Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary: Part 2 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God Series In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the themes presented in Jordan Peterson's book - Chapter 3 - focusing on the story of Adam and Eve. They discuss the nature of creation, the significance of free will, and the role of temptation represented by the serpent. The conversation delves into the concepts of pride and envy, the metaphor of the garden as a representation of life, and the importance of boundaries. They emphasize the role of Jesus in restoring order and the need for personal reflection and self-examination. The discussion also touches on the complementarity of marriage and the collaborative effort required to cultivate a well-ordered life. Takeaways We are made in God's image and likeness, but not complete mirrors. Genesis serves as a metaphor for the human condition. Pride leads to chaos and disobedience. The serpent represents temptation and the struggle against God. Free will allows for both creation and destruction. Boundaries are essential for a well-ordered life. Jesus is central to restoring order in our lives. Self-examination is crucial for personal growth. Complementarity in marriage enhances the cultivation of life. Community support is vital in tending to our gardens. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Trailer 03:11 The Nature of Creation and Free Will 06:11 The Role of the Serpent and Temptation 08:59 Pride, Envy, and the Fall 11:42 The Garden as a Metaphor for Life 14:40 The Importance of Boundaries and Limitations 17:28 The Role of Jesus in Restoration 20:22 Personal Reflection and Self-Examination 23:20 The Complementarity of Marriage 26:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

Summary : Part 2 of Peterson's We Who Wrestle With God Series In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the various themes present in Chapter One surrounding human dignity and the interpretation of Genesis as presented in Jordan Peterson's book, 'We Who Wrestle With God.' They discuss the essence of human dignity, and the complementarity of men and women. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing our inherent value as individuals created in the image of God, and how this understanding shapes our relationships and societal interactions. Bonus: Fr. Craig and Jimmy answer the first question emailed to askthemonk@mqpwg.org - please reach out too if you have a question you'd like The Monk & The Meathead to answer! Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025 Takeaways Human dignity is a fundamental aspect of Christian anthropology. We are made in the image and likeness of God. Dignity is a gift from the Creator to every individual. Complementarity between men and women is essential for family and society. The concept of inherent value is a distinctly Christian idea. Isolation is the greatest punishment for humans. Treating oneself with dignity allows for better treatment of others. Understanding our divine image helps us recognize our worth. A church wedding should not be expensive. The only necessary elements for a wedding are the couple and the minister.

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary NEW SERIES! In this episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy begin a new series delving into Jordan Peterson's book 'We Who Wrestle with God', exploring its themes of spirituality, the human experience, and the moral journey. They discuss the significance of the title, the biblical foundations of Western civilization, and the ongoing struggle of wrestling with God. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal growth, the transformative journey from good to better, and the role of the Bible in shaping moral values. Through engaging dialogue, they highlight the call to adventure and the necessity of embracing challenges in life. Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025 Takeaways Dr. Peterson challenges everyone to aim higher in life. Wrestling with God is a natural part of the human experience. The Bible serves as the foundation for Western civilization. The sanctity of the individual is rooted in Christian values. Struggles and challenges are integral to personal growth. God often speaks to us in a still small voice. The journey from good to better is a continuous process. Transfiguration symbolizes our potential for transformation. Opting out of spiritual growth leads to personal peril. The book refutes the notion of soft Christianity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'We Who Wrestle with God' 04:59 Exploring the Title and Its Significance 11:52 The Tension of Wrestling with God 19:19 The Foundation of Western Civilization 27:35 The Call to Moral Excellence 34:13 The Still Small Voice of Conscience 39:58 Looking Ahead: Chapter One Preview

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary In this conversation, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland explore the theme of faith as an adventure, drawing insights from Bishop Robert Barron's podcast. They discuss the biblical figures of Abraham, Jacob, and Jonah, emphasizing the call to trust in God and the importance of self-giving. The dialogue highlights the struggles of faith, the necessity of wrestling with God, and the transformative power of responding to God's call. The conversation culminates in an invitation to participate in the ACTS Retreat, a spiritual journey designed to deepen one's faith and sense of adventure. Takeaways Faith is not just belief; it's a call to adventure. God invites us to a life of self-giving. Abraham's story illustrates trust in the improbable. Wrestling with God is part of the faith journey. Self-giving love leads to true happiness. Life's struggles can lead to deeper understanding. The adventure of faith includes peaks and valleys. God is always pursuing us, inviting us to engage. The ACTS Retreat offers a chance to deepen faith. Finding meaning often requires looking where we least want to. Chapters 00:00 The Call to Adventure in Faith 18:00 Wrestling with God: The Journey of Jacob 27:41 The Reluctant Prophet: Lessons from Jonah 31:35 Embracing the Adventure of Life Link to Bishop Barron Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wof-503-our-call-to-radical-self-gift/id1065019039?i=1000722484340 Link to ACTS Retreat Info Page: https://www.osvhub.com/mqpwg/forms/men-s-acts-retreat-nov-20-23-2025

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - 📖 Episode Summary In this episode, Fr. Craig (the Monk) and Jimmy (the Meathead) dive deep into the final five disciplines of the Catholic Christian life. Using stories from jiu-jitsu training, The Matrix, Tolkien, and even Disney fast passes, they explore what it really means to grow in faith and holiness in the middle of busy, modern life. From cultivating virtue to reading Scripture without getting overwhelmed, building true community, living generously, and sharing your faith with others, this conversation blends wisdom and humor into a roadmap for spiritual growth. 🕊️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why the moral life is like training for a black belt—it takes a lifetime of discipline. How to read the Bible in a way that actually makes sense (and doesn’t put you to sleep). The secret to building deep, lasting friendships in community—even as an adult. Why generosity isn’t just about money, but a way of living with open hands. How evangelization is really just “one beggar telling another where to find bread.” 📌 The Nine Catholic Disciplines (Full List) The Sacramental Life The Interior Life (Prayer) Fasting & Abstinence Silence & Solitude The Moral Life Knowledge of Sacred Scripture The Communal Life The Generous Life The Fruitful Life (Evangelization)

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary The Interior Life, Silence & Solitude, and Fasting: Spiritual Disciplines for a Magnanimous Heart In this episode of The Monk and the Meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland continue their series on the Nine Spiritual Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciple, recorded on the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola. They explore how St. Ignatius’ dramatic “cannonball conversion” and his Spiritual Exercises offer timeless guidance for growing in prayer, focus, and love. From the difference between civic and religious inquisitions to the benefits of curbing our appetites, this conversation blends practical wisdom with lighthearted storytelling. You’ll hear: The interior life — why tending your soul is essential to becoming more loving The value of silence and solitude in a distracted, noisy world How fasting and abstinence sharpen self-control and spiritual clarity Jimmy’s West Point contrast story on why “sleep’s a crutch” Why cutting certain appetites can free you to focus on what matters most This is a practical, encouraging guide for living a disciplined Catholic life in the modern world—without losing your sense of humor.

Join Fr. Craig and Jimmy as they delve into a modern tool for the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, exploring how these practices can enrich the lives of Catholics today and help you defeat the noonday devil! Discover the benefits of using the Hallow app for daily spiritual exercises and the importance of the Eucharistic assembly in nurturing a devout life.

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Most Catholics are doing all the right things—attending Mass, going to confession (fasting during Lent etc.) —but are we actually becoming more loving? In this thought-provoking episode, Fr. Craig and Jimmy Vreeland dig into the real reason behind spiritual discipline number 1 in our series of and why simply “working out your faith” isn’t enough. This conversation explores how spiritual disciplines are means, not ends, and the danger of becoming a “fit Catholic” who never actually transforms. If you’ve ever questioned whether your prayer, fasting, or church attendance is working, this episode is for you. 🛑 What You’ll Learn: Why the sacraments aren’t “magic” and how to know if they’re bearing fruit How to measure real spiritual growth (hint: it’s not how often you fast) Review of the 9 key spiritual practices of a fully engaged Catholic. The one question that should guide all your spiritual habits What “beige Catholicism” is—and how to avoid it 🔥 Notable Moments: “I don't want to be really good at working out—I want to be changed.” “You can fast at a steakhouse and still be gossiping. That’s not holiness.” “The Eucharist isn’t just a recharge—it’s a call to community and transformation.”

Learn how Catholicism is the secret to the human experience so you can stop whiteknuckling life. - - - - - - Summary In this conversation, the monk & the meathead, Fr. Craig and Jimmy, explore the intersection of spiritual practices, and daily life, emphasizing the importance of discipline and community in achieving a fulfilling life. They kick of a series of nine spiritual practices that can enhance one's relationship with God and promote happiness, while also addressing the challenges of maintaining consistency and joy in these practices. Today’s Topic: A Introduction to 9 Spiritual Practices --Creating an Ecosystem that is conducive to Life with God, Sustained Happiness and Hope for Eternal Life The 9 Practices of a Catholic Christian Disciple a. The Sacramental Life b. The Interior Life c. Fasting and Abstinence d. Silence and Solitude e. The Moral Life: Christian Perfection and Holiness f. Sacred Scripture g. The Communal Life: Community and Stewardship h. Christian Charity: The Generous Life i. The Fruitful Life: Evangelization Takeaways Silence and structure are essential for a balanced life. Fasting can lead to greater happiness and mental clarity. Nine spiritual practices can create a fulfilling life. Discipline is key to achieving freedom in life. Consistency in spiritual practices leads to optimal living. Community support is vital for spiritual growth. Joy should be a part of living the gospel. Sacrificing for spiritual growth can lead to greater rewards. Applying these practices can enhance daily life and relationships. Chapters 01:19 The Role of Silence and Structure in Daily Life 02:23 Spiritual Practices for a Fulfilling Life 12:42 Discipline Equals Freedom: The Path to Joy 17:27 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

Happy Memorial Day! With Fr. Craig on a pilgramage in Rome, we return to an foundational topic of The Monk & The Meathead. The Hero's Journey. On this episode Father Craig and Jimmy discuss a 5,000 year old pattern that can be seen in every myth, legend, novel, movie, and comic book. Humans love watching the Hero's journey. Father Craig give the introduction to the stages of this journey and talks about how it relates to the spiritual life.

What if your setbacks were actually the stepping stones to a richer life? In a world where external losses are often weighed more heavily than personal growth, we invite you to rethink the game of life. As we celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, we discuss the profound spiritual and personal journey ahead. His quick election and the significance of his chosen name set the stage for an exploration into human formation, drawing inspiration from influential books like "What I Learned by Losing a Million Dollars" and Simon Sinek's "The Infinite Game." These works challenge us to embrace ongoing development rather than viewing life as a win-or-lose scenario. Join us as we navigate the complex terrain of external and internal losses in sports, business, and theology. While losing a game or business deal is universally acknowledged, the impact of personal setbacks on self-esteem and spirituality is often overlooked. Through a theological lens, we explore how recognizing these internal battles can lead to spiritual growth and reconciliation rather than despair. We delve into the dangers of confusing external outcomes with personal identity and the importance of maintaining an infinite mindset, ensuring that life's finite challenges don't hinder our participation in the greater adventure of life. Inspiring resilience and hope, we examine the increasing prevalence of athletic injuries and how visualizing a positive future can transform our relationships and spiritual lives. Through the lens of Daniel Kahneman's insights and the timeless narratives of "The Lord of the Rings" and Winston Churchill's words, we find redemption and hope even amidst trauma and personal loss. Finally, we extend an invitation to our listeners to join a study group focused on dissecting dense material, fostering an environment of thoughtful discussion and personal growth. Engage with us as we turn life's challenges into opportunities for redemption and resilience.

We navigate the poignant moment of Pope Francis' passing and the impending conclave to elect a new pope. Reflecting on the surprise and sadness of the Pope's rapid health decline, we balance these emotions with the acknowledgment of his journey to eternal life. We explore Pope Francis' impactful ministry, marked by symbolic acts and a focus on marginalized communities, which, while sometimes controversial, did not alter core Church doctrines. As the Church prepares for the conclave, we shed light on these papal elections' historical significance and variability, ranging from swift decisions to prolonged deliberations. In our discussion, we also explore the enduring role of the Pope as a spiritual leader, tracing the roots of apostolic succession back to St. Peter and Jesus. The episode highlights the contributions of recent popes, including John Paul II and Benedict XVI, and examines Pope Francis' focus on service to the poor and environmental stewardship. Join us in contemplating the resilience of faith amidst the Catholic Church's rich history and the principle of subsidiarity in maintaining unity and spreading the gospel.

In this episode, we explore the profound significance of Holy Week, likening it to the Super Bowl of the Christian faith. This week represents the essence of being a follower of Jesus, as we journey through the Triduum—Thursday, Friday, and Saturday—culminating in the joy of Easter Sunday. Together, we unravel the depths of the Paschal mystery, rooted in Greek and Hebrew traditions, and its connection to Jesus as the Lamb of God. We also discuss the challenges of setting aside time for spiritual reflection amidst life's busyness and offer insights and strategies for immersing oneself in the spiritual richness of this sacred week. We explore the concept of the hero's journey through the lens of the Christian narrative, with Jesus as the ultimate hero. His journey, from the comforts of Capernaum to his suffering and resurrection, is the archetype for all hero's journeys. We reflect on how the passion narrative profoundly reflects our own lives, offering a template for understanding and enduring personal suffering. By engaging with the Paschal mystery, we can find meaning and guidance in our struggles, navigating life's challenges through the example of Jesus' journey. As we conclude, we examine the paradox of suffering and joy, particularly through Holy Thursday and Good Friday. These moments invite us to see suffering not as meaningless but as a path to deeper understanding and fulfillment. Through fasting, abstinence, and the veneration of the cross, we challenge the cultural pursuit of convenience and avoidance of pain. With hope and confidence, we embark on Holy Week, invoking the blessings of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of the Blessed Mother. Join us in celebrating Easter as a time of renewal, complete with church services, brunches, and festive attire, as we emphasize the brighter side of the journey through life's challenges.

What if the challenges you face daily mold you into a stronger, wiser version of yourself? That's the intriguing idea we explore with Jimmy in this episode, as we draw from the timeless image of God as a potter-shaping clay, lifted from the pages of Jeremiah. Our conversation spins a tapestry of personal growth, weaving together life's trials, laughter-filled anecdotes from the old man's basketball court, and the lighthearted lessons that come along the way. With each story, we remind ourselves that growth is not just a destination but an ongoing journey. Together with Jimmy, we untangle the rich tapestry of spiritual and personal formation within the Catholic framework, breaking the myth that faith and reason are at odds. By highlighting the Church's historical contributions to intellectual pursuits and the nurturing of one's soul through prayer and virtue, we show how curiosity and faith can walk hand in hand. Our discussion touches on the importance of excelling in our vocational roles and how these can be pathways to sanctification. As we explore the shaping forces in our lives, we're challenged to consciously choose which values guide us—whether sacred or secular. In the spirit of growth and accountability, we delve into practical frameworks like Arthur Brooks' "five F's"—faith, family, finance, friends, and fitness. We discuss the power of setting realistic goals and the transformative potential of spiritual detachment as taught by saints like St. John of the Cross and St. Ignatius of Loyola. Closing with a call to embrace the divine potter's hands in our lives, we invite listeners to trust in the discomfort of transformation, as it aligns us with our higher purpose. Tune in to hear how you can incorporate these insights into your journey and become the masterpiece you were meant to be.

Picture this: two hosts, one with the discipline of a monk and the other with the vigor of a meathead, coming together to explore the balance between faith and worldly pursuits. This episode marks the relaunch of our podcast as "The Monk and the Meathead," inspired by our own unique journeys and the book "The Monk and the Merchant." We dive into why we believe long-form content is crucial for tackling life's profound spiritual questions, aiming to enrich the lives of Catholic men and women with a blend of humor, professionalism, and relatability. Do you find yourself wrestling with the tension between spiritual devotion and material success? We get it, and we’re here to explore that struggle. In this episode, we address the common misconception that one must choose between wealth and faith. We explore how wealth can be a tool for greater good, advocating for a hierarchy of values where God and family come first. We also introduce the "five F's"—faith, family, finances, friends, and fitness—to help maintain life's balance. We unpack the deeper meaning of poverty, not merely as material lack but as a spiritual reliance on God. We also reflect on how trials and setbacks can be stepping stones to growth, drawing from "The Monk and the Merchant" and Jesus' teachings. We discuss the virtues of humility and meekness, and how they are vital for personal transformation. With anecdotes and reflections, we champion the idea of voluntary self-sacrifice and the strength found in humility. We share how cultivating patience and understanding can lead us closer to God and loved ones, encouraging young listeners to balance boldness with humility, just like characters we admire in stories and films. Join us on this insightful journey to find strength in faith and purpose in every challenge. The Meathead: Jimmy Vreeland—West Point grad, Army veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and a man who pushes limits in business and life… now striving to push deeper into his faith.

Welcome to "The Monk and the Meathead," where Father Craig Hallway and Jimmy Vreeland invite you to join us on a journey of reflection and growth during the Lenten season. As we embrace the theme of silence in a busy world, we explore the challenges and benefits of finding moments of quiet in our daily lives. Jimmy shares his unique Lenten practice of eating in silence, providing a thought-provoking departure from his usual habit of consuming content. Listen in as we unpack Blaise Pascal's insightful notion that many of humanity's problems stem from an inability to sit quietly alone, and discuss how modern distractions can often deter us from meaningful reflection. Our conversation takes a thoughtful turn as we examine the practice of Lenten disciplines, focusing on the gospel passage of Jesus's temptation in the wilderness. We reflect on the three temptations of wealth, power, and prestige, and their connection to pride and narcissism. Through this exploration, we highlight the significance of dedicating time and energy to spiritual practices such as prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. By drawing parallels between Lent and spring training in baseball, we underscore how these disciplines serve as spiritual training that can lead to personal and spiritual growth. Finally, we emphasize the importance of living mission-driven lives, with a particular focus on the Lenten discipline of "always being second." This practice fosters kindness and reduces conflicts in daily life. We encourage listeners to engage with various Lenten resources and activities, while stressing the importance of knowing one's personal mission to effectively navigate life's challenges. Join us as we conclude with a heartfelt blessing for our podcast and invite you to engage with our content throughout this reflective season, embracing what we affectionately call "Catholic Spring Training.

There are many resources for studying scripture, exploring theological mysteries, or understanding the current events of the church. But what about a forum for those most basic questions? Questions like why is my work miserable? How do I better my family life? Why do I have to go to Church every week? Why are people attacking our faith? For each of these questions and many more like them, The Monk, Father Holway, will approach each of these questions with patience and sincerity and do his best to help each of us dive deeper into our faith. Jimmy, our resident 'Meathead' will be a voice for those questions. There are so many people ready to experience their Catholic faith in a deeper way, and are just waiting for the right invitation to do so. Get ready to share, share, share when the first episode drops THIS Monday!

Father Craig and Jimmy discuss a reading from the Gospel of Luke talking about how the the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, Matthew 13:46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Father Craig invites listeners to sign up for 20 90 Day programs that help participants find the Pearl of Great Value, Beloved 90 and Exodus 90. If interested here are sign up links for both programs. Here is info for Exodus 90: https://exodus90.com/ And here is the sign up link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXnqD7yxk7z_t-G4i3yK_yh4tfZ_U8RN2DvaeW55EGZAo2YQ/viewform.

In this episode Father Craig and Jimmy talk about the classic Christmas movie Christmas vacation. They also talk about how the real meaning of Christmas and how to best prepare for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ They also mention in the show last years Christmas episode where the talk about the symbolism of our holiday traditions and show how they are all rooted in Jesus even though some of these traditions have been secularized and their true nature has been forgotten about. Here is a link to that show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-up-the-tent/id1663351684?i=1000639217253

Father Craig could not make this one but Jimmy Vreeland, Justin Basara (Director of this year's Acts Retreat), and Craig Avery (Co Director of the retreat) talk about their experience on the Acts retreat and invite those listening to attend