Sword&Spade

Walker Larson is a writer, former classical school teacher, and the voice behind The Hazelnut Substack, a journal dedicated to the pursuit of the good, the true, and the beautiful in literature and culture. In this conversation, Jason and Walker reflect on what it means to build rather than merely critique, the dangers of internet narratives, Wendell Berry's "age of divorce," and why every father owes it to his soul to pick up a great novel.In This Episode, We Cover:Walker's fertility journey, devotion to Our Lady of La Leche, and the hidden cross of infertility for Catholic men and their wivesThe temptation to critique and "get clicks" — and the harder, more necessary work of building cultureHow the "hermeneutics of suspicion" is rooted in Marxist literary theory and has leaked into internet discourse and conservative mediaLocalism, medieval guilds, and what Rerum Novarum says about protecting communities from consolidating powerWalker's case for why busy fathers need great literature—and what it does that no self-help book or YouTube video canChapters:00:00: Welcome01:22: Walker's Fertility Journey: Our Lady of La Leche and the Gift of Daughters07:39: Infertility as a Hidden Cross12:38: "Beyond Apocalypse": The Case for Cultural Restoration Over Critique16:41: The Hermeneutics of Suspicion28:06: Conspiracy Thinking, Victimhood, and the Work Only You Can Do35:26: Localism, Guilds, and Rerum Novarum58:16: Why Busy Fathers Need to Read Great Literature01:03:39: Literature as a Trial Run for Life01:17:56: Two Planes of Knowing: Abstract Facts vs. Lived TruthResources Mentioned:"Beyond Apocalypse: Believing in Cultural Restoration" by Walker Larson — Crisis MagazineThe Hazelnut Substack — Walker Larson's writing on literature, culture, and the permanent thingswalkerlarsonwriting.comJOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELL: https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Jason Craig sits down with longtime friend and fellow veteran of the Catholic men's online world, Sam Guzman, the founder of The Catholic Gentleman and now a practicing counselor. They take an unflinching look at where the Catholic Manosphere started, where it's gone wrong, and why resentment and pseudo-wisdom are poor substitutes for real masculine formation. In This Episode, We Cover:The rise and dark side of the Catholic Manosphere—resentment, red-pill Catholic opinions, and the problem of influencers without experienceSam's journey from communications work at Pro-Life Wisconsin and Covenant Eyes to becoming a Catholic counselor through Divine Mercy UniversityThe origins of therapeutic culture in the aftermath of the World Wars and the collapse of institutional meaningSelf-knowledge as the essential foundation of holiness, drawing on Augustine, Dietrich von Hildebrand, and AquinasThe two most common wounds counselors see in men—emotional numbness and emotional overwhelm—and what fathers can do about it nowChapters:00:00: Introduction and Origins of the Catholic Men's Online Space09:25: The State of Catholic Men Online: From 2013 to Today12:18: The Dark Side of the Manosphere — Resentment, Red Pill, and Bitterness15:00: The Problem of Pseudo-Wisdom and Influencers Without Experience32:39: Sam's Journey From Marketing to Counseling37:29: The Therapeutic Society: Origins, Excesses, and Real Value47:29: The Case for Counseling54:09: Self-Knowledge, Augustine, and the Path to Holiness59:10: Two Common Wounds Counselors See in Men01:08:22: Aquinas on the PassionsResources:The Catholic GentlemanDivine Mercy UniversityJP2 Healing CenterCovenant EyesLeaving Boyhood Behind by Jason M. CraigLitanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry CreteTransformation in Christ by Dietrich von HildebrandJOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELL: https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

What does it actually mean to be literate, and do men in the trenches of daily life actually have time for it? Jason Craig sits down with John Clarke of Cluny Media to make the case that reading is less a cultural pastime and more a spiritual necessity, as essential to a man's formation as physical training is to his body.In This Episode, We Cover:Why literacy is like athleticism: a trainable capacity, not an elite clubWhether men today genuinely need to wrestle with ideas on the pageHow books and screens form the mind and imagination in fundamentally different waysWhy you need a guide, not just a book listPractical advice for literary nerds on how to share ideas without alienating everyone around themChapters:00:00: The Bridge a Literary Publisher Builds04:34: Defining Literacy—The Athleticism Analogy14:26: Christianity's Relationship with the Written Word18:13: How We Are Formed (Whether We Choose It or Not)22:45: Books as a Lifelong Habit, Not a Checklist29:13: Why You Need a Guide, Not Just a Book List31:30: What Books Do That Screens Can't37:07: Screen Recommendations for Young Kids50:48: Advice for Literary Nerds: Integrate and Trust54:20: Don't Read Alone. Ideas Belong in ConversationResources Mentioned:Cluny MediaThe Holy Spirit by Luis MartinezThis Dear-Bought Land by Jean Lee Latham"Sunday" by Father Frederick William FaberJOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELLProduced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Mark Adderley is an English convert to Catholicism, high school literature teacher, and author of a 10-book Catholic adventure series for boys. In this episode, he traces his unlikely path from militant atheism to the Church through Arthurian legend, C.S. Lewis, and the power of story. In This Episode, We Cover:How Mark went from the Church of England, to atheist, to convicted Catholic through the legend of King Arthur and the Screwtape LettersWhy a well-formed imagination is essential for genuine faith and virtueHow to form sons through story: reading aloud, Saturday movies, poetry, and classic literatureThe fruit of intentional fatherhood: raising children who are still Catholic as adultsThe origin and purpose of the McCracken adventure series for Catholic boys in 6th–10th gradeChapters:00:00: Introduction & Meet Mark Adderley02:40: From England to America: King Arthur and Graduate School06:05: From Atheist to Catholic: C.S. Lewis and the Screwtape Letters16:25: Why Imagination Matters More Than Data22:07: Forming Sons Through Story: Movies, Poetry, and Reading Aloud29:46: The Fruit: Four Sons, Three Families, One Seminarian37:25: "Stabs of Joy": How Catholicism Magnifies the Beautiful47:53: We're Not Raising Children, We're Raising Adults56:40: The Birth of the McCracken Series01:09:14: Why Catholic Boys Need Catholic FictionJOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELL: https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/Resources Mentioned:The McCracken Adventure Series by Mark AdderleyThe Once and Future King by T.H. WhiteThe Screwtape Letters by C.S. LewisLe Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas MaloryForbidden IslandProduced by Saint Kolbe Studios

In this episode, we discuss: Why the virtue of religion falls under justice Why tithing is not generosity but justice What Christian Smith's research actually shows determines whether children keep the faith—and why Catholic schools and youth groups rank second How moralistic therapeutic deism has quietly replaced authentic religion, even inside the Church, and what we've lost in the process How to build a Catholic culture in the home through daily prayer and mentorship Chapters Chapters:00:00 — Introduction & Opening on Justice and Marxism00:45 — Introducing Dr. Jared Staudt02:28 — What Is the Virtue of Religion?07:00 — Sacrifice, Natural Religion, and the Heart of Worship10:50 — The Modern World and the Turn Toward Self18:31 — Why Do You Go to Church? The Justice Framework23:54 — Is Religion Just Paying a Debt? Justice, Love, and the Dark Night30:17 — Disenchantment, Technology, and the God Who Feels Far Away35:27 — Piety: What We Owe God, Parents, and Country41:47 — Abstract Charity vs. Concrete Justice in Community45:50 — Tithing as an Act of Worship, Not Generosity57:27 — Almsgiving, the Offertory, and Catholic Giving in America01:03:18 — Forming Children in the Virtue of Religion01:11:15 — Mentorship, Adolescence, and Building a Catholic Culture in the HomeJOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELL: https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/Resources:The Primacy of God: The Virtue of Religion and Catholic Theology by Dr. Jared StaudtYoung Catholic America and the Notre Dame report on Catholic religious parenting, w/ Christian SmithWhat is Moralistic Therapeutic Deism Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Cody and Sebastion share their journey from schooling to careers in framing and construction instead of college. They discuss starting in the trades as teenagers, launching a construction company, Atlas, choosing to stay rooted in their local community, converting to Catholicism, and building a culture of craftsmanship. The conversation explores work-life integration, mentorship, competency over artificial self-esteem, and the future of skilled trades.Chapters00:00 - Introduction & Background03:34 - Cody's Journey into Construction08:01 - The College Question14:30 - Starting Atlas Framing Company19:49 - Sebastian's Path26:03 - From General Contractor to Specialist33:37 - Faith & Conversion45:58 - Community & Rootedness49:23 - Catholic Trade Schools & Durable Trades56:13 - The Future of Construction1:07:45 - Competency Over Self-Esteem1:11:25 - Work Culture & Faith on the Job SiteFind more conversations like the one in this episode by joining the readership of Sword&Spade Magazine! Resources Letters to a Young Catholic by George WeigelDurable Trades by Rory Groves Shop Class as Soulcraft by Matthew CrawfordFraternusProduced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Jason sits down with Joel Stroot, a permaculture farmer and dentist from Dallas, North Carolina, who runs an 85-acre beyond-organic farm called Faith Family Farm. They explore what it means to live authentically as Catholics in modern America, particularly when it comes to raising families.Joel shares the wisdom passed down from his father about living by faith, family, and farm—in that order. He connects his dental practice to his farming philosophy, showing how nutrient-dense soil creates nutrient-dense food, which impacts everything from our teeth to our overall health and spiritual wellbeing.Chapters:(0:00) Introduction & Background(4:00) Living Authentically Catholic(5:00) Joel's Father's Legacy(7:30) The Problem with Modern Formation(1:10:00) Work, Vocation, and Stability(1:13:00) Being Truly Open to Life(1:15:30) Closing ThoughtsFind more conversations like the one in this episode by joining the readership of Sword&Spade Magazine! Resources:Faith Family FarmWeston A. Price FoundationFed Up (Documentary)Food Inc. (Documentary)Fraternus Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

Sean Tario, a seasoned digital privacy advocate, and Jason Craig discuss the influence of tech giants, including Facebook, Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. With over 20 years of experience, Sean shares his journey from Silicon Valley to becoming a co-founder of Mark37.com, focusing on digital sovereignty and localism. In this episode, we explore the control of big tech on our privacy and autonomy, the importance of understanding where our data goes, practical steps for protecting our families, and the crucial need for real community in combating digital overreach.

Whether you’re a father, educator, or simply interested in the relationship between faith, work, and family, this episode offers thoughtful insights and practical wisdom for building a life rooted in purpose.In this episode, Jason welcomes Chad Rosamond for a candid conversation about fatherhood, education, and guiding children into adulthood. Drawing from their own experiences as fathers, homeschoolers, and community builders, Jason and Chad discuss:The evolving role of fathers in helping children discern their paths, from college to trades and beyond.The value of classical education, hands-on work, and the integration of faith, family, and community.Personal stories of raising children, including successes, struggles, and the importance of ongoing parental involvement—even as kids become adults.The changing landscape of higher education, the rise of Catholic trade schools, and the practical realities of preparing children for economic independence.The importance of local community, generational bonds, and finding meaningful work that serves others.Reflections on homeschooling, academic rigor, and the balance between virtue and achievement.The role of family businesses, farm life, and teaching economics through real-world experience.Advice for parents on staying engaged, offering guidance without control, and fostering wisdom and self-knowledge in their children.Join the Readership of Sword&Spade Magazine In a world increasingly shallow and distracted, Sword&Spade offers an antidote—deep, thoughtful engagement with the topics that matter most to Catholic men and their families.https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/About Fraternus We are the largest, oldest, and most effective Catholic brotherhood of its kind: helping Catholic fathers lead in their homes and communities and inspire sons to grow into men of virtue, strength, and service—through a unique framework of prayer, mentoring, and formation.https://fraternus.org/

In this episode, Jason Craig welcomes John Oliver, a veteran voice actor and Catholic convert. John shares his remarkable story of faith, his candid struggle with addiction and recovery, and his passion for telling forgotten stories of the American Revolution through film.Topics Include:John’s conversion to Catholicism through a profound encounter at MassThe role of faith and community in overcoming addictionLife in Hollywood and the evolution of media and voiceover workThe making of his upcoming film on the Battle of King’s MountainMen who enjoy this podcast also enjoy the quarterly magazine that started it all. JOIN 2500+ MEN READING SERIOUS, YET ACCESSIBLE ESSAYS ON VIRTUE, CULTURE, AND LIVING WELL: https://fraternus.org/sword-and-spade/

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Fraternus Commander Rob Green, author of Defending the Constitution Behind Enemy Lines, to hear his story of conscience and courage during the COVID-19 pandemic. From the pressures of government and military mandates to the deeper call of virtue, faith, and family, Green shares hard-earned lessons on what it means to stand firm when it matters most.Key Topics CoveredCommander Rob Green’s military background and connection to the Sword&Spade communityThe impact of COVID-19 mandates on service members and their familiesConscience, faith, and legal rights in the face of government pressureWhy fortitude is the essential virtue for fathers and leaders todayChallenging unlawful orders and navigating legal battles for justiceThe role of family support during times of exile and uncertaintyReflections on authority, accountability, and careerism in leadershipInsights on Catholic fatherhood and family cultureSubscribe to Sword&Spade Magazine 

In this episode of the Sword&Spade Podcast, host Jason Craig sits down with neighbor and friend Craig Taffaro, founder of Melvin Hill Meats, to discuss the challenges of running a small, community-based butcher shop. Their conversation explores the intersection of tradition, law, and local business, revealing how modern regulations often hinder family enterprises while highlighting the enduring value of local economies, generational knowledge, and community support.About the GuestCraig Taffaro is a banker turned butcher who advocate for local, sustainable, family-based businesses. Learn more about his work at melvinhillmeats.com.Support your local butcher shops, family farms, and small businesses—and recognize the challenges they face in today’s regulatory climate. Share this episode with friends who care about food traditions, sustainable agriculture, and local economies.Key Topics CoveredThe story behind Craig’s butcher shop and how he integrates work, family, and community life.The philosophical question of laws, freedom, and the common good—are regulations oppressive, or can they promote flourishing?The evolution of liberalism and its effects on rural traditions, family businesses, and local culture.Craig’s personal journey: from banking and robotics to butchery, including zoning, building codes, and agricultural regulations.How community support helped overcome resistance from local government.The disconnect between industrial-scale regulations and the needs of affection-driven small businesses.The role of tradition, generational wisdom, and affection in shaping meaningful businesses.Reflections on sustainable practices, composting, and technology vs. natural, community-based solutions.The long-term consequences of bureaucracy: decline of family businesses, loss of tradition, and erosion of community.

Jason Craig (Executive Director) and Trae Bailey (Content Editor) get to the heart of what Catholic brotherhood really means. Why do men need fraternity? How does it shape our lives as sons, brothers, and fathers? And what happens when we try to go it alone? Drawing from experience and the life of the Church, they name obstacles that keep men from recognizing their true identities, and why a committed band of brothers is more than a luxury in the modern world—it’s a necessity.Show Notes:What is Fraternus?Busyness, sloth, and the excuses men makeIdentity: rediscovering sonship, brotherhood, and fatherhoodServile faith vs. filial faithFaith in community vs. faith in isolationWhy brotherhood is not optionalThe weekly rhythm of “Frat Night”Why all-male formation and mentorship matterHow Fraternus strengthens families and parishesShallow social life vs. real friendshipBrotherhood in times of suffering and lossMen and women: equality and distinct rolesWhat commitment to Fraternus looks likeA direct challenge: stop hiding behind busyness—commit to what mattersClosing thoughts: love, truth, and brotherhood lived day by dayResources & Links:See and read more at fraternus.org. Subscribe to Sword & Spade Magazine