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God told Abraham to "get thee out of thy country" and promised him a legacy that would bless all the families of the earth. But for decades, Abraham and Sarah had no land and no children. How do you keep walking when the promises of God seem impossible? Summary: In this episode, we dive into the heart of the Old Testament: The Abrahamic Covenant. We look at Genesis 12–17 and Abraham 1–2 to see how a "foreigner and a stranger" became the Father of the Faithful. The Search for Greater Happiness: We analyze Abraham's desire for the "blessings of the fathers" and why he sought for his own "place of residence" spiritually and physically. The Three-Part Promise: We break down the core of the covenant—Posterity (seed as the stars), Priesthood (the power to bless), and Property (a land of inheritance). The Name Change: We explore the profound symbolism of Abram becoming Abraham and Sarai becoming Sarah—adding the Hebrew letter "He" (the breath of God) into their very identities. The Symbolism of Circumcision: We discuss the "token" of the covenant and why God requires a physical reminder of our spiritual commitments. Sarah's Role: We look at why Sarah is the "Rock" from which we are hewn and how her faith was just as essential to the covenant as Abraham's. Call-to-Action: Abraham was told to "be thou a blessing." How are you using your covenant privileges to bless those around you today? Let us know in the comments! If you're ready to "look unto the rock whence ye are hewn," please like, subscribe, and share this video to help others stay "Unshaken." Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 2:22 Looking to Abraham & Sarah 8:49 Looking for More 13:20 The Fathers vs. My Fathers 20:16 The Daughters of Onitah 25:27 Abraham Delivered & Called 31:58 Journey to the Promised Land 39:23 Priesthood Promises 43:23 The Importance of Posterity 45:42 Temple Sealings & the Abrahamic Covenant 49:29 Exclusivity vs. Inclusivity 55:59 Seeking & Finding 1:01:01 Establishing Altars 1:09:21 The Sacrifice of Sarah 1:22:23 Abraham & Lot 1:36:23 Rescuing Lot 1:44:16 Sodom or Salem 1:52:20 Melchizedek 2:04:54 The Promise of Seed 2:13:13 The Confines of Covenant 2:18:32 Waiting for the Cup to Fill 2:26:57 Sarah & Hagar 2:39:31 Pride from Above & Pride from Below 2:48:35 Facing Awkward Conversations 2:51:59 Ishmael 2:56:38 Covenant Renewed 3:02:00 Circumcision 3:09:23 Sarah 3:18:38 Immediate Obedience 3:20:25 Wanting the Blessings of Abraham & Sarah
Before we watch the ACTUAL Iwo Jima-centered Clint Eastwood movie on the list, let's gather some context by watching this one first! It's 2006's Flags of our Fathers, a movie that is NOT in fact a patriotic rabble-rousing picture. The guys talk all about stolen valor, the political war propaganda machine, Clint's complicated politics and much more. Next week: Raise that flag, Clint! Part 2 Questions? Comments? Suggestions? You can always shoot us an e-mail at forscreenandcountry@gmail.com Full List: https://www.pastemagazine.com/movies/war-movies/the-100-greatest-war-movies-of-all-time Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forscreenandcountry Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/fsacpod Our logo was designed by the wonderful Mariah Lirette (https://instagram.com/its.mariah.xo) Flags of our Fathers stars Ryan Phillippe, Adam Beach, Jesse Bradford, Paul Walker, Barry Pepper, Neal McDonough, John Slattery, Jamie Bell, Harve Presnell, Melanie Lynskey, Chris Bauer, Ann Dowd, Joseph Cross, Scott Eastwood, David Patrick Kelly and Robert Patrick; directed by Clint Eastwood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Drift turns great fathers into weekend visitors, and it rarely happens in a courtroom. It happens quietly, in the decision gap—when pressure, fear of conflict, and “nice guy” habits push dads to give ground they never meant to lose. We unpack a clear, actionable roadmap for divorced dads to shed codependency, reclaim boundaries, and lead with grounded integrity that protects your time, your sanity, and your bond with your kids.We start by naming the pattern: conflict avoidance, overgiving for approval, and the resentment that follows. From there, we move through ten practical steps that change outcomes fast. You'll learn how to recognize your inherent worth, establish and communicate firm boundaries, and practice calm assertiveness without tipping into aggression. We dig into self-care as a non-negotiable performance edge, the daily work of challenging negative beliefs, and how small, consistent wins rebuild self-respect. Vulnerability takes center stage as a strength—opening the door to authentic connection with your kids, co-parent, and community.We also explore ownership of happiness: building a life that is not fueled by external validation, but by purpose, faith, and disciplined habits. Support matters, so we talk about finding the right circle—therapy, men's groups, or 12-step communities—that reflect your growth when you cannot see it. Finally, we ground the journey in authenticity and values. When your choices match what you stand for, you stop performing “nice” and start living kind, clear, and steady. That is the posture your children can trust and follow.If this resonates, share it with a dad who needs backup. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us the first boundary you'll set this week—your kids are counting on you. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Steven Scott Eichenblatt, author of the book Pretend They are Dead. Steven is a graduate of Florida State University and the University of Florida College of Law. A practicing attorney and father of five, he has spent over thirty years advocating for children as a pro bono guardian ad litem and representing families of first responders killed on 9/11. As a founding partner of Page & Eichenblatt, he has received multiple awards for legal excellence and community work supporting children. He lives with his wife in Orlando, Florida. In my book review, I stated Pretend They Are Dead is heartbreaking memoir. Steven's father had issues - enough that his parents divorced. She remarried a man who was verbally and physically abusive. Although, technically, Steven had two fathers, he felt abandoned by both. By the time he graduated high school, he called no one dad. The trauma from his youth made it impossible to have lasting relationships, though he tried, failing at two marriages. But something he didn't want to fail at was being a father. So, he loved his children with everything he had and worked hard to figure out the truth of his past. I like Steven's style of writing. I felt like I was in his head - which spins from one topic to the next. I could see why he exasperated his parents at a young age! He is also honest - about his own actions as well as the actions of others. Despite the circumstances, in the end, he doesn't really cast blame. Instead, he figures out how to forgive, let the past go, and find joy in today. If you like a good memoir, you'll like this book! Subscribe to Online for Authors to learn about more great books! https://www.youtube.com/@onlineforauthors?sub_confirmation=1 Join the Novels N Latte Book Club community to discuss this and other books with like-minded readers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3576519880426290 You can follow Author Steven Scott Eichenblatt Website: https://www.stevenscotteichenblatt.com/ FB: @seichenblatt IG: @seichenblatt X: @SSEichenblatt LinkedIn: @Steven Eichenblatt Purchase Pretend They are Dead on Amazon: Paperback: https://amzn.to/3NGK72R Ebook: https://amzn.to/4qQtzE4 Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 Want to be a guest on Online for Authors? Send Teri M Brown a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/member/onlineforauthors #stevenscotteichenblatt #pretendtheyaredead #memoir #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Today’s Topics: Joshua Charles joins Terry for Friday with the Fathers 1) Gospel – Matthew 9:14-15 – The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but Your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Terry and Joshua discuss Early Father of the Church: Saint Pope Leo the Great
In this epic podcast Rich and Doug discuss how strong sons are not born, they are trained through example, discipline, and uncomfortable truth. Good fathers don't protect their sons from hardship, they prepare them for it. What do you think about the episode? Comment below or email us: http://waw.fm/hello
Christian men often experience anxiety and fear at night.If you feel pressure to provide, lead your family, and build something meaningful — this message is for you.In this video, Red Wallace teaches Christian leadership principles rooted in Scripture (Mark 4, Ephesians 5, 1 Peter 5) to help men overcome fear of the unknown and regain clarity, focus, and peace.Topics covered:- Fear of the unknown in Christian men- Anxiety after 10PM explained- Leadership and distraction- Biblical perspective on storms- How to lead your family without panic- Christian fatherhood and provision mindset- Stewardship vs anxiety- Peace over panicIf you're a husband, father, entrepreneur, or leader wrestling with identity and pressure, subscribe and join a community of men building with faith and focus.CHAPTERS:00:00 Why Everything Feels Worse After 10 PM (Nighttime Anxiety)00:25 Meet Red Wallace + The Real Enemy: Fear of the Unknown00:49 The Juggling Illusion: You're Not Carrying It All at Once02:45 Uncertainty Breeds Fear (Power Outage & Thriller Movie Analogy)03:35 Biblical Perspective on Storms: Jesus' Authority Over Fear04:12 Distractions, Side Quests, and Fragmented Leadership04:55 3-Step Nighttime Reset: Name It, Separate Facts, Take the Next Step05:28 Practical Stewardship: Life Insurance & Protecting Your Family06:44 Why Nights Get Loud + How to Cultivate Peace and Identity07:48 Closing Prayer + Call to Action (Lead Calm, Guard Your Peace)WHO AM IHey, I'm Red Wallace, a former rapper(10 year career) current drummer turned personal development coach. Through podcast(mostly on YouTube) and 1on1/group coaching, I provide guidance to help you chisel away the parts that aren't you revealing your true identity, empowering you to live your God given purpose!
AI's expanding reach and your digital footprint, fathers' involvement links to children's health, and handing down more than a farm. Plus, Cal Thomas on Jesse Jackson's complicated legacy, a new pizza topping in Italy, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Dordt University, where the MSN–Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for Christ-centered, family-focused care. Dordt.eduFrom Ridge Haven Camp in North Carolina and Iowa. Summer Camp registration open now at ridgehaven.orgAnd from Pensacola Christian College. Academic excellence, biblical worldview, affordable cost. go.pcci.edu/world
#DadsOfTikTok #Fatherhood #DadLife #ChristianDad #BiblicalFatherhood #RaisingKids #FamilyLeadership #FaithBasedParenting #MensHealing #MenNeedMentors #BeTheMan #PersonalGrowth #MenOfFaith #SpiritualGrowth #HealingForMen #MentorshipMattersHey friends, Joe Barlow here. Welcome back to the Dads & Fathers Podcast — this is day number nine.If you've been tracking with me, you already know this isn't just a casual conversation about parenting tips. This is about identity. It's about calling. It's about becoming the man God created you to be.Today we're asking a bold question:Why should you become a dad?Not just biologically. Not just culturally. But spiritually. Purposefully. Intentionally.There is something inside of you that has not yet been tested. There is greatness in you that has not yet been revealed. And fatherhood has a way of drawing that greatness out.God said about Abraham, “I know him.”He chose Abraham not just because he would have children — but because he would lead them. Because he would command his household. Because he would multiply righteousness in the earth.That's not just Abraham's story.That's an invitation.What kind of man are you becoming?What is in you that deserves to be multiplied?If God were looking across a line of men, would He say, “I want more like him”?Today we're talking about leadership with love. Strength with softness. Authority without harshness. And the holy responsibility of multiplying what God has placed inside you.This one may challenge you.But if you're willing, it could change you.Let's get into it.Partner:This podcast is paid for by my partners. Please consider becoming a partner with us here and help us keep the ministry producing more and more content that changes lives.Coaching:This podcast might inspire you to spend more time one on one with Joe. Coaching might be what you need for a time?Check out Joe's books & music:For the Healing of the Nations/Healing Leaves an e-book that will make receiving divine healing so easy.Healing Is Yours an instrumental album with my voice speaking scriptures, prayer and prophetic word. Excellent for those battling physical illness.Come Up For Air/The Secret of the Whale, my first children's book. I did the pictures myself using AI. The Lord gave me the message. A simple profound truth and glorious illustrations.Read it free Watch itBuy itChange Is For The Brave: Potential Is A Promise, a revision and re-write of my first book. Deep, thought-provoking sayings along with many stories about how change happens in one's life.Prayer Is… sayings and prophetic words about prayer. A real favorite.Texting Through the Clouds: Your Quest an evangelistic book, that has Jesus leading someone to know Him through a text message conversation.Words From God: A Year of Conversations similar to God Calling. A 365 day devotional with a prophetic word for each day.We appreciate all the help and support. This podcast was provided to you through the support of our partners.
Conor Begley from Fathers Brewing is the guest of Herlinda Heras and Daedalus Howell on Brew Ha Ha today. This is his first time on the show. Sayre Petrokowski, the executive director of the Brewers Guild, introduced Herlinda to Conor. Fathers Brewing was launched less than a year ago, last July. They went through a lot of R&D to create their first two flagship beers. They are a lager (with a red label) and a light lager (with a blue label). Before Fathers Brewing, Conor started a software company that he sold for a lot of money in 2021. His bio is a whirlwind from graduation, to “a startup company that grew really fast” then went to Australia with his girlfriend who is now his wife. He worked for Thunder Road Brewing Co. in Melbourne, Australia, running their digital and social media operations. What he learned there led to his software company, which in the long term has led him back to beer. Relentless R&D The brand is being built in a streamlined format for growth and further investment. Conor is committed to founding the company upon the best possible quality product by a relentless process of R&D. The brand identifies as “clean beer” similar to how his partner's previous company had a product based on clean skin care. Russian River Brewing Co. is open in Santa Rosa on 4th St. and at their big Windsor location. Visit their website for up-to-date Pliny the Younger 2026 information. When the question for a brewery is, ‘How to stand out?' Fathers Brewing is defining itself by being organic and clean. Their first production on other people’s equipent, a.k.a. “gypsy brewing” worked at first. Now they have invested in the company adding capacity, from 20 barrels to 400 barrels at a time. That improves the quality and makes it consistent, in the higher quantity. Mikkeller and Evin Twin beers are actually made by rival brewers who are twins. They were gypsy brewing for a long time. Mikkeller became one of the most sought after and expensive beers in the world this way. Conor spoke to a lot of other successful beer entreprenurs, to learn from them. Overall in the brewing business, people are willing to help each other. Clean Beer They have tested for the presence of micro plastics in beer, in the materials from suppliers and in all stages of packaging and processing. Any stage that uses plastic has the potential to shed microscopic plastic debris. Another example, is using surfactants to supress the production of foam. But the material is plastic. It may increase the yield but, “that can’t be good.” So pouring plastic on the beer is right out!
Let me save you months and months of slow learning in an afternoon. Join our new AI Productivity Mastery Event NEXT WEEK! www.aiForRadicals.com (which forwards directly to https://escapethetechnocracy.com/product-ai-productivity-mastery-a-live-event/ ) RADICAL FAMILY CAMP: I have about 6 cabins remaining for Family Camp April 16-19 www.RadicalFamilyCamp.com
In this episode, we dive deep into the generational mission of fatherhood. We move beyond the traditional metrics of "success"—finances and career—to explore the weight and beauty of building a spiritual legacy. It's not about being a perfect theologian; it's about being a present, consistent, and humble leader who treats God as a reality, not just a concept. Pick one spiritual habit to start this week. Don't overcomplicate it. Whether it's praying before bed, reading one verse at dinner, or simply blessing your children with your words—start small, but start now. Remember: God doesn't need your ability; He needs your availability. Connect with us: Legacy Dads Facebook Legacy Dads Instagram
Pope Leo was one of the great bastions of Orthodoxy during the time of the monophysite heresy and its offshoots. 'According to some, this Saint was born in Rome, but according to others in Tyrrenia (Tuscany), and was consecrated to the archiepiscopal throne of Rome in 440. In 448, when St Flavian, Archbishop of Constantinople [also commemorated today], summoned Eutyches, an archimandrite in Constantinople, to give account for his teaching that there was only one nature in Christ after the Incarnation, Eutyches appealed to St Leo in Rome. After St Leo had carefully examined Eutyches' teachings, he wrote an epistle to St Flavian, setting forth the Orthodox teaching of the person of Christ, and His two natures, and also counseling Flavian that, should Eutyches sincerely repent of his error, he should be received back with all good will. At the Council held in Ephesus in 449, which was presided over by Dioscorus, Patriarch of Alexandria (and which Saint Leo, in a letter to the holy Empress Pulcheria in 451, was the first to call "The Robber Council"), Dioscorus, having military might behind him, did not allow Saint Leo's epistle to Flavian to be read, although repeatedly asked to do so; even before the Robber Council was held, Dioscorus had uncanonically received the unrepentant Eutyches back into communion. Because Saint Leo had many cares in Rome owing to the wars of Attila the Hun and other barbarians, in 451 he sent four delegates to the Fourth Ecumenical Council, where 630 Fathers gathered in Chalcedon during the reign of Marcian, to condemn the teachings of Eutyches and those who supported him. Saint Leo's epistle to Flavian was read at the Fourth Council, and was confirmed by the Holy Fathers as the Orthodox teaching on the incarnate Person of our Lord; it is also called the "Tome of Leo." The Saint wrote many works in Latin; he reposed in 461.'(Great Horologion). St Leo is remembered for saving Rome from conquest by Attila the Hun. When Attila drew near to Rome, preparing to pillage the city, St Leo went out to him in his episcopal vestments and enjoined him to turn back. For reasons unknown to worldly historians, the pitiless Attila with all his troops abandoned their attack and returned the way they had come.
To help fuel this podcast: Zoweh.org/give Fighting for the Hearts of Your Kids In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue the Father Matters series by exploring a powerful dimension of fatherhood: advocacy. What does it mean to truly fight for your children's hearts? Michael and SJ unpack the difference between passive fathering and aggressive control—and introduce a third way: engaged, intentional advocacy. Fathers are invited to move beyond simply providing or correcting and into actively supporting their children's interests, decisions, and growing agency. Whether it's backing a big move, stepping into online gaming worlds, or standing up for a child in difficult environments, advocacy communicates something profound: "I am with you." The conversation also revisits the deeper roots of fathering—how our own upbringing shapes our instincts, reactions, and fears. Healing matters. Being fathered by God matters. Because when we receive unconditional love from the Father, we're empowered to extend that same steady presence and strength to our sons and daughters. This episode is a call to courageous engagement—to become the kind of father who protects without controlling, guides without shaming, and loves without condition. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Exploring More Podcast, and invite you to connect with us! Email us: exploringmore@zoweh.org
Christ First in the Home and Church Colossians 3:16-21 1. If Christ is First, the Church will Make the Word of Christ the Centerpiece (3:16) Psalms — Scriptural songs from the Old Testament Hymns — Worship and praise addressed to God Spiritual Songs — Religious poetry describing the Christian experience 2. If Christ is First, the Christian will Seek to Please Christ in Word and Deed (3:17) 3. If Christ is First, Wives Will Biblically Submit to Husbands (3:18) 4. If Christ is First, Husbands Will Sacrificially Love Their Wives (3:19) 5. If Christ is First, Children Will Respectfully Obey Their Parents (3:20) 6. If Christ is First, Fathers and Mothers Will Be Purposeful with Their Children (3:21)
Men are confused. The culture is loud. Fathers are absent. The Church is under pressure.So what does it actually mean to be a holy, strong, masculine man today?In this episode of The Manly Catholic, I chat with John Bishop, founder of Forge and author of New Adam, to confront the crisis head-on. We talk about the collapse of fatherhood, declining male engagement in the Church, toxic masculinity narratives, and the deep hunger men feel for a clear mission.This is not about machismo or cultural sterotypes such as "toxic masculinity" or domination; but about returning to Genesis and the garden.We walk through:Why masculinity and femininity rise and fall togetherThe devastating impact of fatherlessness on faith and societyWhy young men are searching for heroesThe failure of modern culture to form menAdam in the Garden and what his mission teaches usThe sacred call to work as part of male holinessWhy priests must reclaim authentic fatherhoodHow Christ, the New Adam, restores what was lostIf men do not know who they are, they cannot lead. If fathers do not lead, families collapse. If families collapse, the culture collapses.This episode is a direct challenge: Stop drifting. Stop outsourcing formation. Stop waiting for someone else to lead.The time for passivity is over.Products & References MentionedNew Adam by John BishopForgeFellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS)Mystic Monk CoffeeHarmel Academy of the TradesOpus DeiBrad Wilcox – Get MarriedPowerful Quotes from the Episode“Masculinity and femininity thrive when they are in synergy with one another. If you try and kill the one, you almost by definition kill the other.”“If you hit your 17th birthday and you have both biological parents in the home, that makes you a minority demographic.”“We need a healthy picture of masculinity. We need a new Adam.”Prayerfully consider supporting the podcast on our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://buymeacoffee.com/tmc) to help grow the show to reach as many men as possible! Thank you for your prayers and support.Subscribe to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxrRLZNk4WqPdgcac5vuWEQ)Check out our website (www.themanlycatholic.com)Contact us at themanlycatholic@gmail.com
Today we begin the Season of Lent! Adam talks with Fr. Wade Menezes, CPM, of the Fathers of Mercy about how we can best fight temptations throughout all of life. Adam reflects on the daily Gospel reading. Why do we keep our almsgiving, prayer, and fasting secret? Download the Covenant Network app today! Pray the Visual Rosary at VisualRosary.org For more information on Covenant Network, visit OurCatholicRadio.org
Is Ash Wednesday apostolic? Medieval? Biblical? Or something in between?In this special Ash Wednesday episode of FACTS, Dr. Stephen Boyce examines the historical development of the imposition of ashes, tracing its roots from the biblical symbolism of dust and repentance to the public penitential practices of the early Church, and finally to its formal codification in the medieval West.Were ashes universally practiced in the early centuries? How did Lent develop into a 40-day fast? Why does the East not observe Ash Wednesday in the same way as the West? And does later liturgical development undermine theological legitimacy?Rather than sentimentality or polemics, this episode offers careful historical analysis—grounded in Scripture, the Fathers, and liturgical history. Ash Wednesday may not be apostolic in its fixed form, but its symbolism is deeply biblical and its theology profoundly Christian: we are dust, and we stand in need of repentance.Join Dr. Boyce for a historically grounded exploration of how dust became devotion.
What an amazing time with this group of dads! They have some awesome guests, besides me, of course, so go follow them and subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@thepresentfathers --- Click here to change your life-http://eepurl.com/gy5T3T Hit me up for a one-on-one brainstorming session-https://militaryimagesproject.com/products/brainstorming-session-1-hour Check out my Linktree for different ways to rock your world! https://linktr.ee/ruggeddad Check out the sweet Hyper X mic I'm using. https://amzn.to/41AF4px Check out my best-selling books: Rapid Skill Development 101-https://amzn.to/3J0oDJ0 Streams of Income with Ryan Reger-https://amzn.to/3SDhDHg Strangest Secret Challenge-https://amzn.to/3xiJmVO This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of theproducts on this page, I may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn'taffect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all ofour reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible. #passiveincome #sidehustle #cryptocurrency #richlife
Our Lady is more important than ever in our troubled world. Fatima gives context to our times and prophetic direction; Marian consecration continues to renew the Church; the Immaculate Conception is the Patroness of the United States; and the Immaculate Heart's Triumph continues to approach. But why does Our Lady have such a special place in the Catholic faith? How do we live this devotion well? Dr. Robert Stackpole explains. Are you enjoying this podcast? I invite you to listen to more shows brought to you by the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. Join us daily for enriching, spiritual content which will help you on your journey with Jesus Christ. Simply visit DivineMercyPlus.org for a complete list of our shows. That's DivineMercyPlus.org. Please “follow” or “subscribe” to this podcast to receive the latest episodes and updates. If you have been blessed by this podcast, please consider leaving a review. Reviews greatly improve our podcast ranking, and will help spread this podcast to other people throughout the world. Thank you and God bless you!
Tired of endless denominations and “best” interpretations? Ethan left the Church of Christ after tracing history, worship, and unity back to Orthodoxy. Hear the turning points, the schisms, and his family's conversion. Listen now—what would convince you?What if the problem isn't that people disagree with the Bible, but that we cut the Bible loose from the Church that received it? Ethan Brackin grew up in the Church of Christ, where “Bible alone” shaped belief, worship, and identity. He takes us inside the Restoration Movement—why it rejected creeds, how it tried to rebuild “New Testament Christianity,” and how, within decades, it fractured into institutional and non-institutional camps. The result was a string of verse battles without a stable referee, a culture that prized sincerity but struggled to hold doctrine together, and a worship life that felt increasingly thin.We trace Ethan's path from the Church of Christ to Orthodoxy, mapping the fractures of solo scriptura and the discovery of a living tradition. A family's first visit to Divine Liturgy becomes the hinge that moves study into conviction and conviction into catechumenate.• restoration movement origins and the “Bible alone” claim• rejection of creeds and loss of church history• early schisms and institutional vs non-institutional split• college retreat and the shallows of verse battles• first encounter with Orthodox worship and chant• global unity of faith, fasting, and liturgy• reading the Fathers and naming the Nicene faith• parents visit liturgy and become catechumens• humility, patience, and seeking truth as a habitThe turning point wasn't a debate; it was beauty. A single Orthodox hymn led Ethan into church history, patristic sources, and the living shape of ancient worship. He and his wife spent months reading, praying, and quietly testing claims. What they found was not a clever system, but a continuous life: one Creed, one Eucharistic pattern, one fasting rhythm, echoed across languages and continents. That visible catholicity reframed authority—Scripture in the Church, illuminated by the Fathers, confirmed in council, and embodied in the Divine Liturgy.The story takes an unexpected twist when Ethan's parents ask to attend liturgy. One service became hours of questions and weeks of study, culminating in a confession that surprised even them: the Orthodox Church is the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. Along the way, we explore why solo scriptura breeds fragmentation, how the early Restoration leaders related to the Trinity, and what real unity looks like when it is lived rather than asserted. If you've felt the ache of endless denominations or the fatigue of constant doctrinal drift, this conversation offers a clear path forward: come and see, read the Fathers, and let beauty lead you to truth.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who's wrestling with authority and unity, and leave a review to help more seekers find their way.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!
We discuss Packer's Sin-Grace-Faith patterns in the Holy Communion Liturgy, the approach to Eucharistic Theology in the classic Anglican Formularies and writings of early English Divines, the patterns of the Church Year, and the historic Eucharistic Lectionary as found in the classic editions of the BCP.Some Pre-1800 Anglican Divines on Eucharistic Theology mentioned in this video. Note the use of the Fathers and Scripture by these theologians:Thomas Cranmer, A Defence of the True and Catholic Doctrine of the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of our Savior ChristRichard Hooker (Modernized), The Word Made Flesh for Us John Jewel, Treatises on Scripture and the SacramentsAdrian Saravia, De Sacra Eucharistica
Are we in the middle of a teen mental health crisis—and is technology fueling it? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with clinical psychologist Johan D'Souza to unpack the dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and suicidality since 2010 and what smartphones are doing to the developing brain. We talk honestly about dopamine, screen addiction, weak boundaries, strong leadership in the home, and what parents can do right now—even if a phone is already in their child's hand. This isn't about panic; it's about courage, clarity, and raising kids who can flourish in a distracted world.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday
How do you raise your kids such that they stay in your faith? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss with celebrated author and speaker Sally Clarkson--who raised four children who all stayed Christian, including Nathan--what she did and what other religious parents can do. References and resources The rise of the nones: https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/the-nones-have-hit-a-ceiling People who stay in vs leave their childhood faith: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2025/12/15/why-do-some-americans-leave-their-religion-while-others-stay/ Majority of kids check out of their faith by 8th and 10th grades: https://ifstudies.org/blog/secularization-begins-at-home Authoritative parenting vs authoritarian and permissive: https://ifstudies.org/blog/parenting-is-the-key-to-adolescent-mental-health Fathers especially mattering for faith transmission: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/01/us/book-explores-ways-faith-is-kept-or-lost-over-generations.html?_r=0 Websites The Overthinkers: theoverthinkersjournal.world Nathan Clarkson. nathanclarkson.me Joseph Holmes: linktr.ee/JosephHolmes Sally Clarkson: sallyclarkson.com
Two Weeks Left Until Rite of Passage, Join Us: https://www.braveco.org/riteofpassageSo many young men stumble their way into manhood because nobody ever gave them a clear pathway. In this episode of the BraveCo Podcast, I sit down with my close friend Todd Pierce to talk about what fathers can give sons that culture never will: intentional initiation, identity, and a moment that marks the shift from boyhood to manhood.Todd shares his story of learning fatherhood without a roadmap, how control can masquerade as leadership, and why becoming a man is synonymous with becoming like Christ. We get into the real work of fathering: earning influence, prioritizing connection over compliance, and having the humility to repair what you did not do well early on. If you have ever wondered, “Am I doing this right?” you are not alone.We also unpack the living parable Todd is bringing to our Ride of Passage, breaking a wild horse in real time as a picture of self leadership, calm in chaos, and love that wins without manipulation. If you are a dad who wants to lead a healthier son, this conversation will light a fire and give you language for the journey. Subscribe for more episodes, and if you want to join us in Jacksonville February 28 through March 1, 2026, register at braveco.org.Chapters:00:00 - A Clear Pathway Into Manhood04:31 - When “Being a Man” Meant Control06:28 - The Missing Ingredient: Initiation07:23 - The Standard: Being a Man Like Christ11:01 - Feeling Inadequate as a Father and Choosing Intentionality15:00 - Breaking a Wild Horse as a Living Parable of LeadershipCONNECT WITH BRAVECOJoin Our Free Community for Men (ladies, sign up your man): https://www.braveco.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveco.menInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/braveco.men/Shop: https://shop.braveco.org/ ABOUT BRAVECO: We live in a time where men are hunting for the truth and looking for the codebook to manhood. At BraveCo, we are on a mission to heal the narrative of masculinity across a generation; fighting the good fight together because every man should feel confident and capable of facing his pain, loving deeply, and leading a life that impacts the world around him.
The custody battle isn't decided by a gavel—it's decided in the quiet hours between court dates. We break down the decision gap, the stretch of weeks where messages, handoffs, and “temporary” deals stack into the patterns a judge will actually see. If you've ever fired off a heated text, argued on a porch during pickup, or let a holiday slide without a makeup day, you've felt the drift: the slow erosion of paternal authority that turns well‑meaning compromises into a new status quo.We pull back the curtain on how family court rewards preparation, pattern, and restraint—not sentiment—and show you how to build a defensible record of being the steady parent. You'll hear a composite case of “Mark,” a devoted dad who moved out to “lower the temperature” and months later faced an attorney arguing his limited time proved lack of involvement. From there, we walk through practical tools: BIFF communication to avoid traps, a command center for logging exchanges and decisions, and a clear method to grant flexibility only with documented reciprocity.Expect specific plays you can run today: set up a dedicated communication channel that time‑stamps every message, pre‑write calm responses for predictable provocations, document holiday swaps with equal makeup time, and push for temporary orders that reflect true involvement. We also talk about the power of community—learning from dads who've already navigated these pitfalls—and why shifting from hope to an operational end state is the move that protects your role for the long haul. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
He was of Persian origin, born in Syria. As a young man, he distinguished himself as a member of the court of the Emperor Theodosius the Younger. Seeing the vanity of the world's honors and pleasures, he became a monk in Constantinople; but when the people began to praise his holiness, he fled to Mount Oxeia near Chalcedon, which later became known as Auxentius' Mountain. There he built a small hut and lived in reclusion; but in time he was discovered by some shepherds, and the faithful began to come in increasing numbers for his teaching, blessing, prayers and healing. He performed countless miracles, but such was his humility that he always sought to avoid their being attributed to him. When he was asked to pray for someone's healing, he would try to refuse, saying "I too am a sinful man." But, when he was prevailed on by the pleas of the people, he would call on all of them to pray together for the healing; or he would remind them that God would give according to their faith; or he would say to the sick person "The Lord Jesus Christ heals you." When the Emperor Marcian summoned the Fourth Ecumenical Council to Chalcedon, he ordered that the hermit join the assembly of holy Fathers. Auxentius refused, saying that doctrinal teaching was the province of bishops, not monks. The Emperor's envoys took him by force. He was greeted with honor by the Emperor, and affirmed all the decisions of the Council. He never returned to Mount Oxeia, but settled in an even wilder and more remote spot on Mount Skopa, which later came to be called Mount St Auxentius. His disciples built him a tiny wooden hut with one small window through which he could converse with his steady stream of visitors. He reposed in peace in 470. A great crowd gathered for his funeral, and his holy relics were taken into the care of a women's monastery whose spiritual Father he had been. Mount St Auxentius soon became a center of hesychastic life, with seven monasteries.
Bruce Collins interviews James Bradley, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller, Flags of Our Fathers, which became a popular feature film. His current book is Precious Freedom.
Welcome to PGX: Raw & RealPGX: Raw & Real is simple. I sit with people who've lived through something and/or made it big.This isn't meant to be inspiration or a template for life (for that, you can check out PGX Ideas).This space is different. It's their story, as they experienced it.In this episode, I spoke to Siddhant Chaturvedi — Indian ActorTimestamps:00:00 - What's Raw & Real?01:05 - Siddhant & his entourage3:20 - Fathers & their obsession with CA11:00 - CA Journey14:30 - Delhi University Days19:40 - Auditions are running a scam?25:30 - “Struggle” is subjective?27:20 - Did he inspire ba****ds of bollywood?28:40 - Family support is a privilege 38:30 - Dealing with Rejection47:30 - What is his dream?55:48 - He tricked his parents?56:45 - What is the purpose of his life?1:02:55 - Is ambition bad for you?1:10:10 - PR strategies & power of art1:19:30 - How Aryan Khan made it big1:23:15 - Psychology of Indians1:25:25 - AI can make po*n?1:26:50 - Samay roasting Siddhant1:30:30 - Whats sells in the film industry today?1:36:40 - Why raw & real works1:40:04 - Reminding Siddhant to promote his movie1:45:50 - Indian men are under-confident1:50:20 - Are we nearing doomsday?Enjoy.— Prakhar
Episode 196East India was about controlThree possible AnswersThe long list of ridiculousYet another branch of pagan religion for AmericaWhat are people reaching for? The 4th answerWhat happened 10,000 years ago?A caveman and a village idiotNon Importation Was/Is AppropriateMission Impossible____________________Support the show
Tune in Friday, February 13, 2026 @ 7pm EST/4pm PST/6pm CST for the next “He Said, He Said, He Said Live!” A Look at the World from A Seasoned Black Man's Perspective…because one perspective isn't enough!” for “Beyond the Valentine: Black Gay Fatherhood, Love, and Aging While Black”He Said, He Said, He Said Live - Valentine's Day Special: Black Gay Fatherhood, Love, and Aging While BlackValentine's Day is usually about flowers, chocolates, and romance. But tonight, we're talking about a love that doesn't always get the spotlight.Black gay men raising children. Fathers showing up. Carrying legacy, tenderness, and responsibility in a world that rarely centers them.As part of our Aging While Black series, we're expanding the definition of family, fatherhood, and love—because love isn't just who you come home to. Love is who you show up for.Special Guests:✨ Bryan Epps – Chief Program & Impact Officer at Sojourners, Black queer father and national justice advocate.✨ Nathan Yungerberg – Award-winning storyteller (Sesame Street, Live from Mount Olympus) and father of two.This is He Said, He Said, He Said Live — and this is love, in its truest form.New Episodes of “He Said, He Said, He Said” - Live stream Fridays, 7 p.m. EST on all these links: https://linktr.ee/hesaidhesaidhesaid FACEBOOK: facebook.com/hesaidhesaidhesaidlive RELIVE and SHARE special moments from "He Said, He Said, He Said" here: SHOW CLIPS (22) He Said, He Said, He Said - Live - YouTube FOLLOWUS —- CLICK LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to us @hesaidhesaidhesaidlive on YouTube andInstagram!#InTheNameOfLove #BlackGayFathers #AgingWhileBlack #BlackLove #ChosenFamily #HeSaidLive #HeSaidHeSaidHeSaidLive #BlackGayFatherhood #AgingWhileBlack #BlackLGBTQ #BlackQueerVoices #BlackFathers #BlackLove #ChosenFamily #QueerParents
https://rumble.com/embed/v73j64q/?pub=84ufd Today’s Topics: Joshua Charles joins Terry for Friday with the Fathers 1) Gospel – Luke 17:26-37 – Jesus said to His disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of Man; they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage up to the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Similarly, as it was in the days of Lot: they were eating, drinking, buying, selling, planting, building; on the day when Lot left Sodom, fire and brimstone rained from the sky to destroy them all. So it will be on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day, someone who is on the housetop and whose belongings are in the house must not go down to get them, and likewise one in the field must not return to what was left behind. Remember the wife of Lot. Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses it will save it. I tell you, on that night there will be two people in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. And there will be two women grinding meal together; one will be taken, the other left.” They said to Him in reply, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the body is, there also the vultures will gather.” Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Terry and Joshua discuss Early Father of the Church: Bishop and Doctor of the Church, Saint Isidore of Seville
To the loyal dads who listen regularly, thank you. Your presence here matters more than you know. And to the moms quietly cueing up a three-minute clip to share in the kitchen or on a car ride, this one is for you too.I want to say this clearly: fathers matter. Not as backup parents. Not as helpers. Not as secondary support. Fathers shape nervous systems. You shape self-worth. You shape how your children experience safety, confidence, boundaries, and the world itself.In this episode, I talk about something I call “The Father Effect.” When a dad slows down, makes eye contact, mirrors emotion, and listens without immediately fixing, it lands with extraordinary power that resonates deeply and often generationally.I also speak to a hard truth with compassion: many men were raised with a very narrow emotional rulebook. Be strong. Don't cry. Don't feel too much. And if you do feel something big, let it be anger. But emotions don't disappear when they're suppressed, they come out sideways.This episode is an invitation. Not to be tougher or louder but to be braver in a different way. To be steady. To be soft. To listen first. To lead from love, not fear.Because when fathers are present, regulated, and emotionally available, children thrive.And what you model today will echo in the adults your children become.Jennifer's Takeaways:Fathers Matter: Introduction and Acknowledgment (00:00)The Power of Fatherhood (01:22)The Father Effect: Attunement and Emotional Connection (02:19)Balancing Authority and Presence (05:49)The Role of Emotional Maturity (11:05)Meet Jennifer KolariJennifer Kolari is the host of the “Connected Parenting” weekly podcast and the co-host of “The Mental Health Comedy” podcast. Kolari is a frequent guest on Nationwide morning shows and podcasts in th US and Canada. Her advice can also be found in many Canadian and US magazines such as; Today's Parent, Parents Magazine and Canadian Family.Kolari's powerful parenting model is based on the neurobiology of love, teaching parents how to use compassion and empathy as powerful medicine to transform challenging behavior and build children's emotional resilience and emotional shock absorbers.Jennifer's wisdom, quick wit and down to earth style help parents navigate modern-day parenting problems, offering real-life examples as well as practical and effective tools and strategies.Her highly entertaining, inspiring workshops are shared with warmth and humour, making her a crowd-pleasing speaker with schools, medical professionals, corporations and agencies throughout North America, Europe and Asia.One of the nation's leading parenting experts, Jennifer Kolari, is a highly sought- after international speaker and the founder of Connected Parenting. A child and family therapist with a busy practice based in San Diego and Toronto, Kolari is also the author of Connected Parenting: How to Raise A Great Kid (Penguin Group USA and Penguin Canada, 2009) and You're Ruining My Life! (But Not Really): Surviving the Teenage Years with Connected Parenting (Penguin Canada, 2011).
The legendary surfer has grieved the deaths of her adoptive mother, stepmother and birth mother. Only later in life did she realise her drive to win came from a place of loss, and Layne needed to look inward to find her place off the podium.Layne is a legendary surfer who is the first person ever to win six consecutive world titles.Since her childhood spent on Sydney's Northern Beaches, Layne has loved being in the water but it wasn't until later in life that she realised her relentless drive to win came from a confusion about who she belonged with on land.Part of her drive to prove her worth and her place came from her experiences of loss.When Layne was 6 years old, her adopted mother Valerie died. Then, her step-mother Christina died after a long battle with breast cancer.Twenty years after Layne reconnected with her birth mother, Maggie, she flew to America to be by Maggie's side as she took her last breaths.Losing three mothers in one lifetime caused Layne to equate motherhood with loss and abandonment. But after retiring and learning to slow down, Layne turned inward and finally found herself along the way.Content warning: this episode of Conversations contains discussion of adoption and grief.Layne's memoir Beneath the Waves was written with Michael Gordon and published in 2009 by Penguin.Her latest book, Awake Academy, was written with Tess Brouwer and is published by Penguin.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris. Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison.It explores grief, cancer, death, dying, surfing, pro surfers, Manly, Freshwater, Hawaii, Ken Bradshaw, Kelly Slater, Molly Picklum, Stephanie Gilmore, Kirk Pengilly, love, marriage, stepmother, motherhood, menopause, slowing down, fitness later in life, introspection, awake academy, meditation, beach, ovarian cancer, brain haemorrhage, fatherhood, Tess Brouwer, elite athletes, professional athletes.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.
The competition between teammates is strenuous, whether its Navy fighter pilots or auto racers. Both Days of Thunder (1990) and F1: The Movie (2025), showcase how the challenge of being the best, can bring enemies together and form strong friendships. The only thing missing is the beach volleyball / football. Let us know your thoughts on the movies.
Fr. Ken Geraci, CPM, of the Fathers of Mercy, previews the Lenten Parish Mission he will be leading at the Basilica on March 15-18, 2026. The title of the mission is called "Why Be Catholic?" Click here to learn more about the mission and Fr. Ken.
Welcome back to the Let's be friends podcast. Back on the show, Father Peter Heers is here for part 2 of our chat about baptism. You may know Father Peter Heers from his popular online and YouTube account, Orthodox Ethos. Father Peter is a priest of the Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese of the United States of America and assistant priest of the Holy Protection of the Mother of God Orthodox Church in Houston, TX. He is also the founder of Uncut Mountain Press.In this episode we discuss the unvarnished truth about Orthodox baptism and the overused practice of economia—what the church fathers truly teach and why modern departures threaten our salvation. When does a deviation undermine the very mysteries of the faith? And how does the historical patristic consensus challenge today's widespread laxity?In this compelling episode, Father Peter Heers unpacks the vital distinction between legitimate economia and dangerous innovations that distort the sacred mysteries. You'll learn how saints like Saint Basil and Canon 47 of St. Basil of the Council of Trullo uphold the necessity of proper reception for converts and how recent shortcuts risk undermining the divine grace bestowed through authentic sacraments. We break down the crucial criteria set by the church to distinguish temporary pastoral exceptions from systemic errors, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to the Fathers' teachings.In the episode, we discuss Father Peter's book, The Reception of the Heterodox into the Orthodox Church, which offers clarity on complex issues such as improper reception, rebaptism, and the dangerous shift from canonical practice to ecumenical compromise. You'll discover why the practice of pouring water instead of immersion is not only heretical but also spiritually perilous, and how saints and councils historically handled such deviations.Join us to understand how the loss of proper baptism and adherence to the church's tradition risks opening the door to spiritual danger, including the influence of heresies and the rise of anti-Christian forces. Equip yourself with the knowledge to defend the divine mysteries with confidence, and help restore the sacred posture of the church in our tumultuous times.Watch video on YouTubeMake sure to listen to part 1: "The Hidden History of the Great Schism & It's Impact on Christian Unity Today"Want more? Let's be friends. Join the Friendship Membership.Want to read my memoir, Here Comes Trouble? It's available now. Order your copy.Father Peter Resources & Links:Uncut Mountain PressOrthodox Survival Course by Father SeirThe Way of a PilgrimOrthodox Ethos YouTube ChannelChristianities Documentary ProjectConnect with Father Peter Heers:TwitterFacebookWebsite
Is the world's love Really worth it? Were told to dress like this, act like that, and make ourselves more beautiful, but how about if we don't change and someone loves us the way that we are?? That's God his Love lasts for Eternity and all we have to do is seek him and grow closer to him and he shows up for us no matter our circumstances! Grab your Bible and a Blanket and lets chat! ~Scriptures~ Matthew 27:45-54, 28:1-10 Romans 12:10 John 13:34 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 John 3:16 Follow me on Socials
"Charity and clarity" are the lodestars when teaching middle school boys with various faith backgrounds—and who are developing faith dispositions of their own. Bill Dardis teaches middle school religion and eighth grade core at The Heights. In his sixteen years of experience, he's navigated many tricky waters with the boys, with the ultimate goal to bring them into a deeper and more engaged relationship with faith. Chapters: 3:19 Inviting boys deeper into their faith 8:17 A religion teacher has to pray 9:16 Following student questions 11:27 Charity: respecting parents' moral authority 12:32 Clarity: commitment to the truth 13:28 Avoiding relativism 17:17 Emphasizing essential questions 18:37 Persuasive common ground 25:21 Seeing the familiar as if for the first time 27:30 One, holy, catholic, and apostolic 31:45 When a student's life situation conflicts with the Catechism 37:59 Loving the job Links: The Everlasting Man by G. K. Chesterton (seeing something familiar as if for the first time) Becoming Greece, textbook by Bill Dardis and Tom Cox Becoming Rome, textbook by Bill Dardis and Tom Cox Also on the Forum: Forming Men of Faith by Alvaro de Vicente Pope Benedict XVI and Catholic Education: On the Adventure of Truth featuring Dr. Joseph Lanzilotti Leaving Room for the Holy Spirit by Mark Grannis "The Talk": On the Role of Schools and Fathers featuring Michael Moynihan Featured Opportunities: Fathers Series for Fathers of Current Students at The Heights School (February 2026) The Art of Teaching Boys Conference at The Heights School (May 6-8, 2026)
Send a textWhat if the most important leadership lessons don't come from the boardroom but from late-night talks at the kitchen table? A HUGE thank you goes out to Mark Krahe for making today's episode possible. Today, we sat down with Sunbelt Golf CEO Mike Beverly—who leads the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail—to unpack the habits, values, and hard-won insights that guide him as a father and as a leader. It starts with gratitude for a strong partner in a demanding industry and widens into a blueprint for raising very different kids with empathy and clarity.Mike opens up about early prenatal fears, the emotional whiplash of uncertain diagnoses, and the patience it took to later understand his son's discalculia. That shift—from assuming to asking—became the foundation of his parenting. He connects those same principles to team leadership across 11 golf properties: you tailor your coaching, you take blame when things go wrong, and you celebrate your people when they get it right. The thread is humility, not as a brand but as a discipline you practice daily.We also dig into stress management and the small rituals that keep the home safe from work fallout. Mike uses drive time to decompress, chooses words carefully when emotions run hot, and returns to the simple rules his parents taught him: respect, accountability, and love spoken out loud. Along the way, he shares what makes the RTJ Golf Trail special—meticulous course conditions, service that feels human, and a mission to elevate Alabama's communities. It's hospitality as leadership, and leadership as love.If you're a parent, coach, or people leader, you'll find practical takeaways on advocating for your kids at school, creating decompression routines, and building cultures where people remember how you made them feel. And if you're a golfer, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at a destination defined by excellence and heart. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a lift, and leave a review with the one insight you'll put into practice this week.Support the showPlease don't forget to leave us a review wherever you consume your podcasts! Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes!
Navigating Tough Conversations In this episode of The Secure Family Podcast, host Andy discusses the vital role of parents in safeguarding their families and emphasizes the importance of having open, sometimes uncomfortable, conversations with children. Special guest Jeff Hittner, founder of Ambitious Dads, shares his insights from over 25 years of coaching leaders and fathers. Jeff discusses how modern fatherhood involves succeeding at both work and home, and the necessity of continuous dialogue with children. Key topics include overcoming discomfort in discussing difficult subjects, the impact of parental anxiety on kids, and strategies to build a culture of communication at home. Jeff also suggests practical tools and methods like using ChatGPT for preparing conversations and establishing consistent family rituals to create an environment where critical discussions are a natural part of family life. For more from Jeff Hittner: https://www.ambitiousdads.com/ Take control of your data with DeleteMe. Because they sponsor the podcast you can get 20% off a privacy plan from DeleteMe with promo code: DAD. Connect
We speak because we are afraid to be still. We speak because silence exposes us. We speak because when the mouth closes the heart begins to make noise and that noise is often unbearable. The Fathers knew this long before psychology gave it names. They knew that speech is not neutral. It is not just communication. It is an outflow of what is ruling the inner world. Every word carries the weight of the heart behind it. This is why Abba Pambo could stand at death and say that he had not repented of a single word and yet also say that he had not even begun to serve God. He knew what speech costs. He knew how easily a careless phrase can wound another, harden the self or invite the demons into the space between people. He did not trust his own clarity. He waited. He let months pass rather than speak a word that was not born from God. That kind of restraint feels almost inhuman to us. We live in a world that rewards immediacy. We are trained to answer quickly, react quickly, express quickly, post quickly, correct quickly. But speed is not truth. Speed is often panic wearing a clever face. The monk who waits to speak is not slow. He is standing before God inside himself. He is listening for something that is not his own. The Elder says that a man can be silent with his lips and loud with his heart. That is the most damning line in this whole section. You can say nothing and still be screaming. You can be quiet and still be condemning everyone around you. You can appear peaceful while your mind is devouring your brothers. Another man can speak all day and yet remain silent because he refuses to let his words become weapons, judgments or self display. Silence is not a style. It is a spiritual state. Idle talk is not mostly obscene or stupid. It is unnecessary. It is speech that does not serve salvation. It is talk that fills the space so we do not have to face what is happening inside. We speak about bodies and opinions and events and annoyances and plans because these are safer than the truth of our hearts. The moment we speak about what is good we discover how quickly evil slips in. Pride sneaks into holy words. Comparison sneaks into spiritual conversation. The self sneaks into everything. This is why the Elder answers the brother who wants a word to be saved with something that sounds almost trivial. Do not hasten to speak before you consider what you are going to say. That is not etiquette. That is warfare. To pause before speaking is to interrupt the automatic rule of the ego. It is to refuse to let the tongue be driven by irritation, hunger for recognition or the need to be right. It is to create a small space where God might enter. Most of what we say is not meant to help anyone. It is meant to regulate ourselves. We speak to soothe anxiety. We speak to discharge frustration. We speak to draw attention. We speak to feel real. We speak to avoid the ache of not being in control. The mouth becomes a narcotic. The more we use it the less we notice how enslaved we are to it. This is why the Fathers are so severe. They are not moralizing. They are diagnosing a sickness. The soul that cannot keep watch over its words cannot keep watch over its thoughts. The heart that pours itself out through constant speech cannot remain gathered before God. It leaks. It disperses. It becomes weak. The tragedy is that we confuse expression with honesty. We think that saying what we feel is the same as bringing it to God. It is not. Most of the time it just feeds the feeling. It strengthens the pattern. It builds a little kingdom around the self. We call it authenticity but it is often captivity. The monk learns slowly and painfully that every word either bends him toward God or bends him toward himself. There is no neutral speech. Either it deepens prayer or it corrodes it. Either it builds communion or it sows division. Either it creates space for grace or it fills the room with ego. This is why the saint waits. This is why the Elder warns. This is why the Fathers tremble before idle talk. They have seen what words do to the heart. They have watched souls unravel because the mouth was never taught to kneel. To learn silence is not to become mute. It is to become true. It is to let God have the first and last word inside you. And until that happens every sentence we speak is a small gamble with our soul. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:00:31 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 353 00:01:32 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Hypothesis XLVII page 353 concerning speech and silence 00:06:10 Catherine Opie: Without mosquitoes we would have no frogs or bats 00:11:38 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 353 A Hypothesis 47 00:12:10 Catherine Opie: Reacted to "P. 353 A Hypothesis ..." with
The Fathers do not treat speech as a social matter. They treat it as a matter of life and death. Because speech reveals what the heart lives from. A man may fast and remain proud. He may pray and remain full of illusion. He may withdraw outwardly and still remain inhabited by noise. But when he speaks, the truth emerges. The tongue betrays what the heart serves. Christ says with terrifying simplicity, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Matthew 12:34 He does not say the mouth creates. He says the mouth reveals. Speech is the manifestation of inner condition. The Evergetinos preserves the fierce sobriety of the Fathers on this point because they knew that speech is not neutral. Speech either dissipates the heart or gathers it into God. Abba Arsenius fled from men not because he hated them but because he feared what his own mouth might do. He had been formed in the courts of emperors. He knew the seduction of words. He knew how easily speech strengthens the illusion of the self. He heard a voice saying, “Flee, be silent, pray always.” Not because silence is virtuous in itself, but because silence exposes the poverty of the heart. When a man falls silent, he encounters himself. He encounters the anxiety that drives speech. The need to affirm himself. The need to be seen. The need to exist in the minds of others. Speech often becomes the way the ego sustains its continuity. Each word reinforces the illusion that the self is real, stable, necessary. This is why idle speech is so dangerous. Not because the words themselves are always evil, but because they feed the false center. St. John Climacus writes that talkativeness is the throne of vainglory, the sign of ignorance, the doorway of slander, and the cooling of compunction. Every unnecessary word strengthens forgetfulness of God. Not dramatically. Quietly. Almost imperceptibly. The heart that was once gathered becomes scattered. The attention that was once turned inward toward repentance becomes turned outward toward managing impressions. A man begins by speaking carelessly. He ends by living carelessly. The Evergetinos recounts how the elders guarded their speech with ferocity. Not because they had nothing to say, but because they feared losing the presence of God. They understood that the more a man speaks, the more he lives outside himself. And the more he lives outside himself, the more he forgets God. Abba Poemen said, “If a man remembers that he must give an account of every idle word, he will choose silence.” Not because silence is safer socially. Because silence is safer spiritually. Christ Himself says, “For every idle word men speak, they will give account on the day of judgment.” Matthew 12:36 Every idle word. This is not exaggeration. It is revelation. Because every idle word strengthens a life lived apart from God. Speech gives substance to illusion. It allows the ego to feel real. To feel present. To feel established. This is why men fear silence. Silence removes reinforcement. Silence reveals instability. Silence reveals dependency. Silence reveals that without constant affirmation, the ego begins to tremble. The Fathers did not seek silence as technique. They sought silence as truth. In silence, a man begins to see that he does not yet exist in God. He exists in the reflection of himself in the minds of others. Speech sustains that reflection. Silence destroys it. This destruction feels like death. Because something is dying. The false self that lives from recognition. The Evergetinos shows us elders who would rather appear foolish than speak unnecessarily. Who would rather remain misunderstood than protect themselves with words. Because they had discovered something terrible and liberating. Words cannot save the soul. Only God can save the soul. And God is found not in noise, but in poverty. St. Isaac the Syrian writes that the man who has come to know himself guards his tongue as one standing before fire. Because he knows how easily the heart can be emptied of grace. Speech is not evil. But uncontrolled speech reveals an uncontrolled heart. The man who speaks constantly has not yet learned to stand before God. Because the man who stands before God begins to see himself truthfully. And seeing himself truthfully, he loses the need to speak. Not because he despises others. Because he no longer needs to sustain himself. His life begins to be hidden with Christ in God. And the tongue, once restless and hungry, becomes quiet. Not forced into silence. But stilled by the presence of God. This is the path the Fathers walked. They did not seek eloquence. They sought reality. And reality begins when the mouth stops protecting the self and the heart begins to stand naked before God. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:02:32 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 354 para 4 00:03:51 Angela Bellamy: I apologize for my mic. I didn't realize it had activated. 00:04:01 Angela Bellamy: Reacted to "I apologize for my m..." with
St. Isaac the Syrian is ruthless here because he is protecting us from despair on one side and fantasy on the other. Most of us live precisely in the state he describes. We have repented. We have turned away from obvious sins. We pray. We read. We fast. And yet our prayer feels crowded. Memories intrude. Images multiply. The heart is pulled back into itself again and again. This is not a sign that repentance was false. It is the normal condition of an unfledged mind. Isaac is teaching us not to panic when the mind cannot yet fly. At this stage virtues are still heavy. They belong to effort. They restrain the mind but they do not yet lift it. We imagine that distraction means failure and that freedom should come quickly. Isaac says no. Freedom has an atmosphere. The mind must slowly learn the air in which it will one day remain. Until then it hops. And hopping is not sin. It is training. The mistake is trying to force flight. When we strain to escape images we only multiply them. When we analyze distraction we deepen self consciousness. When we demand interior stillness before humility has done its work we turn prayer into a project. Isaac quietly refuses all of this. He tells us to remain faithful to outward obedience without expecting inward vision yet. What overcomes these tendencies is not technique but endurance in smallness. We continue to pray even when prayer feels poor. We do not chase experiences. We accept that God is served through visible things for a long time. And we allow the Lord to teach us the inner meaning of what we already practice. Slowly virtues become transparent. They stop drawing attention to themselves. They begin to point beyond themselves. Humility is the hinge. Not self accusation. Not interior commentary. Humility is staying low enough that God can lean toward us. The humble man does not try to send his prayer upward. He speaks it close. Like a word placed directly into the ear of God. Lord You will enlighten my darkness. This is what readers of Philokalia Ministries need to hold on to. If your prayer feels earthbound do not abandon it. If your mind is crowded do not fight it violently. If your virtues feel external do not despise them. You are not failing. You are growing feathers. Flight comes later. First comes patience. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:06:24 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 176, # 21, second paragraph 00:13:26 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 176, # 21, second paragraph 00:15:11 Angela Bellamy: congratulations Father