Against The Grain

Rising musician Chris Keryakos joins Anthony to share his powerful journey back to the Catholic faith—and how it's transformed his life and career. From chasing fame and fleeting pleasures to pursuing holiness and purpose, Chris opens up about the moments that changed everything and how his creative path now points to something far greater than success.Chris' Socials | Instagram: @chriskeryakoslinktree: linktr.ee/chriskeryakos__________________Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

For the first time this season, Fr Ben returns to Against the Grain as he sits down with Anthony to recap State of Origin Game 1 and the NRL season so far. They also go in depth about suffering through the lens of our faith, and how hope gives meaning to pain, helping us persevere with purpose—even in the toughest moments.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Social media sensation Hectic Fred joins Anthony to share his journey of faith through hardship, how he started making footy videos online, and his passion for the game. They dive into all things footy, take a deep look at the Bulldogs, and give their predictions for State of Origin, Game 1.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

In this episode, Anthony is joined by Shareen Nair, who shares her powerful journey of conversion from Hinduism to Catholicism. She opens up about the challenges she faced, including the loneliness and relational struggles that came with such a life-altering decision. But amidst the trials, Shareen also speaks about the deep joy, peace, and purpose she discovered in her new faith. Her testimony is one of courage, conviction, and the quiet rewards of choosing truth over comfort.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

In this episode, JeanClaude Attieh @jc.your.mb sits down with Anthony for a raw and heartfelt conversation about loss, faith, and purpose. JeanClaude opens up about the passing of his father and the impact it had on his life and family. He shares how his journey into the Catholic faith brought both healing and tension within his household. They explore the intersection of Psychology and Theology, and JeanClaude reflects on his deep passion for ministry and music—especially within the Maronite Church.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Fr Dan McCaughn joins Anthony to explore the powerful connections between sport and the Catholic faith. From on-field discipline to spiritual growth, they delve into how athletic principles mirror Christian living. In this episode, they take a deeper dive into the Church's teachings on the Sanctity of Life—unpacking what it means, why it matters, and how it speaks to our culture today.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Anthony is joined by Charbel Eltarraf, Joe Raish, and Elias Hanna—three fathers navigating the unique journey of raising a child with a disability/special needs. From the moment they found out, to the daily challenges and unexpected blessings, these men open up about the realities most people never hear about. It's raw, real, and full of powerful truths about fatherhood, faith, and unconditional love.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Spiritual Coordinator of St Charbel's Youth Association, Joseph Boulos joins Anthony to explore the depth of Maronite spirituality. They discuss university and parish ministry, the call to sainthood, and the boundless love of God. Plus, a quick chat about the footy to round things out.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Chrystian Semann joins Anthony to chat about footy, faith, and life. They share their thoughts on the current footy season, along with their experiences in the Stations of the Cross reenactment, iWitness Conference, and the Exodus 90 program.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Almost one year after being fully received into the Catholic Church, Jacob Mansour shares his powerful testimony. He opens up about his journey from hitting rock bottom and feeling completely alone to finding security, joy, and new life in Jesus Christ and His Church. Jacob reflects on the encounters with our Lord that transformed his life and how his faith continues to shape him today.Visit MJ Podiatry at www.mjpodiatry.com.au for all your podiatry needs. Use code ATG10 for 10% off all services.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTikTok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Socials Queen, Sarah Merhi joins Anthony for a deep dive into the true meaning of modesty. They break down what it really means to dress, speak, and act modestly—not just as a set of rules, but as a path to virtue.Visit MJ Podiatry at www.mjpodiatry.com.au for all your podiatry needs. Use code ATG10 for 10% off all services.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Francis Tamer sits down with Anthony to break down the real problems with men and women today. From men becoming too effeminate to women excusing poor decisions under the guise of emotions, they tackle the hard and often misunderstood truths most people avoid.Visit MJ Podiatry at www.mjpodiatry.com.au for all your podiatry needs. Use code ATG10 for 10% off all services.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Fr Bijoy Joseph sits down with Anthony to discuss Liturgy and Young Men's Ministry. Fr Bijoy and Anthony go into depth about the Mass - what it is, what happens in the Mass and why we go. Visit MJ Podiatry at www.mjpodiatry.com.au for all your podiatry needs. Use code ATG10 for 10% off all services.Sumner House : https://sydneyvocations.org/sumner-house/Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain Podcast

Manly star winger Jason Saab sits down with Anthony to share his powerful testimony and transformation through Jesus Christ. They dive into faith, the role of men in today's society, and what's ahead in the upcoming NRL season.Visit MJ Podiatry at www.mjpodiatry.com.au for all your podiatry needs. Use code ATG10 for 10% off all services.Instagram: againstthegrain.podcastTik Tok: against.the.grain.podYouTube: Against The Grain

Fr Ben and Anthony are joined by Catholic Wizard, Anthony and Socials Queen, Sarah on the season finale to review the year that was, and share some huge news regarding the future of the podcast. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Check out our friends: https://www.youtube.com/@UCNjbn2_VaKRvpsmDlr4Xgxw https://www.youtube.com/@UCJwvICOcHPiKn-XpFVRlkZQ https://www.youtube.com/@UC8pMyFrUeoqndqKnADBZkTg https://www.youtube.com/@familylifeinthttps://www.youtube.com/@jasoneverthttps://www.youtube.com/@roberthaddad7850 Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Most Rev Richard Umbers joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss his ministry as Bishop, memes and social media, and the upcoming International Eucharistic Congress to be held in Sydney, in 2028. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

St George Dragons prop Francis Molo joins Anthony as he discusses his life, reversion to the Catholic faith and football career. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

In this special bonus episode for the week, Anthony is joined by Catholic Weekly journalist George Al-Akiki to preview the NRL 2024 Grand Final.

In collaboration with Sydney Catholic Youth, Fr Ben hosts a live podcast at Fidelis with special guest, American Catholic psychologist Dr Greg Bottaro to discuss all things mental health in relation to the Catholic faith. Purchase Dr Greg's book here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Mindful-Catholic-Finding-Moment-Time/dp/1635820170 Visit Catholic Psych at: https://catholicpsych.com/ Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Against The Grain presents a special episode: Fr Ben, Jason Evert and Laura Neeson panel discussion. at Sydney Catholic School's 10:10 Conference. The panel answered anonymous questions from students read out by two Sydney Catholic School students. NOTE: There were some technical issues with the first 6 minutes of audio, however after this the audio becomes clear.

Fr Ronnie Maree joins Anthony to discuss the first week of the NRL Finals and common misunderstandings and misconceptions of the Priesthood. Visit Little Saints By Norma at: Insta: @little_saints_by_norma_isshak website: www.littlesaintsbynorma.com.au Charbel Eltarraf's new podcast - coming soon at: Insta; @boldbeardedpod YT: www.youtube.com/@boldbearded Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Social media sensations Jon-Bernard and Nick Kairouz join Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss their upbringing, coming back to the faith, content and work, and the 2024 NRL finals. NOTE: This episode was filmed in the lead-up to Round 27. Follow the Kairouz brothers: https://www.youtube.com/@UCcevnYMgxawKvn9n_lgso_wB https://www.instagram.com/jonbernardk/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jonbernardk Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

n this episode, Fr Ben and Anthony speak with Fr Michel Remery - a priest, author, former Vatican advisory committee member for new media and young people. Known to many through his "Tweeting With God" ministry, Fr Michel is now the director of DeoQuest which oversees all of his and his team's growing initiatives including books, games, apps and more. Related websites from episode: https://www.deoquest.com http://freedompublishingbooks.com.au https://www.yourneighbourisgod.com https://www.howtogrowinfaith.com https://www.godisstillatwork.com Follow all of DeoQuest's socials: https://www.facebook.com/DeoQuest.EN https://www.instagram.com/deoquest https://x.com/deoquest_en https://www.youtube.com/@DeoQuest Online with Saints https://www.onlinewithsaints.com https://www.facebook.com/onlinewithsaints https://www.instagram.com/onlinewithsaints https://www.youtube.com/onlinewithsaints Fr Michel Profiles https://www.facebook.com/fathermichelremery https://www.instagram.com/fathermichelremery https://x.com/frmichelremery Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

In a very special episode, his grace, Archbishop of Sydney, Anthony Fisher joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss his life and vocation, as well as answering some burning questions from the ATG team.

Francis Tamer joins Fr Ben and Anthony for a second week to discuss his podcast, social media, getting arrested on Holy Thursday night and talking points from Round 24 of the NRL. Francis Tamer Show Channel:    / @francistamer   Francis episode with Tony Abbott:    • Tony Abbott | The Francis Tamer Show #1   Francis episode with Child Psychologist    • Why your kids NEED boundaries - Amand...   Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Fr Ben and Anthony are joined by podcaster Francis Tamer - host of the Francis Tamer Show. In part one of a two week series - Francis shares his experiences on the front lines facing hostile protestors and students.

Executive Director of Family Life International and father of 5, Paul Hanrahan joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss the pro-life cause, abortion and his experiences praying and offering help outside clinics, and also shares the story of a personal loss he endured.

Newly Ordained Priests, Fr Charbel and Fr Sone join Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss the Priesthood and their journey to becoming Priests, and talk footy. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Ivica Kovac joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss the growth and importance of men's ministry, especially through the Maximus Men's Ministry Network, as well as family and fatherhood. Learn more about the Maximus Men's Ministry at: https://www.sydneycatholic.org/maximus Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

In this episode Fr Ben and Anthony are joined by Dr Robert Haddad, apologist, author, teacher and speaker. Robert shares his story from law student to defender of the faith.

Parousia Media and Against the Grain collaborate to host famous international speaker, the ‘Dynamic' Deacon Harold, as they discuss different topics within the Catholic faith.

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Game II of State of Origin, share their tips for Round 18, and discuss the #Humility movement. NOTE: A portion of this episode has been cut by Youtube due to NRL Copyright. However we will post this entire section on socials. Purchase tickets to the Parousia Fundraiser at www.parousiamedia.com Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:27 Parousia Fundraiser 00:06:33 The Chosen Season 4 finale 00:13:43 Origin 2 Recap and general league chat 00:52:11 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week 00:54:16 Response to the #Humiily movement in June Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they discuss their Round 17 and State of Origin Game II tips, and how our faith and sport can work together through the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference‘s new document, Open the Way to Christ.

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they discuss State of Origin, Game II, share their tips for Round 16 and have a chat about Humility in a month where we are particularly surrounded by Pride.

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap and clarify past episodes, where Jason Evert and Simon Carrington spoke on Sexuality, Identity and all things Theology of the Body. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they discuss Corpus Christi and the Walk with Christ, and preview State of Origin Game 1 and Round 14. Fr Ben's interview with Charbel Raish (Parouisa Media)    • Video   Robert Haddad's video on the Eucharistic Miracle:    • The Eucharistic Miracle of Cascia   Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Co-founder of Fire Up Ministries; Catholic husband, father and speaker Simon Carrington joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss sexuality, identity, dating and marriage, and more. Check out Simon's ministry at www.fireupministries.com Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Special Bonus Episode - Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they preview round 12, give their tips and then pick their own NSW origin teams.

Anthony and Fr Ben join forces with Charbel in this very special Against the Grain collaboration with the Parousia Podcast. They are joined by founder of the Chastity Project, Jason Evert. They discuss what the word chastity means and why it is misunderstood. They also respond to many of the objections Jason has received to his message from many parents and lobby groups, who were not happy with his visit to Australia. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au 00:00 Intro Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Director of Sports Services for Catholic Schools NSW, Robert Rush joins Fr Ben and Anthony to discuss sporting pathways for school students, as well as recapping Round 10 and sharing their tips for Round 11 of the NRL. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au00:00 Intro 03:37 NSW Catholic Schools Representative Sports 59:39 Round 10 Review 1:46:45 Round 11 Tips 1.53:20 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Round 9 and share their tips for Round 10 of the NRL, as well as discuss the unconditional love of God and how we can respond to that love. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Round 8 and share their tips for Round 9, as well as discuss Jesus as the Vine and answer more of your questions. Fr Ben World Youth Day article: https://www.catholicweekly.com.au/fr-... Fr Brendan Purcell's book "Where Is God In Suffering" https://www.amazon.com.au/Where-God-S... Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Round 7 and share their tips for Round 8 of the NRL, as well as discuss Jesus as the Good Shepherd and answer some of your questions.

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Round 6 of the NRL and share their tips for Round 7. They also discuss how to be a witness to a living Christ, as well as preserving human dignity. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Catholic Wizard Anthony and Socials Queen Sarah join Anthony to discuss Round 5 of the NRL, submit their tips for Round 6 and delve into Divine Mercy. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

A shorter episode this week with a prerecorded conversation between Anthony and Fr Ben about the different ways to pray and discernment. Anthony also shares his tips for round 5 of the NRL. We will be back for a full episode next week! Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they recap Round 3, share their tips for Round 4 and discuss Holy Week as we journey to our Lord's Passion, Death and Resurrection. 00:00 Intro 5:34 Panthers vs Broncos Recap 13:41 Warriors vs Raiders Recap 15:08 Roosters vs Rabbitohs Recap 18:23 Bulldogs vs Titans Recap 27:24 Dragons vs Cowboys Recap 30:58 Tigers vs Sharks Recap 36:21 Eels vs Sea Eagles Recap 39:52 Storm vs Knights Recap 41:38 Round 4 Preview 53:47 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week 55:58 Holy Week Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they discuss Passiontide and Christ's hour finally arriving, while recapping Round 2 of the NRL and previewing Round 3. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty 00:00 “The hour has come” 25:17 Overcoming fear of death 36:13 Broncos vs Rabbitohs Recap 41:13 Sharks vs Bulldogs Recap 1:04:13 Panthers vs Eels Recap 1:08:48 Raiders vs Tigers Recap 1:13:27 Cowboys vs Knights Recap 1:15:15 Storm vs Warriors Recap 1:24:48 Sea Eagles vs Roosters Recap 1:27:05 Dolphins vs Dragons Recap 1:30:35 Round 3 Preview + Tips 1:48:24 Anthony's Bulldogs 17 1:59:53 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week 2:02:27 Conclusion

Join Fr Ben and Anthony as they wrap up round 1, preview round 2 and lock in their tips. They also discuss the Leniu-Mam racism controversy, John 3:16 and the Gospel reading of the man born blind. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty 00:16 Welcome and sponsor 02:52 Round 1 NRL Wrap Up 26:59 Round 2 preview and tips 01:01:01 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week

Father Ben and Anthony recap the historic Vegas double-header, preview the remainder of Round 1, and discuss the Ten Commandments. 00:22 Introduction, sponsor, news 05:18 Las Vegas double header and round 1 preview 36:38 ATG Tipping competition 42:35 Fr Ben's Big Hit of the Week 47:13 The Ten Commandments Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty

Wests Tiger and Lebanon international Adam Doueihi joins Father Ben and Anthony to discuss life, footy, faith and the courageous stand he took in a hostile culture. Visit the official sponsor of the show at https://mjpodiatry.com.au Visit our big hit of the week sponsor at https://www.totustuus.com.au Against The Grain Insta: againstthegrain.podcast TT: against.the.grain.pod FB: www.facebook.com/againstthegrainfaithandfooty