Respect Life Radio

This week on Respect Life Radio, Emma and Jennifer welcome Kat Talalas, Assistant Director for Pro-Life Communications, and Chelsy Gomez, Program Associate for the Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities at the USCCB. Kat and Chelsy share how their journeys into pro-life work were shaped by a deepening faith and a growing understanding of Church teaching—ultimately calling them to live out the Gospel of Life. Together, they reflect on the importance of pastoral care, emphasizing a spirit of love and service when communicating the Church’s teaching on life issues. They highlight the need for a compassionate disposition in encountering men, women, and families who are seeking accompaniment and support. The conversation also centers on Walking with Moms in Need, a nationwide initiative to ensure that every pregnant and parenting mother has access to support within her local community. Listeners will hear how parishes can become places of encounter, offering real and tangible help to women facing unexpected pregnancies. Through personal stories, practical insights, and a clear call to action, this episode invites all to help build a culture of life by walking alongside moms with compassion, dignity and love. To learn more about Walking with Moms in Need, visit: https://www.walkingwithmoms.com/

This week on Respect Life Radio, we welcome Dr. Jim Papandrea, an award-winning author, Professor of Church History and Historical Theology, and host of The Way of the Fathers podcast. A former Protestant deacon who entered into the Catholic Church, Dr. Papandrea brings a rich depth of theological insight shaped by his academic work and love for the early Church. Drawing from his recent article, How to Speak with God Through Scripture, he reflects on the beauty of praying with God’s Word and how practices like Lectio Divina invite us into a deeper, more personal encounter with the Lord. With wisdom rooted in Scripture and tradition, Dr. Papandrea encourages listeners to grow in prayer and to see more clearly the dignity of every human life. To read the full article visit: https://catholicexchange.com/how-to-speak-with-god-through-scripture/

This week on Respect Life Radio, we welcome theologian and author Matthew J. Ramage, a professor at Benedictine College and co-director of the Center for Integral Ecology. Known for his work bridging faith, science and the theology of Pope Benedict XVI, Dr. Ramage brings thoughtful insight into what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world. In his recent Incarnate Transcendence in an Age of Transhumanist Counterfeits published by Catholic World Report, Ramage explores the growing influence of transhumanism and the temptation to replace our embodied humanity with technological “counterfeits.” He challenges listeners to rediscover the beauty of being fully human—rooted in creation, relationship and ultimately in Christ—rather than seeking false transcendence through technology. Tune in for a compelling conversation on reclaiming authentic human dignity in a digital age, and how the Christian vision of the human person offers a hopeful path forward. To learn more about Matthew visit: https://matthewramage.com/

Today, Deacon Geoff is joined by Peter Giersch, a businessman and faithful Catholic author of several books, to discuss his latest work, Talking of Michelangelo (https://www.galileanonline.com/product/9798889116721). Drawing from the life and work of Michelangelo, the conversation explores the intersection of art, faith, and the human soul. Peter reflects on how beauty, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence can draw us closer to God, while also pointing to deeper spiritual realities about suffering, redemption, and our ultimate purpose. Deacon Geoff and Peter also speak candidly about the importance of remembering our mortality and how easy it can be to forget the reality of hell and the need to choose heaven in our daily decisions. Together, they emphasize that these truths—like the beauty found in great art—are timeless, continually calling us to live with intention, courage, and a desire for eternal communion with God.

This week on Respect Life Radio, we welcome Lauren Castillo, Chief Mission and Revenue Officer at Bella Health + Wellness. Lauren shares insights from her work advancing life-affirming healthcare and supporting organizations that serve women and families with dignity and compassion. With more than a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership—including her previous role with Students for Life of America—Lauren has helped shape the national conversation on protecting life and strengthening faith-based ministries. In this episode, Lauren reflects on the mission of building authentic, pro-life medical models that prioritize both excellent care and a deep commitment to Christ. She also discusses how faithful healthcare initiatives can respond to the cultural and medical challenges of the post-Roe landscape while supporting women with compassionate, life-affirming care. Lauren’s personal testimony and zeal for mission offers listeners a refreshing perspective when it comes to living out the Gospel of Life. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on faith, mission and the growing movement to reclaim healthcare that truly honors the dignity of every human life. To learn more about Bella Health and Wellness visit: https://www.bellawellness.org/

Today, Deacon Geoff is joined by Casey Chalk to discuss his recent article, Meditating on Death Is Critical to a Good Life in Crisis Magazine, as well as his newest book, Wisdom from the Cross. Casey reflects on how Jesus lived a perfect life on earth and why there is no better model for a holy death. Throughout the conversation, Deacon Geoff and Casey explore how our daily choices shape our path toward eternal life and communion with God and the saints. Deacon Geoff emphasizes the importance of “dying to self” each day as a way of preparing our hearts for heaven and cultivating virtuous habits. Casey builds on this idea, noting that it is in the small, everyday moments that we form the courage and faithfulness needed to respond well in life’s bigger challenges. This call to daily conversion is at the heart of Wisdom from the Cross (https://sophiainstitute.com/product/wisdom-from-the-cross/), where Casey reflects on Jesus’ seven last words and what they reveal about how to live—and ultimately how to die—in union with Christ. You can also read his article, Meditating on Death Is Critical to a Good Life (https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/meditating-on-death-is-critical-to-a-good-life), for a deeper look at this theme.

Kevin Wells joins this week’s episode of the Respect Life Radio podcast to reflect on the witness of holy priests and the quiet heroism found in faithful ministry. Drawing from his recent article in Catholic World Report, “The Memory of a Vianney-Like Priest Lay Hidden in the West Virginia Mountains,” Wells recounts the powerful story of a humble priest whose life of sacrifice, prayer and pastoral devotion echoed the spirit of St. John Vianney. Through this story, Wells invites listeners to rediscover the beauty of priestly fatherhood and the transformative impact of a life poured out for the salvation of souls. Wells is an award-winning Catholic author, speaker, and former sports reporter for the Tampa Tribune. He is the best-selling author of several books, including The Priests We Need to Save the Church, Priest and Beggar: The Heroic Life of Venerable Aloysius Schwartz and The Hermit. Through his writing and speaking, Wells calls Catholics to deeper faith, courageous witness and renewed appreciation for the priesthood. Listeners can learn more about his writing and mission by visiting kevinwells.org.

On this week’s episode of the Respect Life Radio podcast, we welcome writer and convert Grace Schmiesing to discuss her recent article in Crisis Magazine, “Advice to a New Convert: Let It All Die.” Reflecting on her own journey into the Catholic faith, Grace explores the radical transformation that conversion requires—one that reshapes not only beliefs but one’s entire worldview, priorities and sense of identity. She shares how surrendering old attachments and allowing Christ to renew every aspect of life can ultimately lead to deeper freedom, joy and authenticity in the Christian life. Join us as Grace offers thoughtful insight into what it means to truly entrust everything to the Lord and allow Him to make all things new. To read the full article visit: https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/advice-to-a-new-convert-let-it-all-die

Today, Deacon Geoff is joined by Nate Guyear, a Catholic apologist and first-year deaconate candidate in California who returned to the Catholic faith in 2012. Nate holds a Master’s degree in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary and writes regularly for Catholic Exchange. In this episode, Nate and Deacon Geoff unpack Nate’s recent article, How and Why Some Angels Fell from Grace, exploring what the Church teaches about the creation of angels, the nature of their freedom and the decisive role of pride in the angelic fall. Drawing from the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, they explain how angels made an immediate, irrevocable choice for or against God, and why the rebellion of some angels reveals profound truths about humility, obedience and God’s providence. The conversation ultimately turns toward hope, highlighting how Christ’s redemptive plan elevates humanity and calls each of us to choose God’s grace over self-reliance. Read the article here: https://catholicexchange.com/how-and-why-some-angels-fell-from-grace/

Today on Respect Life Radio, Jennifer and Emma are joined by Allison Auth, a Catholic author, wife, mother and regular contributor to the Denver Catholic, CatholicMom.com and other publications. Allison is the author of Baby and Beyond: Overcoming Those Postpartum Woes, a compassionate and practical guide for mothers navigating the often-overlooked challenges of the postpartum season.In this episode, Jennifer and Emma explore the realities of postpartum life and how it can deeply impact marriage, spirituality, physical and emotional health and a mother’s sense of community. Allison offers encouragement and practical insight for women who may feel isolated or overwhelmed, while also challenging families and parishes to more intentionally support mothers during this vulnerable time. Tune in to discover how you can better accompany and uplift new moms in your own community. To learn more about Baby and Beyond, visit: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/baby-and-beyond/ And be on the lookout for the upcoming audiobook release as well!

This Week on Respect Life Radio — We’re joined by Phillip Campbell III, author and history teacher, to discuss his thoughtful new piece on Catholic Exchange, “5 Things Divorced Catholics Want You to Know.” Phillip brings a deeply personal and compassionate perspective to a topic that’s often talked about but seldom truly understood. Drawing on his own experience as a divorced Catholic, he highlights the importance of empathy, respect and genuine human connection within the Church community — beyond ideological debates. Phillip shares that those who experience divorce desire like the everyone else, community, reverence and the opportunity to be welcomed into our faith. Listeners will gain insight into what divorced Catholics really want: dignity without prying questions, support without judgment and recognition that their struggles are real and often underestimated. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that challenges misconceptions, fosters understanding and encourages compassionate engagement with those navigating the difficult journey of divorce. To learn more about Phillip and his writings visit: https://phillipcampbell.net/

This week on Respect Life Radio, we’re honored to welcome back theologian and trusted guide Scott Ventureyra — known for helping the faithful go beyond routine religious habits to encounter the transcendence of who God truly is. With a reputation for deep theological insight and a gift for making the mysteries of faith accessible, Scott consistently invites listeners to see salvation not as a mechanical checklist, but as a living, dynamic relationship with Christ. In his recent Crisis Magazine article, “Deathbed Conversions and the Limits of Pascal’s Wager,” Scott reflects on what authentic faith really looks like, cautioning against reducing salvation to a mere calculation of risk and reward. Instead, he emphasizes that genuine conversion involves a heartfelt turning toward God — rooted in repentance and trust, not logic alone. Scott shares that the faithful should not stop encouraging repentance, emphasizing “Faith in not verification after death, but rather, it is trust before death”. Tune in to gain fresh perspective and be encouraged to embrace a deeper, more vibrant walk with Christ. To learn more about Scott and his writings visit: https://scottventureyra.com/

This week on Respect Life Radio, host Deacon Geoff Bennett welcomed sociologist and author Anne Hendershott for a timely conversation on how cultural shifts are reshaping major American institutions. Drawing from her recent Crisis Magazine article, Hendershott discussed how many universities have adopted conflict-averse, process-driven leadership styles that weaken mission clarity and academic rigor. She contrasted this trend with faithful Catholic colleges that are flourishing precisely because they remain grounded in clear identity, truth and moral formation. Hendershott emphasized that strong institutions require courage, conviction and leadership willing to uphold objective truth rather than cultural consensus. The conversation also previewed themes from her Spectator article examining what she describes as a “feminized” institutional culture within policing. She argued that leadership shaped by emotional display and avoidance of authority can undermine public trust and effectiveness. Across education and public service, Hendershott highlighted how cultural norms influence institutional behavior and outcomes. The episode challenged listeners to reflect on the importance of mission-driven leadership and the role of faith in restoring strength, clarity and purpose in society. To learn read these article and other works by Anne visit: https://crisismagazine.com/author/anne-hendershott

Tune in to the latest episode of Respect Life Radio featuring Carissa Contreras, Rocky Mountain Regional Coordinator with Students for Life. Carissa shares inspiring insights on the call to defend life with courage, compassion and clarity—especially among young people. In this conversation, she highlights the importance of inviting youth and young adults to embrace their faith more deeply as they stand for the dignity of every human life. She shares stories of her time on campus and how embracing the sanctity of life involves taking the time receiving the heart of another, even if they do not see eye to eye in life issues. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator or parishioner, this episode offers encouragement and practical ways to support and empower our young Church in the pro-life mission. Listen and be inspired to grow in faith, hope and love as we work together to build a culture of life in our families, schools, and communities. To learn more about Students for Life and their valuable work on campuses around the country visit: https://studentsforlife.org/

Join us on the Respect Life Radio Podcast as we welcome Florencia Moynihan, author, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and host of the Made Good podcast, to discuss her powerful new book Made Good: Overcoming the Lies that Keep Women at War with Their Bodies. Drawing on her personal journey through disordered eating, chronic illness and unanswered prayers, Florencia offers a faith-centered, holistic approach to healing the body and soul. In Made Good, she presents a practical framework for silencing the lies that women often believe about their worth, integrating nutrition, Catholic truth and spiritual growth to help listeners reclaim their identity as beloved daughters of God. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about truth, healing and what it really means to be made good. To learn more about Florencia and her work visit: https://thecatholicnutritionist.com/

The week on Respect Life Radio, join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with special guest Carrie Gress. A passionate voice for life and culture, Carrie brings clarity, compassion and Catholic wisdom to today’s most pressing issues. As the author of the Theology of the Home series, Carrie highlights the importance of living out the truth of eternity , everyday. She offers thoughtful insight into the true meaning of femininity, helping listeners better understand the unique dignity, strength and vocation of women in today’s world. Her reflections connect faith, culture and the call to build a civilization rooted in the respect for all human life. Tune in as she offers thoughtful reflections that deepen our understanding of the dignity of every human person and strengthen our resolve to build a culture of life. To learn more about Carrie and her writings visit: https://theologyofhome.com/

On this episode of Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff is joined by Professor Michael Hanby, a theologian, author and professor, to discuss the reality of artificial intelligence and the serious philosophical and theological questions it raises. Drawing from his recent article, “The Artificial God,” Professor Hanby explains how modern AI separates “intelligence” from the distinctly human capacities of thinking, judgment, understanding and the pursuit of truth. While AI can process information and imitate human responses, it does not truly think or understand, and this confusion risks reshaping how we define human reason itself. Professor Hanby also explores how AI technology has already begun to alter human relationships, communication and memory. As people increasingly rely on artificial systems to think, speak and even converse on their behalf, there is a growing danger that technology begins to shape human life rather than remaining a tool shaped by human wisdom. This shift, he argues, has profound consequences for how we relate to one another and how we understand our God-given dignity as rational, relational beings called to seek truth. To read Professor Hanby’s full article, visit Catholic World Report: https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/12/07/the-artificial-god/

We’re excited to welcome Gabriel Dionisi, a 22-year-old Catholic college student whose simple yet powerful pro-life ministry is making a nationwide impact. Born and raised in the faith, Gabriel felt called as a teenager to do more for unborn children — and he responded by creating “Choose Life” bumper stickers that now circulate across much of the United States, pointing drivers to lifesaving pregnancy resources like OptionLine. Since launching his ministry, he’s shared over 10,000 stickers in 45 states as a witness to the dignity of every human life. On the show, Gabriel issues a heartfelt call to action for young people: to turn faith into advocacy, to creatively reach others with a culture-of-life message, and to show compassion not only for unborn babies but for women and families in need. His example reminds us that every one of us — especially young Catholics — has something meaningful to contribute to the pro-life movement. Tune in for encouragement, real-world inspiration, and practical ways to become an advocate for life in your own community! To learn more about his ministry and request your bumper stickers visit: https://dionisi36.wixsite.com/pro-life

This week on Respect Life Radio, we welcome Dr. Dermot Curtin to explore his insightful Catholic Exchange article, “Faith as the Answer to this Age of Anxiety.” In a culture saturated with uncertainty, pressure, and existential doubt, Dr. Curtin offers a refreshing and profound Catholic perspective on how faith doesn’t merely distract from our worries — it gives them meaning. Drawing on philosophy, theology and the wisdom of figures like Kierkegaard, he shows how our age’s pervasive anxiety can become a gateway to deeper spiritual transformation and reliance on God’s providence rather than the fragmented promises of the world. Tune in to be encouraged and challenged to see faith not as a quick fix, but as a steady horizon from which true peace and purpose emerge. To read the full article visit: https://catholicexchange.com/faith-as-the-answer-to-this-age-of-anxiety/

Today on Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff Bennett is joined by Ann Burns — wife, mother, and founder of The Feminine Project (https://feminineproject.com/), a community dedicated to helping Catholic women cultivate their minds, build authentic sisterhood, and restore the beauty of true femininity at the heart of the home and society. Ann discusses her recent Crisis Magazine article, “Propriety: A Skill to Help Avoid Near Occasions of Sin and Scandal — and to Grow in a Happy Life”. She explores the virtue of propriety, a habit rooted in charity and humility, and how today’s “you do you” culture often excuses treating others poorly or justifying sinful tendencies. The loss of propriety, she notes, leads many to speak without reflection, neglecting the pauses that allow charity to guide our words and help us see each person as a beloved son or daughter of God. Deacon Geoff and Ann also reflect on how discernment and reverence can shape the ordinary decisions of daily life. They emphasize the call to witness Christ in all we do and to place Him — rather than personal preference — at the center. Reclaiming the virtue of propriety brings true freedom and teaches us to live well. If you would like to read the full article visit: https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/propriety-a-skill-to-help-avoid-near-occasions-of-sin-and-scandal-and-to-grow-in-a-happy-life