February 20, 2026 - Hour 1

Segment 1: More than a Game: The Legacy of the Miracle on IceFebruary 22 marks the anniversary of one of the greatest upsets in the history of sports – the United States’ victory over the Soviet Union at the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. Taking place in the midst of the Cold War just weeks after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the “Miracle on Ice” was much more than a game. It represented a clash between civilizations, cultures, and worldviews. Marcus has more.Segment 2: SCOTUS Tariff Ruling highlights the importance of checks and balancesIn a 6-3 ruling this morning, the Supreme Court struck down many elements of President Trump’s signature tariffs. The Founding Fathers designed our government with a system of checks and balances, so that no one branch could become too powerful. Marcus looks at the deeply Christian foundations of this system.Segment 3: Happiness begins in love - and love begins in wisdom (2 segments)Blaise Pascal observed that all people seek happiness, and that all man’s actions ultimately seek this end. But since perfect happiness eludes us in this life, all we can hope is to be “happier.” One aspect of being happier, within reach of us all, is to grow in love. But to grow in love we need practical wisdom. We talk more with Christopher Kaczor. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit avemariapm.substack.com