Respect Life Radio

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.

An Interview with Christopher Rogers: Our Constrained 21st Century American 'God'

In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Christopher Rogers, whose recent Catholic Exchange article, "Our Constrained 21st Century American 'God'," challenges us to break free from a cultural reimagining of God that minimizes His sovereignty and grace. Chris reminds us of a central truth: salvation is not automatic—it is a gift offered through grace, one we must remember and respond to daily. Chris is also the author of Virtual Eternity: An Epic 90s-Retro Florida Techno Pro-life Love Story and Conversion Journey, a powerful novel weaving together themes of love, loss, abortion, and redemption, set against the backdrop of 1990s culture. He brings deep insight shaped by his work in engineering, his Catholic faith, and his role as a husband, father, teacher, and Carmelite. To learn more about Chris and read the full article visit: https://catholicexchange.com/our-constrained-21st-century-american-god/

An Interview with Greg Schlueter - The Age of Fragility: Reclaiming Resilience in a Culture of Victimhood

Join us for a powerful episode of Respect Life Radio as we welcome Greg Schlueter—author, speaker, and cultural leader—on a mission to restore faith, family, and freedom. Greg directs communications for the Institute of American Constitutional Thought and Leadership and leads Image Trinity, a vibrant movement strengthening marriages and families. He co-hosts the dynamic podcast IGNITE Radio Live with his wife, sparking conversations that move hearts and minds.

We’ll explore his recent Crisis Magazine article, The Age of Fragility: Reclaiming Resilience in a Culture of Victimhood, where he challenges the rise of victim culture and calls for a bold return to virtue and strength. He recalls early influence of the keeping relationships at the heart of his and his family's structure that was molded through the teachings of John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. In order to live in the truth, embracing our need for community and encouraging our growth in maturing our understanding of the power of emotions to be rightly ordered. 

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Greg Schlueter—devoted husband, father of seven (one in heaven), and author of The Magnificent Piglets of Pigletsville, Twelve Roses, and Slaying Giants. 

To read the full article visit: https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/the-age-of-fragility-reclaiming-resilience-in-a-culture-of-victimhood

RLR Interview with Father Thomas Morrow: Achieving Chastity in an Unchaste World

On today’s episode of Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff Bennett welcomes Father Thomas Morrow, priest of the Archdiocese of Washington and author of the new book, Achieving Chastity in an Unchaste World. Fr. Morrow has been a frequent guest on Catholic media platforms including EWTN, and is well known for his writings on virtue, relationships, and the spiritual life.

In this thoughtful and timely conversation, Deacon Geoff and Fr. Morrow tackle one of the most challenging virtues in modern society: chastity. They discuss how our current cultural climate makes it increasingly difficult to live a chaste life. Fr. Morrow emphasizes that true chastity isn't merely about avoiding sin through sheer willpower or “white-knuckling” it—instead, it requires a conversion of the heart. 

If you're interested in learning more or purchasing Achieving Chastity in an Unchaste World, you can find it here: Sophia Institute Press – Achieving Chastity in an Unchaste World

RLR Interview with Phil Couture: Christ in the City—one of authentic encounter, deep compassion, and consistent presence

This Week on Respect Life Radio, Emma Ramirez and Jennifer Torres are joined by Phil Couture, Director of Formation at Christ in the City, a Denver-based nonprofit that forms missionaries to know, love, and serve the poor. Together, they explore how serving those experiencing homelessness is deeply connected to the Pro-Life movement.

Phil shares how the approach taught by Christ in the City—one of authentic encounter, deep compassion, and consistent presence—is the same approach we are called to take in every human interaction. Respecting life means seeing the dignity in each person, especially the most vulnerable.

To learn more about Christ in the City and their mission, visit christinthecity.org.

RLR Interview with Allison Ellis: The Current State of the Education System in the United States

On today’s episode of Respect Life Radio, Deacon Geoff welcomes Allison Ellis, founder of Mount Titano Media, for a conversation about the current state of the education system in the United States.

Allison shares how her desire to both support her family and educate her children at home led to the founding of Mount Titano Media. Her publishing company is dedicated to promoting classical education by offering enriching books and resources for individuals and families seeking meaningful learning experiences grounded in time-tested principles.

Explore their published works and learn more by visiting: www.mounttitanomedia.com