The Catholic Man Show

OverviewAdam shares a sideline story from coaching I-9 flag football—including a bold moment of public prayer—and the guys dive into practical Marian devotion for men. Plus: the legendary Catholic Man Show Campout, a hilarious kiddo/arcade saga, and this week’s whiskey.In This EpisodeCoaching & Courage: How an I-9 format works for big families, simple plays that win, and leading a team in prayer after a teammate’s injury.Being Bold in Public Faith: Why most people respect prayer, overcoming hesitation, and letting charity—not fear—set the tone.Marian Devotion for Men:Mary as Queen Mother and model disciple (why Mariology protects sound Christology).Practical “Marian hacks”: entrusting your prayers to Mary; asking for her heart before Holy Communion; Undoer of Knots novena.Old Testament typology (Jael, Judith, New Eve) and “she will crush your head” (Gen 3:15).Whiskey of the Week: Scotch Malt Whisky Society bottling from Tomatin (Highland), 9-year, charred hogshead, ~59% ABV—hot but opens beautifully with a splash; oak-forward finish.Campout Buzz: Men flying in from across the country; new activities; documentary coming to YouTube.Family & Fun: The token machine misadventure (fire trucks, free passes, and a parental facepalm).Key TakeawaysWhen in doubt, pray anyway—most onlookers receive it as a kind gesture.Daily Rosary is a proven aid against habitual sin (per spiritual masters).Offer your prayers through Mary so she can “clean them up” and present them to Jesus.Consider Total Consecration (St. Louis de Montfort) to root your day-to-day in Marian discipleship.Mentions & ResourcesRosary episode with Dominicans: Fr. Gregory Pine, Fr. Patrick Briscoe, Fr. Joseph Anthony KressSelect International Tours – long-time show sponsor for pilgrimagesDevotions: Our Lady, Undoer of Knots novena; Total Consecration (St. Louis de Montfort); Glories of Mary (St. Alphonsus Liguori)

This week on The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome Chris Carstens—Director of the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, teacher, author, and liturgical scholar.Together, they dive deep into the heart of Catholic worship and explore:How fathers can introduce young children to the beauty of the Mass—even when it feels like a workout.Why children belong in the main body of the church, not just the cry room.The meaning and role of altar serving and how it shapes boys into men of faith.Insights into the ordinary form vs. extraordinary form conversation, and how Pope Benedict XVI envisioned “mutual enrichment.”What the Eucharistic revival accomplished and why the Mass itself is the greatest act of Eucharistic adoration.Practical steps to make parish liturgies more beautiful, reverent, and evangelizing.Resources and books to help families grow deeper in love with the liturgy, such as A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Biblical Walk Through the Mass.About our guest:Chris Carstens has spent over 25 years in liturgical ministry, teaching at the Liturgical Institute and Christendom College, and serving as editor of Adoremus Bulletin. He is the author of several books on Catholic worship and continues to help parishes and families rediscover the beauty of the Mass.👉 Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Adoremus BulletinA Devotional Journey into the Mass (Sophia Institute Press)Biblical Walk Through the Mass by Edward SriJesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist by Brant Pitre

Why does the Rosary matter? How do you pray it well when distractions hit? And what about devotion to Mary — is it too much, or exactly what we need?In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome three Dominican priests: • Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. • Fr. Patrick Briscoe, O.P. • Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress, O.P.They dive into:✅ The history and power of the Rosary✅ Practical advice on handling distractions in prayer✅ The Luminous Mysteries and why they matter today✅ Mary’s role as Mediatrix of Grace✅ Live audience Q&AThis lively, insightful, and often funny conversation will deepen your love for the Rosary and inspire greater devotion in your prayer life.Looking for a book to turn your home into a saint-making machine?https://ascensionpress.com/products/living-beyond-sunday-making-your-home-a-holy-placeBecome a patron and get TCMS whisky glasses and/or beer glasses just like you see on the show: https://www.patreon.com/thecatholicmanshowNew to the show? Check out these cool episodes we did with guests and without guests: https://thecatholicmanshow.com/new-to-the-catholic-man-show/Check us out on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecatholicmanshow/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CatholicManShowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecatholicmanshowPodcast: https://feeds.captivate.fm/thecatholicmanshow/

On this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David welcome Brandon Sheard — homesteader, butcher, and teacher — to talk about the lost art of traditional husbandry and meat preservation. Brandon shares why skills like butchering, curing, and cooking matter for men, families, and Catholic culture.From the cultural and spiritual meaning of feasts like Christmas, with roast goose and black and white pudding, to the role of men in providing for their households, Brandon offers both practical wisdom and timeless tradition. He also discusses his upcoming book on raising and harvesting pigs, plus the benefits of his membership site featuring step-by-step homesteading videos.Listeners will learn how Catholic tradition, food, and masculinity intersect — and how reviving these skills can strengthen community and faith.Episode Highlights:Why traditional meat preservation is vital for family and cultureThe role of feasts in Catholic traditionPractical skills every man should know in the kitchen and fieldUpcoming opportunities to learn butchering firsthandAction items from this episode:Live lamb harvest and butchering demonstration at the Catholic Man Show campoutOctober 2-day class on harvesting and butchering Dexter cattleJoin the Farmstead Meatsmith Membership and get 1 month free by using "CatholicManShow" as a discount.

What does it mean to be a Christian man, husband, and father in today’s secular culture? Actor and Christian leader Kirk Cameron joins Adam Minihan for a powerful conversation about reclaiming fatherhood, cultivating virtue, and leading your family toward heaven.Kirk shares practical wisdom on:Why dads must be the primary educators of their childrenThe danger of pornography and fractured marriagesLiving by example so your kids know Christ is realBuilding authentic male friendships and brotherhoodHow joy and gratitude give men strength in a hostile cultureThis episode of The Catholic Man Show is a call for men to stop settling for mediocrity and start living with purpose. If you’re ready to embrace your role as protector, provider, and spiritual leader of your family—this one’s for you.

Every man needs a rule of life—a clear, concrete framework that keeps prayer, family, work, and virtue in order. Without it, we risk wasting time, neglecting our duties, and drifting through life. With it, we gain clarity, perseverance, and a spiritual roadmap toward sanctity.In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, we explore:Natural benefits of a rule: better use of time, decisiveness, consistency, and efficiency.Supernatural benefits: transforming daily actions into prayer, combating disorder, and conforming life to God’s will.For your neighbor: how your fidelity inspires others, balances prayer and apostolic works, and sanctifies your community.The right balance: flexibility without laxity, firmness without scrupulosity.Concrete considerations: prayer, family life, work, personal discipline, community, and apostolic action.A rule of life isn’t about rigidity—it’s about freedom: God first, then your soul, your family, and your apostolate.“He who lives by rule, lives unto God.”

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam and David wrestle with advice, masculinity, and the struggle for holiness. Drawing from the wisdom of Venerable Fulton Sheen, they explore the three causes of love, the mystery of prayer, and why real men must go beyond “average” to pursue heroic virtue. Along the way, they share stories of fraternity, marriage, business, and spiritual battles—and how the simple thought “Just do it” can transform your daily walk with Christ.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why comparing yourself to the “average American man” sets the bar far too lowFulton Sheen’s teaching on goodness, knowledge, and similarity as foundations of loveThe tension between prayer as desire vs. prayer as dutyWhy saints are extraordinary men and women who embrace heroic virtue“Just do it” as a rule for the spiritual life, work, and family lifeThe role of suffering and sacrifice in becoming extraordinaryPractical wisdom on prayer, business, and discipline for Catholic men todayA special tasting of an 18-year Orphan Barrel bourbon whiskeyUpdates on pilgrimages, the Catholic Rancho Campout, and moreKey Quotes:“Extraordinary men and women are saints because they have heroic virtue. Not just virtue—heroic virtue.”“Ordinary does not call you to get up early, to sacrifice comfort, or to fight for your family. Heroic men do.”“Sometimes, you just have to Nike up, bro. Just do it.”

In this episode, Adam and Dave start with a lighthearted story about a suspicious liquor store and end up diving into one of the most serious struggles facing men today: restraining our instincts.They reflect on:The challenges of summer routines, distractions, and drifting prayer livesThe importance of order and rhythm in family and spiritual lifeHow our passions can overwhelm us if not properly trainedPractical steps for purifying the memory and avoiding near occasions of sinThe balance between embracing God’s gifts and remembering the GiverWhat it means to fight temptation as husbands and fathers, especially in seasons of abstinenceEncouragement from the spiritual masters: why pressure can be good and why we must never assume we’re immune from temptationWith humor, honesty, and practical advice, Adam and Dave remind us that peace is the tranquility of order and that holiness requires vigilance, fraternity, and grace.

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam shares a powerful story about his son, a food truck, and an unexpected act of virtue that left a lasting impact — not only on his son, but on him as a father. It’s not a flex… but it kind of is.What does it mean to live virtuously in public? How can one small act of kindness or virtue build up a community, shape a young man’s character, and challenge all of us to do more with what we’ve been given?Adam and David dive into:The deep value of prudence — the “charioteer” of the virtuesThe role of memory in growing in wisdomAnd of course… the return of David from his 17-month “vacation”Plus: whiskey reviews, Clear Creek Abbey updates, the Catholic Man Show Campout hype, and why From Silence to Silence is the book to read for St. Michael’s Lent.This episode is a mix of fraternal storytelling, serious virtue talk, and a challenge to be the kind of man whose actions ripple into eternity.Challenge This Week:Be like the man at the food truck — notice virtue, call it out, and reward it. Then invite a brother to join you for St. Michael’s Lent starting August 15.Mentioned Resources:From Silence to Silence by Fr. Francis BethelAscend Podcast by Dcn. Harrison GarlickThe Intellectual Life by SertillangesBooker’s Bourbon - The “Pond Batch”Exodus 90 – Sign up for St. Michael’s Lent🎟️ Campout info (for patrons first!): TheCatholicManShow.com✈️ Pilgrimage with us to Italy: Spots are filling fast!

Super Bowl Champion Harrison Butker and his wife Isabelle discuss marriage, fatherhood, motherhood, and raising virtuous children in a chaotic world.Isabelle opens up about the often unseen strength of motherhood, the beauty of sacrifice, and what young women should look for in a husband. Harrison shares what he admires most about his wife, how they live out their vocations as Catholic parents, and why men must reclaim their role as spiritual leaders in the home.In this episode:The complementary roles of fatherhood and motherhoodWhy suffering well is at the heart of sainthoodAdvice for young men & women discerning marriageHow to form children in faith without losing sight of the homeThe power of presence, prayer, and humility in family lifeWhether you’re a parent, single, dating, or discerning your vocation, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to pursue holiness in your home.

Matt Walsh on Rest, Leisure, and Why Men Need to Get Off Their PhonesIn this episode of The Catholic Man Show, Adam Minihan and David Niles sit down with Matt Walsh — Catholic commentator, author, and host of The Matt Walsh Show — for a conversation on leisure, manhood, and how technology is reshaping our minds.Matt shares his perspective on the modern man’s crisis of leisure, the dangers of mindless scrolling, and why intentional hobbies like fishing or board games are more than just recreation — they’re necessary for the soul.They discuss:Why men today are worse at leisure than their grandfathersHow social media disorders our view of restThe connection between leisure, joy, and being fully humanHow to foster habits of real leisure in your home and familyWhy every man needs one good hobby — and why that hobby should help you disconnectMatt also reflects on the importance of silence, presence, and being able to simply “be” without needing to consume content or noise.Sponsor:Check out The Catholic Woodworker for heirloom-quality rosaries: https://catholicwoodworker.com/

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles share personal anecdotes and deep spiritual insights, focusing on the challenge of distractions in prayer. From road trip stories to household mishaps, the hosts set the stage with relatable humor before diving into a discussion inspired by St. Thomas Aquinas and Father Frederick Faber. They explore the five fountains of distraction in prayer, offering practical advice for cultivating a deeper prayer life by addressing distractions outside of prayer time.Key Discussion Points:Opening Banter (00:00:19 - 00:04:50): David recounts his family road trip to Wyoming, including an unexpected stop in Denver and the challenges of traveling with six kids. Adam shares his chaotic week of household breakdowns, from a malfunctioning dishwasher to a beeping van door and a broken lawnmower, humorously reflecting on the "throwaway culture" he’s trying to resist.Health Struggles (00:09:01 - 00:11:24): Adam discusses a rare bout of heartburn that kept him up at night, highlighting his lack of Tums and his struggle to lead a meeting while sleep-deprived and feverish. David relates to his heartburn experience from a past "one chip challenge" on the show.Sponsorship Spotlight (00:12:00 - 00:12:39): The hosts thank Select International Tours, a long-time sponsor, for their reliable pilgrimage offerings. They encourage listeners to visit selectinternationaltours.com for details on their upcoming October pilgrimage to Italy, emphasizing the ideal weather and transformative experience.What We’re Drinking (00:37:02 - 00:37:26): Adam and David enjoy Wyoming Whiskey, a bourbon David praises for its affordability ($30 in Wyoming) and delicious flavor, making it a fitting choice for the episode.Main Topic: Distractions in Prayer (00:15:28 - 01:11:09):Personal Reflection: Adam shares a moment of grace in adoration, where he asked God to reveal impediments in his prayer life. A distracting phone check during a conversation revealed his struggle with presence, sparking a realization about the need for focus in both human and divine relationships.Theological Foundation: Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas’ Summa Theologica (Second Part of the Second Part) and Father Walter Farrell’s Companion to the Summa, the hosts discuss prayer as an act of the will, preceded by the intellect. They reference the Baltimore Catechism’s teaching that we are made to “know, love, and serve” God, emphasizing that knowing God fuels love, which leads to service.Five Fountains of Distraction (Father Frederick Faber):Disordered Health: An obsession with health (valetudinarian state) can distract from tranquility in prayer, unlike true suffering, which can draw one closer to God when united with the Cross.Actions of the Holy Spirit: Distractions can serve as a crucible to humble and purify, grounding believers in deeper devotion by burning away self-love.The Devil: Demonic distractions are marked by their abundance, vivid imagery, soul-disquieting nature, disconnection from daily life, repetitive patterns, and potential to lead to sin. Custody of the eyes, especially against sins of the sixth and ninth commandments, is crucial to limit the devil’s influence.Inculpable Self: Unintentional distractions arise from temperament, imagination, or poor spiritual direction, which are not deliberately chosen but still disrupt prayer.Culpable Self: Deliberately entertained distractions are grave sins if knowingly allowed during time owed to God. These include:Bodily Sources: Lack...

Episode Overview:In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles dive into a lighthearted yet profound discussion about the phrase "killing two birds with one stone," the joys and challenges of high school reunions, and a deep exploration of friendship—both human and divine. The episode centers on John 15:14-15, where Jesus calls His disciples friends, not servants, offering a transformative perspective on what it means to live in communion with Christ. A powerful confession experience ties the conversation together, emphasizing the shift from doing things for God to doing them with Him.Key Discussion Points:Opening Banter (00:00:16 - 00:04:55): Adam and David humorously debate the origins and modern misuse of the phrase "killing two birds with one stone," referencing historical and biblical imagery like David and Goliath, and even a viral video of Nolan Ryan hitting a bird with a baseball.Life Updates (00:05:00 - 00:11:39): David shares his excitement for an upcoming family reunion in Wyoming, while Adam talks about his son Leo’s second-place finish in mutton busting at a local rodeo and his anticipation for a 20-year high school reunion, sparking a funny reflection on aging and pride.Sponsorship Spotlight (00:12:00 - 00:13:15): The hosts highlight their long-time sponsor, Select International Tours, encouraging listeners to explore pilgrimage opportunities at selectinternationaltours.com and join their upcoming trip to Italy in October.What We’re Drinking (00:13:29 - 00:15:47): Adam and David enjoy The Sassenach, a blended Scotch whiskey with a Gaelic name meaning "outsider" or "stranger." They praise its Highland-like flavor and art deco bottle, likening it to a Mad Men-style decanter.Literature and Reading (00:16:46 - 00:20:43): David discusses reading G.K. Chesterton’s Man Alive, recommended by Monsignor Gallus, a Chesterton scholar, and touches on Plato’s The Republic. The hosts reflect on Chesterton’s whimsical style and the influence of classical works on Christian thought.Main Topic: Friendship with Christ (00:22:08 - 00:58:51):Biblical Foundation: Adam introduces John 15:14-15, where Jesus says, “You are my friends if you keep what I command you. No longer do I call you servants… but I have called you friends.” This passage sets the stage for a discussion on authentic friendship.Philosophical Insights: Drawing from Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics (Books 8-10), the hosts explore his three types of friendship—pleasure, utility, and authentic (virtuous) friendship. Aristotle views authentic friendship as the highest moral achievement, impossible without virtue, as vice renders true friendship unattainable.Christian Perspective: The discussion connects Aristotle’s ideas to Christian theology, with references to Augustine, Aquinas, and Cicero. Aquinas describes charity as the highest form of friendship, requiring mutual love, willing the good of the other, and a shared life—mirrored in Christ’s relationship with His disciples.Old vs. New Covenant: The hosts contrast the Old Covenant’s servanthood (e.g., Abraham obeying without full understanding) with the New Covenant’s friendship, where Christ shares divine knowledge, inviting us into intimacy and communion.Confession Insight: Adam shares a transformative moment from confession, where a priest challenged his mentality of doing things for God, urging him to focus on doing things with God. This shift reframes Christian life as a...

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles welcome Michael Knowles, conservative commentator and host of The Michael Knowles Show, to discuss the critical role of language in shaping truth, culture, and faith. Drawing from philosophy, theology, and literature, Knowles explores how the corruption of language distorts our perception of reality, the dangers of slogans and propaganda, and the rebellious power of silence in a distracted world. From Dante’s view of fraud to the importance of interpreting the “signs of the times,” this episode is a thought-provoking call to reclaim language for truth and virtue.Key Discussion Points:Language as a Lens for Truth: Knowles explains that language is not a neutral tool but shapes how we perceive the world. Misusing it, such as through euphemisms like “undocumented American” instead of “illegal alien,” can obscure truth and manipulate thought.Euphemisms and Lies: While polite euphemisms (e.g., “woman of a certain age”) can be charitable, dishonest ones cross into lying, undermining civil discourse and societal standards.The Battle of Standards: The real fight isn’t between free speech and censorship but between competing norms. Knowles critiques free speech absolutism, advocating for standards that reject obscenity and fraud in the public square.Philosophy and Language Degradation: Drawing on Josef Pieper, Knowles notes that denying objective truth turns language into a tool for manipulation, eroding reasoned debate and civil society.The Power of Silence: In a world of constant noise, silence is a rebellious act that allows us to hear God’s voice and interpret the “signs of the times,” as Christ urges.Dante and Fraud: Knowles connects Deacon Harrison Garlick’s idea of lying as “contraceptive speech” to Dante’s Inferno, where fraud, especially betrayal, is among the gravest sins, as it perverts language’s purpose of conveying truth.Christian Task of Interpretation: Knowles emphasizes that Christians are called not to “do” but to interpret the world’s meaning, aligning actions with truth rather than reconstructing it.Resources:The Catholic Woodworker – Discover heirloom-quality rosaries, including the “Saint Michael the Defender” rosary gifted to Michael Knowles.Check out The Michael Knowles Show on your favorite podcast platform or at dailywire.com.Explore Josef Pieper’s works on language and truth, such as Abuse of Language, Abuse of Power.Learn more about Dante’s Inferno for insights into the moral weight of fraud and betrayal.

In this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles dive into the topic of spiritual idleness, drawing from Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness: Progress of the Spiritual Life. Recorded around the Fourth of July, the episode begins with a celebration of small-town Americana, from mutton busting at the local rodeo to the ordination of their friend, Father Robert Williams. The hosts then explore seven developments of spiritual idleness—dissipation, sadness, sloth, and more—offering practical insights on how to stay vigilant and prioritize a life oriented toward God. Sipping on Balvenie’s American Oak 12-Year Scotch, Adam and David discuss how modern distractions, like smartphones and excessive communication, fragment our focus and hinder our prayer life, and share strategies for cultivating presence, joy, and intentionality in both spiritual and daily routines.Key Discussion Points:Small-Town Americana: The hosts celebrate the Heart of America rodeo, mutton busting, and the communal prayer and patriotism of small-town events, reflecting on their importance in fostering connection.Priestly Ordination: David shares a moving story of his son’s emotional response to Father Robert Williams’ ordination, highlighting the eternal nature of the priesthood and the call to discernment.Spiritual Idleness Defined: Drawing from Father Faber’s Growth in Holiness, the hosts unpack seven developments of spiritual idleness: dissipation (misprioritizing tasks), sadness (rooted in self-love), sloth (hatred of existence), useless industry (excessive communication), and general indifference to time.Dissipation’s Impact: Putting less important tasks first disrupts the hierarchy of goods, leading to a loss of peace and distractions in prayer, as Faber notes: “He who is diligent will soon be cheerful.”Sadness and Self-Love: Sadness, driven by self-improvement rather than God, gives the devil power over the soul, undermining spiritual progress.Sloth as a Culmination: Sloth combines dissipation and sadness, fostering a distaste for existence and duties, disrupting the tranquility of order (Aquinas’ definition of peace).Useless Industry: Faber’s critique of excessive letter-writing in the 1800s applies to today’s text messaging and social media, which fragment focus and reduce meaningful communication.Indifference to Time: Wasting time, especially on addictive platforms like YouTube Shorts, is a “stupid” sin that squanders the precious, irrevocable gift of time, which Faber calls “the stuff out of which eternity is made.”Focus and Presence: True focus requires saying “no” to distractions to prioritize God’s will, fostering presence in both daily life and prayer, as exemplified by a man eating lunch under a tree without multitasking.Leisure Done Right: Leisure must align with one’s state in life, be tethered to joy, and have a contemplative aspect, avoiding compulsory or utilitarian ends.Notable Quotes from Father Frederick Faber:“Dissipation… consists in putting things off beyond their proper times so that one duty treads upon the heels of another, and all duties are felt as irksome obligations.”“He who is diligent will soon be cheerful.”“The soul of sadness is self-love… How many are there whose real end in the spiritual life is self-improvement rather than God?”“Nothing gives the devil so much power over us [as sadness].”“Time is the stuff out of which...

A special thank you to our sponsor, The Catholic Woodworker. Get your heirloom quality rosaries here: https://catholicwoodworker.com/In this inspiring episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts Adam Minihan and David Niles sit down with special guest Harrison Butker, NFL kicker and devout Catholic, to discuss fatherhood, faith, and leading a virtuous life in today’s world. Harrison shares his insights on being the head of the household, raising children in the faith, and balancing a high-profile sports career with family responsibilities. From practical tips on prayer routines to the importance of grandfathers in passing down wisdom, this episode is packed with wisdom for Catholic men striving to live authentically for Christ.Key Discussion Points:The Role of a Father as the Head of the Household: Harrison emphasizes the responsibility of men to lead their families with virtue, drawing parallels to great leadership in sports, like his coach Andy Reid, who takes accountability as a true leader.Raising Faithful Children: As the primary educators, parents must prioritize their children’s relationship with Christ over worldly achievements. Harrison shares how he and his wife teach their children, including preparing his six-year-old son for First Communion and altar serving.Building a Prayerful Family Life: Harrison discusses the importance of a family rosary, praying before meals, and striving for quality in prayer to foster a deep connection with God.The Role of Grandparents: Harrison reflects on the value of grandparents in passing down faith and life lessons, advocating for multi-generational households to strengthen family bonds.Advice for Young Boys: Harrison’s heartfelt advice to the hosts’ sons: “You are enough.” He encourages young men to follow Christ and the saints, embracing their unique vocations without succumbing to societal pressures of pride or competition.Special Mention:Harrison praises the durability of rosaries from The Catholic Woodworker, a sponsor of the show, and receives a handmade “Terror of Demons” rosary as a gift.The hosts and Harrison discuss the importance of intentional prayer, with practices like the Angelus and family rosary to anchor family life in faith.

Embracing Patience and Presence in Everyday LifeIn this episode of The Catholic Man Show, hosts David Niles and Adam Minihan dive into the spiritual wisdom of Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century Carmelite lay brother, and his timeless book, The Practice of the Presence of God. From a heartfelt story about Adam’s son asking, “Can patience exist without annoyance?” to exploring how Brother Lawrence found God in the chaos of a busy kitchen, the hosts discuss cultivating a constant awareness of God’s presence. They address modern distractions like smartphones and share practical ways to reclaim presence in daily life, drawing inspiration from Brother Lawrence’s disciplined yet joyful spirituality.Key Topics Covered:Adam’s son’s profound question: “Can patience exist without annoyance?”Brother Lawrence’s life as a lay brother and former soldier, finding God in mundane tasksThe importance of disciplined prayer to build a habit of God’s presenceOvercoming modern distractions like technology to stay present with God and othersPractical tips: Cultivating natural focus to enable supernatural awarenessAction Item:Practice presence by setting aside your phone during family time or conversations. Start with disciplined prayer to build a habit of offering every moment to God, as Brother Lawrence did.Resources:The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence (ICS Publications: icspublications.org)Join a pilgrimage with Select International Tours: selectinternationaltours.comKeywords: Brother Lawrence, Practice of the Presence of God, Catholic spirituality, patience, spiritual discipline, overcoming distractions, presence with God, Catholic men’s faith, Christian living, technology and faith

Episode OverviewDavid and Adam welcome Father Mike Schmitz to discuss the transformative power of prayer. With humor and candor, they explore the difference between merely saying prayers and truly praying, addressing how to cultivate a prayer life that aligns with God’s will. Drawing from Saint John Chrysostom and Fr. Thomas Dubay, the conversation emphasizes the universal need for prayer, especially for laypeople navigating the challenges of daily life, and offers practical insights for moving from rote recitation to a deeper, relational encounter with God.Key Discussion PointsPrayer for All Vocations: Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges the assumption that monks have a deeper prayer life, citing Saint John Chrysostom’s teaching that laypeople need prayer and scripture more than monks due to the “arrows and spears” of daily life—annoying bosses, irritating spouses, and bothersome kids. This resonates as a call for everyone to prioritize prayer, regardless of their state in life.From Saying to Praying: The hosts and Fr. Mike discuss the transition from reciting set prayers to engaging in mental prayer (e.g., Ignatian prayer, Lectio Divina). Fr. Mike shares a personal story of a silent retreat where a memorized psalm provided words when his own failed, highlighting the value of rote prayers as a foundation for deeper communion.Distractions in Prayer: The conversation addresses the common struggle of distractions, distinguishing between intentional distractions (e.g., checking a phone during prayer) and natural ones that God may use to purify prayer. Adam emphasizes the beauty of “wasting time” with God in contemplative presence, akin to an old couple silently enjoying each other’s company, versus being distracted by external devices.Why Prayer Matters: Prayer is an act of faith, rooted in the belief that time spent with God transforms us into the person He calls us to be. Fr. Mike compares prayer’s motivation to health practices like intermittent fasting: if you’re convinced it makes a difference, you’ll commit. Prayer changes us to love like Jesus, even when we feel inadequate.Overcoming Apathy and Ignorance: Referencing a humorous anecdote about a coach and player discussing “ignorance and apathy,” Fr. Mike stresses that convincing someone to pray requires sparking a desire to become more like Christ. Without an encounter with Jesus (the kerygma), prayer may seem irrelevant to those who don’t yet care to grow in holiness.Practical Advice for Laymen: Fr. Thomas Dubay’s blunt wisdom—“If you’re content being a mediocre dad or mom, don’t pray”—underscores that prayer is essential for excellence in any vocation. Fr. Mike encourages introducing children to mental prayer early, as seen in his summer camp where sixth graders learn Lectio Divina and Ignatian prayer.Featured GiftCatholic Woodworker Rosary: Fr. Mike receives an heirloom-quality rosary from The Catholic Woodworker, featuring handcrafted wood beads built to last. The hosts highlight its durability, even with young children handling it, and promote the official Catholic Man Show rosary.Spiritual TakeawayPrayer is not just a checkbox but an act of faith that transforms us into the image of Christ. Whether through memorized prayers that anchor us when words fail or mental prayer that fosters intimate communion, the key is presence with God. Laypeople, facing daily trials, need prayer as much as—if not more than—monks. By committing to prayer, even amidst distractions, we grow in love and align with God’s will for our lives.Call to ActionGet a

Episode OverviewDavid and Adam share humorous anecdotes from their chaotic home lives—mice-catching kids, runaway cows, and pig feeder mishaps—before diving into a deep discussion on spiritual growth. Drawing from Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness, they explore five practical signs of progress in the spiritual life, offering insights for men seeking to deepen their relationship with God. The episode balances lighthearted banter with profound reflections on humility, perseverance, and living intentionally for Christ.Key Discussion PointsLife Updates:Adam recounts his son Leo’s antics, including catching mice and feeding them into traps, and opening a gate, letting a cow escape during relentless Oklahoma rain. He also shares the challenges of a kitchen remodel, leading to household disorder and a mouse infestation.David discusses his pigs knocking over their feeder, eating through plywood, and his frustration-driven rebuild with metal siding, highlighting the manual labor woes of farm life.Spiritual Focus: The hosts explore Father Frederick Faber’s Growth in Holiness (published by Cor Iesu Press), focusing on Chapter 1’s five signs of progress in the spiritual life. Faber, a 19th-century Oratorian and convert, offers timeless clarity on Catholic spirituality.Contradictions in the Spiritual Life: Faber notes the spiritual life is full of contradictions due to our fallen nature, particularly the tension between knowing ourselves deeply while thinking of ourselves humbly. David challenges the modern adage that humility is “thinking about yourself less,” arguing that true humility requires rightly ordered self-reflection.What Not to Do:Don’t Ask Your Spiritual Director for Progress Reports: Faber advises against seeking your spiritual director’s judgment on your progress, as it places unfair pressure on them and risks oversimplifying complex spiritual states.Avoid Arbitrary Benchmarks: Setting personal, artificial markers of progress can lead to disquietude, distracting from genuine growth and forfeiting graces.Five Signs of Spiritual Progress:Discontent with Your Present State: A desire to be holier, coupled with humility and gratitude for past graces, indicates progress. This discontent must avoid sloth (acedia) or unease with devotional practices.Constant Fresh Starts: Persevering through repeated failures by recommitting to holiness (e.g., overcoming a persistent sin like pornography) is a sign of growth, reflecting perseverance.Specific Goals in View: Actively pursuing a particular virtue, overcoming a specific fault, or adopting a penance shows intentionality, akin to a business plan for spiritual growth.Feeling God’s Particular Call: An “attraction” to a specific fault to correct or pious work to undertake, guided by the Holy Spirit, signals progress. Not all experience this, but it’s significant when present.General Desire for Perfection: A broad desire to be more perfect, if acted upon through prayer, penance, or zealous acts, is valuable but must be channeled into action to avoid spiritual stagnation.Practical Reflections:Adam shares his practice of writing down elements of a “good day” (waking early, praying, reading, working hard, family dinner, early bedtime) to replicate satisfying days, aligning with Faber’s call for specific goals.David reflects on overcoming obsessive thoughts by offering gratitude to God, transforming burdens into opportunities for grace, illustrating the power of fresh starts.Hot...

BBQ Judging, Scythe Harvesting, and Christian MarriageBarbecue Competition Judging: Adam shares his first experience as a barbecue competition judge at a local Catholic church and school fundraiser in Tulsa, where he was joined by his son Jude (assistant judge) and two priests.Judged four categories: chicken, pulled pork, ribs, and brisket (Adam insists brisket is the primary measure; David (wrongly) argues for ribs).12 pit masters competed; judged on appearance, taste, tenderness, texture, uniqueness, and overall (max score 25).Advice from Joe Martin’s son: Take one bite per entry to avoid overeating (48 bites total across 40 minutes).Adam judged strictly (e.g., scores as low as 14, zero for appearance), while priests gave higher scores (23–24), highlighting differing standards.Event fostered camaraderie among pit masters (12 hours together) and service to attendees, teaching kids sacrifice, friendship, and craft articulation.Shout-out to Brian Schooley for organizing; Adam and David plan to enter as The Catholic Man Show next year, with Jim in a dunk tank.Main DiscussionWheat Harvest with a ScytheDavid’s Experience: David harvested two 45x45-foot wheat plots using a scythe, finding it soothing, peaceful, and in tune with nature despite being exhausting.Quotes Wendell Berry: “The means we use to do our work almost certainly affects the way we look at the world” (via an X account, @minahan8).Compared to last year’s sickle (felt “commie”), the scythe was efficient for small-scale farming; not practical for large-scale but satisfying.Kids raked straw (post-harvest, nutritionless due to seeding) for pig bedding or garden mulch; straw vs. hay explained (hay retains nutrition).Adam plans to borrow David’s scythe for his own wheat harvest, nervous about back strain.Wendell Berry Reflection: Hosts revisit Berry’s essays, appreciating his beautiful, idealistic conclusions but finding his reasoning insufficient (e.g., abandoning tractors would starve people).Compare Berry’s idealism to J.R.R. Tolkien and Guardini's Letters at Lake Como; both depict lovely worlds but lack practical solutions for modern challenges.Christian Marriage and Pope Leo XIIIIntroduction to Pope Leo XIII: Adam introduces Pope Leo XIII (1810–1903), a prophetic figure who addressed modernity’s challenges (secularism, communism, liberalism) in the late 19th century.Known for Rerum Novarum (1891, Catholic social teaching), reviving Thomism in seminaries (to counter Nietzsche, Hegel, and communism), and engaging modern society.His encyclical Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae (1880) emphasizes Christian marriage as a divine, not secular, institution, foundational to society.Critiqued rise of divorce, moral relativism, and civil interference undermining marriage’s sanctity; argued church, not state, holds primary authority over marriage.Marriage as Trinitarian Image: Marriage mirrors the Trinity’s relational society, where spousal love is so real it produces a third (child), reflecting Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Secular view (Enlightenment-era and today) reduces marriage to a consensual contract, ignoring its sacramental, stable, and permanent nature.State has a role in regulating marriage per natural law, but church’s supernatural authority supersedes.Ephesians 5 and Mutual SubmissionScriptural Basis: Leo XIII references Ephesians 5 (footnoted), where St. Paul instructs mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, with specific roles: wives submit to husbands, husbands love wives as Christ loved the church.Secular society fixates on “wives submit,” ignoring mutual submission and...