A summary of the teachings of the Catholic Church, given to you in short, easy-to-digest episodes, uploaded fortnightly.
…
continue reading
Purposeful Lab is a Magis Center podcast exploring purpose in the universe and purpose in your life. Biologist Dr. Dan Kuebler and journalist Catherine Hadro team up to delve into the issues that impact our understanding of God, the cosmos, and ourselves. Guests include leading scientists, philosophers, and theologians.
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
79 - The Apostles (II): Andrew, Philip, James the Greater, James the Lesser.
24:55
24:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:55
Who were the apostles? What were their lives like? What do we know about them? In these episodes, we unpack the lives of the apostles (plus a couple of bonus extras). Today, we continue with four apostles: Andrew, Philip, and the two Jameses. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instag…
…
continue reading
Who were the apostles? What were their lives like? What do we know about them? In the next few episodes, we're going to unpack the lives of the apostles (plus a couple of bonus extras), beginning with this episode on Simon Peter. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crash…
…
continue reading
In this life, are we supposed to suffer or to be happy? Why does God allow us to suffer? Is suffering compatible with joy? In this episode, we explore the mystery of suffering. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/lis…
…
continue reading
Did Jesus always know that he was God, or did he acquire that knowledge at some point during his childhood or adolescence? Were there things that Jesus didn't know when he was on earth? Did he know what was going to happen in the future? Was Jesus ever tempted to sin, or to despair? In this episode, we discuss the incredible mystery of the hypostat…
…
continue reading
Every. Single. Mass. Is a miracle. Eucharistic miracles remind us of that fact. In this episode, we discuss four amazing incidents, three of which occurred in the last thirty years. In each of these miracles, a communion host transformed into human tissue: specifically, into tissue taken from a living human heart that was in agony. Each of these mi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
74 - Bl. Carlo Acutis: An ordinary teenager who became a saint
31:24
31:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:24
Pope Francis has just announced that Blessed Carlo Acutis is going to be the first millenial saint. Carlo Acutis was an ordinary teenager who died suddenly at the age of 15. He was known for his love of God, and in particular for his love for Jesus Christ, truly present in the Eucharist. Carlo loved soccer, animals, nutella, gaming, and coding. His…
…
continue reading
If the point of my faith is to set me free, why are there so many things I *have* to do as a Catholic? What should I do when I feel like I'm doing things because I have to and not because I want to? What's the difference between being free and doing whatever I want? In this episode, we discuss interior freedom. Support us on Patreon! Contact the po…
…
continue reading
In the final episode of Purposeful Lab, Catherine and Dan look back on some of the most memorable moments from the past five seasons. They discuss everything from biology and astrochemistry to neuroscience, consciousness, and philosophy, reviewing some of the fascinating topics they've explored together with their guests. Have your call in question…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Psychological Insights for Healing and Growth - with Dr. Matthew Breuninger
1:13:23
1:13:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:23
Catherine and Dan delve into a discussion with Dr. Matthew Breuninger, a licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville. They explore how psychology intersects with faith to foster human flourishing, focusing on topics such as trauma, healing, and virtue formation. Dr. Breuninger shares insights from…
…
continue reading
Does everyone have a vocation? How do I know what my vocation is? Can I say no to God's call? What if I make the wrong choice? In this episode, we discuss what it means to live out our call to holiness and apostolate in a unique, personal way. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.insta…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Edith Stein on Art, Philosophy, and Sainthood - Genevieve Buono
49:24
49:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:24
Genevieve Buono, currently writing her dissertation on Edith Stein's aesthetics, joins Dan and Catherine this week to discuss Stein's views on art, philosophy and her path to sainthood. Stein, a pioneering female philosopher, tragically perished in Auschwitz alongside her Jewish loved ones. Listen to this week's episode to discover the relevance of…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Can Art Help Us Answer Life's Big Questions? -with Dr. Daniel McInerny
51:24
51:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:24
Renowned author and philosophy professor, Dr. Daniel McInerny, joins hosts Dan and Catherine to delve into the profound question: Can art help us find meaning in life? Together, they explore the philosophy of art, delving into the unique ways in which art illuminates the human experience. Drawing from his acclaimed book 'The Good Death of Kate Mont…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
71 - St. Gianna Beretta Molla: Wife, Mum, Doctor, Saint
29:01
29:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:01
St. Gianna Beretta Molla was born in 1922. As a young woman, she wanted to be a missionary but eventually saw that God was calling her to marriage and family life. She became a pediatrician, and she and her husband Pietro had three children. They lived a full and joyful life. When she was pregnant with her fourth child, she was diagnosed with a ben…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Why Do We Need Art? - with Dr. Katie Kresser
57:32
57:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:32
Dr. Katie Kresser, a Professor of Art History at Seattle Pacific University joins Dan and Catherine to discuss the fundamental questions: why do humans create art, and what does that reveal about our unique nature? Is art essential to human flourishing? This episode is for both seasoned art enthusiasts and those seeking practical means to incorpora…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
10 Rules For Saving Our Society - with Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J.
1:11:03
1:11:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:11:03
A must listen for anyone interested in transforming the current cultural landscape. Dan and Catherine interview Magis Center's founder and president, Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J. on his book "Ten Universal Principles: A Brief Philosophy of Life Issues" The implementation of these ten principles is the key to saving our culture and fostering its flouris…
…
continue reading
What's an indulgence? How do I obtain one? Is it true that the Catholic church sold indulgences in the past? In this episode, we wrap up our discussion on penance and contrition in the lead-up to Holy Week. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ Refe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
How to Unleash Your Mind’s Full Potential - with Dr. Jeanne Zehr
49:48
49:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:48
Dr. Jeanne Zehr of the MINDCAP Center for Cognitive Advantage joins Dan and Catherine to discuss how to unleash your mind's full potential. For anyone suffering from COVID brain fog to dyslexia to just wanting to improve your cognitive functions this episode is for you. Dr. Zehr brings a wealth of knowledge to show just how amazing our brains reall…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Personalism, the Philosophy We Need Today - with Dr. John F. Crosby
46:31
46:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:31
Dan interviews philosopher, Dr. John F. Crosby on the new and exciting research in the field of personalism, a philosophy that highlights the importance of the human person. Personalism offers a fresh perspective on human existence, shedding light on life's mysteries, including the mysteries of life, death, and the ultimate purpose of the human per…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
69 - How to go to Confession (and make it a good one!)
27:43
27:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:43
What should I say in the confessional? What happens if I forget one of my sins, or forget to say my penance? Can non-Catholics go to confession? This episode is a practical guide for going to confession. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ Referen…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Your Immortal Soul - with Fr. James Brent, O.P.
1:03:01
1:03:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:01
Dan and Catherine welcome Fr. James Brent, O.P. to discuss the soul, its powers and properties. What is the soul? How can the soul survive bodily death? What makes the human soul unique? Fr. James answers these questions and more on this week's podcast. Fr. James teaches at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C. He regularly lectures fo…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Understanding the Mind and the Brain- with Dr. Sharon Dirckx
58:29
58:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:29
Dr. Sharon Dirckx joins Dan and Catherine to discuss the differences between the mind, the brain, and what we know about consciousness. Have your call in questions be featured on the podcast: Leave a voicemail at 949-257-2436 Learn more and read articles: https://www.magiscenter.com/purposeful-labBy Dan Kuebler & Catherine Hadro & Sharon Dirckx
…
continue reading
What are the origins of Lent? Do I have to give something up? Why is there no mass on Good Friday? How long does the Easter season last? (Hint: ages) In this episode, we discuss the Lenten and Easter Seasons. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ Re…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
What Does it Mean for Humans to Thrive? - with Psychologist Dr. Pam King
48:56
48:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:56
Did you ever wonder what makes humans truly thrive? Dan and Catherine welcome Dr. Pam King to Purposeful Lab to answer that very question. Dr. King is a professor of applied developmental science and the executive director of the Thrive Center for Human Development at Fuller Seminary. With evolutionary psychology and theology as a guide, Dr. King e…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Evolutionary Psychology: What Sets Humans Apart? - with Dan Kuebler
40:20
40:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:20
Dan and Catherine explore the unique characteristics of the human brain that set us apart from other organisms. Delving into evolutionary psychology, they investigate how the development of the human mind and brain during childhood shapes our distinct identity as human beings. Touching on the science of brain evolution, the hosts navigate through t…
…
continue reading
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19) How does the Catholic church dialogue with other faiths and denominations without compromising on the truth? Why is it important to have friends who don't share my beliefs? How can I be genuinely open to others' opinions without becoming relativistic? In this episode, we wrap up our d…
…
continue reading
How do we balance unity and diversity within the Catholic church? Do Catholics have to accept every single one of the official teachings of the church? Does union with the pope mean accepting and believing every single thing he says? In this episode, we discuss unity and diversity within the Catholic church. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podca…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Overcoming Childhood Trauma through Brain Plasticity - with Sofia Carozza
32:59
32:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:59
In part two of an interview with Dr. Sofia Carozza, Dan, Catherine, and Sofia take a closer look at early childhood trauma and the brain. With the help of AI, Sofia spends her time at Harvard Medical researching how early experiences in life shape the brain structure and one's cognitive functions. What her research shows is that your brain can heal…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Does the Human Brain Ever Stop Evolving? - with Sofia Carozza
42:25
42:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:25
In part one of a two part interview, Dan and Catherine chat with Sofia Carozza, a neuroscientist conducting postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School, on the complexities of the human brain. Sofia explains key aspects of brain development, neural plasticity, and the role of evolutionary biology in shaping the brain. Don't miss this insightful…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
65 - Gifts and Charisms of the Holy Spirit
28:20
28:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:20
What are charisms? Do Catholics believe that people can speak in tongues? How do I know what my unique gifts are? Happy New Year! Welcome to our first episode of 2024! Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/vi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
A Crash Course in Human Evolution - with Dan Kuebler
36:37
36:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:37
Catherine interviews Dan on one of his areas of expertise, human evolution. Not only is a Dan a professor of Biology at Franciscan University of Stubenville, but he is also the author of several articles and books on evolution. His newest book on evolution will be released in 2025 by Word On Fire Press. Dan and Catherine's discussion unearths the c…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
How Can a Loving God Allow Evil? - with Christopher Baglow
48:53
48:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:53
Theologian Dr. Christopher Baglow joins Dan to delve into the problem of evil. Together, they grapple with the existence of natural disasters and human evil, and how they intersect with a loving deity's creation. Dr. Baglow, with his work at the McGrath Institute for Church Life and contributions to theological education, enriches our conversation …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Finding Purpose in a Scientific World - with Daniel Toma
42:54
42:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:54
Join Daniel Toma, Dan and Catherine to discuss nature's intrinsic purpose and the liturgical structure of the universe. Through the lenses of ecology, theology, and philosophy, they examine humanity's role in the grand cosmic hierarchy. Daniel Toma is a Professor of Biological Sciences at Minnesota State University Mankato. He is the author of Vest…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Reconciling Genesis and Evolution - with Matthew Tsakanikas
51:40
51:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:40
Join Dan and Catherine as they welcome back Dr. Matthew Tsakanikas, a distinguished theology professor renowned for his insights into Genesis. Together, they delve into the layers of Genesis, exploring the Catholic Church's perspective on its interpretation. This discussion spans the historical, scientific, and moral dimensions of this sacred text,…
…
continue reading
What should we do during Advent? Have we always celebrated Christmas on the 25th December? What are the origins of the Christmas tree and the nativity scene? In this episode, we discuss one of the most beautiful and important times in the Catholic calendar. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: htt…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Does the Catholic Church Accept Evolution? - with Dan Kuebler
43:25
43:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:25
Dan and Catherine discuss how to reconcile biological evolution with the Catholic faith. Particularly, how can we understand biological evolution in light of the human person as made in the image and likeness of God? Have your call in questions be featured on the podcast: Leave a voicemail at 949-257-2436 Learn more and read articles: https://www.m…
…
continue reading
The appearance of Our Lady at Fátima in 1917 was one of the most incredible and significant events of the twentieth century. In these apparitions, Mary encouraged the world to pray the rosary, and to pray for peace, poor sinners, and the pope. She also performed one of the most mind-blowing miracles you'll ever hear about. In this episode, we finis…
…
continue reading
The appearance of Our Lady at Fátima in 1917 was one of the most incredible and significant events of the twentieth century. In these apparitions, Mary encouraged the world to pray the rosary, and to pray for peace, poor sinners, and the pope. She also performed one of the most mind-blowing miracles you'll ever hear about. In this episode, we begin…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Neuroscience and the Need for Relationship - with Sofia Carozza
36:25
36:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:25
Season 2 reaches its conclusion in Episode 6, where Dan interviews Sofia Carozza on the role of love and relationship in brain development. Sofia, a postdoctoral research fellow at Harvard Medical School, specializes in computational modeling and focuses on the impact of adversity on the development of the human brain. Her research enriches this ev…
…
continue reading
Where did the rosary come from? How do you pray it? Is praying to Mary a form of idolatry? In this episode, we discuss one of the most beautiful and powerful prayers of the Catholic church. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and furthe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Probing the Subatomic World - with Aaron Dominguez
53:57
53:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:57
Dan and Catherine discuss the world of particle colliders and the quest for new physics with Dr. Aaron Dominguez. Dr. Dominguez is Currently serving as the Provost and an Ordinary Professor of Physics at The Catholic University of America, Dr. Dominguez brings a wealth of experience from extensive research, including contributions to the study of t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Is Extraterrestrial Life Compatible With Christianity? - with Matthew Tsakanikas
1:04:01
1:04:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:01
In light of the recent congressional hearings on UFOs, Dan and Catherine engage in a thought-provoking conversation with theologian, Dr. Matthew Tsakanikas on extraterrestrial life. They delve into the available data on UFOs and contemplate the implications that extraterrestrial life would have on Christianity. Drawing from the wisdom of C.S. Lewis…
…
continue reading
What are the roots of Halloween? Can Catholics celebrate it? Do Catholics believe in GHOSTS?! (Spooooky) In this episode, we discuss Halloween, and how we might celebrate it as Catholics. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Epistemology: How Do We Know What We Know? - with Fr. Gregory Pine
49:49
49:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:49
Is the universe knowable at all? Is anything certain? Many philosophers would say we cannot know anything with certainty. That seemingly simple statement actually has some pretty dire consequences. However, with a proper understanding of how we come to know, we can uncover truths behind what makes the universe so vast and beautiful and discover our…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Universe, Multiverse, and Beyond - with Stephen Barr
55:09
55:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:09
In the latest Purposeful Lab episode, Dan and Catherine unravel the mysteries of the universe with Dr. Stephen Barr. As a renowned researcher in theoretical particle physics and Professor Emeritus of the Univerity of Delaware, Dr. Barr shared valuable insights on quantum physics, multiverse theories, and the intersection of science and theology. Ha…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
59 - St. Mark Ji Tianxiang: Doctor, Martyr, Drug Addict
23:44
23:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:44
St. Mark Ji Tianxiang was a doctor who lived in the late 1800s, who was martyred for his faith during the Boxer Rebellion. He was also an opium addict who struggled with his addiction for 30 years, and was a drug addict at the time of his death. St. Mark Ji is an example to anyone struggling with addiction, disorders, or mental illness. Support us …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Highlights from the 2023 Society of Catholic Scientists Conference - with Stephen Barr, Chris Baglow, & Sofia Carozza
46:15
46:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:15
Are science and faith mutually exclusive, or can they harmoniously coexist? This is the question we focus on in our latest podcast episode. Dan and Catherine reflect on Purposeful Lab Season 1 and share what’s to come in Season 2. Throughout both seasons, the relationship between faith and science is an undercurrent to many of the topics covered. I…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
58 - Spiritual Warfare and How to Fight It Pt. 2
31:07
31:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:07
How do the devil's tactics change as we progress in the spiritual life? How do we fight against temptation? What are the signs that I am progressing in the spiritual life? In this episode, we wrap up our discussion of spiritual warfare, and the ways that we can fight it. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
57 - Spiritual Warfare and How to Fight It Pt. 1
30:07
30:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:07
The term 'spiritual warfare' can sound a bit dramatic, but it's actually something pretty normal that we all face. The devil is real, and he does NAHT want us to get to heaven. In this episode, we begin our discussion of spiritual warfare, and the ways that we can fight it. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.co…
…
continue reading
What is a saint? How does the Catholic church decide if someone is a saint? In this episode we discuss the formal process of canonisation in the Catholic church. Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Four Levels of Purpose - with Fr. Robert Spitzer
1:01:00
1:01:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:00
Unlock the secrets of human purpose and happiness in an enlightening conversation with Fr. Robert Spitzer, President of Magis Center. This journey into the depths of human nature will unravel the four levels of happiness, starting from immediate gratification to the ultimate happiness of living in goodness and love. Fr. Spitzer, with his deep insig…
…
continue reading