
Community support is vital for spiritual growth.
Joy should be a part of living the gospel.
Sacrificing for spiritual growth can lead to greater rewards.
Applying these practices can enhance daily life and relationships.
Chapters
01:19
The Role of Silence and Structure in Daily Life
02:23
Spiritual Practices for a Fulfilling Life
12:42
Discipline Equals Freedom: The Path to Joy
17:27
Closing Thoughts and Prayer 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
28min
May 27, 2025 [Rebroadcast!] I thought life was supposed to be an adventure... (Hero's Journey Part 1)
Happy Memorial Day! With Fr. Craig on a pilgramage in Rome, we return to an foundational topic of The Monk & The Meathead. The Hero's Journey. On this episode Father Craig and Jimmy discuss a 5,000 year old pattern that can be seen in every myth, legend, novel, movie, and comic book. Humans love watching the Hero's journey. Father Craig give the introduction to the stages of this journey and talks about how it relates to the spiritual 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
1h 3min

FAQs about The Monk and The Meathead:

How many episodes does The Monk and The Meathead have?

The podcast currently has 74 episodes available.

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