Respect Life Radio

RLR Interview with Greg Schlueter: Emotional Intelligence and the Reformation of the Catholic Heart

In this rich conversation on Respect Life Radio, Greg Schlueter puts emotional intelligence at the heart of what it means to live out faith in our era. Drawing on his recent article, “Emotional Intelligence and the Reformation of the Catholic Heart,” Greg challenges us to move beyond performative religion toward a lived, interior transformation that is relational, vulnerable and steeped in grace. Greg points to the example of Archbishop Alexander Sample’s public apology and emotional honesty as a sign of what a mature, emotionally integrated leadership looks like — one that brings healing, authenticity and holiness. 

Listeners are invited into practical ways to reclaim emotional formation in everyday life:

• Recognizing and expressing interior pain rather than masking it. 
• Cultivating emotional availability in families, in parish life, in leadership. 
• Allowing sacramental life and prayer to engage not just the mind or ritual, but the wounds, longings and heart’s truth. 

If you’re looking for faith that is more than external conformity — if you long for a Church and a heart that breathe, suffer, repent, forgive and love — this episode is for you. Be inspired to let your emotional life be part of your journey toward holiness, not something to hide. 

To read the full article visit: Catholic Exchange.

RLR Interview with Teresa Gomez, Program Manager for the new Marisol Health Mobile Unit

On this episode of Respect Life Radio, we are joined by Teresa Gomez, Program Manager for the new Marisol Health Mobile Unit. Teresa opens her heart and shares her personal story of facing an unexpected pregnancy at the age of 21. She recalls the fear, uncertainty, and the weight of that life-changing moment—and how the support of her family and community gave her courage to choose life. Her testimony is a reminder of how essential it is for women in crisis to know they are not alone and that love and support can make all the difference.

Today, Teresa carries that same spirit of compassion into her work with Marisol Mobile Unit. She explains how the new mobile unit is designed to reach women and families in underserved parts of the community, especially in areas with higher rates of unplanned pregnancies. The unit provides free ultrasounds, pregnancy tests, and access to a wide range of support services, meeting women right where they are—physically and emotionally. Teresa emphasizes that the goal is not only to offer medical resources, but also to provide hope, dignity, and accompaniment on the journey of motherhood.

To learn more about Marisol Mobile, volunteer, or donate visit https://ccdenver.org/marisol-mobile/.

RLR Interview with John Preiss - A reflection on the legacy of Fr. Robert J. Fox and Fox's powerful book, Eucharist: Heaven and Earth Unite

In this episode of Respect Life Radio, we welcome John Preiss, President of the Fatima Family Apostolate, author, and devoted husband and father of ten. John shares his deep insights into Our Lady of Fatima’s urgent message, the power of Eucharistic devotion, and how families can respond to the call for holiness in today’s world. John also reflects on the legacy of Fr. Robert J. Fox, founder of the Fatima Family Apostolate, and highlights Fr. Fox’s powerful book, Eucharist: Heaven and Earth Unite — a profound exploration of the mystery and majesty of the Blessed Sacrament. Whether you’re new to the Fatima message or seeking to deepen your Eucharistic devotion, this conversation will inspire and challenge you.

To learn more about Fr. Fox's book visit: https://sophiainstitute.com/?product=the-eucharist

RLR Interview with Charles D. Fraune - The Most Powerful Saints in Exorcisms: What Exorcists Want You To Know

This week on Respect Life Radio, we’re honored to welcome Charles D. Fraune, a powerful voice in the realm of Catholic spiritual warfare. Charles is the founder of the Slaying Dragons Apostolate and a seasoned theologian, speaker and author. After ten years of teaching Theology at Christ the King Catholic High School in North Carolina, he now dedicates his life to equipping Catholics for the spiritual battles of our times.

In his latest work, Charles draws our attention to one of the greatest gifts God has given us in this fight: the saints. After Jesus and Mary, the saints are our most powerful intercessors. As Charles powerfully explains, when invoked during exorcisms, their presence alone can send demons fleeing. Many of these saints were seasoned warriors themselves—some even exorcists—and their lives offer not just inspiration, but spiritual tools for our own battles.

Listeners will learn why Our Lady is described by demons as a “nuclear bomb,” which saints frequently appear during exorcisms, and how relics and holy intercession can break demonic strongholds. Most importantly, Charles emphasizes that the saints—those who overcame vice, temptation, and even demonic assault—are ready to help us do the same. Join us as we explore how invoking the lives and intercession of the saints is not merely devotion, but a critical strategy in the fight for our souls and the souls of those we love.

Find more about Charles D. Fraune’s work visit: SlayingDragonsPress.com

Interview with Briana Zappavigna: Colorado Regional Program Manager for Sidewalk Advocates for Life (SAFL)

This week on Respect Life Radio, Emma Ramirez and Jennifer Torres welcome Briana Zappavigna, Colorado Regional Program Manager for Sidewalk Advocates for Life (SAFL), a nationwide nonprofit bringing peaceful, prayerful presence to abortion facilities across the country.

Briana reveals how SAFL’s compassionate approach—meeting women where they are with the model of mom, baby, God—is changing hearts and saving lives. She explains the practical training volunteers receive to engage in conversations marked by love, hope, and truth rather than condemnation or guilt. Briana also offers powerful insights and practical tips for anyone praying outside an abortion clinic, ensuring that their witness remains peaceful, respectful, and law-abiding.

Discover how ordinary people are making an extraordinary impact—and how you can be part of it—at sidewalkadvocates.org.

Interview with Matthew McKenna: Why Recreational Drug Use is Immoral

Today on Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff is joined by Matthew McKenna, a Ph.D. candidate in Theology at Ave Maria University. McKenna specializes in the works of St. Thomas Aquinas, G.K. Chesterton, and J.R.R. Tolkien, and his dissertation-in-progress examines the unique relationship between the masculine genius and the priesthood.

In this conversation, McKenna shares insights from his recent article on the morality of recreational drug use. He and Deacon Geoff explore how such use undermines natural reason, weakens human nature, and damages both body and soul. Drawing from Scripture and tradition, they reflect on God’s original call for humanity to safeguard the gifts of mind and body—reminders that we are temples of the Holy Spirit and called to offer ourselves wholly to Him.

For those interested in diving deeper, you can read Matthew’s full article here: Why Recreational Drug Use is Immoral.

Interview with Devin Schadt: The Rule: Counsels and Directives for Husbands and Fathers

In this compelling episode of the Respect Life Radio podcast, Devin Schadt of the Fathers of St. Joseph apostolate invites men into a transformative journey guided by the quiet strength of St. Joseph. Drawing on his apostolate’s four pillars—embrace silence, embrace woman, embrace the child, and embrace charitable authority—Schadt presents a spirituality of fatherhood that equips men to deeply understand and live out their roles as husbands and fathers. These pillars become channels through which fathers embody the face, touch, and voice of the Heavenly Father—especially critical for men seeking a deeper understanding of their role within the Holy Family’s model of love.

This episode also shines a spotlight on Schadt’s recent handbook, The Rule: Counsels and Directives for Husbands and Fathers. It distills practical spiritual guidance into short, powerful meditations—rooted in the four pillars of St. Joseph—to help men pray more deliberately, affirm their wives spiritually and emotionally, reflect the Father’s heart to their children and stay vigilant against spiritual threats. It is a must-listen for any man wrestling with what it means to be a husband or father in a faith-filled way. It offers both theologic depth and actionable wisdom grounded in the humble, hidden strength of St. Joseph—faithfully capturing the vocation of earthly fathers who reflect heavenly love. 

To purchase Devin's book and to learn more visit: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/the-rule/?srsltid=AfmBOorNHpas8te1UW8-xAuQ4dQLFjLvt2w0qg4so-4K9GNK00mvjFoF

Interview with Emily Jaminet: Saints of the Sacred Heart

Today on Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff is joined by Emily Jaminet—Catholic author, speaker, wife, mother, and Executive Director of the Sacred Heart Enthronement Network (www.welcomeHisHeart.com). Together, they explore the transformative power of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Emily shares her own journey of entrusting her family to the Heart of Christ, allowing His love to guide and provide.

She also discusses her newest book, Saints of the Sacred Heart, which highlights saints throughout history who were deeply devoted to the Sacred Heart and whose lives were shaped by that devotion. Emily encourages listeners to be living witnesses of this love, especially for their children, by modeling a life dedicated to the Heart of Jesus. Her book is available at Sophia Institute Press.

An Interview with Grayson Quay: The Transhumanist Temptation

Today on Respect Life, Deacon Geoff welcomes author Grayson Quay to discuss his new book, The Transhumanist Temptation. Quay examines the growing allure of technologies that threaten to erode the God-given foundations of our humanity. Together, they explore how transhumanist ideology distorts our relationship with our bodies, the created world, politics, work, and ultimately with God Himself. Quay calls us to reclaim our humanity, remain grounded in reality, and defend the divine nature of every person.

Purchase the book here: The Transhumanist Temptation – Sophia Institute Press

An Interview with Senite Sahlezghi: A Discussion on the Intersection of Mental Health and the Pro-Life Mission

On this week’s Respect Life Radio, we welcome Senite Sahlezghi, school counselor at Saint John Paul the Great High School in Denver, to discuss the intersection of mental health and the pro-life mission. Senite, a consecrated virgin for the Archdiocese of Denver, shares powerful insights on the emotional and spiritual challenges facing today’s teens, and how authentic love, prayer, and presence can bring hope and healing. Grounded in Catholic social teaching, this episode is a moving reminder that respecting life means walking patiently with others—especially youth—through their struggles. A must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone working with young people. 

Click here learn more about Senite and what consecrated virginity looks like.