Catholic in America

What is school choice and why is it such a heated debate across the country?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with Dr. Patrick Graff, Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children, to unpack one of the most important education issues in America today.From Catholic social teaching to real-world data, this conversation goes beyond political talking points and examines what school choice actually is, how it works, and whether it benefits students.Dr. Graff explains how school choice policies empower parents as primary educators, align with the principle of subsidiarity, and create measurable improvements not only for students who use them, but also for public schools themselves.Topics include:What school choice is and how it worksThe Catholic foundation for parental rights in educationWhy education is never value-neutralDo school choice programs hurt public schoolsThe real data behind academic outcomes and graduation ratesWhy competition improves education systemsThe difference between funding students and funding systemsThe new federal Education Freedom Tax Credit and what it meansCommon objections from both the left and the rightWhat Catholics can do to support educational freedomOne of the most striking findings discussed: Florida’s school choice program delivered measurable public school improvements at a fraction of the cost of traditional spending increases.This episode challenges listeners to rethink education through both a moral and practical lens. Resources & LinksPatrick Graff Bio https://www.federationforchildren.org/staff/patrick-graff/Education Next Article School Choice or School Spending?https://www.educationnext.org/school-choice-or-school-spending-floridas-15-year-experiment-points-to-the-answer/Full Study School Choice Competition vs. New Education Spendinghttps://www.federationforchildren.org/florida-school-choice-cost-effectiveness-study/Follow Dr. Graff on X https://x.com/parthurgraffJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What is Catholic social teaching and why does it matter right now?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with Dr. Peter Kwasniewski, author of His Reign Shall Have No End, to unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of the Catholic faith.Often reduced to politics, misused ideologically, or ignored altogether, Catholic social teaching is actually something far more fundamental. It is about ordering every part of life, personal, familial, economic, and political, under the reign of Christ.Kwasniewski challenges the idea that faith is merely private and argues that the Gospel must shape the entire social order. Drawing from Scripture, St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Pope Leo XIII, he explains how Catholic teaching offers a coherent vision for rebuilding a fractured world.Topics discussed include:What Catholic social teaching really is and what it is notWhy modern society struggles with faith in the public squareThe battle between the “two cities” and what it means todayThe social kingship of Christ and its practical implicationsWhy reducing religion to private devotion is a mistakeHow families, work, and culture can be ordered toward ChristThe connection between liturgy and social renewalThis episode is both a challenge and an invitation to live the Catholic faith fully, not just in private, but in every aspect of life.Links: Peter Kwasniewski Bio https://www.peterkwasniewski.com/Book: His Reign Shall Have No End https://www.aroucapress.com/his-reign-shall-have-no-endOs Justi Press https://osjustipress.com/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What happens when political power clashes with moral authority?In this special episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins sits down with Trita Parsi, one of Washington’s leading voices on foreign policy, to unpack a striking moment in global affairs: a public exchange between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV over war, diplomacy, and moral leadership.But this conversation goes far beyond headlines.Drawing on decades of geopolitical analysis, Parsi explains why the world feels increasingly unstable and what is really driving today’s conflicts, from Ukraine to Iran. More importantly, he highlights the deeper breakdown of international norms, the erosion of law-based order, and the growing risk of a fragmented, “multi-order” world.At the center of it all is a critical question for Catholics:What role should the Church play when global powers abandon moral limits?Topics discussed include:The Trump–Pope exchange and what it reveals about global leadershipThe collapse of international norms and rules governing warWhy the world is shifting from a unipolar to a multipolar realityThe danger of a fragmented “multi-order” global systemThe role of the Vatican and Catholic teaching in promoting peaceWhy just war theory matters now more than everHow Catholics can recover their voice in foreign policy debatesThis episode is a call to deeper reflection, renewed engagement, and a rediscovery of the Church’s role as a moral voice in a dangerous world.Links:Trita Parsi bio: About | tritaparsiQuincy Institute:  Home - Quincy Institute for Responsible StatecraftTrita Parsi Substack:  Trita Parsi | SubstackBetter Order Project: Toward a Better Security Order - Better Order Project Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What is technology doing to our families and our children?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with Michael Toscano of the Institute for Family Studies about the growing impact of digital technology on family life.From social media to smartphones, the modern technological landscape is reshaping how families communicate, form relationships, and raise children. Toscano shares insights from the Institute’s Family First Technology Initiative, offering a clear-eyed look at both the challenges and opportunities facing parents today.The conversation also explores the broader regulatory landscape, examining how policymakers are beginning to respond to concerns about children’s mental health, online safety, and the influence of Big Tech.Topics discussed include:How social media is shaping childhood and adolescenceThe impact of technology on family relationshipsWhy parents feel increasingly overwhelmedThe role of policy and regulation in protecting childrenPractical ways families can reclaim healthy habitsThis episode offers both a sober assessment of the current reality and a hopeful path forward rooted in intentional living and the dignity of the human person.Links:Michael Toscano Bio (Institute for Family Studies) https://ifstudies.org/about-us/michael-toscanoFamily First Technology Initiative https://ifstudies.org/family-first-technology-initiativeCongressional Research Overview on Social Media Regulation https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF12904Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

How should Catholics engage politics in a time of deep polarization?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore about his pastoral letter, In Charity and Truth: Toward a Renewed Political Culture.Archbishop Lori reflects on the growing divisions within American society and the urgent need for Catholics to bring both charity and truth into public life. Rather than withdrawing from politics or allowing faith to become captive to partisan agendas, Catholics are called to witness to the Gospel while working for the common good.The conversation explores how the Church’s social teaching offers a path forward amid ideological conflict and cultural fragmentation.Topics discussed include:The dangers of political tribalismWhy Catholics must avoid reducing the faith to partisan identityThe role of conscience in political decision makingHow charity and truth must guide public discourseThe responsibility of Catholics to defend human dignity and the common goodArchbishop Lori offers a hopeful and practical vision for renewing political culture through faithful discipleship, civil dialogue, and a deeper commitment to the Church’s moral and social teachings.Links: Pastoral Letter: "In Charity and Truth: Toward a Renewed Political Culture" https://www.archbalt.org/in-charity-truth-toward-a-renewed-political-culture/Archbishop William E. Lori – Biographyhttps://www.archbalt.org/the-archbishop/biography-of-archbishop-william-e-lori/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What does it mean to live your Catholic faith when the sirens are sounding, and the culture is shifting beneath your feet?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with firefighter and author Benjamin O’Brien about his memoir, The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17.Benjamin shares what it was like to serve as a first responder while navigating:Workplace harassment for his faithPride activism within his departmentThe moral and professional tension surrounding COVID mandatesThe mental and spiritual toll of traumaThe strain first responder life places on marriage and familyThis conversation goes far beyond firefighting. It is about what it means to stand firm in Christ in a secular workplace without becoming bitter, combative, or discouraged.Benjamin reflects on humility, the example of St. Joseph, the little way of St. Thérèse, and the quiet heroism required to build Babylon’s good without bending to its gods.For anyone trying to live faithfully in today’s workplace, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and hope.Links:Book:The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17https://ignatius.com/the-proving-grounds-pgp/Author Interview at Catholic World Report:Fighting Fires and Growing in Faithhttps://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/06/15/fighting-fires-and-growing-in-faith-an-interview-with-benjamin-obrien/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

When the Vatican returned 62 Indigenous artifacts to Canada, many saw it as a gesture of reconciliation. But was something deeper being communicated?In this wide-ranging and provocative episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins speaks with sociologist and First Nations member Dr. Ashley Frawley about cultural identity, trauma narratives, missionary history, and the universal claim of Catholicism.Drawing on her Compact Magazine essay, “Are We Not Catholics Too?”, Dr. Frawley challenges the assumption that Indigenous Catholics are victims of Western imposition rather than full participants in the Church’s universal story. She argues that modern therapeutic and multicultural frameworks risk denying Indigenous agency, common humanity, and even the Church’s civilizational mission.The conversation explores reconciliation, residential schools, the trauma paradigm, and the tension between cultural particularity and Catholic universality. It also raises a deeper theological question: Is Christianity truly a gift for all peoples, or merely one tradition among many?Topics covered:The Vatican’s repatriation of Indigenous artifacts and its meaningTrauma narratives and the loss of agencyThe legacy and complexity of residential schoolsTruth and reconciliation commissions and their limitsMulticulturalism versus universalityChristianity, Enlightenment, and human dignityEvangelization, inculturation, and the Great CommissionThe danger of treating Catholicism as a Western possessionDr. Frawley offers a powerful reminder that Catholic means universal, and that the Church’s mission is not cultural erasure but cultural elevation and integration into a shared human inheritance.Links: Compact Magazine Article: “Are We Not Catholics Too?” https://www.compactmag.com/article/are-we-not-catholics-too/Ashley Frawley Bio (Compact Magazine) https://www.compactmag.com/contributor/ashley-frawley/Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops – Vatican Artifacts Return to Canada https://www.cccb.ca/media-release/vatican-artifacts-return-to-canada/Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development – Church’s Commitment to Indigenous Peoples in Canada https://www.humandevelopment.va/en/news/2026/churchs-commitment-to-indigenous-peoples-in-canada.htmlNational Catholic Reporter – Vatican Returns Indigenous Artifacts https://www.ncronline.org/news/vatican-returns-dozens-indigenous-artifacts-hundreds-remain-says-canadian-indigenous-leaderJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Is marijuana really harmless? Or are we being sold a lie by a billion-dollar industry?In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins sits down with Dr. Kevin Sabet, a former White House drug policy advisor and founder of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), to expose the truth behind Big Cannabis and its growing influence on law, culture, and public health. Together, they discuss how the marijuana industry uses tactics borrowed from Big Tobacco to promote addiction, downplay harm, and target vulnerable communities.Dr. Sabet, a Catholic and one of the most respected drug policy experts in the country, explains what’s really happening in states like Minnesota and how Catholics can respond with both compassion and clarity.Topics Covered:The myth of “harmless weed” and today’s high-potency THC productsHow legalization fuels addiction, mental illness, and youth harmThe racial and social justice failures of marijuana commercializationHow the marijuana industry manipulates science and messagingWhat the Church teaches about sobriety, freedom, and the dignity of the personWhy legalization is not the same as decriminalizationThe Minnesota bishops’ bold 2024 statement on marijuana, Living in the RealHow Catholics can advocate for human-centered, public-health-first drug policyDr. Sabet urges Catholics to wake up to the real costs of normalization and to take a courageous stand in favor of truth, healing, and human dignity.Links:Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM): https://learnaboutsam.org/Kevin Sabet Bio and Books: https://kevinsabet.com/Minnesota Bishops’ Statement: Living in the Real (March 2024): https://www.mncatholic.org/livingintherealSAM marijuana impact report detailing the harms of marijuana: SAM-impact-report-2026-2027.pdfJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan was imprisoned for 13 years, nine of those in solitary confinement, by Vietnam’s communist regime. But from the darkness of a prison cell, he became one of the Church’s most radiant witnesses of hope, reconciliation, and Eucharistic faith.In this unforgettable episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins speaks with Elisabeth Nguyen, the Cardinal’s youngest sister and co-author of a new biography, Cardinal Van Thuan: A Man of Hope and Joy (Ignatius Press). Elisabeth shares powerful family stories and spiritual insights into how her brother carried the cross with Christ, forgave his persecutors, and brought Jesus to others even behind bars.Topics Covered:The political and spiritual context of Cardinal Van Thuan’s arrestHow he said Mass with smuggled wine and hostsThe “1,001 Messages of Hope” that inspired the Vietnamese underground ChurchHow he forgave those who betrayed his familyHis influence on the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the ChurchWhy his story is especially relevant to today’s divided worldThe role of his family, especially his mother, in forming a faithful priestHow Eucharistic devotion and Vietnamese spirituality shaped his witnessThis episode is both a family testimony and a challenge to all Catholics to live the Gospel with deeper trust, boldness, and joy, even in the face of suffering.📚 Resources MentionedBook: Cardinal Van Thuan: A Man of Hope and Joy https://ignatius.com/cardinal-nguyen-van-thuan-cfntp/Vatican Website on Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan https://www.cardinalvanthuan.va/en.htmlSalt + Light TV Documentary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uO_N7LQXjBYJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Does America spend too much on its military? And is that spending actually making us less safe?In this sobering episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins sits down with William D. Hartung, Senior Research Fellow at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft and author of The Trillion Dollar War Machine, to explore how runaway military spending fuels global conflict, enables arms dealers, and undermines domestic priorities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.They discuss the real power of the military-industrial complex, how the Pentagon partners with Hollywood and universities to shape culture and technology, and why both Democrats and Republicans fail to question the massive US defense budget. Hartung offers insight into how a bloated defense system endangers peace and why Catholics and other people of faith need to reclaim the moral conversation around war and peace.Topics Covered:What the military-industrial complex really looks like todayHow military contractors drive foreign policy and conflictThe role of Hollywood, Silicon Valley, and universities in supporting warWhy US defense spending exceeds that of the next 10 countries combinedHow the media helps normalize militarismWhat nuclear weapons modernization actually costsThe hidden cost to veterans and active-duty military familiesWhat a moral, effective military strategy would really look likeWhy Catholics must lead a renewed movement for peaceLinks:William D. Hartung Bio:  https://quincyinst.org/author/william-d-hartung/Book: The Trillion Dollar War Machine (Bold Type Books): https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/william-d-hartung/the-trillion-dollar-war-machine/9781645030638/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Is our obsession with aliens and AI preparing us for a spiritual deception?In this electrifying episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins interviews philosopher, theologian, and author Daniel O’Connor, who argues that belief in extraterrestrials and superintelligent AI may be part of a growing cultural movement away from Christ — and toward idolatry and deception. Drawing on theology, Church history, science, and pop culture, O’Connor proposes that the so-called “First and Last Deception” mirrors the serpent’s lie in the Garden of Eden: that humans can become like gods through a non-human intelligence.Whether you're a skeptic, a science-fiction fan, or someone curious about how Catholics should think about aliens and AI, this conversation offers a clear, thought-provoking, and spiritually grounded perspective.Topics Covered:Why Daniel O’Connor believes aliens don’t exist — and never haveHow AI is being used as a spiritual gatewayWhat Scripture and the Catechism say about non-human intelligencesThe manipulation of public fear through “disclosure” eventsThe eerie connection between 1947, UFOs, and the Cold WarC.S. Lewis, the Church Fathers, and popes on extraterrestrial lifeWhy only man is made in the image of GodThe Church’s warnings against false messianism and pseudo-scientific prophetsWhat Catholics can do to avoid being deceivedO’Connor’s book is not just about debunking aliens or AI hype. It’s about holding fast to the truth of Christ in an age of spiritual confusion and technological seduction.Links:Daniel O’Connor’s Bio https://dsdoconnor.com/about-me/Book: The First and Last Deception: Aliens, UFOs, AI, and the Return of Eden’s Demise https://www.amazon.com/First-Last-Deception-Aliens-Return-ebook/dp/B0DJFWQ421YouTube Channel: Daniel O’Connor Lectures https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwB70gZ4NGlbFgnoY9FMUwg/videosJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Is returning to the land just a romantic pipe dream, or a prophetic response to our disordered world?In this episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins sits down with Michael Thomas, Executive Director of the Catholic Land Movement, to explore the growing desire among Catholics to reconnect with creation, live in community, and build lives rooted in place, prayer, and productive property.Drawing from Scripture, Church teaching, and his own journey from suburban life to homesteading in rural New York, Michael shares how the Catholic Land Movement is helping families rediscover the joy and sanctity of working the land, whether that means raising sheep, growing food, or simply planting a window garden with purpose.Links: Catholic Land Movement Website https://catholiclandmovement.infoBook: The American Catholic Land Movement: Past, Present, and Future https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-american-catholic-land-movement-past-present-and-future/Book: Flee to the Fields (The Catholic Land Movement in England) https://loretopubs.org/flee-to-the-fields.htmlYouTube Video: Intro to the Catholic Land Movement https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0vMhJp3DO8Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In an age when many Fortune 500 companies openly push agendas hostile to Christian values, most Catholics feel powerless: boycotts are exhausting, and “just selling the stock” often feels impossible. Dr. Pia de Solenni explains why neither total withdrawal nor angry activism is the answer. Instead, she reveals a third way: faithful shareholder engagement that uses the very ownership Catholics already have (in retirement accounts, pension funds, 401(k)s, etc.) to push companies back toward sanity, protect human dignity, and often deliver market-beating returns.Guest BioDr. Pia de Solenni is a moral theologian (Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, Rome) and Senior Vice President of Corporate Engagement at IWP Capital. Former Chancellor and theological advisor to the Bishop of Orange, her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and many other outlets.Resources MentionedIWP Capital screening and engagement: https://www.iwpcapital.com/screeningUSCCB Socially Responsible Investment Guidelines (2021): https://www.usccb.org/resources/Socially%20Responsible%20Investment%20Guidelines%202021%20(003).pdfDr. Pia de Solenni’s full bio: https://moraltheologian.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/About-Dr.-Pia-de-Solenni.pngJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins sits down with Fr. Stephen Koeth, C.S.C., historian and professor at the University of Notre Dame, to unpack his groundbreaking new book, Crabgrass Catholicism: How Suburbanization Transformed the American Church.Together they explore how post–World War II suburban growth reshaped Catholic parish life, architecture, education, and community — decades before Vatican II. From the explosion of new parishes on Long Island to the rise of commuter culture, Fr. Koeth shows that suburbia changed not only where Catholics lived, but how they believed.The conversation also looks ahead: How can today’s Church learn from the past as it faces shrinking parishes in the Midwest and explosive growth in the South and West? And what does “mission” look like when Catholic life is no longer centered around the neighborhood parish?Fr. Stephen Koeth, C.S.C. – University of Notre Dame Faculty Page: https://history.nd.edu/people/stephen-koeth-csc/Book: Crabgrass Catholicism (University of Notre Dame Press): https://undpress.nd.edu/9780268206178/crabgrass-catholicism/Notre Dame Church Properties Initiative: https://realestate.nd.edu/church-properties-initiative/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this gripping Catholic in America episode, host Jason Adkins speaks with Laura Elm, founder of Sacred Heart Guardians and Shelter, a nonprofit that offers Christian burial for embryonic human beings discarded through IVF and assisted reproduction.They dive deep into the ethical and spiritual consequences of how human embryos are commodified, graded, stored, and often destroyed in silence, even by those with pro-life convictions. Laura shares the staggering statistics, the science behind embryo creation, her powerful personal journey, and the often-overlooked grief and guilt faced by families with embryos in storage.Key Topics:IVF and the silent destruction of human lifeWhy more embryos are discarded than aborted annuallyHow clinics dehumanize embryonic personsReal stories from donor-conceived children and IVF familiesThe eugenics of embryo grading and gender selectionWhat the Church teaches about assisted reproductionSacred Heart Guardians’ mission of burial and dignityLaura calls us to reflect on what it truly means to respect life from the very beginning, and how even the smallest among us deserve recognition, reverence, and rest.Links:Sacred Heart Guardians Website https://sacredheartguardians.org/CNA Article – More Embryos Destroyed by IVF Than Abortion Each Year https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/257066/more-human-embryos-destroyed-through-ivf-than-abortion-every-yearCatechism of the Catholic Church on Assisted Reproduction https://www.usccb.org/sites/default/files/flipbooks/catechism/573/#zoom=zJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What does the USCCB actually do — and why does it matter to everyday Catholics?In this powerful conversation, Jason Adkins sits down with Anthony Granado, Associate General Secretary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), for a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the bishops’ policy priorities are shaped, debated, and brought to Capitol Hill.They discuss the origins and mission of the USCCB, the role of Catholic lay leaders in influencing public policy, and how the Church uses prudence and subsidiarity to decide when and how to engage. Anthony also shares how AI, religious liberty, and faithful citizenship are shaping the bishops’ future efforts.This is an inspiring episode for anyone who wants to understand how Catholic social teaching intersects with politics — and how the Church remains a prophetic voice in a polarized culture.LINKSAnthony Granado Bio (USCCB)USCCB HistoryExplore Policy AreasJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What does it mean to die well—and how is the cultural push for "medical aid in dying" actually undermining real dignity and healthcare? In this compelling episode, Dr. Charles Camosy joins Jason Adkins to unpack the philosophical, medical, legal, and spiritual dangers behind physician-assisted suicide—or what he accurately calls physician-assisted killing.Drawing on insights from his new book Living and Dying Well, Dr. Camosy critiques our “Burger King medicine” culture, which treats doctors like service workers and turns autonomy into a weapon. He explains how real compassion requires more than a lethal prescription—it demands presence, love, and structures that affirm human dignity, especially for the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable.From palliative care to policy pitfalls, from hospice centers to personal family planning, this is a conversation every Catholic—and every concerned citizen—needs to hear.Links: Read Dr. Camosy Bio:  https://www.charlescamosy.com/Book link:  https://www.orderosv.com/product/living-and-dying-well-a-catholic-plan-for-resisting-physician-assisted-killing?ga_ref_list_id=taxonomy_3_term_94ga_ref_list_name=Taxonomy%20Term:%20BooksOSV article about book: https://www.osvnews.com/new-release-offers-compelling-arguments-against-physician-assisted-suicide/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

n this compelling episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins is joined by Professor James O’Toole, historian and professor at Boston College, to explore the rise, and stunning decline, of one of Catholicism’s most defining and intimate practices: the sacrament of confession.Drawing from his acclaimed book For I Have Sinned: The Sacrament of Confession in American Catholicism (Harvard University Press), Professor O’Toole offers a vivid and fascinating portrait of how confession once shaped American Catholic life, not only spiritually, but culturally, psychologically, and communally, and why its disappearance in recent decades matters more than we realize.With historical anecdotes, deep cultural insights, and reflections on theology, psychology, and modernity, this episode tackles big questions:Why did Catholics stop going to confession?How did the Church’s view of sin and repentance evolve?And can this powerful sacrament be renewed for today?Whether you go to confession regularly, haven’t been in years, or simply wonder what happened to this sacred practice, this episode offers both answers and hope.Book: For I Have Sinned: The Sacrament of Confession in American Catholicism by James M. O'Toole – Harvard University PressOSV News – Visit www.osvnews.com for Catholic news and commentaryJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins sits down with theologian, author, and Exodus 90 Director of Content Dr. R. Jared Staudt for a timely conversation about the renewal of Catholic manhood. Dr. Staudt unpacks the origins of Exodus 90, a 90-day spiritual boot camp rooted in prayer, asceticism, and fraternity, and how it has transformed the lives of over 200,000 men worldwide. Together, Jason and Dr. Staudt explore the crisis of fatherhood and disengagement in the Church, the allure and pitfalls of the modern “manosphere,” and why the Church must recover the forgotten language of asceticism. Drawing from the lives of the saints, the Desert Fathers, and holy kings like Blessed Karl of Austria, Dr. Staudt shares how true manhood is forged in sacrifice, community, and grace. Whether you’re a father, a young man searching for purpose, or simply someone invested in the spiritual renewal of our culture, this episode will both challenge and inspire you to embrace the cross and rediscover what authentic Christian leadership looks like today.LinksExodus 90: https://exodus90.com/Dr. R. Jared Staudt’s Bio & Writings: https://buildingcatholicculture.com/about/The Desert Fathers: https://www.desertfathers.com/OSV News: https://www.osvnews.comJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Is modern life really secular—or are we just worshipping new gods?In this powerful episode of Catholic in America, theologian Dr. William Cavanaugh joins host Jason Adkins to discuss his latest book, The Uses of Idolatry. They explore how the things we worship today—nation, market, technology, and even sports—mirror the dynamics of religion. Drawing on Scripture, St. Augustine, and Catholic sacramental theology, Cavanaugh argues that our age isn't post-religious, but deeply idolatrous.Key topics include:Why secularism is a mythNationalism and consumerism as modern idolatriesHow idolatry hides in plain sightThe Eucharist as the true antidoteRecovering a sacramental imaginationWhat it means to live a life of faithful resistanceDr. Cavanaugh challenges us to begin with self-critique: we all worship—and we all worship badly. But through the Eucharist and a deeper prayer life, we can reorient ourselves toward the true God and find joy and freedom in His presence.Resources MentionedBook by Dr. William Cavanaugh – The Uses of Idolatry https://academic.oup.com/book/48596 America Magazine Review – "Tearing Down Idols: William Cavanaugh’s Theology"  https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2024/05/13/william-cavanaugh-uses-idolatry-246196 Catholic World Report – "The Idolatry and Religion of Our Present Age" https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2024/06/01/the-idolatry-and-religion-of-our-present-age Faculty Bio – Dr. William Cavanaugh, DePaul University https://las.depaul.edu/academics/catholic-studies/faculty/Pages/william-cavanaugh.aspx Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins sits down with husband-and-wife duo Tom and Noelle Crowe, the creators and hosts of American Catholic History. Their podcast shines a spotlight on the overlooked people, places, and events that shaped the Catholic Church in the United States, from saints and missionaries to bourbon makers and baseball legends.Together, they explore why Catholic Americans need to know their own history, how stories of holiness in our own backyard can inspire devotion, and what JP II's Apostolic Exhortation Ecclesia in America (1999) meant by calling us to know our “own saints.”We’ll hear stories of:Sister Blandina and her Wild West missionsThe Catholic roots of bourbon distillers in KentuckyA possible deathbed conversion of George Washington (!)The hidden legacy of American Catholic builders, missionaries, and martyrsYou’ll come away with a renewed sense of hope, history, and what it means to build institutions and holiness right here in America.Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Fr. Philip Larrey, philosopher, theologian, and expert on AI ethics, joins Catholic in America to explore the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and what it means for humanity, morality, and the future of the Church’s witness. With decades of experience in epistemology and digital ethics, Fr. Larrey offers profound insight into the Vatican’s response, the philosophical limits of AI, the global AI arms race, and the moral challenges of labor, privacy, and dignity in a post-human age.Together, Jason and Fr. Larrey unpack:Whether AI can ever be truly “intelligent” or self-awareThe dangers of AI “reasoning,” blackmailing users, or rewriting its own codeThe singularity and why it may be closer than we thinkHow neural implants may change what it means to be humanThe real-world impact on jobs, social structures, and global securityThe Church’s moral and unifying role in guiding the future of AIThis is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Links:Fr. Larrey’s Bio & PublicationsVatican Document: Antiqua et Nova (2025)Open Letter Calling for AI MoratoriumEliezer Yudkowsky Op-Ed in TimeJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What if Catholicism isn’t just a religion, but a worldview. A way of seeing all reality as enchanted with divine purpose? In this episode, Jason Adkins sits down with Fr. William Slattery, author of Enchanted by Eternity, to explore the Catholic vision of a heavenized earth. They discuss how modern scientific discoveries, especially in quantum physics, are actually consistent with Catholic theology and why the faith is not just about heaven someday, but about renewing the world here and now.From the cosmic to the concrete, Fr. Slattery unveils how every Catholic is called to be part of a theo-drama that transforms culture, politics, economics, and ecology. This episode is a sweeping vision of hope, enchantment, and mission.Fr. William Slattery was ordained in 1991 by Pope John Paul II. Originally from Ireland, he serves in the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, and teaches at Franciscan University in Steubenville. He holds a doctorate in philosophy, a licentiate in theology, and is the author of Heroism and Genius and the newly released Enchanted by Eternity: Recapturing the Wonder of the Catholic Worldview. Resources MentionedFr. Slattery’s Bio – Society of IgnatiansEnchanted by Eternity – OSV Catholic BookstoreReview from The Catholic TimesJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Why are so many young people walking away from traditional religion—not in anger, but with a shrug? In this thought-provoking episode, Jason Adkins sits down with renowned sociologist Dr. Christian Smith, author of Why Religion Went Obsolete, to unpack the quiet cultural revolution that's led to the decline of faith institutions in America.They explore:Why the 1990s were a turning point for religious disaffiliationHow the digital age and consumer capitalism changed how we think about truth, authority, and GodWhy catechesis alone won’t fix the Church’s challengesWhat it means to re-enchant the world, and why Catholicism might be uniquely suited for this momentDr. Smith doesn’t just diagnose the problem, he names the cultural tides reshaping our imagination, and offers hope for how the Church can meet people in a postmodern world that’s hungry for meaning.Featuring discussion on the “millennial zeitgeist,” moralistic therapeutic deism, digital disruption, and the rebirth of paganism. This is an essential listen for anyone who cares about the future of the Church.Links & Resources:Dr. Christian Smith – University of Notre DameWhy Religion Went Obsolete (Oxford University Press)Summary Article – Church Life JournalJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, world-renowned economist and advisor to both the UN and multiple popes, joins Jason Adkins to explore the profound influence of Catholic social teaching on economics, diplomacy, and the pursuit of peace. From working with Pope John Paul II on Centesimus Annus to helping shape Laudato Si’ with Pope Francis, Sachs shares how the Church’s moral vision offers a critical alternative to the modern technocratic paradigm. Their conversation covers climate change, the war in Ukraine, integral ecology, and how faith and reason together can guide public policy toward the common good.“If St. Francis of Assisi could meet the Sultan during the Crusades, then surely today’s leaders can sit down and talk.” – Jeffrey SachsOfficial Bio of Dr. Jeffrey Sachs https://www.jeffsachs.org/Jeffrey Sachs on the Russia–Ukraine War “There Is No Military Way Out” – Interview with Inside the Vatican https://insidethevatican.com/magazine/pontifical-academy-of-sciences-member-dr-jeffrey-sachs-there-is-no-military-way-out/Sachs on the Economy of Francesco Reflections on Pope Francis’s Call for a New Economy https://www.jeffsachs.org/newspaper-articles/8dy5eryflswh9z7hz5dwzrd5h9aekmJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins welcomes Dr. Anna Faria and Dr. Grant Clayton — economists from the University of Colorado — to unpack their groundbreaking study, Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota.While faith institutions are often praised for spiritual and charitable contributions, this new research shines light on a lesser-known dimension: the Church’s staggering $5.4 billion annual impact on Minnesota's economy.Through parishes, schools, hospitals, charitable organizations, and capital projects, the Catholic Church supports thousands of jobs, reduces public costs, and strengthens communities statewide.The conversation explores:Why measuring the Church’s economic footprint matters for public policyHow volunteerism, education, and magnet effects (like weddings and pilgrimages) ripple through the local economyThe role of civil society in American life and why the Church’s presence remains vitalWhy policymakers should protect the Church’s freedom to serve, especially in an increasingly secular cultureTune in for this eye-opening discussion that makes a compelling case for the Church’s visible — and often invisible — role in building the common good.Resources & Links:“Fruits of the Vine” ReportMinnesota Catholic ConferenceLearn more about OSV NewsJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this bold and eye-opening episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins is joined by Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse, founder of the Ruth Institute, to expose the institutional forces behind the sexual revolution—and how the Church’s teachings are not only relevant, but prophetic.Dr. Morse, a trained economist and former professor at Yale and George Mason, dives deep into how elite ideologies—disguised as progress—have systematically dismantled family life through no-fault divorce, contraception, and gender ideology. From propaganda in U.S. foreign aid to the ideology embedded in public schools, Dr. Morse explains why the Sexual Revolution is not grassroots—but an elite-driven, top-down campaign of cultural colonization.Together, Jason and Dr. Morse discuss:Why the Church has been right all along about sexuality and marriageThe myth of “neutral” sexual education and its real agendaHow population control and foreign policy shaped feminism and gender ideologyWhy stories from survivors of the Sexual Revolution are changing the conversationWhat it means to raise a family in a world ruled by “The Sexual State”Dr. Morse doesn’t hold back—and neither should we. If you’re concerned about the future of children, family, and faith, this conversation is a must-listen.LINKS:Dr. Morse Bio: https://ruthinstitute.org/about/dr-morse/The Ruth Institute: https://ruthinstitute.org/Ruth Institute YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RuthInstituteGet the Book – The Sexual State: https://thesexualstate.com/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

What if we’re looking at politics all wrong? In this episode, theologian Michael Baxter joins Jason Adkins to explore the spiritual vision behind the Catholic Worker Movement and the political witness of Dorothy Day. As America reels from another election season, Dr. Baxter invites us to shift our focus—from the ballot box to the beatitudes, from Washington to our neighborhoods. Through stories, reflection, and deep Catholic social teaching, this conversation challenges listeners to reconsider what real politics looks like and how it begins with soup, shelter, and solidarity.Topics Covered:Why Dorothy Day barely mentioned electionsThe growth of big government and the loss of local political lifeThe meaning of “living beyond politics”Subsidiarity and the Catholic Church’s vision of local actionBuilding community with the poor as political witnessThe intersection of Eucharistic devotion and the works of mercyCatholic Worker examples: St. Joseph the Worker Job Service, Christ in the CityPope Francis and politics as a form of charityHow to create parish-level social reconstructionGuest Bio:Michael Baxter, Ph.D. is the Director of Catholic Studies at Regis University and a Visiting Associate Professor at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at Notre Dame. He is a founding member of the Peter Claver Catholic Worker House and former director of the Catholic Peace Fellowship. His work focuses on political theology, the Catholic Worker Movement, and the canonization of Dorothy Day.Resources Mentioned & Various Links:Michael Baxter bio – McGrath Institute“Living Beyond Politics: A Post-Election Reflection on Dorothy Day” – Houston Catholic WorkerThe Catholic Worker Movement – Paulist Press ResourceJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

This episode discusses the rise of legalized sports gambling in the U.S. following the 2018 Supreme Court decision, and why Catholics should be concerned about it. The Catholic Church's opposition to sports gambling is explained with emphasis on its potential to drive poverty, fragment families, and fuel addiction and domestic violence. The episode features Les Bernal, National Director of Stop Predatory Gambling, who talks about the broader issue of commercialized gambling and its exploitation by state governments in partnership with powerful gambling corporations. Bernal's extensive work in advocating against predatory gambling practices and his numerous media appearances are highlighted, along with his key arguments on why sports gambling is particularly harmful.Show Links: Stop Predatory Gambling:  https://www.stoppredatorygambling.org/Study of 700,000 online gamblers: https://www.stoppredatorygambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2024-Online-Gambling-Policy-Effects-on-Tax-Revenue-and-Irresponsible-Gambling.pdfBackground on the legal landscape of sports betting: https://newrepublic.com/article/189263/online-sports-betting-alito-lossesMaking the case for why legalizing sports betting is a mistake:  https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/legalizing-sports-gambling-was-a-huge-mistake/ar-AA1r2DLq Impact of sports betting on young men: https://www.newsweek.com/2023/04/07/sports-betting-boom-linked-rising-gambling-addiction-anxiety-suicide-1789055.htmlJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins interviews journalist Tim Carney about his new book, 'Family Unfriendly: How Our Culture Made Raising Kids Much Harder Than It Needs to Be.' They discuss the alarming decline in birth rates, the cultural and economic factors contributing to this trend, and the concept of 'civilizational sadness.' Carney argues that a return to religiosity and community support are key antidotes to creating a more family-friendly society. They explore the impact of modern parenting norms, the significance of family-friendly subcultures, and potential policy interventions to alleviate the challenges faced by modern families.Tim Carney bio:  https://www.timothypcarney.org/Family Unfriendly book link:  https://www.harpercollins.com/products/family-unfriendly-timothy-p-carney?variant=41076298219554Conversation with Tim Carney on the Our Sunday Visitor magazine podcast "Like a Mother with Katie McGrady": https://www.buzzsprout.com/2051666/episodes/16044705Washington Examiner author page: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/timothy-p-carney/Q&A with Tim Carney: https://eppc.org/publication/what-makes-america-family-unfriendly-a-qa-with-tim-carney/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this conversation, Dr. Brad Wilcox discusses the importance of marriage as a social institution, countering prevalent myths that devalue it. He presents data showing that married individuals are generally happier, more financially secure, and lead more meaningful lives compared to their single counterparts. The discussion also touches on the cultural, socioeconomic, and political factors influencing marriage rates, as well as the role of faith in strengthening family bonds. Wilcox emphasizes the need for a cultural shift to recognize the value of marriage and family in society.Links: Wilcox bio and link to National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia: https://nationalmarriageproject.org/people/brad-wilcoxInstitute for Family Studies: https://ifstudies.org/ Book link: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/get-married-brad-wilcox?variant=41546330636322Article from Time about the book, Get Married: https://time.com/6696116/marriage-happiness-brad-wilcox-interview/Minnesota Catholic Conference: https://www.mncatholic.org/Minnesota Catholic Conference Families First Project:  https://www.familiesfirstproject.com/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins engages with Dr. Catherine Pakaluk, an Associate Professor of Political Economy at the Catholic University of America and author of 'Hannah's Children.' They delve into the falling birth rates in the U.S. and worldwide, discussing the economic and cultural implications. Dr. Pakaluk argues that large families can be a rational choice when accounting for non-material benefits and religious beliefs. They also explore pro-natalist and pro-family policies, the role of faith in family decisions, and societal perceptions of large families.Bio: https://business.catholic.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-profiles/pakaluk-catherine/index.htmlPersonal page: https://pakaluk.com/Book link: https://www.regnery.com/9781684514571/hannahs-children/More good interviews about the book Hannah’s Children: https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2024/04/94760/ https://catholicreview.org/hannahs-children-author-catherine-pakaluk-on-population-decline-and-the-link-between-large-families-and-faith/Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, host Jason Adkins discusses the interplay of family dynamics and economic policies with Dr. Melissa Kearney, an economist from the University of Maryland. The conversation covers Dr. Kearney's new book, 'The Two-Parent Privilege,' which explores the economic advantages of two-parent households and the decline of marriage rates, particularly among non-college educated individuals. They delve into the impacts of family structure on children's outcomes, the socio-economic factors contributing to changing family formations, and potential policy interventions to bolster family stability. The discussion emphasizes the need for empathetic approaches and holistic solutions to address the growing economic disparities and challenges facing families today.Melissa Kearney BiographyLink to The Two-Parent Privilege bookHer scholarship on family, fertility, and childrenJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of the Catholic in America podcast, host Jason Adkins is joined by Louis Brown Jr., J.D., Executive Director of the Christ Medicus Foundation. The conversation revolves around the intersection of human dignity and healthcare, focusing on the vital role of Catholic healthcare institutions in the United States. Key topics include the historical and ongoing contributions of Catholic healthcare, the challenges posed by secularization, and the importance of medical conscience rights and religious liberty. Brown outlines the mission of the Catholic Health Care Leadership Alliance and discusses actionable steps for preserving and enhancing the identity and witness of Catholic healthcare in a challenging public policy landscape.Links: More about Louis BrownChrist Medicus FoundationCatholic Healthcare Leadership AlliancePolicy Agenda for Religious Freedom in HealthcareJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of Catholic in America, Jason Adkins hosts Dr. Kristin Collier, a University of Michigan internist who directs a program integrating religion, spirituality, and healthcare. Dr. Collier discusses her journey into healthcare, the impact of her Christian faith on her vocation since 2016, and the importance of viewing patients as whole persons—body, mind, and spirit. The conversation explores the crisis of trust in medicine, the limitations of evidence-based medicine, and how to incorporate philosophical and spiritual perspectives into healthcare. Dr. Collier also advocates for addressing the broader question of human dignity within the medical field and emphasizes the role of the church in fostering right relationships and providing care that respects the inherent worth of each individual.Links: Biography UMich address What is Medicine For?Debate on physician-assisted suicide video: "Physician Assisted Suicide/MAiD, Dignity, Autonomy," Profs. Margaret Battin and Kristin Collier (youtube.com)Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In this episode of 'Catholic in America,' host Jason Adkins converses with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty, a psychiatrist and expert in bioethics, about contemporary issues in healthcare and mental health. Dr. Kheriaty discusses the detrimental impacts of COVID-19 policies on mental health, the importance of integrating spiritual and medical approaches to depression, and the concept of building a 'parallel polis' to create independent, morally guided healthcare institutions. The episode also addresses the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' National Catholic Mental Health Campaign and ways the Church can support the renewal of healthcare.Book:  https://www.regnery.com/9781684513857/the-new-abnormal/Bio: https://eppc.org/author/aaron_kheriaty/Columns: https://brownstone.org/author/aaron-kheriaty/Substack: https://substack.com/@aaronkheriatyMissouri v. Biden case in which he was a plaintiff https://eppc.org/publication/the-censorship-empire-strikes-back-after-missouri-v-biden-free-speech-victory/Story on his battle with UC Irvine: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-01-02/uc-irvine-fires-physician-who-refused-to-get-vaccinated-claiming-natural-immunityJason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here. 

In the first episode of Catholic in America on the OSV Podcast Network, host Jason Adkins introduces the mission and vision of the podcast. Adkins explains the importance of faithful citizenship and how living for the good of the earthly city contributes to attaining the heavenly one. He shares his background as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference and outlines the role of the organization in advocating for policies that protect human dignity and promote the common good. Adkins emphasizes the integration of religion and politics, inspired by messages from Pope Benedict XVI and other Church thinkers. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on diverse issues impacting both local and national landscapes, focusing on the evangelical role of the Church in today's secular society.Jason Adkins, host of Catholic in America, engages our own time, culture, and political milieu with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to explore how to live more fully Catholic. With so much to explore, we have guests from a variety of perspectives and faith backgrounds, and conversations do not necessarily constitute endorsements. Catholic in America is an OSVNews.com podcast partnership. Support Catholic in America by becoming a patron of the show here.