Brave New Us

In a culture that normalizes medical means for non-medical problems, where do we draw the line in the pursuit of beauty?In This Episode We explore the ethics of cosmetic procedures—from “baby Botox” and fillers to plastic surgery—and what they communicate about our bodies, our worth, and our deepest desires. Through the story of “Katie” and reflections from Theology of the Body, we ask:Does altering a healthy body help us love ourselves…or teach us to reject the gift we’ve been given?Is cosmetic “enhancement” actually making women more confident, or more insecure?How do we distinguish healing therapies from enhancements driven by cultural pressure?What does aging reveal about love, humility, and what lasts forever?Mentioned & Linked in This EpisodeEssay: Reject and Inject: The Ethics of Cosmetic ProceduresConcepts from Theology of the Body (St. John Paul II)Reflections inspired by the life of Servant of God Chiara Corbella PetrilloCultural trends: “Sephora kids,” filters, and beauty consumerismResources from SamanthaBrave New Us podcast back catalogEssays on biotechnology, beauty culture, and being human at choosinghuman.orgSubscribe to the newsletter For essays, link roundups, and book updates.Grow Where You’re Planted — preorder bonuses include a downloadable list of favorite non-toxic productsJoin the Conversation Have thoughts on this episode or beauty culture? Join the discussion at choosinghuman.org.If this episode resonated with you, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps others find the show.

Is assisted suicide compassionate—or is it a cultural failure to respond humanely to suffering?In this episode of Brave New Us, host Samantha Stephenson speaks with author and bioethics speaker Stephanie Gray Connors about physician-assisted suicide, euthanasia, and end-of-life ethics in the age of medical and technological power. Drawing on her book On Assisted Suicide (Word on Fire’s Dignity series), Stephanie examines how language like “death with dignity” and “medical aid in dying” reshapes our moral imagination—and why dignity is not something we lose when we suffer.From Canada’s rapidly expanding MAiD program to suicide pods in Europe and growing pressure on doctors and patients alike, this conversation explores what happens when a culture begins to treat death as a solution. We discuss suffering, autonomy, coercion, meaning, and the profound human need for relationship at the end of life.If you’re wrestling with questions about assisted suicide, euthanasia, medical ethics, or how to speak compassionately about death and dignity, this episode offers clarity without abstraction—and hope without denial.In this episode, we explore:Assisted suicide vs. natural death: what’s the ethical difference?Why “death with dignity” is a misleading phraseCanada’s MAiD program and rising assisted-death ratesHow normalization creates pressure on the elderly, disabled, and poorThe illusion of control at the end of lifeViktor Frankl, meaning, and despair in the face of sufferingWhat compassionate, life-affirming end-of-life care really looks likeAbout the guestStephanie Gray Connors is an author and international speaker on bioethics, abortion, assisted suicide, and human dignity. She is the author of On Assisted Suicide in the Word on Fire Dignity Series and has debated and presented on life issues across North America. Originally from Canada and now living in the United States, she brings firsthand insight into the ethical and cultural consequences of legalized assisted suicide.Mentioned in this episodeOn Assisted Suicide — Stephanie Gray ConnorsSuicide PodsMedical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in CanadaThe Atlantic on assisted suicide and physician pressureMother euthanizes 12-year-old daughterViktor Frankl, Man’s Search for MeaningNick Vujicic and The Butterfly CircusMattie StepanickLoveunleasheslife.comLeave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at choosinghuman.org

Why are women developing chronic illness at younger ages—and why are they so often dismissed when they seek answers?In this episode of Brave New Us, bioethicist and chronic illness patient Samantha Stephenson explores why women are disproportionately affected by autoimmune disease, migraines, infertility, depression, and other chronic conditions. Drawing from ethics, medicine, and lived experience, she examines the role of environmental toxins, hormonal contraception, abortion, and inequities in medical research—and asks how women can pursue real healing without ignoring the spiritual meaning of suffering.In This EpisodeWhy women are getting sicker at younger agesChronic illness, autoimmune disease, and women’s healthEndocrine-disrupting chemicals in beauty, cleaning, and food productsThe “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) loopholeHormonal birth control as a band-aid—not a cureSide effects of hormonal contraceptives, including brain changesRestorative reproductive medicine and NaProTechnologyAbortion and women’s physical and psychological healthWhy women are underrepresented in medical researchThe ethics of studying women’s bodiesFinding meaning, faith, and intimacy with Christ through sufferingEssays & ArticlesSamantha’s Essay (discussed in this episode)“Why Are Women So Sick?” — Claire the Catholic FeministAbortion Is the Real Assault on Women— Crisis MagazineWomen Deserve Better Than Abortion — Word on FireBooks & FilmsYour Brain on Birth Control— Sarah E. HillOffer It Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Redemptive Suffering— Megan Hjelmstad (Blessed Is She)Hush(documentary)Women’s Health & FertilityNatural Cycles AppTempDropOther MentionsAlex ClarkAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on the menstrual cycle as the “fifth vital sign”Momosophy Substack (Elizabeth Kulze)Resources from SamanthaDetails on Samantha’s chronic illness journey Grow Where You’re Planted — including a downloadable list of favorite non-toxic products available with preorderJoin the ConversationHave thoughts on this episode or personal experience with chronic illness? Subscribe to the newsletter to comment and to receive essays, link roundups, and book updates.If this episode resonated, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps others find the show.

Why are highly educated, ambitious women choosing large families in an age of falling birthrates, frozen eggs, and fertility tech? In this episode, Dr. Catherine Pakaluk joins Brave New Us to unpack her groundbreaking book Hannah’s Children: The Women Who Defied the Birth Dearth.We explore:What drives women to embrace motherhood as a vocation—not a fallbackHow the fertility crisis and biotech age shape our cultural assumptions about children, work, and worthWhy choosing family is the most radical—and future-focused—choice a woman can make today About the guest: Dr. Catherine Pakaluk is a professor of social research and economic thought at the Catholic University of America and a mother of eight.Mentioned in the EpisodeGet Hannah’s ChildrenA Catholic Guide to Infertility with John DiCamilloLeave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.comGrab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood—a theology of the body for motherhood in the age of reproductive technologies.

Stacy Trasancos, author of IVF Is Not the Way, joins Samantha to unpack the hidden costs and ethical challenges of IVF and fertility technology. Drawing on her science background and faith, Stacy reveals why IVF often falls short—and why natural fertility awareness and restorative reproductive medicine offer hope that’s overlooked by mainstream medicine.We explore how the fertility industry profits from desperation, the ethical dilemmas of embryo freezing and manipulation, and how couples can reclaim control of their fertility through informed, compassionate alternatives.Links mentioned in the episode:IVF Is Not the Way by Stacy Trasancos Leave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.comLeave a Review + Share the Show If this conversation opened your eyes to what stem cell therapy can do, please:Rate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com!Grab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood, a theology of the body for motherhood in an age of reproductive technologies.

In this episode of Brave New Us, Dr. Nathanael Blake joins host Samantha Stephenson to discuss his bold new book, Victims of the Revolution: How Sexual Liberation Hurts Us All. Together, they unpack how a movement that promised personal freedom has led to cultural confusion, emotional harm, and deep philosophical contradictions.We explore:What sets Victims of the Revolution apart from other critiques of the Sexual RevolutionWhy the revolution’s “freedom” often means detaching the self from the bodyThe real-life consequences for the most vulnerable—especially women and childrenWhat a more truthful and embodied view of human nature might look likeDr. Blake reveals the philosophical roots and political consequences of sexual liberation—and why reclaiming a sane, integrated view of the human person is key to healing what’s broken.Mentioned in the EpisodeVictims of the Revolution: How Sexual Liberation Hurts Us AllNathanael Blake at the EPPC: https://eppc.org/author/nathanael_blake/Leave a Review + Share the Show If this conversation opened your eyes to what stem cell therapy can do, please:Rate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com!Grab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood, a theology of the body for motherhood in an age of reproductive technologies.

When does medicine cross the line from healing to harm?In this episode of Brave New Us, bioethicist and nurse researcher Kallie Fell, Executive Director of the Center for Bioethics and Culture (CBC), joins Samantha Stephenson to expose critical ethical questions around reproductive technologies, gender medicine, and medical consent.We dig into:The hidden risks and ethical concerns of IVF, egg donation, and commercial surrogacyHow “informed consent” often fails in fertility treatments and gender-affirming careThe rapid rise of pediatric gender clinics and controversies surrounding transgender medical interventions for minorsWhat the CBC is uncovering about the commodification of human bodies in reproductive and gender medicineHow profit motives influence both the fertility industry and gender-affirming healthcareWhy women and vulnerable populations often bear the brunt of unregulated medical innovationThis episode offers a clear-eyed look at the intersection of bioethics, reproductive technology, gender medicine, and medical ethics, asking what it truly means to protect human dignity in an age of rapid biomedical change.Mentioned in the EpisodeCenter for Bioethics and CultureCBC DocumentariesPaul Ramsey InstituteThe Detransition Diaries bookKallie on XLeave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.comGrab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood—a theology of the body for motherhood in the age of reproductive technologies.

Grayson Quay joins Samantha Stephenson to expose the seductive logic of transhumanism—and the moral and spiritual cost of buying in. From AI and brain chips to synthetic immortality and gene editing, the push to “upgrade” the human experience promises power but may unravel what makes us human.This conversation cuts through the hype to reveal what’s really at stake. Is transhumanism a scientific breakthrough or a new form of worship? What happens when we lose our reverence for the body and our humility before its limits?Topics we cover: – Why transhumanism is less science, more spiritual counterfeit – The link between tech worship and ancient heresies – What the push to overcome nature reveals about modern despair – Whether enhancement is actually a form of self-erasureMentioned in this episode:The Transhumanist Temptation Grayson Quay on X Leave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.comLeave a Review + Share the Show If this conversation opened your eyes to what stem cell therapy can do, please:Rate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com!Grab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood, a theology of the body for motherhood in an age of reproductive technologies.

Is IVF the only answer for infertility—or is there a better way? In this episode, Samantha Stephenson welcomes back Grace Emily Stark, editor of Natural Womanhood and a leading voice in restorative reproductive medicine (RRM). Together, they unpack what RRM really is, how it differs from conventional gynecology and fertility treatments like IVF, and why so few women have ever heard of it.We explore:The science behind cycle charting and hormone diagnosticsWhy the birth control pill often masks—not solves—reproductive issuesHow RRM treats the root causes of infertility (like PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids)The cultural and political barriers to this life-giving approachHow anti-Catholic bias and insurance policy keep women from real optionsWhy restoration of fertility should be the gold standard—not bypassing itIf you're fed up with “lazy medicine,” frustrated by the one-size-fits-all approach of the pill, or wondering if IVF is really your only path forward, this conversation is a must-listen.Mentioned in the EpisodeNatural WomanhoodInternational Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine nfpandmore.com femmhealth.orgneofertility.comArticle: Should you take ozempic for PCOS?Period Genius ProgramLeave a Review + Share the ShowRate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com!Grab a copy of Samantha’s book Reclaiming Motherhood, a theology of the body for motherhood in an age of reproductive technologies.

Is it possible to reverse autoimmune disease—permanently? In this episode of Brave New Us, Dr. Richard Burt, pioneering stem cell physician and author of Everyday Miracles, joins host Samantha Stephenson to unpack his revolutionary treatment for autoimmune disorders. Hailed by Scientific American as one of the top 10 medical advances of the decade, Dr. Burt’s non-myeloablative stem cell therapy has changed—and saved—lives.Dr. Burt opens up about his early skepticism, the medical establishment's resistance, and the patients who inspired him to push forward. Together, we explore the promise and pitfalls of regenerative medicine and what it takes to bring groundbreaking science to the clinic without losing our humanity.If you’ve ever wondered:Can stem cells actually reverse disease, not just slow progression?What does "immune system reset" mean—and is it safe?Why is the medical establishment slow to adopt new therapies?What ethical questions come with cutting-edge biotechnology? This episode will challenge what you thought was possible.Topics Covered:How Dr. Burt’s stem cell therapy reversed multiple sclerosis, scleroderma, Crohn’s, and moreThe difference between myeloablative and non-myeloablative stem cell treatmentsWhy Big Pharma and some doctors resisted the treatment—even after successWhat “immune system reboot” really means and how it worksThe role of patient advocacy and storytelling in transforming medicineWhy humility, ethics, and hope must guide the future of biotechHow Everyday Miracles bridges hard science with human dignityMentioned in the EpisodeDr. Burt’s books: Everyday Miracles: Curing Multiple Sclerosis, Scleroderma, and Autoimmune DiseasesKill Switch: The History of How Viruses Shaped Humanity and Led to COVID-19Genani BiotechHow can I get HSCT for myself or my loved one?https://astemcelljourney.com/about/drrichardburt/Leave a Review + Share the Show If this conversation opened your eyes to what stem cell therapy can do, please:Rate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend, patient group, or doctorKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com

What happens when creating a child becomes a consumer choice? In this provocative episode of Brave New Us, research associate at the Heritage Foundation Emma Waters joins host Samantha Stephenson to break down the rising trend of embryo screening, designer genetics, and artificial wombs. From Elon Musk's child-maxxing to CRISPR enhancements and Build-a-Baby startups like Nucleus Genomics and Orchid, we explore how reproductive technologies are reshaping what it means to become a parent—and what’s at stake for the children created through these tools.If you've ever asked yourself: • Is embryo selection a form of modern eugenics? • Can we separate desire from design in the future of family building? • Are children becoming products instead of persons? • What's the difference between healing and enhancement in genetic medicine?Topics Covered:Why "have healthy babies" is a deceptive marketing sloganThe ethics of picking embryos based on IQ, personality, or sexThe rise of child-maxxing among elites like Elon MuskWhy "designer babies" deepen inequality and threaten parent-child loveWhat three-parent embryos and artificial gametes mean for the future of familyThe philosophy behind eugenics—and why it's rebranded, not goneWhen CRISPR gene editing might cross the line from healing to hubrisWhy strong families—not just birthrates—should be the goal of pronatalismMentioned in the EpisodeEmma Waters’ work on pronatalism and reproductive ethicsConnect with Emma on X (Twitter)New Atlantis article: Stop Hacking HumansPublic Discourse article: The Pronatalism and Silicon ValleyLeave a Review + Share the Show If this conversation made you think differently about the future of family, science, and ethics, please:Rate and review Brave New Us on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare this episode with a friend or on social mediaKeep the conversation going at bravenewus.substack.com

In this episode, I open up about my personal journey from hormonal contraceptives to finding my faith within the Catholic Church. My relentless pursuit of truth led me to a profound understanding of Catholic doctrine, culminating in my conversion and a renewed commitment to my beliefs. Join me as I share how contraceptives became my ‘gateway drug’ to my home in Christ's one true Church.…Don't forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to never miss a video!STAY CONNECTEDWebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitterEditorClick here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

In this episode of Brave New Us, we delve into the dual expectations society places on men and the concept of masculinity. We discuss the innate understanding of what it means to be a ‘good man’—characterized by duty, honor, integrity, and sacrifice—and contrast it with the societal pressure to ‘man up’ and embody toughness, competitiveness, and stoicism.Joining us is Professor Pearcey, author of “The Toxic War on Masculinity, How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes,” who shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her controversial book. She challenges the negative portrayal of masculinity in modern culture and offers a fresh perspective on how Christianity provides a balanced view of gender roles.We explore the harmful effects of the so-called ‘toxic masculinity’ narrative and discuss how we can better support men in embracing their true roles as protectors, providers, and responsible individuals without succumbing to toxic traits.Tune in to Brave New Us for an insightful conversation that seeks to understand and redefine what it means to be a man in today’s world.Connect with Professor Pearcey: https://www.nancypearcey.com/Buy the Book: https://amzn.to/44OP0LY…Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

Think the Catholic Church supports IVF because it wants big families? Think again.In this episode of Brave New Us, Samantha Stephenson tackles some of the most persistent myths about Catholic teaching on reproductive technologies. From the misconception that the Church is indifferent to women’s suffering, to the false idea that all conceptions are morally equal, this candid conversation unpacks what the Church actually teaches—and why.We explore:Why the Church opposes in vitro fertilizationHow IVF violates the dignity of the child, the woman, and marriageThe Church’s advocacy for responsible parenthood and natural birth spacingA lesser-known, ethical and effective alternative to IVF that aligns with Catholic bioethicsWhether you're Catholic, curious, or questioning, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope.Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

Following Pope Francis’s condemnation of surrogacy, headlines exploded with accusations of misogyny and moral overreach. But beneath the outrage lies a deeper question: what if the Church’s position is more empowering—and more human—than critics are willing to admit?In this solo episode, Samantha Stephenson responds to a viral CNN opinion piece, challenges media distortions, and defends the Church’s stance as a voice for women’s dignity, children’s rights, and the sanctity of motherhood. She also reflects on activist Olivia Morel, a child of surrogacy, and what her surprise at Donum Vitae reveals about the Church’s urgent need to communicate its teachings in a post-Christian culture.…Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

When IVF is off the table, what options remain for Catholic couples struggling with infertility?In this episode, Samantha Stephenson is joined by John DiCamillo, Ethicist and Director of Personal Consultations at the National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC). With over a decade of experience, John helps untangle the ethical questions surrounding fertility treatments like GIFT, IUI, and other interventions involving the couple’s own gametes.Together, they explore:Why IVF is morally problematicHow to evaluate other fertility treatments through a Catholic lensThe role of NCBC in guiding couples, clergy, and healthcare providers.—-bravenewus.substack.com

Welcome to Brave New Us, where we explore the impact of feminism on our lives, akin to fluoride in the water. In this episode, I’m joined by Megan Madden, author of “Mary, Teach Me to Be Your Daughter,” to discuss the essence of femininity and masculinity in our times.Megan, a homeschooling mother and wife to a theology professor, shares her journey of understanding what it means to be a woman today. She delves into the feminine genius, revealing how embracing our God-given qualities can lead to a fulfilling life.We’ll unpack why our distinctly female bodies matter, tracing back to the creation story and addressing the modern identity crisis. Join us as we navigate these topics, inspired by Megan’s insights and the role of Mary as a model for authentic womanhood.Tune in to this heartfelt conversation on being women who love to be women, and the profound implications it has on marriage, family, and society.Connect with Megan: www.instagram.com/amotherslaceBuy the Book: https://amzn.to/3QR0Gb9…Don't forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to never miss a video!STAY CONNECTEDWebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitterEditorClick here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

Is “affirming care” helping—or harming—the people it claims to serve?Therapist and documentary producer Stephanie Winn joins Samantha Stephenson to expose the psychological and cultural fallout of gender ideology. Drawing on her clinical experience and work on the film No Way Back, Stephanie unpacks the troubling realities behind gender transitions, the pressure to conform, and what true mental health support looks like for gender-questioning youth and their families.This episode cuts through the noise to ask the hard questions few are willing to raise.Some Kind of Therapist podcast:    / @sometherapist  … STAY CONNECTEDWebsite Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

Samantha Stephenson talks with Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse, economist, writer, and founder of the Ruth Institute, about the hidden costs of the Sexual Revolution. They explore her sharp critique of its three dominant ideologies:The contraceptive ideologyThe divorce ideologyThe gender ideologyDiscover how these ideas shape—and sometimes distort—our understanding of marriage, family, and the human body. Dive deep into the assumptions, contradictions, and societal consequences of the sexual revolution.https://ruthinstitute.org/about/dr-morse/… Don't forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to never miss a video! Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!

Samantha interviews Dr. Christopher Kaczor, a professor of philosophy and the author of The Ethics of Abortion: Women’s Rights, Human Life, and the Question of Justice. They discuss some of the most challenging and controversial questions in the abortion debate, such as:Can artificial wombs end the abortion debate?Is your body really your choice when it comes to pregnancy and abortion?How do we engage with feminists about abortion?How do religion and natural law help us argue against abortion?Listen to this episode to learn more about the ethics of abortion and the challenges and opportunities for finding common ground in this controversial issue!