Curiously Catholic

Is the "disciplined life" actually sustainable, or is it just a path to burnout? In this episode of the Curious Catholic Evangelion Podcast, I sit down with Tomas Mones-Cason from Fit for the Kingdom to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to live with heroic virtue.Thomas shares his raw experience balancing the growth of a massive social media platform with the upcoming arrival of his first child. We dive deep into the "soul-crushing" moments of early wake-ups, why quality matters less than consistency in the age of AI, and the explosive Catholic revival currently taking place in Christchurch. Whether you are struggling to stay on the "hard path" or curious about the St. Michael's Troop movement, this conversation offers a practical roadmap for the modern Catholic man.Key Topics Covered:The reality of the 4 AM wake-up call and how to stop hitting snooze.The impact of the Radio New Zealand (RNZ) article on the local Catholic community.Connect with us:Follow Evangelion for more episodes on faith and discipline.Check out Thomas at Fit for the Kingdom for daily virtue-driven content.Video Chapters00:00 Struggling with spiritual routine08:28 Finding motivation in role models14:49 Importance of intentional leisure17:28 Finding your reasons to exercise24:40 Living with stoic mindset26:24 Finding satisfaction in effort35:37 Consequences of modern lifestyle choices38:11 The richness of Catholic traditions42:35 The purpose of the Church51:25 Masculinity in church leadership54:55 Discussing gender roles in society01:02:32 Discussing Andrew Tate's appeal01:08:56 Young role models in faith01:11:52 Integrating spiritual and physical virtues01:15:37 Morning routine and reflections01:20:27 Parenting through example01:26:05 Sharing faith through podcasting

Are Muslims better at fasting than Catholics? In this episode, Dom breaks down the differences between Ramadan and Lent, asking if the Church has softened or if we’re missing the point. - Comparing the intensity of fasting during Ramadan and Lent - How modern Catholic fasting differs from traditional practices - The importance of engaging with your own vocation during Lent - Practical ways to focus on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving - Why Lent isn’t about intensity, but building a deeper relationship with Christ 00:00 "Your Vocation Is Your Program" 06:30 "Prioritize Vocation Over Distractions" 10:17 "Benefits of Spiritual Reading" 14:08 "Personal Sacrifice in Fasting" 15:10 "Living Lent with Intentionality" Ramadan, Lent, fasting, Catholicism, Islam, prayer, almsgiving, spiritual practices, intensity comparison, family life, sacrifice, New Zealand bishops, spiritual reading, silence, vocation, personal growth, religious traditions, spirituality, discipline, self-mastery, church rules, relationship with Christ, Curiosity Catholic, Evangelion podcast

Fit For The Kingdom's very own Tomas joins me to tackle the challenges men face in the world today, what do men need in oder to feel love? Are the way we are dealing with mens issues to actually beneficial for men? We talk about all this and more in this episode!! Here's what you'll get from this episode: The realities and challenges of modern masculinity and why men are feeling lost The influence of culture—social media, toxic masculinity, and the struggle to find true purpose Why intentionality, discipline, and virtue are essential to authentic manhood The importance of brotherhood, sacrifice, and taking responsibility in life and faith Why silence, surrender, and a life modeled on Christ offer true transformation for men today Like, share, and subscribe to stay connected with more authentic conversations just like this! Get involved in the mission www.evangelion.co.nz https://www.instagram.com/evangelion_nz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@curiouslycatholic masculinity, being a man, Catholic podcast, Fit for the Kingdom, virtue, discipline, sacrifice, responsibility, faith, intentional living, self-improvement, brotherhood, self-control, silence, self-reflection, men’s mental health, purpose, spiritual growth, role models, leadership, St. Joseph, Jesus, podcasting, community, fitness, mentorship, New Zealand, family, perseverance, Christian life 00:00 "Faith, Fitness, and Masculinity" 06:18 Faith, Fitness, and Young Men 13:53 "Creating Content and Finding Voice" 18:46 "Modern Masculinity and Purpose" 23:23 "Modern Masculinity and Society" 27:04 "External Validation vs. Self-Awareness" 36:20 "Falling Asleep in Cars" 42:05 "Surrender to Destined Peace" 44:18 "Finding Calm Amid Anxiety" 50:42 "Physicality's Role in Masculinity" 55:37 "The Sacrifice Play" 01:01:55 Self-Control: A Warrior's Strength 01:05:20 "Masculinity, Suffering, and Identity" 01:14:45 "Parents Change, Just Like Us" 01:17:51 "Finding Virtues Through God" 01:22:00 "Fit for the Kingdom Podcast"

Kick off 2026 with practical strategies to level up your habits, mindset, and daily systems. Dom breaks down four high-impact habits and shares honest advice for sticking to your resolutions all year, and breaks down the advice from ‪@ChrisWillx‬ and Steve Bartlett from an interview on ‪@TheDiaryOfACEO‬ Four habits that delivered the highest ROI in 2025 Why waking up early and putting your phone across the room works The importance of planning your day and setting up for success How going to the gym benefits both physical and mental health Quality over quantity: finding resolutions you actually care about, and how to bounce back when you slip Like, share, and subscribe to help us reach our goal of 1,000 subscribers this year. Stay curious and stay Catholic!

In this episode of Curiously Catholic, Dean and Dom unpack what truly sets the Catholic Church apart — not just historically, but in the way faith is lived today. This conversation blends theology, real-world experience, and practical wisdom for anyone seeking clarity about Catholicism. 🔍 We Explore: The origins and growth of Evangelion — how the podcast began, how the team has changed, and what’s next Catholic parish amalgamations — what they mean, why they happen, and how they shape community Protestant vs Catholic perspectives — unity, authority, and how different traditions understand “the Church” Scripture & prayer — simple, practical ways these habits can transform your spiritual life Judging the Church fairly — why understanding Catholicism requires looking at its teachings, not just its scandals If you’ve ever wondered why the Catholic Church is structured the way it is, what makes it distinct, or how to live your faith more intentionally, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and a lot to think about. 👉 Like, subscribe, and share to support the mission of Evangelion and help more people grow in their faith. #CatholicChurch #CuriouslyCatholic #EvangelionNZ #FaithJourney #CatholicPodcast #ChurchHistory #ChristianUnity #PrayerLife #ScriptureStudy #catholiccommunity Evangelion, Catholicism, Protestantism, podcasting, parish life, Christchurch, Holy Family Parish, conversion, catechesis, Bible reading, OCIA, faith journey, Church structure, unity, tradition, apologetics, liturgy, saints, Christian community, spiritual growth, evangelization, New Zealand, mega churches, religious orders, doctrine, private interpretation, faith formation, witness, diversity, scripture

In this episode, I sit down with April Holden, who’s been married less than a year — but her journey to get there is nothing short of incredible. From leaving her Baptist family to becoming Catholic, facing deportation from the UK, getting trapped in Germany, and even living in a convent — April’s story is one of courage, surrender, and divine providence. 🙏 Now living in New Zealand and working with Loving for Life, April shares how every challenge led her closer to God — and ultimately, to her husband. 💍 💬 In this episode: How faith can cost you everything — and give you more in return Finding love after loss, confusion, and waiting How God writes the best love stories when we let Him 🎧 This is part one of a two-part conversation — stay tuned for next week’s episode as we continue April’s incredible journey! 👉 Learn more about Loving for Life here: [Insert link] #FaithJourney #CatholicConversion #CatholicLoveStory #Vocation #MarriageAndFaith #ConversionStory #CatholicPodcast #EvangelionNZ #CuriouslyCatholic

The shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk has divided the world — with some mourning his death, while others disturbingly celebrated it. This raises a deeper question: have we lost the human dignity at the heart of real discourse? In this episode of Curiously Catholic, I sit down with returning guest Fr. Isaac Fransen to tackle tough and timely questions: What does the Catholic Church teach about human dignity? How should we approach disagreement and debate in today’s culture? Is the death penalty ever a legitimate deterrent to crime? And even the most difficult: Does someone like Hitler still have human dignity? 👉 This is a raw and thought-provoking conversation about faith, justice, and morality that will challenge the way you see the world. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe — and share this with someone who cares about truth and justice. Join the conversation in the comments below; I’d love to hear your thoughts. 🙏 Support the mission: https://www.evangelion.co.nz/support-us 🌍 Follow Evangelion: 📸 Instagram: @evangelion_nz 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/evangelionnz TikTok: @curiouslyCatholic #CharlieKirk #Assassination #HumanDignity #CatholicPodcast #CatholicChurch #FaithAndReason #DeathPenalty #Justice #CatholicFaith #ChristianPodcast #catholicism

My take on the Charlie Kirk Assassination. I had planned to sit down with Simon from Family Life International today to talk about something very different, but then in a moment the whole world changes and we did talk about life, we spoke about Charlie Kirk, how he lived out a call that was given to him and him alone, and how he lived it to the full. How do we process this, well the Church as always has the answer andwe see this in the beatification of the first millennial Saint Carol Acutis. Tune in for the full discussion. 🌏 Follow Evangelion: 📸 Instagram: @evangelion_nz 📘 Facebook: EvangelionNZ 🎵 TikTok: @curiouslycatholic Look up FLI at: https://fli.org.nz/

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Simon Carrington from Fire Up Ministries in Sydney. We discuss not only how to share the Catholic faith with conviction, but also Simon’s deeply personal journey of overcoming a speech impediment. Through years of tears, prayer, and perseverance, Simon has transformed his struggle into a mission—today he speaks around the world, inspiring others to embrace Christ and live the Gospel with courage. 👉 Topics we cover: How to talk about the faith in today’s culture The power of vulnerability and prayer in healing Simon’s journey from speech impediment to Catholic evangelist Why passion for Christ fuels mission 🔥 Follow Simon & Fire Up Ministries: 🌐 Website: fireupministries.com 📸 Instagram: @fireupministries 🎧 Spotify: Fire Up Ministries Podcast 🌏 Follow Evangelion: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/evangelion_nz/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/EvangelionNZ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@curiouslycatholic 🔔 Subscribe for more Catholic conversations on faith, courage, and mission.

What if one of the most controversial relics in history actually points to the truth of Christianity? In this episode of Curiously Catholic, Fr. Andrew Dalton — international expert on the Shroud of Turin — joins us to explore the intersection of science, reason, and faith. Is the Shroud real? What does it tell us about Jesus, the resurrection… and ourselves? But we don’t stop at carbon dating and forensic evidence. We ask the deeper questions: Can science lead us to God? Is belief in Jesus intellectually credible? What role does mystery play in our faith? This isn’t just about the cloth — it’s about how we come to believe in a skeptical age. Whether you're curious, questioning, or committed, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and deepen your wonder. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking Catholic content! Here’s where you can join the movement: 🎧 Spotify: Curiously Catholic https://open.spotify.com/show/5sxmEIgD7JKnuIYhF0dgzh ▶️ YouTube: Curiously Catholic https://www.youtube.com/@curiouslycatholic 📸 Instagram: @evangelion_nz https://www.instagram.com/evangelion_nz/ 🎬 TikTok: @curiouslycatholic https://www.tiktok.com/@curiouslycatholic And if you want to multiply your impact: 💡 Become a monthly supporter: Support Evangelion #ShroudOfTurin #FrAndrewDalton #FaithAndReason #CatholicApologetics #CuriouslyCatholic #CatholicPodcast #ScienceAndFaith #CatholicYouTube #JesusResurrection #MysteryOfFaith #CatholicEvidence #ChristianityAndScience #CatholicIntellectualTradition @Othonia

This is an interview I recorded 4 years ago, but the content was so good I had to put it out there!! 🎙️ Why would a loving God allow us to be poor, to struggle, or to feel abandoned? In this powerful episode of Curiously Catholic, Fr. Mark-Mary of Ascension Presents opens up about the often misunderstood realities of God’s providence and spiritual poverty. What does it really mean to trust God when everything is falling apart? What if poverty — material or spiritual — is actually part of God's loving plan? We dive into: The hidden grace in our dependence How poverty can lead to deeper faith Real stories from religious life and ministry The surprising freedom in surrendering control Whether you're in a season of lack, uncertainty, or simply wrestling with big questions about God's plan — this conversation is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this episode speaks to your soul. #FrMarkMary #AscensionPresents #GodsProvidence #SpiritualPoverty #CatholicPodcast #CuriouslyCatholic #CatholicFaith #TrustInGod #FranciscanFriars #ChristianSuffering #CatholicYouTube #CatholicInspiration #CatholicSpirituality #CatholicLife

Ladies and Gentlemen, if you have not heard of Stacy Trasancos, you're welcome. An Atheist Chemist turned Catholic theologian and philosopher, Stacy is a phenomenal woman on the pursuit of truth and willing to spend her life trying to find it. In this Episode I dig deep and look to see if quantum physics is the scientific communities version of God of the gaps, does it answer all of life's questions or does it fall short. Listen in to this brilliant conversation and find out!! ALSO get involved!! Evangelion is aiming to change this nation to help them find Christ, if that's something you want to help with drop a line and lets go for a coffee Contact us at: www.evangelion.co.nz See more from Stacy at: https://stacytrasancos.substack.com/

The Shroud of Turin: What It Reveals About Jesus | w/ Vatican Expert Fr. Andrew Dalton What is the Shroud of Turin—and why does it still captivate scientists, skeptics, and believers alike? In this episode of Curiously Catholic, I sit down with Fr. Andrew Dalton, a Vatican-recognized expert on the Shroud, to explore its history, mystery, and meaning for us today. 🔥 Why does the Shroud matter in a modern world? 🧬 What does it reveal about Christ’s Passion and Resurrection? 🎟️ Want to see Fr. Dalton live in New Zealand? Book your tickets here: www.evangelion.co.nz 📖 Learn more about Fr. Dalton’s work and the Shroud: https://othonia.org 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of science, faith, and mystery.