Positive trait or quality deemed to be morally good
POPULARITY
Categories
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comMatt is an author, pollster, campaigner, and policy advisor. He recently ran for Parliament as a Reform candidate and came in second. He's also a presenter at GB News and a writer on Substack. He's the author of many books, including National Populism and Values, Voice and Virtue, and his new book is Suicide of a Nation: Immigration, Islam, Identity.For two clips of our convo — on the flood of non-white migrants to the UK, and how accusations of racism shape the migration debate — head to our YouTube page.Other topics: born in Hertfordshire to working-class parents who divorced young and worked for the NHS; addiction in the family; his terrible time at an all-boys school; the first in his family to go to college; Burke and Oakeshott; a semester abroad in downtown Detroit; the losers of globalization; being a conservative in academia; thehounding of Kathleen Stock; Douglas Murray; Charles Murray; the falling popularity of liberal democracy; David Cameron; the migration crisis; Brexit; the Red Wall swinging to the right; Nigel Farage and Euroskepticism; plunging fertility rates; Roger Scruton; Lasch and Burnham; the betrayal of Boris on migration; the rapid influx of Muslims to the UK; assimilation in the US; the disappearance of a shared national memory; the illiberalism of Islamic Brits; same-sex marriage; wokeness; anti-speech laws in the UK; the Iraq War; and the new war in Iran.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy. Coming up: Jonah Goldberg on the state of conservatism, Jeffrey Toobin on the pardon power, Derek Thompson on abundance, Tom Holland on the Christian roots of liberalism, Tiffany Jenkins on privacy in a liberal democracy, Adrian Wooldridge on “the lost genius of liberalism,” and Tom Junod on his memoir and masculinity. As always, please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.
Yesterday was the Feast of St. Joseph, where we celebrated our Patron of Fathers and Masculinity by honoring 5 seniors men voted by the peers as models of virtue. Paul and Liam, two of our winners, join us to discuss why their faith is important to them and how they pursue virtue!
From Krista: I was longing for a deep dive on the radiant and common-sense hope that Jason Reynolds embodies after I interviewed him at a Georgetown event last year. I got my chance at the 2025 Aspen Ideas Festival. Jason's perspective is so urgent for the world we've now walked into: on giving ourselves grace to be hopeless, the virtue of stamina, and the hope that stays strong in him from his life in relationship with the very young in our midst — "the arbiters and purveyors of the future" — as well as an occasional stranger in a bar. Jason himself is preternaturally wise as well as talented and kind and humble. He's become a friend across the years and is one of my favorite people in the world. — Find an excellent transcript of this show, edited by humans, on our show page. Sign yourself and others up for The Pause to be on our mailing list for all things On Being and to receive Krista's monthly Saturday newsletter, including a heads up on new episodes, special offerings, recommendations, and event invitations. Jason Reynolds is a New York Times bestselling author of over 20 books for children and young adults. From 2020–2022, he served as National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. Among many honors, he has received the Newbery, Printz, and Coretta Scott King Awards, and was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2024. He is on the faculty at Lesley University for the Writing for Young People M.F.A. Program. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Is virtue something that is innate? Or can it be learned, practiced, and grown in our lives? It's an important question, especially for students and young adults who are discovering God's calling and purpose for their lives.Last year, we were privileged to host Dr. Grant Horner, Director of the Classical Liberal Arts Program at The Master's University, to speak with our 11th and 12th grade students on the topic of virtue: what is it, why we should aim for it, and what a virtuous life looks like for a disciple of Christ. And, he does it with plenty of humor as well as soul searching scriptural truths.Parents - you will not only be inspired and exhorted yourselves to "live a life worthy of the calling you have received" - but for those of you who have students at a classical Christian school, you will also be grateful that this is what your students' teachers are guiding them towards.Listen to it all at once, or take some time to come back to this longer episode if you have to; it's a worthwhile listen all the way to the end, including some very thought-provoking questions from our students.This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers, a wealth management firm located on North Pointe Blvd in Lancaster, leading people to make better financial decisions, and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.
Episode 207 Whereas the larger-than-life characters in ‘Othello' left us with no moral ambiguities, but plenty of questions about the nature of the outsider and society's attitude towards those who are different. Shakespeare's next offering, ‘Measure for Measure' was a very different piece with few of those certainties.The dating and earliest performance of the playThe early print history of the playChanges made by Thomas MiddletonThe source material for the playA brief synopsis of the playComedy of Tragicomedy?Issues with the structure of the playJustice and mercyThe premise of the play examinedHow the characters avoid easy categorisationThe role of the dukeThe role of IsabellaThe role of AngeloThe role of LucioThe ending of the play and Isabella's response to the dukeThe mixed critical response to the playThe later performance history of the playMeasure for Measure on filmSupport the podcast at:www.thehistoryofeuropeantheatre.comwww.patreon.com/thoetpwww.ko-fi.com/thoetp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Virtue Of Our Christian Faith by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Imogu by Victory Inheritance Ministries
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 St. Isaac places hope after the first labor of virtue for a reason. A man must first discover that his virtues cannot save him. He fasts. He keeps vigil. He disciplines the body. He restrains the passions. He learns obedience to the commandments. Yet even after these labors something remains uncertain within him. The heart still trembles before the future. The mind still calculates. The soul still tries to secure itself. Virtue alone does not destroy fear. Because fear is rooted in the illusion that life depends upon us. So Isaac begins to speak about hope. Not optimism. Not religious comfort. Not the quiet belief that God will make things easier. Divine hope is something far more terrible. Divine hope appears when a man finally believes the words of Christ. “Make no provision for the flesh.” The man who hopes in God no longer arranges his life around survival. He arranges it around God. This is why Isaac describes the man who ceases to give thought to worldly provision. Such a man has not become careless. He has become free. He has discovered something the world does not understand. God is not an idea that accompanies life. God is life. The world trains us to think first about preservation. Food. Clothing. Shelter. Security. Reputation. Position. The future. Even religious men often organize their spiritual life around these concerns. They seek God but only after they have secured themselves. Christ reverses this order. Seek first the Kingdom. Not second. Not after your plans are settled. Not after the future is secured. First. When this commandment is believed, everything changes. Afflictions no longer appear as threats. Loss no longer appears as catastrophe. Uncertainty no longer produces panic. The man who hopes in God has already placed his life in God's hands. Nothing remains to defend. This is why the saints could live with such strange freedom. They possessed little. They planned little. They secured little. Yet they lacked nothing. The world itself began to serve them. Not because they controlled the world but because they had already abandoned it. Divine hope therefore exposes the false hope that governs most lives. False hope says God will protect the life I am building. True hope says God Himself is my life. False hope clings to stability. True hope walks where Christ walks. Into uncertainty. Into poverty. Into the wilderness. Into the Cross. And yet the man who walks there does not despair. Because he has discovered something greater than safety. He has discovered the faithfulness of God. This is why Isaac places hope after the discipline of virtue. Virtue trains the body. Hope gives the heart to God. Without hope the ascetic life becomes anxiety dressed in religious clothing. With hope the man becomes light. He lives before God without calculation. He labors. He prays. He stands watch over the heart. And he entrusts everything else to the mercy of God. Such a man has begun to believe the Gospel. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:38:12 Janine: Happy are you poor 00:40:55 Jessica McHale: I feel as though the money, savings, job, housing I have is all a gift from God. My life has been a little complicated and I see these material things as passing--I don't have hope in them at all--but I feel blessed at what's He's given me. My job allows me to say the Hours and attend Divine Liturgy or Mass daily. If I lose all material things, it's no loss. God will provide. Living simply, even though I have security in "savings etc" makes me really see how unimportant material things are. I don't need most things the average person needs. I have a long way to holiness though, :). But this helps me to try to focus on God throughout the day and become more "ascetic" in the modern world. Praise God. 00:45:46 Nypaver Clan: Page # ? 00:45:50 Anthony: There are people Our Lord did not call to follow Him in the evangelical counsels. The Gadarene demonic. The man blind from birth. Even Nicodemus. Maybe I'm trying to justify myself, but I wonder if the evangelical counsels are for some people but not others 00:45:59 Andrew Adams: Replying to "Page # ?" 182 00:46:02 Eleana Urrego: 182 00:46:09 Nypaver Clan: Reacted to "182" with
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Sarah Berry of the University of Dallas discuss Acedia, Avarice, and part of Gluttony in Cantos 18-22 of the Purgatorio.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information!Check out our GUIDE to the Purgatorio!Dr. Sarah Berry joins Deacon Harrison Garlick to explore Cantos 18–22, covering the terrace of sloth (acedia) and the transition into avarice and prodigality. In Canto 18, Virgil delivers a pivotal discourse on love as the root of all human action, explaining that love can be misdirected (pride, envy, wrath), deficient (sloth), or excessive (avarice, gluttony, lust). Berry emphasizes the terrace's brevity and lack of a formal prayer: “their prayers are their action... the penitents too... are doing the thing as a way of offering up some kind of prayer to God” (Dr. Sarah Berry), with running souls and examples of zeal (Mary's haste to Elizabeth, Caesar's swift march) countering sloth's cooling of love. The dream of the siren in Canto 19 warns against deceptive earthly goods, while the face-down penance on the avarice terrace forces fixation on the earth once loved excessively: “these are those who had a disordered love of money... goods that can't be shared” (Dr. Sarah Berry).Cantos 20–22 deepen the exploration of avarice's societal and personal consequences. Hugh Capet's lament in Canto 20 indicts the French dynasty's greed and sacrilege, including the capture of Boniface VIII. Berry highlights the terrace's broadened scope: “Dante is really broadening... our awareness of this constellation of problems” beyond mere hoarding or spending. In Canto 21, Statius is released with an earthquake and song, explaining his long purgation on sloth and avarice before moving freely upward. Canto 22 poignantly contrasts Statius (saved through Virgil's influence and grace) with Virgil himself, who lacks faith despite his virtues. Berry notes the tragedy: “Dante is inviting us... hoping that there is some special providence for Virgil at the end of his journey through purgatory” (Dr. Sarah Berry). The cantos reveal Purgatorio's hopeful, dynamic nature: purgation reorders love through grace, habituation, and contemplation, moving from deficient to excessive attachments, preparing the soul for divine union.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio02:29 Exploring Dante's Purgatorio: Themes and Structure04:30 The Importance of Purgatorio in Spiritual Growth08:32 Understanding Love and Culpability in Purgatorio12:00 Diving into Canto 18: The Lesson on Love13:26 Virgil's Discourse on Love and Free Will17:40 The Nature of Love: Ascent and Culpability20:31 The Role of Reason in Human Actions26:01 The Formation of Intellect and Will33:12 Contrapasso: The Penance of Slothfulness40:19 Examples of Zeal: Mary and Caesar42:17 Understanding Zeal and Sloth47:04 The Subtlety of Sin and Human Effort52:31 Dreams and Allegory in Purgatory01:00:27 The Nature of Prayer and Action01:01:58 Exploring Avarice and Its Consequences01:20:15 Exploring Dante's Inferno: Sin and Intellect01:23:03 Wrath and Sloth: Roots of Sin in Purgatorio01:25:23 Positive Examples: Virtue Against Avarice01:29:30 Dante's Critique of French Dynasties01:35:56 The Role of Statius: A New Perspective01:50:30 Virgil's Tragic Journey: Hope for Salvation?KeywordsDante's Purgatorio, Sloth, Love, Virtue, Spiritual Growth, Theology, Literature, Dante, Purgatory, Christian Virtues Dante, Purgatorio, allegory, sin, virtue, divine justice, theology, Mount Purgatory, purgation, salvation
If God's will is love, what does it mean to love yourself without sliding into narcissism—or the opposite extreme of self-neglect and self-hatred? Continuing the “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” conversation, Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks bring needed nuance: self-love isn't self-worship, and self-denial isn't automatically virtue.They unpack why “harder” is not inherently “better,” why suffering is only meaningful when ordered to a higher purpose (love), and how true humility is simply honesty—being clear about what you're good at and what you're not. The episode reframes self-care as stewardship of your humanity: caring for yourself with the same respect and consistency you'd give a loved one (or even your pet), so you can show up with more freedom, joy, and capacity to serve.Key IdeasOrdered self-love avoids two traps: narcissism (self as god) and self-disregard (treating God's creation as worthless).The Christian goal isn't “maximum suffering”; virtue often makes the good easier, more spontaneous, and more joyful over time.Sacrifice matters—but only when it's for a higher purpose (love of God and neighbor), not as an identity or performance.Humility is honesty: “I'm good at X” isn't pride, and “I'm bad at Y” isn't self-hatred—it's reality.Grow the gifts you actually have, and let that growth expand your ability to love and serve others more effectively.Links & References (official/source only)Dr. Jordan B. Peterson (official site):https://www.jordanbpeterson.com/CliftonStrengths (Gallup) overview:https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspxImmanuel Kant (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy entry):https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/kant/CTA: If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.com .Tags (comma-separated)Father and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, love, self love, ordered self love, narcissism, self care, stewardship, humility, virtue, holiness, Lent, fasting, suffering, sacrifice, purpose, love and limits, joy, gratitude, human nature, Immanuel Kant, moral formation, Jordan Peterson, treat yourself like someone worth caring for, CliftonStrengths, Gallup StrengthsFinder, gifts and talents, discernment, prudence, growth mindset, service, charity, family leadership, fatherhood, YouTube podcast, subscribe on YouTube, algorithms
Join Prokoptôn, a private community of dedicated practicing Stoics working together to improve. Learn more at https://skool.com/prokopton -- In this episode, I explore Marcus Aurelius' Meditations 6.27 and what it teaches us about anger. Marcus reminds us that when people do wrong, they do so because they believe their actions are beneficial or appropriate. Our task, therefore, is not to react with anger but to teach, explain, and correct with patience. That idea opens the door to a deeper question: what is anger actually for? Some modern thinkers claim anger is necessary for progress, even suggesting that it fuels social change. I disagree. Anger is not a driver of wise action. It is a signal. Anger alerts us that something has happened which does not accord with our expectations, values, or understanding. That is its only real utility. Once the signal appears, the work begins. We must translate that signal into usable information by asking questions: What happened? Why did it happen? What assumptions am I making? Could I be mistaken? This process turns anger into data. The signal draws our attention to an impression. Rational questioning extracts information from it. And our willingness to revise our own assumptions ensures that we do not simply act on emotional certainty. Seneca makes the Stoic position clear in On Anger: anger itself contributes nothing useful to action. Virtue never requires the assistance of vice. Anger is not a helpful fuel for moral progress. It is a destabilizing force that clouds judgment and pushes us toward impulsive decisions. The goal, then, is not to eliminate anger entirely, since it is part of our human psychology. The goal is to refuse to act while under its influence. Socrates captures this beautifully when he tells a servant, “I would strike you, were I not angry.” His point is simple. If the desire to punish someone appears at the same moment as anger, we cannot trust that the desire is rational. The wise response is to pause until calm judgment returns. This is the Stoic discipline in practice. Anger may signal that something is wrong. But only reason can determine what should be done about it. Listening on Spotify? Leave a comment! Share your thoughts. -- I am a public philosopher, it is my only job. I am enabled to do this job, in large part, thanks to support from my listeners and readers. You can support my work, keep it independent and online, at https://stoicismpod.com/members Looking for more Stoic content? Consider my 3x/week newsletter "Stoic Brekkie": https://stoicbrekkie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Damarr Brown is a chef and culinary leader known for his soulful, polished take on Southern cuisine; as the chef at Virtue Restaurant, he has become one of Chicago's most celebrated voices in hospitality, a nationally recognized talent with a deep commitment to mentorship. He joins us for our first full-on live show at the Friends of James Beard Chef Invitational at Sand Valley, where he reflects on his path through Chicago's restaurant scene and the mentors who shaped it. In front of a live audience, we talk: his early start cooking with his mother and grandmother, the discipline of his years at mk, what it's really like competing on Top Chef, and a few early hints about the next concept from the Virtue team -- and, as always, so much more.
The Seattle City Council has unanimously approved a plan requiring local police to monitor Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during immigration actions. This plan, initially introduced by Mayor Katie Wilson, has now been codified into city law. The move comes in response to concerns about the conduct of federal immigration agents, particularly following incidents in Minneapolis. Under the resolution, Seattle police officers are directed to investigate, verify, and document any reports of immigration enforcement activity, including validating the status of federal agents and securing scenes of potentially unlawful acts. Furthermore, the city plans to install over 600 signs prohibiting ICE enforcement actions on city property. Critics argue that this is an overreach and pits law enforcement agencies against each other, while supporters maintain it's about ensuring accountability and upholding standards of conduct.
In this episode, we cover:The Global Underground Church: A firsthand account of meeting hundreds of underground church leaders on the border of Iran and the rapid growth of the Gospel in the Middle East.The Nature of Revival: Understanding that revival often comes in ways we don't expect—through pressure, tension, and the desperation of the persecuted.Crowds vs. Disciples: Lessons from the woman with the issue of blood; why many "throng" Jesus, but only the desperate "touch" Him and draw out His virtue.Divine Intervention: A call for immediate prayer over physical, spiritual, mental, and financial needs.The Command to Go in Peace: Shifting from a state of worry to an "assurance beyond human comprehension."Key Moments:[00:00] Report from the Middle East: Updates on television networks airing the Gospel into Iran and Arabic nations.[12:30] The Border Meeting: The beauty and sacrifice of church leaders living under extreme pressure.[28:45] Virtue and Desperation: Analyzing why Jesus felt power leave Him in the middle of a crowded street.[45:10] The Prayer of Intervention: A focused time of seeking salvation, healing, and liberation.[55:00] Final Benediction: The repetitive, prophetic declaration to "Go in Peace."Key Themes & Concepts:The Power of Touch: Moving from proximity to God to an actual encounter that changes your nature.Virtue (Dunamis): The specific "moral power" and "miraculous force" that flows from Christ to the believer.Peace as a Guard: How the peace of Christ transcends circumstances and grants the desires of the heart.Connect with us:English Website: http://LeondeJuda.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cljoficial/#Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/congregacionleondejudaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeondeJudaBoston
An expository sermon from 2 Peter 1:5 about building on the foundation of faith.
It's Birthday Month for Mirandia, and you know what that means- she chooses the book! This month we are going back to one of Mirandia's favorite things, Halloween Town, and following Sally, the Ragdoll (now) Queen, as she struggles with becoming Pumpkin Queen and the duties that it involves. We also cover new book news and adaptations coming our way. Grab a charcuterie board and join us for #girldinner. Books Mentioned This Episode: Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea Ernshaw The Hour of the Pumpkin Queen by Megan Shepherd City of Bones by Cassandra Clare Project Hail May by Andy Weir Dark Matter by Blake Crouch Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi The Medici Curse by Daco S. Auffenorde Middletide by Sarah Crouch The Storm by Rachel Hawkins Stray Dogs by Tony Fleecs Astrophysics for People Who Are In A Hurry by Neil DeGrasse Tyson
Fr. Clint continues our series on the classical Christian understanding of virtues and vices.
Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family
Sign up here to receive the Formation Newsletter: https://becomenew.com/formation/What if the antidote to condemnation isn't trying harder to be nice… but learning to know yourself?In this conversation, John Ortberg talks with philosopher Jim Taylor about intellectual virtue — qualities like humility, courage, and self-knowledge that help us pursue truth and love people well.Jesus warned against condemning judgment, but he also invited us to remove the log in our own eye. The path forward begins with honest self-examination and a simple prayer:“Search me, O God, and know my heart.”Because when we grow in self-knowledge, condemnation loses its grip.
Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family
In this conversation, John Coleman shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a successful author and investment manager. He discusses the concept of human flourishing, emphasizing its importance in both personal and professional life. Coleman introduces the idea of 'Good Money,' which connects financial stability with the pursuit of a meaningful life. He outlines a framework for understanding human flourishing, including the roles of character, virtue, and relationships. The discussion also touches on the significance of family values and the impact of wealth on personal fulfillment. Ultimate Show Notes: 00:00:58 - Introducing John Coleman 00:02:06 - John's Backstory 00:03:30 - The Journey into Business and Writing 00:05:31 - Understanding Human Flourishing 00:10:00 - Defining Human Flourishing 00:14:02 - The Six Components of Flourishing 00:19:31 - The Importance of Character and Virtue 00:22:08 - The Rise of Spiritual Seeking 00:25:46 - Family Mission, Vision, and Values 00:29:20 - Overview of "Good Money" 00:31:56 - Target Audience for the Book 00:36:18 - Staying Connected with John Coleman Connect with John: John Coleman On Purpose | John Coleman | Substack Good Money: Six Steps to Building a Financial Life with Purpose Learn More About Accountable Equity: Visit Us: http://www.accountableequity.com/ Access eBook: https://accountableequity.com/case-study/#register Turn your unique talent into capital and achieve the life you were destined to live. Join our community!We believe that Capital is more than just Cash. In fact, Human Capital always comes first before the accumulation of Financial Capital. We explore the best, most efficient, high-integrity ways of raising capital (Human & Financial). We want our listeners to use their personal human capital to empower the growth of their financial capital. Together we are stronger. LinkedinFacebookInstagramApple PodcastSpotify
Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family
We live in a world obsessed with performance. KPIs, productivity, image, optimization. But beneath all the metrics and strategies lies a quieter, deeper question: Can I trust you?In this episode, Janet explores why character, not just skill, is the true foundation of leadership and life. Because when pressure rises, and no rulebook applies, it's not policy that guides us. It's who we are.Drawing from ancient philosophy, modern psychology, and a powerful real-life leadership story, Janet invites you to reflect on the choices you make every day and who you are becoming because of them. This conversation is about cultivating the inner stability to act with wisdom, courage, and integrity, especially when it would be easier not to.Virtue may not be trendy. It can't be hacked or optimized. But in uncertain times, it's the one thing that holds everything together.In this episode:✅ Why leadership failures are often character failures, not skill gaps✅ How trust, respect, and integrity shape real leadership✅ What ancient virtue ethics can teach modern leaders✅ Why courage matters most when no policy applies✅ The danger of valuing speed, scale, and output over wisdom✅ How small daily choices shape who you becomeAbout Janet Ioli:Janet Ioli is a globally recognized executive advisor, coach, and leadership expert with over 25 years of experience developing leaders in Fortune 100 companies and global organizations.She created The Inner Edge—a framework, a movement, and a message that flips leadership from mere success performance to presence; from ego to soul. Through her keynotes, podcast, and programs, Janet helps high-achievers find the one thing that changes everything: the mastery within.Her approach redefines leadership presence—not as polish or tactics, but as the inner steadiness people feel from you and the positive imprint you leave on individuals and organizations.Chapters for Apple Podcasts00:00:00 Character in Leadership00:03:42 Choosing Courage Daily00:08:44 Cultivating VirtueConnect with Janet Ioli:Website: janetioli.comLinkedin: Janet IoliInstagram: @leadershipcoachjanetIf you want to become more grounded, confident, and aligned with your deeper values in just 21 days, check out Janet Ioli's book Less Ego, More Soul: A Modern Reinvention Guide for Women. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Select “Listen in Apple Podcasts,” then choose the “Ratings & Reviews” tab to share what you think. Produced by Ideablossoms
Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family
Is beauty vain, or is beauty, instead, a philosophical treasure that refracts the potency of our inner life force? Is physical beauty something we've programmed to respond to by the 5000 ads a day? Is the obsession with one's own physical beauty a sign of a deeply corrupt soul? If all you have to offer is that which you did not earn, you'll be terrified to lose it. Is the lustful obsession with physical beauty the way of what appears to be a man, but is really an animal? OR is physical beauty a gift from the divine (or evolution if you prefer)? A reward for when we draw nearer to the most metaphorically divine act, that of creating new life in our own image.These are the most pragmatic of philosophical questions. I discuss them with François Vix, who has dedicated the past two decades to advancing health through scientific breakthroughs in the beauty and wellness space. Most notably, he pioneered the use of a stable, bioactive form of SuperOxide Dismutase (SOD), bringing GliSODin to more than 50 countries.I've trialed their two products: GliSODin Anti-Aging and VSOD. These are more than just beauty products, with over 20 clinical trials backing SOD's effect on health and longevity, it may be one of the keys for aspirational beautiful immortals.4:10 Can the pursuit of beauty be virtuous?7:00 The philosophical case for beauty10:33 The science behind SuperOxide Dismutase (SOD)21:44 What is Bioactive SOD-Gliadin Complex?23:27 Origin of Melon-extracted SOD26:45 GliSODin multiplies the effect of mainstream "beauty supplements"29:15 Science: SOD vs free radicals31:31 Effects of GliSODin34:07 Biohacker review of GliSODin35:47 DNA protection - THIS really matters 42:18 GliSODin Anti-Aging vs VSOD44:36 UV Protection - "sunscreen from within?"48:50 GliSODin - Safe for nursing or pregnant mothers?52:22 When to expect results from GliSODin?56:21 Lifestyle cofactors for empowering SOD01:00:47 SOD Nutrient cofactors01:03:31 Cycling SOD supplements?01:07:18 François's personal health practices01:11:15 Entrepreneurship advice01:15:57 Virtue is downstream from investment in healthRead
A 4-year-old's Lenten question opens a bigger one: what does it actually mean to “act like Jesus” and pray, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”? In this episode, Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks connect Lent, Scripture, and real-life decision-making—showing that God's will is love, but love isn't vague “good vibes.” Love has reality, boundaries, and practical limits: what you can give, what someone can receive, and what wisdom calls for in a specific moment.They start with the Garden of Eden and the way God speaks truth about consequences, then move into how virtue matures us toward love as the “crown” of the virtues. The conversation closes with a key challenge: most of life isn't a carved-in-stone playbook—so how do we actually develop discernment, trust our judgment, and keep growing (with God's grace and the help of others)?Key Ideas“Act like Jesus” isn't imitation theater—it's becoming formed in God's logic over time, especially through Lent.God's will (in heaven and on earth) is love, and virtue exists to serve love.Love has limits in practice: what you can do, what others can receive, and what is realistically possible.We avoid what is clearly wrong, but we don't always instantly know the most loving “right” in gray areas.Discernment grows through prayer, experience, feedback, community wisdom, and noticing wounded places that distort decisions.The Holy Spirit forms Christians gradually—more sensitivity, better judgment, more Christlike freedom.Scripture Mentioned (no links)Genesis 2–3 (Garden of Eden context)Matthew 6:10 (“Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”)Galatians 6:2 (“Carry one another's burdens…”)Romans 13:10 (“Love is the fulfillment of the law”)Acts 3:1–10 (the beggar at the Beautiful Gate)Links & References (official/source only)Dr. Jordan B. Peterson (official site):https://www.jordanbpeterson.com/CTA: If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.com .Tags (comma-separated)Father and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, Lent, Ash Wednesday, first week of Lent, giving things up, sacrifice, act like Jesus, thy will be done, God's will, love, virtue, prudence, justice, temperance, fortitude, crown of virtues, discernment, spiritual growth, Holy Spirit, spiritual consolation, wisdom, counsel, moral norms, right and wrong, gray areas, parenting and faith, fatherhood, children's questions, Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve, Genesis, Our Father, Matthew 6:10, Galatians 6:2, Romans 13:10, Acts 3, Beautiful Gate, community learning, trusting intuition, woundedness, conflict aversion, spiritual formation, YouTube podcast, subscribe on YouTube
The Dismantling of the Religious Self Four Lenten Reflections on Delusion, Abandonment, and the Life That Remains in God “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” John 12:24 Second Reflection The Violence We Call Righteousness On the Ego That Survives Inside Virtue “They being ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” Romans 10:3 When the man sees that fulfillment cannot be found in religious life itself, he turns toward righteousness. He disciplines himself. He purifies his conduct. He restrains his passions. He orders his thoughts. He seeks purity. Outwardly, transformation occurs. Inwardly, something remains untouched. The ego survives. It survives inside virtue. St. John Climacus writes that vainglory completes every virtue the man performs. It attaches itself to fasting. It attaches itself to prayer. It attaches itself to obedience. It whispers: This is yours. Virtue becomes possession. The man begins to live from righteousness. He experiences himself as stable because he is righteous. He trusts his righteousness. This trust separates him from God. Because union with God requires the loss of trust in oneself as source of life. The Pharisee stands before God and speaks truth. He fasts. He obeys. He lives faithfully. And remains separate. Because he still exists as the center of his own existence. The tax collector possesses nothing. He cannot lift his eyes. He does not trust himself. Christ says he goes home justified. Because justification belongs to the man who has nothing left to preserve. St. Isaac says that until the soul despairs of itself, it cannot rest in God. Not emotional despair. Ontological despair. The knowledge that one does not possess life. Righteousness that preserves the ego prevents union. Because union requires death. Not moral improvement. Death. The man must lose the self that lives apart from God. Virtue cannot substitute for this death. Virtue can conceal it. The ego can survive indefinitely inside righteousness. And remain alone. ⸻ This is the most dangerous stage of the spiritual life. Because sin is obvious. But righteousness can conceal separation. The sinful man knows he is sick. The righteous man believes he is alive. Christ said to the church of Laodicea, “You say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not knowing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:17 This is not addressed to pagans. This is addressed to believers. To those who have acquired religious identity. To those who possess righteousness and draw life from it. They do not feel their need. They do not cry out. They do not seek life because they believe they possess it. This is why Christ says, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32 Not because the righteous do not need Him. But because those who believe themselves righteous cannot receive Him. They are full. And God only fills the empty. St. Sophrony writes that the greatest tragedy is when man begins to live from himself rather than from God. Even if this life is clothed in virtue, it remains separation. It remains death. Virtue can purify behavior without destroying autonomy. It can cleanse the exterior while leaving the center untouched. Christ speaks with terrifying clarity about this. “You clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self indulgence.” Matthew 23:25 The outside can be purified. The inside can remain intact. The ego does not resist virtue. It feeds on virtue. It incorporates virtue into itself. It expands through virtue. It becomes righteous. And this righteousness becomes its shield against God. Because God does not come to improve the ego. He comes to crucify it. St. Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Galatians 2:20 This is not metaphor. This is the destruction of the autonomous center of existence. As long as the man lives from himself, even virtuously, he remains separate. Because life belongs only to God. St. Silouan the Athonite saw this with terrible clarity. He had labored greatly. He had prayed. He had struggled. He had purified himself. And yet the Lord allowed him to descend into hell. Not because he was sinful. But because righteousness had not yet been shattered. And Christ said to him, “Keep thy mind in hell, and despair not.” Not because hell was his destination. But because only in the destruction of self trust could union be born. As long as the man stands on his own righteousness, he stands alone. Only when this ground collapses does he begin to stand in God. Archimandrite Zacharias writes that God allows even the virtuous man to see his utter poverty so that he may cease drawing life from himself. This is the blessed despair that gives birth to true life. This despair is not psychological collapse. It is ontological revelation. The revelation that without God, one does not exist. Christ says, “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 Not less. Nothing. Not even righteousness. When this is seen, virtue loses its power as identity. It remains. But it no longer belongs to the man. It becomes the life of Christ within him. Before this death, virtue belongs to the ego. After this death, virtue belongs to God. This is why the saints do not trust their righteousness. They fear it. They flee from it. Abba Poemen said, “A man may appear to be silent while his heart condemns others. Such a man is talking constantly.” Outward virtue. Inward autonomy. Separation remains. Another elder said that even if a man raises the dead but trusts himself, he has lost everything. Because union is not achieved by virtue. It is achieved by death. This is why the saints see themselves as sinners even when they are purified. Not because they deny reality. But because they do not live from themselves. They live from God. St. Isaac writes that the man who has truly seen himself is greater than the man who raises the dead. Because he has seen the truth. He has seen that he does not possess life. He has seen that all righteousness belongs to God. This vision destroys the ego at its root. And only when the ego dies can God become life. Until then, righteousness remains violence. Violence against truth. Violence against union. Violence against love. Because it preserves the illusion of existence apart from God. The elder Sophrony says that as long as man attributes righteousness to himself, he remains enclosed within the prison of his own being. He cannot escape. He cannot breathe. He cannot live. Only when righteousness is lost as possession does it become life. Only when the man ceases to exist as source does God become his existence. This is why Christ says, “Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Matthew 16:25 Not improves it. Finds it. Because it did not belong to him before. This is the second dismantling. Not the destruction of sinful identity. The destruction of righteous identity. Not the loss of vice. The loss of ownership of virtue. The loss of oneself as the one who lives. Until this death occurs, the ego survives. It survives inside prayer. It survives inside obedience. It survives inside humility itself. It survives inside righteousness. And remains forever alone. --- Text of chat during the group: 01:28:35 Danny Moulton (Lakeside, Ohio): I'm wondering how fear and ego interplay in producing unhealthy religiosity. It seems to me ego and fear are two sides of the same coin. Ego is fed when we think we are righteous and doing religion right, but fear calls the shots when we think we are unrighteous and doing religion wrong. It seems both can lead to obsession with something other than Divine love. The Apostle John says that perfect love drives out fear. I believe this is absolutely true, but fear sure can put up a good fight at times. 01:32:27 Fr Martin, Arizona: What do you think of this? Shortly after arriving at my first parish, I told my spiritual father about all the things I would change. He said, “Check with God. He didn't give you the football and tell you to run with it. What if God send you there to fail?” 01:33:46 Jaden Abrams: Father, bless! I was really impacted by these last two talks, thank you very much. What change can I make today to die to myself and stop sitting next to the vine. 01:35:31 Kate: When you speak about the death of the ego, is it more like a process of dying rather than something that is accomplished once and for all? And I find my self asking how, how does the ego die? Is it a simultaneous process of the dying of the ego and the soul growing in union with Christ? 01:40:29 Una: I was a complulsive A-getter in college, too. Thank you for sharing. 01:41:05 Angela Bellamy: Reacted to "Father, bless! I was..." with ❤️ 01:42:47 Shannon: It feels must bleed out our ego and diappear into the darkness in order for God to turn light. Not knowing where the next step, but trusting in God. We disappear into prayer/ looking through window with lamps lite hearts 01:44:16 Fr Martin, Arizona: Today's retreat convicted me. I'm not sure where to begin poking at my sense of self-identity and autonomy. My anxiety reveals to me that I harbor some delusions about myself. I used to visit a Romanian monk who was imprisoned and tortured by communists. Surprisingly, he never complained about that. Rather he said to me once, “Before I was imprisoned, I knew God in my books. After I was alone in prison, I found God in my heart.” 01:45:02 Jaden Abrams: How do I go about finding a spiritual Father? Am I supposed to choose, discern, let him "come to me", combination of all? I have fallen in love with the east in general and am immersing myself as much as possible please pray for me. 01:47:13 Julie: Reacted to "How do I go about fi…" with
Chaplain, coach, and author Dean Abbott joins me for a thought-provoking conversation about the difference between healthy introspection and unhealthy rumination. Dean challenges a popular argument that therapy simply encourages people to think about themselves too much, making the case instead that people don't ruminate for fun — they ruminate because they're in pain and searching for something they've lost.Together we explore what makes self-examination productive versus destructive, and Dean introduces a framework rooted in the Christian tradition that contrasts nihilistic rumination — where a person endlessly rehearses their pain with no resolution — with a more structured self-examination oriented toward growth, virtue, and wisdom. I get personal and share my own recent struggles with loneliness and the tension between being a generous host and not getting that energy back when I need it most. Dean walks me through what healthy self-examination would look like in that situation, pointing to the importance of recognizing our legitimate needs and having the courage and honesty to express them.We also dive into the lost concept of human formation, the role of moral education in therapy, why thousands of years of wisdom literature shouldn't be abandoned in the counseling room, and the difference between development and formation. This is a rich, honest, and deeply human conversation.Dean Abbott is a coach, chaplain and author living in the Midwest. He loves animals, music and baseball. His can be found at www.deanabbott.com. His X account which has been hacked is @deanabbott but he doesn't recommend following him until the situation is resolved.[00:00:00] Start[00:00:49] Stephanie Introduces Dean Abbott[00:02:07] Healthy Versus Unhealthy Introspection[00:03:47] Why the "Stop Ruminating" Argument Falls Short[00:05:09] People Don't Ruminate for Fun[00:07:13] The Missing Half: Why Culture Fails the Ruminative Mind[00:08:16] Nihilistic Rumination Versus Christian Self-Examination[00:10:20] Stephanie Gets Personal About Loneliness[00:13:00] Walking Through Healthy Self-Examination[00:15:40] Tension Between Generosity and Personal Needs[00:17:33] Wisdom Over Rule-Following in the Christian Life[00:19:20] What Leads to Wisdom Versus What Leads to Nihilism[00:21:45] Healthy Introspection Leads to Hope[00:24:01] Coaching Men Who Don't Know What They Want[00:27:35] Emotional Intelligence and Decoding Our Needs[00:29:22] The Lost Concept of Human Formation[00:32:15] Formation Versus Development[00:36:07] Virtue and the Difference It Makes in Self-Examination[00:38:25] What's Wrong With a Liberal Approach to Psychotherapy[00:41:43] Seeing Yourself in the Larger Human Narrative[00:43:26] Moral Education in Therapy: A Practical Example[00:44:32] The Sports Betting Example: Virtue and Deep Self-Examination[00:48:21] Why Reality Is Inescapably Moral[00:50:26] Stephanie Asks for a Personal Tip on Virtue[00:53:00] What Dean Does: Coaching, Chaplaincy, and Writing[00:56:38] ClosingROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Now featuring 24/7 personalized AI support implementing the tools with RepairBot! Use code SOMETHERAPIST2026 to take 50% off your first month.PODCOURSES: use code SOMETHERAPIST at LisaMustard.com/PodCoursesTALK TO ME: book a meeting.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most of us say we want more patience and we want it now. But suffering a bit while waiting in line or for a text response from a friend is good for you says Dr Sarah Schnitker. She's a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Baylor University, where she directs the Science of Virtues Lab. Dr Schnitker says our penchant for speed and ease is undermining important attributes like persistence. Her research shows that people with patience are healthier and often happier. Dr. Schnitker invites us to tolerate, even embrace the everyday frustrations of waiting at work and at home.
Effeminacy is the refusal to endure hardship for what is good. In this episode, we confront a forgotten vice that weakens men from the inside out and quietly erodes families, leadership, and spiritual life. How do comfort, passivity, and emotional indulgence keep men stuck? And how can grace, discipline, and virtue restore strength of soul? If you want to become a man who protects, provides, sacrifices, and leads with charity — this episode is for you. God did not create you for comfort — He created you for greatness, holiness, and battle for souls.Join the Catholic Warrior Coaching Program:https://catholicwarrior.comCW LENT Challenge:https://catholicwarrior.typeform.com/to/jj8Hq8NXSubscribe for new episodes every Sunday:https://youtube.com/@catholicwarriorofficialFollow Catholic Warrior Fitness:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catholicwarriorfitnessNo man becomes holy by accident. Virtue is forged through sacrifice.#CatholicWarrior #CatholicMasculinity #Effeminacy
Good evening. Welcome back to Dial P for Podcast, Patrick Ripoll's year-long chronological voyage through the films of Alfred Hitchcock. Every month Patrick will be watching four Hitchcock features and talking about them here, from The Pleasure Garden to Family Plot, all across the year of 2026, examining the life and work of England's most famous cinema pervert.For episode 2 we see Hitchcock break free of his silent era and break ground by producing the first* British sound film. In Easy Virtue (1928) a fallen woman finds new love (and hate) among an upperclass family, in Champagne (1928) a playgirl heiress loses everything and is forced to work a regular job, in Blackmail (1929) a woman kills her rapist and gets blackmailed for it and finally in Murder! (1930) a famous actor turns amateur sleuth to unpack a whodunnit murder mystery.This is the era where Hitchcock goes from British film wunderkind to bonafide national celebrity, with even royalty visiting his sets to see how sound films are made. And his ascent isn't even close to done! Exciting!0:00 - 0:40 - Intro music0:41 - 26:52 - Easy Virtue (1928)26:53 - 57:02 - Champagne (1928)57:03 - 1:50:22 - Blackmail (1929)1:50:23 - 2:11:19 - Murder! (1930)2:11:20 - 2:12:10 - Outro music
This six part series explores how we get into vibrant, spiritual shape. In this 2nd presentation Fr. Andrew discusses some of the key components of the spiritual life for consideration, including Daily Prayer, Sacraments, Scripture, Saints, Study, Virtue, Spiritual Direction, Liturgical Life, and Service. February 26, 2026 - Cathedral of Christ the King - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com
Haley interviews Vigen Guroian, the author of Tending the Heart of Virtue. This episode discusses the Christian themes in one particular popular fairy tale: The Grimm Brother's story of Snow White. Dr. Guroian unpacks this classic story and explores the Christian influence of the Brothers Grimm. Learn more about the children's literature available from Word on Fire Votive. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the The Votive Podcast biweekly on WordonFire.org or wherever you listen to podcasts. Do you enjoy this podcast? Become a Word on Fire IGNITE member to support the production of the Votive Podcast and other initiatives from Word on Fire. Our ministry depends on the support of listeners like you! Become a part of this mission and join IGNITE today to become a Word on Fire insider and receive some special donor gifts for your generosity.
February 26, 2026Have you had your dose of The Daily MoJo today? Download The Daily MoJo App! "Oh, The Virtue! | The Daily MoJo Ep:022626"This episode of The Daily Mojo with Brad Staggs and Producer Ron covers a range of topics, from technical streaming challenges and NASA's Artemis II rollback to intriguing discussions on the Mandela Effect and the nature of virtue signaling. The show also delves into political commentary and debates surrounding UAP footage, offering a diverse and thought-provoking viewing experience.Phil Bell's Morning Update The Gavin Newsom brand of racism: HEREBrandon Morse - Redstate Author & host of The Brandon Morse YouTube channel- wrote a RedState article about the BAFTA virtue signaling.Brandon's LinktreeOur affiliate partners:Be prepared! Not scared. Need some Ivermection? Some Hydroxychloroquine? Don't have a doctor who fancies your crazy ideas? We have good news - Dr. Stella Immanuel has teamed up with The Daily MoJo to keep you healthy and happy all year long! Not only can she provide you with those necessary prophylactics, but StellasMoJo.com has plenty of other things to keep you and your body in tip-top shape. Use Promo Code: DailyMoJo to save $$Take care of your body - it's the only one you'll get and it's your temple! We've partnered with Sugar Creek Goods to help you care for yourself in an all-natural way. And in this case, "all natural" doesn't mean it doesn't work! Save 15% on your order with promo code "DailyMojo" at SmellMyMoJo.comCBD is almost everywhere you look these days, so the answer isn't so much where can you get it, it's more about - where can you get the CBD products that actually work!? Certainly, NOT at the gas station! Patriots Relief says it all in the name, and you can save an incredible 40% with the promo code "DailyMojo" at GetMoJoCBD.com!Romika Designs is an awesome American small business that specializes in creating laser-engraved gifts and awards for you, your family, and your employees. Want something special for someone special? Find exactly what you want at MoJoLaserPros.com There have been a lot of imitators, but there's only OG – American Pride Roasters Coffee. It was first and remains the best roaster of fine coffee beans from around the world. You like coffee? You'll love American Pride – from the heart of the heartland – Des Moines, Iowa. AmericanPrideRoasters.com Find great deals on American-made products at MoJoMyPillow.com. Mike Lindell – a true patriot in our eyes – puts his money where his mouth (and products) is/are. Find tremendous deals at MoJoMyPillow.com – Promo Code: MoJo50 Life gets messy – sometimes really messy. Be ready for the next mess with survival food and tools from My Patriot Supply. A 25 year shelf life and fantastic variety are just the beginning of the long list of reasons to get your emergency rations at PrepareWithMoJo50.comStay ConnectedWATCH The Daily Mojo LIVE 7-9a CT: www.TheDailyMojo.com Rumble: HEREOr just LISTEN:The Daily MoJo ChannelBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-daily-mojo-with-brad-staggs--3085897/support.
The past is gone, and no amount of calculation will bring it back or make it fair. What we do have is agency right now.
When public life feels loud and divided, what does quiet faithfulness look like? In the US House of Representatives, every legislative day begins with prayer. This responsibility rests with the chaplain of the house and shapes the daily spiritual rhythms of the institution. "Chaplains aren't combatants. We carry no weapon." On January 3, 2021, Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben was elected by the House to be its sixty-first chaplain. She offers daily prayer and steady pastoral presence and care in one of the most visible and contested institutions in American life. In this conversation with Mark Labberton, she reflects on vocation, pastoral identity, pluralism, crisis leadership, prayer in public life, and the quiet discipline of blessing those entrusted with leadership. She reflects on her early call to ministry as a teen, her formation as a military chaplain to the Navy, a defining season in Afghanistan, and her unexpected path to serving in the House. Together they discuss confidential care, advising leaders, the ministry of presence, praying across differences, the history of prayer in Congress, and how to bless leaders without turning prayer into a tool of ideology. Episode Highlights "I had a sense of call to ministry when I was about fourteen." "Chaplains are where it matters, when it matters, with what matters." "What is your theology of ministry?" "It is the ninety-nine who were leaving the room that needed the shepherd." "God is on his throne. He hasn't stepped down." About Margaret Grun Kibben Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben serves as the sixty-first chaplain of the United States House of Representatives. Ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA), she previously completed a thirty-five-year career in the US Navy, including service as the twenty-sixth chief of Navy chaplains and director of religious ministry for the Department of the Navy. In that role, she advised senior naval leadership and oversaw chaplains serving sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen around the world. She holds degrees from Goucher College and Princeton Theological Seminary and earned a doctor of ministry focused on theology and leadership. Her ministry has included deployments overseas and senior-level advisement in complex, pluralistic environments. Helpful Links And Resources Office of the Chaplain, US House of Representatives: https://chaplain.house.gov US House Chaplain YouTube Channel (Daily Prayers before Sessions) https://www.youtube.com/@USHouseChaplain January 6, 2026 Prayer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQLhXt3gWBg Show Notes Call to ministry at fourteen; early clarity of vocation Presbyterian upbringing and the influence of youth pastor Blair Mooney Visit to the Naval Academy and discernment of Navy chaplaincy Integrating Christian ministry with military service "Chaplains aren't combatants. We carry no weapon." Serving people in uniform, not serving an institution as ideology Four core capabilities: provide, facilitate, care, advise Religious pluralism in the armed forces; more than 200 faith traditions Protecting sacraments, holy days, and dietary practices in deployment settings Facilitating worship for traditions not one's own Confidential communication and priest-penitent privilege across beliefs "There is 100 percent confidentiality." Advising commanders on ethics, conscience, and moral complexity Early overwork, burnout, and lack of pastoral identity Mentorship and formation in the first years of service "What is your theology of ministry?" Doctor of Ministry studies and theological self-understanding Afghanistan deployment as convergence of preparation and calling "There wasn't a day… that I didn't have a sense that God had prepared me for that particular moment." Retirement discernment and formation of Virtue in Practice Unexpected invitation to serve as Chaplain of the House Bipartisan search process and interview experience Ministry of presence during extended floor sessions and late-night votes January 6: emergency, prayer, and calm in uncertainty "It is the ninety-nine who were leaving the room that needed the shepherd." Daily opening prayer as constitutional tradition since 1789 1774 Continental Congress and Psalm 35 as precedent Political interpretation of prayer across American history "Pray for and not pray on the members." Crafting public prayer that blesses without excluding "God is on his throne. He hasn't stepped down." #MargaretGrunKibben #HouseChaplain #FaithAndLeadership #MinistryOfPresence #MilitaryChaplaincy #Prayer #ChristianVocation #Conversing Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment magazine and Fuller Seminary.
What you doing and what you sharing? This week, Aaron, Joey, and Jess talk about battle rap, knitting, crochet, LitRPG, world building, and not finishing. They don't talk about Fraggle Rock. references Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman Another Dimension of Us by Mike Albo Pretty Pretty Boys from The Hazard and Somerset Mysteries by Gregory Ashe The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee Critical Nonsense Bookclub LitRPG R. A. Salvatore ACOTAR aka A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Sparta, what do we know about it exactly and what's been exaggerated, or just made up? In the first of three episodes I look at the education system (agoge), communal mess (syssitia) and get into the Krypteia (not literally though). What do the sources say about these and how do they differ from ways they are sometimes depicted? In addition to all of this I have a quick overview of the sources which have their part to play and get into a few anecdotes. Find me on X, Instagram, Bluesky and TikTok as ancientblogger (see links below). There's my AncientBlogger YouTube channel and the Ancient History Hound subreddit. Come say hello (you can even go full old school and email me on ancientblogger@hotmail.com). https://linktr.ee/ancientblogger Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). Reading list and sources used Berry, PE & Knotterus JD. Spartan Society: Structural ritualization in an ancient social system Cartledge, P. The Spartans Davidson, J. The Greeks and Greek Love Figueira, T. Mess contributions and subsistence at Sparta Kennell, NM. Gymnasium of Virtue: education & culture in ancient Sparta Luraghi & Alcock. Helots and their masters in Laconia and Messenia Matyszak, P. Sparta, rise of a warrior nation Miller, S.G. Ancient Greek Athletics. Special shoutout to the excellent BadAncient website,the In Our Time Sparta episode and the Life in Sparta and the truth about Sparta episode on The Ancients podcast.
Tilly Dillehay and Jeremy Pierre engage in conversation about self-control and modern struggles with discipline. Survey data reveals alarming statistics: 83% of students struggle with self-discipline, 50% of males struggle with pornography, 55% of females struggle with body image issues, and the vast majority cite social media as a constant hindrance. Self-control is not about deprivation but about refusing lesser pleasures to experience immeasurable eternal joy in God; it's a pathway to greater freedom and deeper satisfaction. The culture's inversion of this truth is one of Satan's most effective deceptions. Say no to lesser digital and bodily pleasures so you can say yes to the incomparable joy of knowing God and living for His purposes. Topics: Self-control, Discipline, Temptation, Social media, Sexual purity
Send a text In today's episode, we read how King Lemuel's mother taught him wise sayings and proverbs that helped him through life. She emphasized how he needed to avoid destructive behaviors such as excessive drinking and strange women. The biggest portion of the chapter deals with what a virtuous woman is. We learn that she is kind, generous, trustworthy, industrious, wise, and cares for her family. Her value is greater than that of rubies and any other form of riches. She is praised for her character and her love of the Lord. Come study God's Word with us today!
Special thanks to Undeceptions Season 16 major sponsor Zondervan Academic. In pop culture, we often enjoy watching - or reading - vice and virtue play out, with the former often far more exciting than the latter.But what about real life? Do we still find vice “sizzling” (as one writer described it), and virtue stale?At the heart of this lies a much deeper question: What good is there in pursuing the good?CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative, a contact point for church pastors who are interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out Undeceptions sponsors: Zondervan AcademicAnglican AidSelah Travel
To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ ⇒Check out all of Carey's books - for adults and kids, fiction and nonfiction : https://CareyGreen.com/books ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 2 Peter 1:5–9 - For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, [6] and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, [7] and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. [8] For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.
We talk a lot around here about the incredible impact stories have on our kids. They build empathy and connection, letting us walk a mile in another's shoes. And some stories also help us see what it looks like to be brave and courageous, even in the face of fear or daunting challenges.Today, Audrey is back to talk with me about how stories inspire courage in our kids and ourselves and can connect us to profound truths, no matter how fantastical the setting.In this episode, you'll hear: How stories become companions to us through challenging seasons Which stories have shaped Sarah and Audrey's own lives The ways myths can echo profound truths to us that feed our hearts and minds and inspire heroic virtueLearn more about Sarah Mackenzie:Read-Aloud RevivalWaxwing BooksSubscribe to the NewsletterFind the rest of the show notes at: readaloudrevival.com/inspiring-heroic-virtue
Virtue is its own reward, but in show businses they expect gold too, so we're getting in on award season with our own entirely subjective (and Satanic) movie awards show.
"And there's a drive into deep left field..." Did you know Dan calls athletes an 'economy' a lot? Well, Charlie sure does, and it leads Dan to dismiss him and Domonique from the show. Then, the Phillies cut Nick Castellanos, which gives us an excuse to relive one of the best/worst broadcast moments of all time. And Dan wonders aloud if it's time for us to appreciate Sam Darnold's humility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Today we talk about the book After Virtue by Alasdair MacIntyre. We talk about his genealogy of moral discourse. The teleologies of Aristotle. The failure of the Enlightenment moral project. Our modern culture of Emotivism and the sorts of characters that thrive in it. Shared practices and community as a way to revitalize moral conversation. Hope you love it! :) Sponsors: Nord VPN: https://nordvpn.com/philothis Thank you so much for listening! Could never do this without your help. Website: https://www.philosophizethis.org/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/philosophizethis Social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philosophizethispodcast X: https://twitter.com/iamstephenwest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philosophizethisshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Episode 5129: MAGA Victory In Japan; Mainstream Says Evangelicals See Viciousness As a Virtue