In this enlightening episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Danny Huerta, the Vice President of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family.

Danny shares his invaluable insights on effective parenting strategies, the challenges of modern parenting, and the transformative power of intentional, loving guidance.

Throughout the discussion, Danny offers a unique perspective on the importance of guiding children rather than merely reacting to their behavior. He delves into the seven traits of effective parenting, a research-based framework that includes adaptability, respect, intentionality, steadfast love, boundaries and limits, grace and forgiveness, and gratitude.

Danny emphasizes the significance of having a family vision and the role of fathers in providing wise, adaptive leadership.

Key Discussion Points:

• The importance of guiding children rather than merely reacting to their behavior

• The challenges of modern parenting, including burnout and limited emotional capacity

• The seven traits of effective parenting and their research-based foundation

• The role of vision in parenting and fostering healthy relationships

• Addressing technology addiction with validation, boundaries, and modeling self-control

• The father's role in providing wise, adaptive leadership for the family

• Practical tips for parents, including mirror messages and family journals

• The power of gratitude in reframing parenting challenges as opportunities

• The role of faith in parenting and the importance of personal growth

• Valuable resources for parents, including books, podcasts, and age-specific tools

Timestamp:

00:00 - Introduction and background on Dr. Danny Huerta's role at Focus on the Family

00:20 - Discussing the most important aspect parents often miss in parenting

01:08 - Exploring the reasons why parents struggle to make time for deeper conversations

04:26 - Examining the concept of a formal family vision and its importance

07:28 - Addressing the challenge of balancing natural virtues and religious faith in parenting

10:21 - Discussing the seven traits of effective parenting and their research-based foundation

14:00 - Reviewing the seven traits of effective parenting in detail

15:15 - Exploring how Dr. Huerta developed the seven traits framework

18:30 - Addressing the challenge of smartphone addiction in teenagers

25:57 - Discussing the role of fathers in providing wise, adaptive leadership for the family

28:00 - Examining the success rates of parents who implement effective parenting strategies

31:15 - Exploring the time investment required for parents to see results

33:06 - Recommending top resources for parents, including books and podcasts

36:28 - Concluding thoughts and encouragement for parents to be steadfast in their approach

37:35 - Sharing practical tips for parents, including mirror messages and family journals

Resources and Links:

• Watch this episode on ⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠.

• Listen to this episode on ⁠Apple Podcasts.

• Visit FocusOnParenting.com for parenting resources and assessments

• Sign up for customized parenting tips at MyKidsAge.com

***

Dr. Johann D'Souza

Clinical Psychologist ⁠

Values First Therapy ⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ X (Twitter)

Dr. Danny Huerta

Vice President of Parenting and Youth

Focus on the Family

https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-huerta-psyd-lcsw-lssw-6619a093/

In this episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Andreas Widmer, a former Swiss Guard who served under Pope John Paul II.

Andreas shares his transformative experiences, the profound spiritual impact the Holy Father had on his life, and the invaluable lessons he learned about faith, leadership, and personal growth.

Key Discussion Points:

• Andreas' experiences as a Swiss Guard, including dealing with security threats and witnessing historic events

• The profound spiritual impact of Pope John Paul II on Andreas' life and his journey to a deeper faith

• The Pope's ability to read souls and minister to individuals, even in brief encounters• The importance of sharing the graces and experiences God gives us with others

• Andreas' spiritual awakening following the death of Pope John Paul II and his commitment to integrating faith and business

• The Gospel of Work program, applying the theology of the body to entrepreneurship and business

• Strategies for helping high school students identify their talents and create value for others through entrepreneurship

• The importance of mastering our thoughts and impulses, drawing on the wisdom of the Desert Fathers

Timestamp:

00:00 - Introduction and background on Andreas Widmer's experience as a Swiss Guard

01:48 - Clarifying the role of the Swiss Guard and their uniforms in providing security for the Pope

03:17 - Andreas shares his experience working with Pope John Paul II and how the Pope ministered to the Swiss Guards, leading to profound conversions

07:51 - Discussing how Pope John Paul II was able to read people's souls and minister to them individually, even with his busy schedule

12:23 - Examining how Pope John Paul II's leadership style and holiness can be imitated by ordinary people in their own lives

16:43 - Andreas shares his impressions of various world leaders he encountered while serving as a Swiss Guard

18:50 - Discussing the character and role of Joaquin Navarro-Valls, Pope John Paul II's press secretary

21:09 - Andreas shares a profound spiritual experience he had after the death of Pope John Paul II that changed the trajectory of his life

27:05 - Andreas discusses his current projects, including teaching business at Catholic University of America and applying the Theology of the Body to entrepreneurship

29:24 - Exploring the value of Andreas' program for high school students, focusing on their strengths and talents to create value for others

37:52 - Discussing the challenges young people face with thoughts, temptations, and addictions, and the importance of sharing struggles with others

40:18 - Reframing anxiety as excitement and focusing on the positive aspects of being a creature of God

Resources and Links:

• Watch this episode on Youtube.

• Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

• The Pope and the CEO by Andreas Widmer

Dr. Johann D'Souza

Clinical Psychologist

Values First Therapy

LinkedIn

X (Twitter)

Andreas Widmer

Former Swiss Guard and Author

LinkedIn

In this enlightening episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza sits down with John Cannon, the founder of Sent Ventures, to explore his transformative spiritual journey, the wisdom gained from monastic life, and his mission to support Catholic entrepreneurs in building values-driven organizations.Key Discussion Points:• John's spiritual awakening and the events that led him to join the Carmelite monastery• The common leadership traits of influential Catholic figures, such as robust faith, entrepreneurial character, and organic growth• The importance of forming leaders who can inspire others and carry out the mission• The challenges faced by Catholic entrepreneurs in integrating faith and work• The launch of Sent Ventures and its mission to support Catholic founders in building values-driven organizations• The development of the Monk Mindset resources, making monastic wisdom accessible to a broader audienceTimestamp:00:00 - Introduction and background on John Cannon's academic pedigree and what inspired him to start Sent Ventures01:29 - John shares his spiritual experience that led him to rediscover his Catholic faith and eventually join a monastery07:51 - Discussing the common leadership principles of Catholic leaders like Mother Teresa, St. Benedict, and St. Ignatius of Loyola13:10 - Examining the leadership and entrepreneurial spirit of St. Josemaria Escriva, founder of Opus Dei17:09 - John shares his dream and vision for Sent Ventures in helping Catholic entrepreneurs integrate their faith into their work19:47 - Discussing the challenges John faces in executing the mission of Sent Ventures21:50 - John shares his biggest challenge of starting Sent Ventures right before the pandemic hit and the loneliness and difficulties he faced27:06 - John introduces his new project called Monk Mindset, aimed at making monastic wisdom accessible and actionable for a broader audienceResources and Links: • Watch this episode on Youtube• Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts

Dr. Johann D'Souza Clinical Psychologist

Values First Therapy

Linkedin

Twitter

John Cannon @sentventuresFounder of Sent Ventures and Monk Mindset https://www.linkedin.com/in/njohncannon/

• Erin. Loechner's Book: "⁠Chasing Slow⁠"

In this episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza sits down with Erin Loechner, a writer and former influencer who made the courageous decision to walk away from social media to prioritize her family and values.

Key Discussion Points:

• The realization that investing in one-on-one relationships is more meaningful than amassing social media followers

• The concept of "veering right into grace" and how surrendering control can lead to a more fulfilling life

• Erin's experiences going phone-free as a parent and how it can guide children in discerning what's truly necessary

• How Erin has successfully fostered a supportive, multi-generational community crucial for families opting out of technology

• Questioning the narrative around smartphones and their impact on families

• The importance of being intentional about technology use and making informed parenting decisions

Timestamp:

00:00:28 - Erin's background as a writer and decision to walk away from social media

00:03:15 - The impact of being offline on social interactions and professional opportunities

00:06:22 - Balancing the use of social media for business purposes while maintaining personal convictions

00:09:51 - The meaning behind "veering right into grace" and surrendering control

00:14:06 - The importance of experimenting with going phone-free as a parent

00:16:23 - Addressing concerns about children's social lives when opting out of technology

00:21:22 - Navigating the desire for children to be "normal" in a technology-driven world

00:24:45 - The significance of questioning the narrative around smartphones and their impact on families

00:27:41 - Fostering a community of like-minded people to support opting out of technology

Resources and Links:

• Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

• Watch this podcast video on Youtube.

• Opt Out Family ⁠Website

Dr. Johann D'Souza

Clinical Psychologist

Values First Therapy 

Dr. D' Souza's LinkedIn

Dr. D' Souza's X ( Twitter)

Erin Loechner

Writer and Advocate for Opting Out of Technology 

Erin's Website

In this new episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza sits down with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty to unravel the complex landscape of medical ethics, pandemic responses, and the critical battle for individual medical freedom that has defined our recent global experience.

They delve into the scientific and ethical implications of vaccine mandates, government overreach, and the importance of maintaining individual medical consent and moral courage.

Key Discussion Points:

• The ethical challenges of COVID-19 vaccine mandates and their impact on individual medical autonomy
• The historical context of medical ethics, including the Nuremberg Code and informed consent
• The phenomenon of mass formation and psychological dynamics during the pandemic
• Legal challenges against government censorship and healthcare restrictions
• The importance of speaking truth in the face of institutional pressure
• The long-term implications of pandemic policies on medical ethics and individual rights
• The role of medical professionals in defending patient autonomy and evidence-based healthcare

Timestamp:

00:00:00 - Introduction and background on Dr. Aaron Kheriaty's expertise

00:01:05 - Dr. Kheriaty's experience being fired from UC Irvine for challenging vaccine mandates

00:03:20 - The Nuremberg Code and the principles of informed medical consent

00:05:45 - Mass formation psychology during the COVID-19 pandemic

00:09:35 - Testifying before the Senate on pandemic response and medical ethics

00:13:05 - The Missouri v. Biden lawsuit and government censorship challenges

00:16:20 - Life after leaving academia and maintaining professional integrity

00:18:15 - Conclusion and final thoughts on medical ethics and moral courage

Resources and Links:

• Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.
• Watch this podcast video on YouTube.
• Discover Dr. Kheriaty's book "The New Abnormal: The Rise of the Biomedical Security State"
• Brownstone Institute: https://brownstone.org/ 
• Ethics and Public Policy Center: https://eppc.org/ 
• Dr. Kheriaty's Website: https://aaronkheriaty.com/

In this captivating episode of the Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Erica Komisar, a renowned psychoanalyst and parenting expert, about the crucial role of a mother's presence in her baby's emotional development.

They delve into the scientific research that supports attachment parenting and explore the potential long-term consequences of popular parenting practices, such as the "cry it out" method.

Key Discussion Points:

• The importance of nurturing behaviors, such as sensitive and empathic care, in promoting emotional resilience in children.

• The role of attachment theory in understanding the significance of a secure emotional connection between a baby and their primary caregiver.

• The distinct differences in nurturing styles and hormonal influences between mothers and fathers, and how these impact child development.

• The potential risks associated with letting babies "cry it out" and the importance of responding to a baby's distress.

• The evolutionary and biological basis for close physical proximity between mothers and babies, particularly during nighttime.

• The societal pressures and cultural shifts that have contributed to a disconnect from parents' natural instincts to prioritize their babies' emotional well-being.

Timestamp:

00:00:00 - Introduction and background on Erica Komisar's expertise

00:01:04 - Delving into the research that demonstrates the significant benefits of a mother's presence for her baby's emotional regulation and resilience

00:03:21 - Exploring attachment theory and the crucial role of the primary attachment figure in providing a secure base for the child

00:13:55 - Examining the distinct differences between mothers and fathers in terms of nurturing behaviors and hormonal influences, such as oxytocin and vasopressin

00:19:32 - Addressing the controversial topic of responding to a baby's cries and the potential long-term consequences of "cry it out" methods on attachment security

00:21:49 - Discussing the evolutionary and biological basis for babies sleeping in close proximity to their mothers and the paramount importance of nighttime security for emotional development

00:25:33 - Analyzing the societal pressures and cultural shifts that have contributed to a disconnect from parents' natural instincts to prioritize their babies' emotional well-being

00:27:06 - Conclusion and final thoughts on the importance of recognizing and honoring the unique role of mothers in their children's lives

Resources and Links:

Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Watch this podcast video on YouTube.

Learn more about Erica Komisar and her work.

Discover Erica Komisar's book "Being There: Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters"

Dr. Johann D'Souza

Clinical Psychologist

Values First Therapy https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.com/Erica Komisar, LCSW

Psychoanalyst, Parent Guidance Expert, and Authorhttps://www.ericakomisar.com/

In this 23rd episode of Virtuous Leaders Podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza interviews Dr. Andrew Hartz, founder of the Open Therapy Institute, about sociopolitical biases in mental healthcare. They discuss how these biases lead to neglect of significant patient issues and the institute's mission to reform mental health services.

Key Discussion Points:

• Addressing overlooked issues in therapy, such as political stress, masculinity, self-censorship, and challenges faced by conservatives and faith-based clients.

• Therapists' struggles when engaging with patients holding differing views and the potential for patients to feel invalidated.

• Strategies for therapists and patients grappling with self-censorship, including building connections and developing communication skills.

• Dr. Hartz's personal experiences that motivated him to establish the Open Therapy Institute.

• Membership options, workshops, and research initiatives available through the institute for clinicians.

Timestamp:

00:00:00 - Introduction and mission of the Open Therapy Institute

00:02:56 - Helping clients with traditional values and those who self-censor

00:04:00 - Lack of training for therapists on faith-based issues

00:07:23 - Argument for including faith-based issues in therapy training

00:10:07 - Secret lists of acceptable providers due to bias

00:11:43 - Critique of therapists labeling patients as problematic

00:14:01 - Four levels of bias in therapists 00:16:32 - Diagram of overlooked issues due to sociopolitical bias

00:22:06 - Strategies for addressing self-censorship

00:30:28 - Dr. Hartz's personal journey in founding the institute

00:40:05 - Problematization of gender-related signifiers

00:45:02 - Need for psychology to help people respond to social changes

00:46:04 - Open Therapy Institute's current projects and opportunities

Resources and Links:

Listen to ⁠⁠this Episode⁠⁠ on Apple Podcast.

Watch ⁠⁠⁠this ⁠podcast video⁠⁠⁠⁠ on YouTube.

Open Therapy Institute

In this 22nd episode of our podcast, Dr. Johann D'Souza welcomes Donovan Campbell, a distinguished leader whose life experiences have profoundly shaped his understanding of leadership.

A magna cum laude graduate from Princeton, Donovan served as an officer in Ramadi, Iraq, one of the most perilous deployments for U.S. forces, before authoring the bestselling book Joker One, which reflects on his combat experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Emphasizing servant leadership can transform both military and civilian environments.
• Effective leadership requires a blend of soft skills (empathy, connection) and hard skills (planning, execution).
• Team success is built on preparation and shared understanding rather than individual actions.
• Civic engagement is crucial for fostering community involvement and addressing local issues.
• Supporting veterans is a vital aspect of leadership that extends beyond military service.

Timestamp:

• 00:00:00 - Introduction of Donovan Campbell and his leadership focus.
• 00:00:27 - Key leadership lessons: servant leadership and challenges.
• 00:01:46 - Incorporating high ideals in combat situations.
• 00:01:55 - Chaos of urban combat: training and teamwork importance.
• 00:04:54 - Realities of war vs. romanticized views.
• 00:06:25 - Combat experience and thoughtful war decision-making.
• 00:07:56 - Human adaptability and resilience in trauma.
• 00:10:31 - Applying war lessons to daily life.
• 00:10:57 - "Soft" and "hard" skills from combat experience.
• 00:12:37 - Importance of planning and team development.
• 00:15:36 - Discussion on Donovan's school board candidacy.
• 00:15:42 - Motivations for running and election outcomes.
• 00:17:48 - Involvement in veterans' causes and community work.
• 00:20:39 - Analysis of Pete Hegseth’s qualifications as Secretary of Defense.
• 00:24:58 - Support for Hegseth’s nomination and military issues.
• 00:25:11 - Discussion of Hegseth’s focus on military excellence vs. social experimentation.

Resources and Links:

Listen to ⁠⁠this Episode⁠⁠ on Apple Podcast.

Watch ⁠⁠this ⁠podcast video⁠⁠⁠ on YouTube.

Discover the New York Times Bestselling Book: “Joker One” by Donovan Campbell”

In this insightful episode, Dr. Johann D'Souza engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Peter Kilpatrick, the President of the Catholic University of America (CUA). Dr. Kilpatrick shares his remarkable journey as a convert to Catholicism and reflects on his extensive academic career. He highlights CUA's unique position as a university founded by U.S. bishops and its commitment to upholding the fullness of the Catholic intellectual tradition.

The conversation delves into the challenges faced by higher education today and how CUA navigates these hurdles through its steadfast commitment to its mission and rich historical legacy. Dr. Kilpatrick emphasizes the importance of academic freedom, fostering civil discourse, and remaining true to Catholic teachings.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on cultivating virtue in personal and professional life and discover how CUA is shaping the future of Catholic education by inspiring individuals to contribute to a more virtuous society through action and witness.

Timestamp:

00:00:18 - Dr. Kilpatrick's background and journey to Catholicism

00:00:57 - CUA's unique founding by U.S. bishops

00:01:02 - CUA's notable alumni and commitment to holiness

00:02:20 - Maintaining CUA's Catholic identity through teaching and integration of faith and reason

00:03:57 - Upholding Catholic identity through curriculum and knowledge integration

00:05:01 - CUA's vision as the premier Catholic research university

00:06:45 - Challenges facing higher education and CUA's navigation strategies

00:11:16 - Maintaining the pursuit of truth amidst social pressure

00:14:04 - Recommendations for cultivating virtue using "Super Habits" resources

00:17:56 - Demonstrating moral courage through action and witness

00:21:43 - Entropy, providence, and the materialistic worldview

00:23:16 - Incorporating evidence-based approaches in CUA's psychology initiative

00:28:32 - The centrality of virtue for human flourishing and its incorporation across curricula

Resources and Links:

Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Watch this episode in Youtube.

Learn more about the Catholic University of America.

Discover the "Super Habits" book and app by Andrew Abella.

In this episode, Dr. Johann D'Souza talks with Rob Hays, a business executive and community leader from Dallas.

Rob shares insights from his 20 years in the hotel industry and his recent move to help his father sell his company and start new business ventures. They also discuss Rob's passion for hosting a lecture series at home about faith, culture, and family.

Key Takeaways:

Timestamp:

02:44 - Impactful lecture examples: Archbishop of San Francisco on evangelization through beauty and Ryan Anderson on historical shifts in understanding the Church and human nature

05:11 - Discussion of the current "new dark age" and forgotten truths about human nature

06:48 - Rob's experience running a public company and observing employees' struggle to find happiness

08:59 - Rob's vision for impacting the world through his professional work and desire to serve others

10:58 - Rob's motivation to create opportunities for people to think about important questions of culture, family, and faith

14:58 - Examples of people Rob admires: Frank Hanna and Jerry Wegener

18:19 - Rob's board involvement and the importance of good governance in shaping organizations

20:54 - Analysis of the current state of the U.S. government and cultivating a virtuous polity

21:24 - The importance of cultural formation and understanding the purpose of government and human nature

24:41 - Discussion of Tucker Carlson interviews and the common theme of the need for God and Christianity

26:47 - The importance of understanding everyone's ultimate orientation and the need for a renewed understanding of faith in the public square

Resources and Links:

Listen to ⁠this Episode⁠ on Apple Podcast.

Watch ⁠⁠this podcast video⁠⁠ on YouTube.