Restoring Christian Culture Podcast – Episode 21: The Fine Line Between Awareness and Gossip in Catholic Media

In this episode, Marco and Dan light up Ave Maria cigars and dive deep into the current atmosphere of Catholic media, reflecting on recent challenges, scandals, and controversies rocking the traditional Catholic and broader Christian community. With trademark wit and humility, they explore how community reactions to public failings—whether among priests, influencers, or media figures—are shaped in an age of instant information, social media drama, and the ever-growing influence of Catholic "celebrities" and organizations.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Cigar Talk: Ave Maria Favorites – The duo opens with a lighthearted celebration of their go-to cigars and the unexpected Catholic tie-ins, sparking a conversation about identity and culture.
• Catholic Media’s Drama & Staying Humble – Dan and Marco share candid reflections on staying humble and mission-focused amidst the wave of recent Catholic media scandals, the ever-present temptation of gossip, and the increased challenges of scrutiny in public roles.
• When Scandals Hit Home – The hosts discuss recent high-profile failings—from influencers to priests (like Fr. John Corapi)—and examine the heightened expectations and pressures that fall on public Catholic figures, as well as the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and maintaining high standards.
• Culture, Gossip, and Modern Temptations – A broader look at how the modern digital environment amplifies both good and bad, including societal shifts on issues like adultery and the impact on families.
• Babylon Bee, Satire & Protestant-Catholic Banter – The episode covers the controversy around Babylon Bee’s comments and discusses the value (and limits) of satire, as well as the need for authentic Catholic alternatives like The Nineveh Gnat.
• Inside Look: LifeSite News Shakeup – Dan and Marco address the recent turmoil at LifeSite News, offering insights into non-profit governance, donor expectations, and cautioning listeners to exercise charity and discernment before jumping to conclusions.
• The Cult of Catholic Personality – The conversation closes with thoughts on the dangers of “celebrity culture” within Catholic media and the importance of keeping Christ and mission at the center.

Takeaways:

• Charity Over Gossip: As news travels faster than ever, Catholics are called to seek the truth, exercise discernment, and avoid falling into the sin of gossip or rash judgment.
• Stay Mission-Driven: Whether you’re an influencer, donor, or everyday Catholic, remember the greater good and hold both leaders and organizations to high—but charitable—accountability.
• Support Faithful Initiatives: The episode concludes with a reminder to support Christ-centered organizations like the Restoring Christian Culture Initiative.

Resources & Mentions:

• Ave Maria Cigars
• Fr. John Corapi
• Mel Gibson
• The Babylon Bee
• The Nineveh Gnat (Catholic satire alternative)
• LifeSite News

Support the Show:
Learn more about the Restoring Christian Culture Initiative and consider supporting our mission at the link in the episode description.

Join the Conversation:
What are your thoughts on recent Catholic media controversies? How do you navigate the line between awareness and gossip? Send us your feedback and questions for future episodes!

Connect with Us:
Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with friends who care about restoring Christian culture in our challenging times.

www.RestoringChristianCulture.org

Restoring Christian Culture Podcast – Episode 20: Homeschool vs. Catholic Schools: Restoring Faith and Community in Education

We’ve hit a milestone! Join Marco, Dan, and returning guest Mathias as we celebrate Episode 20 of the Restoring Christian Culture Podcast. In this thought-provoking episode, the team dives deep into Mathias’s recent Substack article, "The Hollowing of Tradition: Why Catholic Schools Must Rise Again." The conversation explores the decline of authentic Catholic education in America, the loss of institutional tradition, and what it will take to rebuild a true Catholic educational culture.

From witty banter about studio upgrades and the challenges of homeschooling to sobering reflections on the responsibility parents (and the Church) bear in forming the next generation, this is an honest conversation about why tradition matters, what’s been lost, and how Catholic communities can restore a vibrant culture of faith and learning.

Key Topics Discussed

• Catholic School Crisis: Why so many diocesan Catholic schools today have become “hollowed out” and why parents are left questioning if their children are truly receiving a formation in the faith.
• Public vs. Diocesan vs. Independent Catholic Schools: What’s at stake for families choosing between these options?
• The Homeschool Movement: Mathias shares insights from his own experience with homeschooling, its strengths, and its limitations—especially concerning vocations and fostering a sense of Catholic community.
• Returning to Institution-Building: The historical role that parochial schools played in community life, the sacrifices made by saints like Elizabeth Ann Seton, and why building strong Catholic institutions is vital—not just for families, but for the wider Church and society.
• Parental Responsibility: The duty to seek a truly Catholic education, even if it means leaving comfortable or “approved” diocesan options that have lost their soul.
• Community Over Individualism: Why reclaiming Christian culture requires us to think communally, supporting Catholic schools that serve all—especially the most vulnerable.
• Practical Guidance: What questions parents should ask about their children’s school, when to push for change, and when to move on.
• Exciting Updates! The hosts tease big upcoming projects and collaborations—stay tuned for more details in future episodes.

Resources & Mentions

• Mathias Sevigny’s Substack:
  Ever Ancient, Ever New — Articles on liturgy, Catholic education, and culture.
• Lumen Christi Academy:
  Learn more about this model of restored Catholic education.
• Further Reading:
  • Pope Pius XI, Divini Illius Magistri (On Christian Education)
  • Classic works on Catholic parochial schools, the desert Fathers, and the history of seminary education

Connect & Continue the Conversation

• Support Catholic Schools: If you’re in a parish with an authentic Catholic school, become an advocate! If you’re elsewhere, get involved—support, build, or join a movement that’s truly restoring Christian culture.
• Contact: Reach out, share your feedback, or suggest topics for future episodes!
• Subscribe: Get updates on future episodes and exclusive content by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform.

Restoring Christian Culture Podcast — Where tradition meets real life, and families, parishes, and communities are called to build a brighter Catholic future together.

Listen Now & Share!

www.RestoringChristianCulture.org

Episode 19: 500 Subscribers and Counting: Reflecting on Our Podcast Journey So Far

Hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny celebrate crossing 500 YouTube subscribers while reflecting on their successful podcast launch featuring distinguished traditional Catholic guests.

Podcast Milestone Celebration Recent success highlights from the podcast journey:

• Nick Cavazos episode surpassed 2,000 views
• Crossed 500 YouTube subscribers milestone
• Featured guests: Dr. Ed Schaefer, Dr. Peter Kwasniewski, Father John Lovell, Joe McClane, Michael Hichborn
• Natural growth through YouTube algorithm serving content to traditional Catholics
• Grateful comments from viewers discovering the channel

The Power of Male Community Observations about guest experiences at Sanctus Ranch reveal hunger for authentic masculine fellowship. High-profile Catholic speakers consistently express relief and gratitude for "guy time" around the fire. Stress visibly lifts as guests engage in real conversation with like-minded Catholics who share traditional values.

Three Types of Catholics Jesse Romero's framework for Catholic engagement:

• Jawbone Catholics: All talk, constantly complaining
• Wishbone Catholics: All wishing, hoping for improvement
• Backbone Catholics: Taking actual action to restore Christian culture

The hosts emphasize need for more backbone Catholics willing to make difficult decisions and stand against injustice.

Traditional Catholicism Under Attack Recent revelations about Traditionis Custodes surveys show faithful actually desired traditional Catholicism, contrary to official narrative. Traditional Catholics wrongly labeled as "fringe" when they represent authentic faith. Loss of community allowed radical minorities to control narrative.

Building Catholic Community Practical advice for Catholics seeking authentic fellowship: Don't wait for institutional permission, create gatherings in your domestic church, bring together like-minded Catholics for prayer and discussion, build networks supporting traditional faith formation.

Upcoming Content

• Episode with Matthias Sevigny on his Substack articles
• Whiskey, Cigars & Jesus retreat announcement podcast
• October retreat registration fills quickly
• Speaker talks from Securing Sacred Ground fundraiser
• Potential Invictus Men's Conference archive releases

Call to Action Support RCC Initiative at restoringchristianculture.org. Build backbone Catholic communities focused on authentic faith formation rather than just talking or wishing for change.

Episode 18: Joe McClane - From Freemason to Catholic Convert: Joe McClane's Remarkable Journey

Host Dan Sevigny welcomes Joe McClane, Catholic media veteran and host of "The Catholic Hack" podcast, for an in-depth conversation about his conversion journey and transformation into one of Catholic media's most outspoken voices.

Conversion Story: From Freemason to Catholic Joe's path to Catholicism began when his future wife demanded he convert before marriage in Manchester, New Hampshire. Initially "Catholic in name only," a mystical encounter in 2002 saved his marriage, leading to serious study of early Church Fathers in 2003. His deep dive into documents like the Didache, Ignatius of Antioch, and early Christian writings convinced him of Catholic truth, particularly the Real Presence in the Eucharist through Greek word studies of John 6.

Early Media Ministry Pioneering Catholic podcasting in 2005 with "The Catholic Hack," McClane recorded during lunch breaks in his hot van without air conditioning in Houston parking lots. Using a $15 Walmart microphone, he built an audience while interviewing major Catholic apologists like Scott Hahn and Patrick Madrid, often hacking hotel WiFi for Skype calls.

The 2018 Wake-Up Call McLean describes his "red pill moment" during the McCarrick scandal when it became clear that "everyone knew" about the predator cardinal but did nothing. This revelation, combined with the 2020 Easter cancellations during COVID lockdowns, transformed his approach from "playing nice" to direct confrontation of Church corruption.

The Cost of Truth-Telling Speaking honestly about Church scandals has resulted in:

• Lost friendships and professional relationships
• Being shunned by former colleagues
• Constant complaints and criticism
• Career risks and financial uncertainty
• Family stress and challenges

Why Catholics Must Lead McClane emphasizes that "the first person in line to call a spade a spade" must be Catholic, not Protestant or secular critics. Catholics must clean their own house rather than allowing outsiders to do the dirty work. This principle guided his decision to risk everything for truth.

Practical Family Guidance Primary Goal: Get your children to heaven - everything else serves this purpose. Most Catholic families prioritize worldly success (good university, career, house, car) over eternal salvation.

Education Decisions: If your Catholic school doesn't teach orthodox faith, Thomistic philosophy, and rich Catholic tradition, consider homeschooling. Don't choose schools that "embrace the world, flesh, and devil."

Career Alignment: Evaluate whether your workplace helps or hurts your role as Catholic parent. Working for severely "woke" companies may compromise your soul regardless of salary.

Dating and Marriage: Young people should consider parish quality, education options, and community environment before first dates. Know what kind of Catholic life you want to build.

Current Ministry Now works for Stations of the Cross Catholic Media Network, describing them as "brave" for supporting truth-telling despite constant complaints. Operates as the "redheaded stepchild" in EWTN affiliate world for addressing controversial topics other Catholic media avoid.

Message to Families Stop running from hard decisions. Begin making definitive choices that align your will with God's will. This includes:

• Living within means rather than pursuing lifestyle inflation
• Prioritizing children's souls over social acceptance
• Making geographic moves for better Catholic communities
• Choosing education that forms souls, not just careers
• Building life around eternal rather than temporal goals

Learn more and support the mission:

www.TheRCCI.org

Episode 17: Sunday Morning Roundtable with Dr Kwasniewski and Friends: Hyper-Papalism vs. Local Catholic Life

Host Dan Sevigny leads a Sunday morning roundtable at Sanctus Ranch with Dr. Peter Kwasniewski, Dr. Ed Schaefer, and Nick Cavazos discussing traditional Catholicism under Pope Leo XIV.

Pope Leo XIV: Early Assessment Six weeks into the new pontificate, panelists note widespread relief compared to the Francis era. Leo's speeches show marked improvement, though some appointments remain concerning. Will this be a "truce" or genuine restoration?

The Obedience Crisis Deep discussion on papal and episcopal authority limits. Dr. Kwasniewski argues Benedict XVI's "what was sacred remains sacred" established unchangeable dogmatic fact. Can bishops legitimately forbid approved liturgical practices like ad orientem worship?

Priestly Faculties and Latin Mass Complex canonical questions: Can bishops deny priests the right to celebrate traditional Mass? Dr. Schaefer argues priests with public faculties should celebrate any approved rite. Gray areas emerge in Church law regarding liturgical control.

Hyper-Papalism Problem Critique of treating papal statements as oracular pronouncements. Dr. Kwasniewski advocates returning to localized Catholic life, citing medieval Catholics who lived without knowing the Pope's identity. The danger of making papal commentary central to Catholic life.

High-Commitment Religion Sociological data shows high-commitment religions retain members while "low-commitment Catholicism" causes exodus. The Church's 60-year experiment with watered-down commitments has failed. Traditional communities demonstrate authentic discipleship's power.

Practical Family Guidance Parents must recognize Fourth Commandment duties for proper Catholic formation:

• Drive hours for traditional Mass
• Relocate near traditional communities
• Remove children from public schools (sinful except in grave circumstances)
• Daily catechesis with traditional resources
• Restrict harmful entertainment

Singles should consider relocating near established traditional communities for future family formation.

Beauty and Community Dr. Kwasniewski emphasizes surrounding ourselves with authentic beauty as spiritual nourishment. In an "unrelentingly ugly" world, Catholics must create transcendent beauty in homes and worship.

Dr. Schaefer stresses building Catholic community networks to support high-commitment living, especially when children face secular society.

Current Crisis Perspective Potentially the Church's worst crisis due to subtlety and chaos. Unlike past dogmatic controversies, current crisis involves unclear lines across doctrine, morals, and liturgy. The primordial heresy: questioning tradition's transmission and authority.

Call to Action: Focus on personal sanctification, seek beauty, build supportive communities, make sacrifices for authentic formation, and trust approved liturgical traditions over crisis obsession.

Learn More & Support Us:

RestoringChristianCulture.org

TheRCCI.org

Episode 16: Exposing the Canceled Priest Scandal with Father John Lovell

Hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Father John Lovell, a diocesan priest removed from ministry for 14 years despite no canonical penalties. The conversation exposes shocking financial mismanagement in Catholic nonprofits and announces two new organizations to support faithful priests.

The Canceled Priest Crisis Father Lovell represents thousands of priests removed for defending truth, tradition, or opposing mandates. Removed by Bishop Malloy in 2012 using "non-penal, non-judicial" procedures that sidestep canon law, he receives only $1,700 monthly from his diocese while the Vatican has ruled his removal cannot be permanent.

Financial Scandal Exposed Dan Sevigny's investigation of a prominent canceled priest organization's 990 tax forms reveals devastating mismanagement: only $42,747 reached 7 priests (averaging $6,000 each) - approximately 6 cents per dollar donated. Over $1.5 million sits unused while executive compensation remains high and financial transparency is nonexistent.

Coalition Collapse Father Lovell founded the organization but was removed as a scapegoat after attempting to implement proper financial controls, monthly reporting, and investment strategies. Despite purchasing housing for priests, the board evicted him after his removal, damaging his credit.

New Solutions Launched

Unprofitable Servants: Partnership between Father Lovell and RCC Initiative providing $10,000 annual grants plus up to $25,000 additional support (minimum $35,000 living wage) with complete transparency and monthly reporting. Website: unprofitableservants.org

Companions of St. John Fisher: Addressing priestly isolation through fraternity, housing, retreats, and community building. Inspired by SSPX priory models where priests live together during the week.

The Bigger Picture RCC Initiative has already provided over $100,000 in support to canceled priests, with plans for multiple "safe houses" nationwide. The mission extends beyond priest support to building Catholic communities around traditional education and forming the next generation.

Key Takeaways

• Learn to read 990 forms and hold Catholic nonprofits accountable
• Understand the systematic persecution of faithful priests by chancery officials
• Support transparent organizations with direct pass-through funding models
• Build alternative Catholic structures outside compromised diocesan systems

Resources:

• unprofitableservants.org - canceled priest fund
• thercci.org - Restoring Christian Culture Initiative
• restoringchristianculture.org - podcast reviews
• Crisis Magazine article by Dan Sevigny

Father Lovell's "Hope in the Desert" podcast returning soon.

Episode 15: From Evangelical to Traditional Catholic with Nick Cavazos

In this compelling episode, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Nick Cavazos, a 27-year-old theology teacher, podcaster, and speaker who has become a prominent voice in traditional Catholic circles. Nick shares his unique conversion journey and offers insights into what's drawing young people to traditional Catholicism.

Key Topics Discussed:

Nick's Conversion Story

• Baptized Catholic at 3 months but raised evangelical Protestant
• Parents' spiritually mixed marriage and its impact on faith formation
• His journey through Calvinism and deep theological study
• The pivotal moment: attending his first Traditional Latin Mass at St. Mary's Cathedral in Austin
• How a Marian prayer experience and the beauty of the TLM led to his conversion

What Young People Want from Faith

• Three key desires: clarity, purpose, and authentic leadership
• How traditional generations failed to teach the value of suffering
• The impact of pornography and digital culture on young Catholics
• Why young people are drawn to "in your face Catholicism" that's uncompromisingly theocentric
• The generational swing back toward traditional values among young men

Teaching and Catholic Education

• Current role teaching theology online at Mother Divine Grace School
• Teaching eighth grade theology at St. Martin de Porres TLM community
• The shocking gaps in Catholic education: students not knowing basic prayers, Ten Commandments, or sacraments
• The failure of parents to engage in their children's faith formation
• Why homeschooled students generally arrive better prepared

SSPX Defense and Explanation

• Detailed history of Archbishop Lefebvre and the founding of SSPX in 1970
• The seminary crisis of the 1970s that prompted the traditional movement
• Canonical status clarification: not schismatic according to Rome
• The 1988 episcopal consecrations and subsequent reconciliation efforts
• Current relationship with Rome and universal faculties granted by Pope Francis

Practical Advice for Families

• How to find Traditional Latin Masses using websites like massoftheages.com
• The importance of making sacrifices and driving distances for authentic worship
• Why parents must be willing to study their faith and teach their children
• The role of fathers in spiritual leadership and its impact on children's retention

About Nick Cavazos: Nick Cavazos is a 27-year-old theology teacher, writer, and podcaster. He teaches online at Mother Divine Grace School and provides theology instruction for the Traditional Latin Mass community at St. Martin de Porres in Dripping Springs, Texas. Nick has written for publications including 1 Peter 5 and is a frequent guest on traditional Catholic podcasts. His academic background includes undergraduate and graduate studies in theology and scholasticism.

Previous Appearances at Sanctus Ranch: Nick has spoken at multiple events at Sanctus Ranch, including the Invictus Men's Conference and serving as the commencement speaker for Lumen Christi Academy's graduation ceremony.

Resources Mentioned:

• MassOfTheAges.com - for finding Traditional Latin Mass locations
• SSPX website for chapel locations
• Baltimore Catechism for basic Catholic formation
• St. Thomas Aquinas's Summa Theologica
• Kennedy Hall's book defending SSPX
• Scott Hahn's "The Fourth Cup"

Connect with RCC:

• Website: RestoringChristianCulture.org

Episode 14: Why Young Catholics Are Leaving the Faith (And What Actually Works) With Dr. Ed Schaefer

In this eye-opening episode, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Dr. Edward Schaefer, founder and president of Collegium College in Kansas City, Missouri. Dr. Schaefer shares his journey from 20 years at a Jesuit university to founding an authentically Catholic college and reveals groundbreaking research about the Traditional Latin Mass movement.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Birth of Collegium College

• Dr. Schaefer's departure from a Jesuit university after witnessing institutional decline
• The founding story: from dinner table conversation to reality in 2015
• Challenges faced during Traditionis Custodes and relocating from Maryland to Kansas City
• Why all Collegium students come from homeschool backgrounds, not diocesan schools

Shocking Survey Data on TLM Attendance

• Results from 500+ respondents about Traditional Latin Mass attendance
• Primary reason people attend TLM: aesthetics and beauty (not theological conviction)
• Why TLM attendees "float" between masses: convenience and distance
• The Maryland parish case study: 150 TLM attendees who didn't follow the mass when canceled

The Crisis in Catholic Retention

• 83-93% of young Catholics have stopped attending any mass
• TLM communities show 98% retention rate among 18-32 year olds
• The crucial role of fathers in spiritual leadership
• Why Pope Francis was right about theological incompatibility between the masses

Practical Solutions for Families

• The importance of Catholic education and understanding TLM theology
• Finding and committing to traditional communities
• Making necessary sacrifices for authentic Catholic formation
• Building communities that support faithful living

About Dr. Schaefer: Dr. Edward Schaefer is the founder and president of Collegium College, a traditional Catholic liberal arts college. He previously served 20 years on the faculty of a Jesuit university as choir director and professor. He is currently writing a book titled "Is the Traditional Movement Dead?" based on his extensive research into TLM attendance patterns and Catholic retention rates.

About Collegium College: Collegium College is a traditional Catholic liberal arts institution located in Kansas City, Missouri. The college serves homeschooled students seeking an authentic Catholic education rooted in tradition. More information available at the-collegium.org.

Upcoming Event: This episode was recorded before the "Securing Sacred Ground" fundraising event at Sanctus Ranch, where Dr. Schaefer served as one of the speakers alongside other distinguished guests.

Connect with RCC:

• Website: RestoringChristianCulture.org

Resources Mentioned:

• Books on Traditional Latin Mass theology and history
• Peter Kwasniewski's apologetic works on the TLM
• Survey data on Catholic retention rates
• Information about traditional religious orders and parishes