Way of the Heart Podcast: Recent Episodes
Jake Khym and Brett Powell
The Way of the Heart Podcast is a conversation with Jake Khym and Brett Powell about journeying through life with a heart fully alive.
Jake & Brett welcome their friend Dominic to the show and explore the complexities of marriage, personal growth, and the foundational role of sonship. They discuss intentionally fathering children, self-reliance, and the importance of a deep prayer life.
Resources:
- Fathering Sons by Dominic and Christine Polito (available for purchase on Amazon by the end of 2024)
Key Points:
- When both spouses are committed to growth, marriage gets richer over time
- Insecurities in marriage are opportunities for growth and healing
- Sonship is foundational for understanding one's identity and purpose as a husband and father.
- Daily prayer is essential for a healthy relationship with your spouse, children, and other family or friends
- Self reliance can signify a lack of trust in God’s providence
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Jake and Brett are back to discuss the importance of real, unfiltered, and authentic conversations between men about matters of the heart. In this episode, they share why many men struggle to have meaningful conversations, the role of emotions in human connection, and how to train our thoughts and emotions to become more mindful. Whether you feel emotionally regulated or uncomfortable jumping into deep places of the heart, Jake and Brett have practical thoughts, tools, and examples to help you build more meaningful relationships in your life.
Key Points:
- The lack of authentic conversations between men can lead to a feeling of loneliness.
- Fear of vulnerability is a reason why men tend to avoid open and unfiltered conversations about life.
- Mistakes are important for both growth and fulfillment.
- Marital love is one of the most powerful things in the world.
- We are meant to live in relationship with others.
- Emotions play an important role in being able to connect with others but we need to learn how to control them.
- Awareness is the first step in interior growth.
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Jake & Brett have some big announcements to share about the future of the podcast. They share about some exciting endeavors that have begun in their lives & reminisce about some of the best moments, guests & insights from the five years of Way of the Heart. Thank you for listening! If you would like to stay connected with us and stay up to date on these new projects, check out the links below.
References -Big Yellow Coffee-Brett’s Life Compass Website-Brett’s Website-Life Restoration Website
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett have worked together with organizations to help solve some of their issues & grow in some places that needed improvement. In this episode, they share these leadership & relational skills with us! Whether you are a leader at your job, your Church or in your home, this episode has tools to help you lead well. Jake & Brett will challenge you & give you the tips & shifts in mindset that you need to be successful in all that God has called you to.
Key Points
- Sharing key issues that most organizations have in common.
- Communication tends to be an issue, both from the leaders down & from the employees up the chain.
- Keeping in mind the gap between what is and what should be.
- Leaders need to have their ears to the ground so they can hear about small problems before they snowball into larger ones.
- How common leadership tips work in the home.
- The importance of building a culture and bringing people in that fit the culture.
- Defensiveness slows our growth.
- How these principles apply to our Church & Church leaders.
References -Big Yellow Coffee-Patrick Lencioni’s Website-”Good to Great” by John Collins-”The Leadership Challenge” -Brett’s Website-Restore the Glory Podcast-”Becoming a King” by Morgan Snyder-”Waking the Dead” by John Eldredge
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett just returned from their annual men’s retreat with beautiful reflections on what the Lord did. They discuss the power of praying together, falling back in love with Jesus & how interactions with Christ may not always be what we expect but are always loving.
Key Points
- Returned from the annual men’s retreat with reflections (and a lost voice)
- Brett got a rare opportunity to participate in a retreat without having to lead it or speak and it was freeing.
- The power of praying with other guys.
- We may fail, but love will never fail.
- Breaking out of a fun & falling back in love with Jesus…and your spouse!
- The woman at the well leaves her interaction with Jesus happy, even though He revealed her sin to her.
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Dr. Jordan Peterson has been in the news recently so Jake & Brett discuss the situation and what they appreciate about Dr. Peterson. They share the lessons they have learned from Jordan in regards to culture, faith, fathering & more. While Dr. Peterson isn’t perfect, our hosts share that he is still one of the best thought leaders we have in our modern day.
Key Points
- Jordan Peterson has been in the news because the regulatory body that governs counselors in Ontario is sanctioning him based on complaints they received. He is fighting against these sanctions
- This case is concerning for the right to free speech and restriction of non-government approved thoughts on topics like faith and morality.
- Jordan is a master of critiquing culture. He argues against arguments becoming simple dichotomies.
- Being radically in the middle is a rare but good place to be.
- The importance of staying calm in the midst of backlash.
- Jordan is a good example of fathering people who aren’t your children. Jake & Brett share examples
- Men need to be dangerous, but good.
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
References -Big Yellow Coffee-Brett’s Blog on Frodo being reluctant hero that Jordan Peterson retweeted-Brett’s Blog on Jordan Peterson
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Brett shares a quote from the movie “Sully” that really struck him: “Can we get serious now?” He and Jake discuss that as a culture and as men, we need to start focusing on what really matters and not the frivolous matters that often keep our attention. This leads to tackling issues such as being too hard on ourselves, not challenging ourselves enough and learning from our mistakes. It’s a great conversation for any man who struggles with stress, self-doubt & complacency.
Key Points
- “Can we get serious now?” is a quote from the movie Sully about the miracle on the Hudson that caught Brett’s attention.
- As a culture and as men, we need to start focusing on what really matters and not the frivolous matters that often keep our attention.
- We need to factor in normal human error into our own failings and stop beating ourselves up. Taking on difficult endeavors is admirable and we need to adjust our expectations of ourselves accordingly.
- We need to apply some common sense combined with deeper thinking into hot button issues in our culture.
- If you’re not getting the results you want, look at the underlying excuses you’re making or where you may be turning your focus on to things that aren’t helping you get those results.
- If we haven’t learned from our mistakes, we are bound to repeat them in the future.
- We don’t need to become holy before we come to Jesus, we need to come to Jesus as we are so He can help us grow in holiness.
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
References -Big Yellow Coffee
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett are together in person to discuss men & feelings. There is a common narrative that men don’t have emotions but that just simply isn’t the case. Our hosts discuss how this common misconception affects men in their everyday lives, including within the Church. Men’s mental health issues and lack of emotional regulation are rampant so today the guys discuss the importance of addressing men’s emotions in order to become better men.
Key Points
- Suppression of emotions is common in men’s culture and even men’s ministry
- Men’s mental health issues are a largely unaddressed problem
- Being able to show our own weakness is actually strength
- Men often suffer in silence or only their family see their struggles
- Addressing the root cause of the pornography epidemic
- Unregulated emotion is dangerous & needs to be addressed
- The passions are not bad, but they just need to be ordered with reason
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
References -Big Yellow Coffee-Brett’s Blog on Men & Emotions
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett are back from their summer break! They share the highlights of their summer & dive into a new season by discussing what happens when you let your masculinity grow. They talk about the importance of discipline in our spiritual, physical, family and work lives & share how to find environments and practices that challenge you to be a better man.
Key Points
- Jake & Brett share the highlights of their summer
- Jake’s surprising best place to pray
- What happens when we have let key aspects of being a man go
- What is the environment that challenges me to be a better man
- Processing challenges to our masculinity through prayer
- The importance of avoiding constant comparison
- Self-awareness is the first step in a process of change
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake and Brett are taking time off for summer vacation and want the listeners of the podcast to enjoy the break as well. They also remind us that you can take this time as an opportunity to catch up on all the episodes of the show that you may have missed. Have a blessed Summer. We will see you in the Fall!
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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In part 2 of our “Life Compass” series, Jake and Brett dive further into discussion about personal values, virtues & leaving a legacy. They talk about “eulogy virtues” and what they mean for how we conduct ourselves today. They also touch on charisms, perfectionism & regulating our emotions.
Key Points
- Exploration of personal values & charisms
- Having eulogy virtues, not only resumé virtues
- What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your family?
- Integrating our virtues and values
- “Perfection becomes the obstacle to progress” -Brett
- Having emotions regulated by reason
- JPII as a model for masculinity
References Build My Life Compass WebsiteDavid Brooks “Road to Character”
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Brett has a project called the “Life Compass” that he has been working on for many years. Jake invites him to share where this idea came from & how it has transformed his life. In this two part series, Jake & Brett discuss how to integrate your personal & professional life, live based on your virtues and so much more. Enjoy!
Key Points
- An exploration of Brett’s new venture/retreat called “Life Compass”
- Where this idea originated in Brett’s life
- What are the most important things in your life?
- Integrating our personal and professional lives
- Compass vs. Clock mentality
- “Direction matters more than speed.” -Brett
References The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyBuild My Life Compass Website
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake and Brett interview Ralph Martin, the president of Renewal Ministries, which is an organization devoted to Catholic renewal and evangelization. Ralph is also the host of the long running television show "The Choices We Face." This conversation discusses the state of the Catholic church in the United States today and explores the role of modern men in today’s world, culture and Church.
Key Points
- Key moments in developing your heart as a man for the Lord
- Giving our “yes” to the Lord
- An overview of “Fulfillment of All Desire”, Ralph’s book combining the best of many Catholic spiritualities
- Ralph’s insights into what is going on in the modern Church
- How to discern the difference between truth and heresy
- The importance of knowing Scripture to know the real Jesus
- The role of men in the modern Church and culture
References The Magnificat WebsiteRenewal Ministries WebsiteThe Fulfillment of All DesireRenewal Ministries YouTube Channel
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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In this conversation with prolific author and renowned educator George Weigel, Jake and Brett talk through a number of extremely important topics regarding modern man, faith & culture. George shares his deep knowledge and understanding of the Church and its connection with the ever-changing cultures through his lifetime. They also discuss what was actually taught at Vatican II & the wisdom found in the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II.
Key Points
- How the landscape of Catholicism in culture has changed during George’s life
- The Catholic view of sexuality vs. the modern thought on sexuality
- What actually happened with Vatican II and common misconceptions
- Pope St. John Paul II’s view on modern masculinity
- Lessons from the story of the prodigal son
- Letter about Pope John Paul II written by George Weigel
- St Pope John Paul II's talk on penance
References George's WebsiteGeorge’s Books
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake and Brett wrap up the season reflecting on all that they heard from their great guests throughout this series about the Good Life. They discuss the themes that tied many of the episodes from this season together like the importance of brotherhood & seeking truth. At the end, they give a sneak preview of what to look forward to next season.
Key Points
- Revisiting the highlights from the guests this season
- The importance of brotherhood for living the Good Life
- Living according to truth, no matter what the culture is telling us
- How we can help our children live the Good Life
- Discussing resources people can use to better live the Good Life
- Introduction of the theme for the next season
References John Eldredge Books & PodcastJordan Peterson Books & Podcast“Live Not by Lies” by Rod DreherGeorge Wiegel’s Book on Vatican II “To Sanctify the World”“Ordering Your Private World” by Gordon MacDonaldWide Open Spaces Podcast
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake and Brett talk with Father Boniface Hicks, a monk who serves as the director of The Institute for Ministry Formation at St Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He is also Jake’s spiritual director. :) This conversation dives deep into this season's topic of "the Good Life?" from the perspective of a monk. The guys talk about the different ways to be a man and how the lives of the saints contrasts with how society tells us to live.
Key Points
- What the good life looks like in the priesthood/religious life.
- Learning from the saints about what life can look like.
- Dealing with repetitive tasks as a priest, husband and father and how to keep our hearts in it.
- What it means to let yourself be loved.
- The false pursuits people often follow that don't actually lead to happiness.
- Why St. Joseph is a strong male role model.
- Being overwhelmed in inadequacy.
Key Quotes “Love until it hurts and then there is no more hurt & only more love.” Mother Theresa
“St. Joseph was perpetually inadequate but never weak.” -Jake
References Fr. Boniface’s WebsiteThe Institute for Ministry Formation @ Saint Vincent Seminary
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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In this episode of Way of the Heart, Jake & Brett are joined by long time friend, Peter White. Peter is a Registered Clinical Counselor that has known Jake professionally for years and watched Brett hoop during his prime basketball years. They discuss a wide variety of topics including the beauty and difficulties of marriage, how men and women respond differently to conflict, how conflict can lead to great things & the importance of good fathers. This is one of our deepest conversations yet and we hope that it speaks to your heart.
Key Points
- The beauty and difficulties of marriage.
- A discussion about how people, especially men, get married without an understanding of what it takes for a marriage to thrive.
- Trends in boy’s/men’s personal growth since the feminist movement
- Psychologically, men tend to have a fight or flight mentality. Women tend to have a tend and mend mentality. This dates back to the earliest humans. Men tend to fight alone. Women work together.
- Conflict in marriage can be generative.
- The importance of fatherhood. Inviting our sons to something higher by letting them punch a little above their weight.
- The distorted desire to build an empire instead of serving your neighbor.
- How to drop the facade and get to more of your true self.
Key Quotes
“Most men are far more sensitive than they let on.” -Peter
“Your wife cannot fully understand the contents of your heart if you’re shouting at her.” -Peter
References Peter’s Website Warren Farrell’s Website
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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In this episode of Way of the Heart, Jake and Brett are joined by a close friend of the show, Dr. Christopher West. Christopher is a renowned Catholic author and speaker on the topic of human sexuality. This conversation touches on many topics that appear in our everyday lives. The guys also address the temptations of worldly desires and how they give a false sense of what is considered good. Dr. West shares several examples from his life experiences about what “the good life” has meant to him and the lessons he has learned in his personal life and professional training.
Key Points
- The modern idea of the good life that is pushed on us in today’s culture is actually a lie
- There is always going to be an unreachable ideal of what society expects you to be
- Having security in yourself as it comes from the Father
- A discussion of the 4 levels of happiness
- The idea of the good life being a journey
References Dr. West’s Website
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake and Brett sit down this week and speak with Dr John Bergsma. Dr. Bergsma is a professor at Franciscan University and one of the leading Scripture scholars in the nation. The guys talk about “The Good Life” and how it relates to Dr. Bergsma’s personal faith and professional expertise. They touch on how the Catholic faith allows people to connect with the Father through both Scripture & Tradition and what cultivating a deeper relationship with the Lord might look like.
Key Points
- Why we need more than just the Bible as Catholics. How Scripture and Tradition work hand in hand.
- What it means for a man to have access to his heart and how that awareness helps us to grow into better men.
- What the good life means to Dr. Bergsma
- Maximilian Kolbe - What is sin?
- We are loved by a God that wants to be our Father
- What is the weight of the word "good?"
- Making "Nourish and Cherish" a central part of your relationships
References Dr. Bergsma’s Website
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Way of the Heart continues diving deeper into the theme of “the Good Life.” Joined by Bishop Scott McCaig, the guys dive into conversation regarding the 4 levels of happiness and how that contributes towards our fulfillment. They discuss how the levels of happiness help motivate us to become a better person and often leads to improving the quality of life for yourself and family. They also take a look into the many unhealthy desires for success that people hold in their hearts. This episode is a must listen for anyone wanting to learn more about how to use the levels of happiness to satisfy their needs for fulfillment.
Key Points
- The good life is reaching happiness on all four of it’s levels
- The foundations of the idea of the good life is the Greek philosophers
- Finding happiness in something external is the most basic level of happiness: material objects, physical pleasures, etc.
- The pros and cons associated with the pursuit of each level of happiness
- Owning possessions is fine unless you let the possessions own you
- Happiness by comparison. Being happy due to your successes.
- Happiness from doing good for others. Happiness from reaching out with our hearts to other people.
- Perfect happiness recognizes that our deepest fulfillment yearns for something not of this world: Heaven.
References“Fulfillment of All Desire” by Ralph Martin “Finding True Happiness” by Fr. Robert Spitzer“Flourishing: Why We Need Religion in a Globalized World” by Miroslav Volf
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett begin Season 13 with the primary question of “Are you happy?” They discuss where they will be headed in their new season about “the good life.” The guys open up about their personal lives and dive into the matters of the heart on what truly makes them happy and fulfilled. They explain how this season they will be laying out the groundwork for a life worth living. Get ready to explore how we can all live more peaceful, loving and fulfilling lives this season.
Key Points
- Are you happy?
- We have to take a step back and get under surface level thoughts to examine what is going on deeper in our hearts
- What are the things that lead to a good life?
- “The unexamined life is not worth living” -Socrates
- We need relationships to help give us perspective on how our lives are going. On our own we can become complacent, too negative or over-confident.
- How do we find peace?
ReferencesWay of the Heart S12 E7 with Fr. Timothy Gallagher
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett tease they’re upcoming season called “The Good Life.” They share how excited they are and Brett calls it their most important series yet! Some great conversations, guests and life lessons are coming to you starting January 11th. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Jake & Brett close out Season 12 with a conversation about Teddy Roosevelt’s "Citizen in a Republic" speech commonly known as the “Man in the Arena” speech. They discuss how to deal with critics(including your internal one), strive for excellence and battle in the arena of sexuality.
Key Points
- Only voices in the arena matter. Don't listen to external critics.
- Sometimes the critic is our internal one.
- In a world of critics, we should be encouraging each other
- Excellence honors God but it cannot take His place
- We should be using our charisms to honor God and build up our family and friends, not for our own personal gain.
- How to battle in the arena of sexuality
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Have you ever wondered which of your every day thoughts are from God, and which are not? Or have you ever contemplated, “What’s God’s will?” when faced with a decision, big or small? A series of simple principles called the Ignatian Rules of Discernment can bring clarity to these questions and more. They are a 500-year-old playbook to understanding the spiritual movements of our everyday lives and in this bonus guest episode, Jake and Brett unpack the Fourteen Rules of Discernment with the modern master of discernment, Fr. Timothy Gallagher. Fr. Timothy has written countless books on St. Ignatius’s teachings and hosts a podcast to bring these foundational spiritual principles to a modern audience. Though they are simple, they are transformational for growth in the spiritual life.
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Before listening to this episode, had you heard of discernment? What did you think it was?
- How has your understanding of discernment changed after listening to this episode?
Resources
- The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living, Fr. Timothy Gallagher (book)
- The Discernment of Spirits in Marriage, Fr. Timothy Gallagher (book)
- Discerning the Will of God: An Ignatian Guide to Christian Decision Making, Fr. Timothy Gallagher (book)
- The Examen Prayer, Fr. Timothy Gallagher (book)
- Discerning Hearts - The Discernment of Spirits (podcast)
- frtimothygallagher.org (website)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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Today, Jake and Brett welcome their last guest of Season 12, Simon Kyne, to the podcast. You may not recognize his name, but Simon is the ‘friend’ mentioned in many stories throughout our episodes. In fact, Way of the Heart would not be here without Simon, since he introduced Jake and Brett years ago. For more than two decades, Simon has walked with Brett and Jake individually as a foxhole friend, at different times feeling called to pray for each of them for one hundred days straight. Simon joins the conversation to tackle the absolute necessity of brotherhood, loneliness and what to do when the longing for close friendship is unfulfilled.
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Who can you ‘lend strength’ to as a brother?
- Do you believe you are worthy of belonging and deep friendship?
Resources
- The Pope & the CEO, Andrea Widmer (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
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In this episode, Jake and Brett sit down with Fr. John Riccardo, a priest from the Archdiocese of Detroit who leads a ministry called Acts 29 which helps ordained and lay leaders in this apostolic age. Fr. Riccardo is passionate about preaching the Gospel, responding to the crisis of fatherhood in the priesthood, and being authentically human. Pull up a chair and get comfortable because Fr. Riccardo is about to share a pulse on the Church like you’ve never heard it.
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- How did Fr. Riccardo’s comments about the struggle of priests impact you?
- Have you heard the Gospel message shared that way before? What is the response of your heart?
Resources
- Acts XXIX Ministry
- You Were Born for This Podcast
- Episode 133:The Heart of a Shepherd, You Were Born for This Podcast
- Episode 47: Leading and Leadership (Part 2) with Archbishop Sample, Restore the Glory Podcast
- From Christendom to Apostolic Mission (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Audio editing by Forte Catholic
Employing true critical thinking in our current cultural environment requires no small measure of courage. Our guest today, Fr. Raymond de Souza, is no stranger to making his thoughts known in the public sphere as one of the longest standing columnists for the National Post (among countless other titles and accolades). Father de Souza shares with Jake and Brett his proudest commentaries published by the paper, how his critical thinking was developed at the family dinner table, and the importance of reading books by those you do not agree with.
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- How would you describe the line between courage and arrogance? How can we be more courageous with voicing our opinions while not becoming arrogant?
- What do you think of Father de Souza’s encouragement to read more, especially books by those you disagree with?
Resources
- The National Post
- The writings of GK Chesterton
- The writings of GS Lewis, including “The Problem of Pain”
- The Hungry Soul, Leon Kass (book)
- The writings of Peter Kreeft
- Father de Souza’s website: fatherdesouza.com
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Audio editing by Forte Catholic
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a Navy SEAL? How do SEALs stay the course under the most brutal circumstances and what can we learn from them as men living in our own arenas? In this episode, Jake and Brett sit down with Sam Blair, a trained and experienced SEAL who shares the importance of being called to your work, how excellence comes down to training, and why knowing your why is the secret to persevering when things get tough.
Guiding Quote:
He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how. - Viktor Frankl
Key Points
- Sam’s connection with mutual friends of Jake’s, the Benzinger family
- Sam’s experience of a call to join the Navy SEALS
- The importance of feeling called to your line of work instead of doing it to prove your worth
- Why excellence simply comes down to training
- When things get hard, you have to be confident in your why
- After you complete a phase in training or the spiritual life, you can expect to feel like a beginner again
- Healthy outlets for dealing with adversity
- How knowing your ‘why’ can prevent you from giving in to temptation and distractions
- Stepping into the arena vs being an armchair quarterback
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- When adversity strikes, what are your outlets? Are they healthy or unhealthy?
- What is your ‘why’ in the arenas of your life?
- Where do you currently feel like a ‘beginner’ in your work, spiritual life or vocation? Could it be because you have entered into a new phase?
Resources
- Sam’s Interview with Matt Fradd on Pints With Aquinas
- The Frassati Company
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Audio editing by Forte Catholic
Do you feel disillusioned by the state of the world? Are you feeling lukewarm in your faith? Jake and Brett talk to Peter Herbeck of Renewal Ministries about judgment, the grinding down of truth, redemption and hope. Peter shares pieces of his own story and how he is unafraid of dark places and hard things because of what Christ has done for him.
Peter Herbeck is the Executive Vice President of Renewal Ministries, a leading voice in evangelization and renewal throughout the world.
Guiding Quote:
“I am a sick man and I need help. Please help me.” - Peter’s father
Key Points
- Peter shares about his upbringing and acting out as a young boy
- The transformative, divine intervention that healed his father’s alcoholism
- Peter takes an honest look at some of his areas of weakness
- God’s judgment and mercy, what Peter is seeing in the culture today in a prophetic sense
- What you can do in your own life when you recognize the negative state of the world
- Why it matters that we recognize when we are ‘sick’
- Peter asks, ‘Where is space to grieve?’ in the Church, and the men look at the struggles faced by the Church today
- How can we hope?
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do you find yourself in a place of being lukewarm in your faith, or have you in the past? How do you respond to Peter’s exhortation to step into the light?
- Have you experienced situations where going to dark places actually gave you greater hope in the long run? How did God meet you in those places and draw you back?
Resources
- Renewal Ministries
- Renewal Ministries on YouTube
- Evangelii Gaudium
- Restore the Glory Podcast: Episode 49 with Peter Herbeck
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Audio editing by Forte Catholic
Jake and Brett share their highs and lows of the summer, and introduce the theme for Season 12: Men in the Arena. Over the next few weeks, we’ll hear from five men who are living ‘in the arena,’ including a Navy SEAL, a priest and columnist for a major publication, a ministry leader, a priest engaged in parish renewal, and a high-level business executive. Jake and Brett explain what made them choose to interview each man, and tease some surprising turns in the conversations.
Guiding Quote:
“It’s not the critic who counts. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” - Theodore Roosevelt
Key Points
- Brett shares a summer high: being together face to face for the first time with his men’s group
- Jake’s summer high: his motorcycle trip
- Jake’s low: health issues with a family member and the dynamics that accompany it
- Brett’s low: a heart-level grasping at not wanting the summer to end
- In the midst of many good things/blessings, it’s easy to focus on the one or few things that aren’t going right or that have been ‘missed’
- What it means to ‘be in the arena’ and how it matures us
- The difference between low-level and high-level-risk arenas
- The kind of courage that being in the arena requires
- Redefining failure for life in the arena
- The introduction of five special guests who demonstrate what it means to be a man in the arena
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What are the arenas I’m in? What are my low, medium and high level arenas?
- How do I handle failure?
- What do I do when a brother is in the arena? How do I respond to him?
Resources
- The Men’s Retreat 2022: Man in the Arena
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Audio editing by Forte Catholic
In this final episode of Way of the Heart before a summer hiatus, Jake and Brett discuss the feelings that the summer evokes for them and what this says about the Father’s heart.
Key Points
- Brett recounts a hilarious story about a mistake at the hair salon
- The feelings that summer brings up for Jake
- Brett’s experience of family and summer at his friend’s cabin
- The Father wants us to enjoy and live a full life
- The deeper things that Jake connects with through riding his motorcycle
- The importance of margin for self-care during times of break
- Jake and Brett reminisce about good memories of golf
- Send photos to us of how you find life this summer! Email us at info@wayoftheheartpodcast.com or tag us on social media.
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What does the summer evoke for me? What feelings and/or passtimes come to mind?
- Do I believe that the Father wants 'summertime' for me?
- Where do I find life, and what do I have to do to get it?
Resources
- The Men’s Retreat 2022
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
In a recent conversation, Jake had an image come to mind of planets revolving around the sun, except instead of planets they were people, and instead of the sun, Jesus was at the centre of everything. Jake and Brett spend the episode breaking open that analogy and putting into perspective why saying that ‘you’re not the centre of the universe’ is an invitation to a rightly-ordered life rather than a judgement.
Guiding Quote:
“You are not the centre of the universe” - Jake Khym
Key Points
- We’re taking a break from episodes this summer and will return in September with Season 12
- Jake shares an image of the universe revolving around Jesus
- How ‘you’re not the centre of the universe’ is an invitation to right order and peace rather than judgement
- The role of distrust and fear when we place ourselves at the centre of the universe
- An historical lens for our big life questions
- Jake and Brett speculate on the genuine reasons we put ourselves at the centre of the universe
- How pride, vanity and sensuality are paths that we try to be okay, and make ‘it’ (life) okay
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What are you looking for in life?
- What are the expectations you have of God?
- Do you hear the phrase, ‘You’re not the centre of the universe’ as a judgement or with relief? Why?
- Which is the primary tendency you struggle with, based on Jake and Brett’s examples: pride, vanity or sensuality? How can you invite Jesus to help you combat this?
Resources
- The Men’s Retreat 2022
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Editing by Forte Catholic
Jake and Brett have a rich conversation covering everything from the principle of asceticism, to how true self-actualization is found in Christ, to what it means for us to be living in what George Weigel describes as the ‘Age of Witness’. The hosts challenge us to consider what captures our attention and time, and reveal how giving up good things to pursue something greater can offer us freedom and intimacy in our friendship with Christ.
Guiding Quote:
It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased. - CS Lewis
Key Points
- The podcast will be switching to seasons soon to be able to dive deeper into certain themes
- Asceticism = disciplines that bring about purification of the soul
- The Purgative Way = renunciation of sin in our lives in order to orient our lives towards the Lord
- The important distinction between the purgative way and asceticism
- What it means to seek a greater good
- Some common things we are enchanted with that can be a distraction
- How to find out if you’re addicted to something: try giving it up
- How asceticism can point us towards the condition of our hearts
- Moving from the age of apologetics to the age of witness and what this means for Christians
- The importance of good psychology grounded in an accurate understanding of the human person in this new age
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What do you find yourself enchanted by, or in other words what do you spend the most time on? How would pulling back from this allow you to deepen your friendship with Jesus?
- What feels impossible to give up in my life? Challenge yourself to be free of that thing over the next two weeks.
- What areas of your life are hard to trust that God will be able to provide for or satisfy?
Resources
- Exodus 90
- The Utter Relief of Holiness, John Eldredge (book)
- Redemptor Hominis, Pope John Paul II (encyclical)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
Jake and Brett look back at one hundred episodes of the Way of the Heart by sharing favourite episodes, what they wish they’d talked about more, and how they’ve watched each other grow over the past four years. The show wraps up with some unscripted feedback as the men offer each other words of encouragement and observations about potential blindspots. As always, the show is a window into the brotherhood the two share, and a blueprint to help navigate the way of the heart. To celebrate our 100th episode, would you leave us a rating and review? Thanks for listening!
*100th Episode Giveaway***
We're celebrating our 100th episode with a giveaway! Enter to win a dorm-style registration (approx. value $300) for this year's Men’s Retreat (Sept 30-Oct 2) in Princeton, BC. Email us at info@wayoftheheartpodcast.com OR comment on Instagram with the following:
1) your favourite episode and
2) a suggestion for a future episode
BONUS: Follow us on Instagram @wayoftheheartpodast and tag a friend for additional entries (1 entry per tag)
Contest is open to anyone age 19+ and closes June 30 at 11:59 pm PT. Information about the Men's Retreat can be found at liferestoration.ca/mensretreat.
Guiding Quote:
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. - 2 Timothy 1:7
Key Points
- Brett’s favourite episodes (linked in resources):
- Episode 68 - Spiritual Growth
- Episode 94 - Discerning the Internal Critic
- Episode 95 - Living From the Heart
- Episode 96 - What’s Going on in the Culture
- Episodes 69 & 70 - Marriage (with Heather Khym and Andrea Powell)
- Anything with Bishop Scott!
-
Any time the conversation turned into a different topic than planned!
-
Jake’s favourite episodes (linked in resources):
- Episode 20 - What Jake Would Say to His 20-Year-Old-Self
-
Episode 91 - The Masculine Healing Journey with Dr. Bob Schuchts
-
World events that have happened since the podcast began in the summer of 2018
- Podcast regrets: what we wish we’d talked about more
- Ways the podcasts has helped us improve and grow over the past few years
- Areas where we’ve noticed ourselves slipping since we began the podcast
- Jake and Brett give honest feedback to each other
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What is your favourite episode?
- What’s one suggestion you would have for a future episode?
Resources
- Episode 20 - What Jake Would Say to His 20-Year-Old-Self
- Episode 68 - Spiritual Growth (with Bishop Scott)
- Episodes 69 & 70 - Marriage (with Heather Khym and Andrea Powell)
- Episode 91 - The Masculine Healing Journey with Dr. Bob Schuchts
- Episode 94 - Discerning the Internal Critic (with Bishop Scott)
- Episode 95 - Living From the Heart (with Bishop Scott)
- Episode 96 - What’s Going on in the Culture (with Bishop Scott)
- On Men and Feelings, Brett Powell (blog post)
- The Men’s Retreat, Life Restoration Ministries (event)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
If you’ve ever listened to the podcast and wondered, “What on earth do they mean by ‘orphan mentality’ or ‘foxhole friends’?” then this episode is for you. Jake and Brett zoom out to explain some of the vernacular they use regularly on the show. Whether you’re a faithful listener or new to the Way of the Heart, this episode is full of a-ha moments as they provide context to terms like the foxhole, wounds, scripts, performance orientation, and orphan.
Key Points
- The foxhole: in wartimes, a trench that you would dig yourself for safety
- Foxhole friendships are very rare, intimate and require deep trust. You don’t want to move too quickly into foxhole friendships.
- Jesus had foxhole friends
- Wounds: a popular term right now. Jake and Brett explain the difference between what they mean when they talk about wounds vs what the culture refers to
- The virtuous life is found between two extreme attitudes: “everything is wounds” and “stop navel gazing”
- Scripts: a collection of beliefs that create a story for us
- Performance orientation: the belief that you are the sum of your weaknesses and failures, and your lovableness is linked to your performance
- Confidence in the Father leads to freedom
- Orphan: not a literal orphan, but an identity and a way of relating to life as if there is a scarcity of love
- Way of the Podcast will take a break in July and August
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Which of the terms that Jake and Brett discuss are you least familiar with? What did you learn from their definition?
- What terms would you add to the Way of the Heart jargon list?
Resources
- Anatomy of a Wound series from Restore the Glory Podcast
- 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
Why does it matter to know and define our personal values? Jake and Brett argue that discovering our personal value system can help us understand and live God’s unique design for our lives. Whether we have taken the time to define our core values or not, we all live out of an unspoken code. The more we seek to live a well-ordered life and come to understand what makes us tick, the better we can fulfill our unique mission in the world..
Guiding Quote:
But let your word 'yes be 'yes,' and your 'no be 'no.' - Matthew 5:37
Key Points
- Brett’s high: he’s grandfather to a second grandbaby, Sebastian!
- Our personal values are a manifestation of God’s unique design for our life, but they have to be discovered
- Examples of why personal values matter
- Our emotions can reveal our values when they’re well ordered
- A model you can use to uncover your values: define, align, refine
- How Brett and Jake have defined, aligned and refined their own values
- How can we recognize if we’re out of alignment with our values?
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Take a moment to do the ‘eulogy’ exercise: what do you want people to say about you at the end of your life? How do these things point toward your values?
Resources
- The Strangest Way: Walking the Christian Path, Robert Barron (book)
- Gladiator (movie)
- Episode 78: The Compass vs the Clock, Way of the Heart (podcast)
- Episode 91: The Masculine Healing Journey with Dr. Bob Schuchts (podcast)
- Principle-Centered Leadership, Stephen Covey (book)
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey (book)
- First Things First, Stephen Covey (book)
- The Leadership Challenge (book)
- John C Maxwell (author)
- 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, Jordan Peterson (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
Jake and Brett continue the conversation from last episode about what’s going on in the culture. The topics on the table are “cancel culture” and the digitization of everything, but most importantly how these trends affect the way of the heart.
Guiding Quote:
“The Church has always had the duty of scrutinizing the signs of the times and interpreting them in light of the Gospel.” - Gaudium Et Spes (4)
Key Points
- Shoutout to Forte Catholic - thanks for editing our show!
- Why we are called to pay attention to (and discern) the signs of the times
- Cancel culture and the canceling of Joe Rogan
- Extending mercy and forgiveness to those in public spaces who admit to doing wrong
- The danger of not creating space for conversion and growth
- How the expectation of perfection by our culture can be dehumanizing
- What the digitization of everything is doing to the heart
- How constant connectedness through technology can affect our prayer life, relationships and attention
- An insightful story about Jake’s son’s basketball team
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do you find it challenging to extend mercy to those in public roles? Do you allow yourself to hope for conversion and growth in our leaders or do you find yourself expecting perfection?
- What is the distinction between grace and accountability?
- How do you notice digitization affecting your life? What is one thing you can do to make a positive shift in this area?
Resources
- Gaudium Et Spes
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Editing by Forte Catholic
Bishop Scott McCaig, CC is back to share what he sees happening on a heart-level in our culture today. If we want to truly live the way of the heart, we have to understand the culture we’re living in instead of burying our heads in the sand. Then, we must engage there from a place of love. Join us for an enlightening conversation that closes with a challenge and a dose of hope.
Guiding Quote:
Faith and Reason are like two wings of the human spirit by which it soars to the truth. - St. John Paul II
Key Points
- We’re living in the age of voluntarism, where everything originates from the will
- The shift from Christendom to Enlightenment in the 1700s changed how we saw the origin of truth
- We have moved past the Age of Reason to the Age of the Will (Voluntarism) which leans heavily on our feelings rather than looking to Divine inspiration
- Jake shares the analogy of the Matrix to illustrate our reality
- Why advocacy is the primary virtue that our culture seems to value
- Discussion turns towards women’s sports and how objective reality makes itself known
- The men tackle the question, “What’s the way of the heart in the midst of a culture of voluntarism?”
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do you feel that you have a good grasp of the culture we are living in? Do you find yourself desiring not to engage with the culture?
- What do you think of Jake’s analogy of the Matrix?
- How can you live the way of the heart with this newfound understanding of voluntarism?
Resources
- Philosophy of Voluntarism
- The Matrix (movie)
- Bishop Scott on Twitter
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Show Notes:
Jake and Brett welcome Bishop Scott McCaig, CC back onto the podcast to revisit a quote from the Catechism of the Catholic Church that addresses the way of the heart. They each share reflections on the heart as a place of authenticity, decision and encounter. The Catechism describes the heart as “the dwelling-place of where I am.” If we want to live in full freedom, we must understand our own hearts. This episode is a great place to start.
Guiding Quote:
The heart is the dwelling-place where I am, where I live; according to the Semitic or Biblical expression, the heart is the place "to which I withdraw." The heart is our hidden center, beyond the grasp of our reason and of others; only the Spirit of God can fathom the human heart and know it fully. The heart is the place of decision, deeper than our psychic drives. It is the place of truth, where we choose life or death. It is the place of encounter, because as image of God we live in relation: it is the place of covenant. - CCC 2563
Key Points
- Brett, Jake and Bishop Scott share initial thoughts about the quote from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
- Three qualities that mean living from the heart authentically: sincerity, presence and intentionality.
- We live three lives: the public life, private life and hidden life of the heart
- We must prioritize the hidden life
- The power of decisions and how past decisions have formed us and future decisions can lead us
- Identifying personal values of the heart allows us to make good decisions
- How virtue sets us free to be who we are meant to be
- How right orientation to God as the centre of all things makes us inherently vulnerable
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What are some of the personal values you strive to live out of?
- Which area of your life is it most difficult to live as your authentic self: the public, private or hidden life of the heart?
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
In this episode of the Way of the Heart, we host special guest Bishop Scott McCaig, CC. We dialogue about discerning the internal critic and what voices belong to the enemy, the self, and the Holy Spirit. We discuss how the enemy and the self often condemn us, whereas the Holy Spirit lovingly convicts us of the truth that brings about good fruit in our lives. We distinguish that condemnation leads to shame, but conviction leads to repentance and hope. We also focus on the need to experience the deep love that the Father has for us and His desire for us to lead us into our glory.
Guiding Quote:
“We have to be rooted deeply in a place of sonship, in a place of understanding the father's love for me. Then I can understand and receive both his affirming voice and his voice of discipline.” Bishop Scott McCaig
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What types of things does the voice of condemnation (whether from yourself or the enemy) say to you personally?
- Share a moment where you felt that God gave you loving correction.
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Jake revisits his low from the last episode, which revolves around friendship dynamics and his shortcomings. Brett presses into the recent and humbling experience Jake had with an old friend, and the two launch into a discussion about the power of self-awareness, safety and virtue when you’re experiencing relational drift with a friend. This is heart-level stuff, but as Jake says, it’s important to engage at this level if you don’t want to be an asshole (plus, Navy SEALs aren’t afraid of talking about their weaknesses for the sake of their team).
Key Points
- Jake recounts a difficult conversation with a good friend who he hadn’t been in touch with for some time
- Jake shares the conviction that he wants to do better in friendships and move away from utilitarian tendencies
- Brett presses into the factors that led to Jake approaching friendship with utility
- How safety plays a significant role in being vulnerable and growing a friendship
- The power of interpretations and agreements
- The blessing that truth is to friendship
- Why Navy SEAL training includes sharing what your greatest weakness is with your team
- How hard conversations can be a blessing and lead to stronger friendship
- Why we should try not to be an asshole
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do you want the kind of friendship that Brett and Jake describe?
- Are there any friendships that come to mind during this episode where you’ve experienced that ‘relational drift’? Instead of diving into a conversation with them right away, pray about it first, as Brett advised. What comes up for you?
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Brett’s low this week leads to an extended conversation about the internal critic, a diminishing voice that tends to show up when we least want it to: during a work meeting, right before an important exam or in an important conversation with a loved one. Where does the diminisher come from and how can we tell the voice of the enemy from the voice of God? Brett and Jake share their reflections and offer suggestions about how we can react maturely in ways that draw us back to reality and our sonship in the Father.
Guiding Quote:
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. - 1 John 4:18
Key Points
- Brett’s low leads into a discussion about the diminisher voice
- How self-awareness helps us identify the diminisher voice
- Unhelpful behaviors that we might have in reaction to the voice of the diminisher
- Brett’s shares about fog in Saskatchewan and why this is a great analogy for the inner critic
- Jake and Brett share their definitions of the inner critic or diminisher
- The diminisher viciously attacks our sonship and identity in Father
- The diminisher voice feels so real in the moment, how can we tell what’s from God and what’s not?
- Helpful practices for working against the diminisher in the moment
- How vulnerability with trusted brothers can help you through the fog
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What’s an experience you can recall when you felt the impact of the diminisher voice? What allowed you to recognize it for what it was, either in the moment or later?
- How long does it take for the effects of the fog to pass?
- The next time you feel yourself in ‘the fog,’ what’s a method you can use to prevent you from spiraling? Ideas from the episode are: talk to a trusted brother or friend, affirm someone else, journal the feelings and bring it to the Lord.
References
- none
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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As men, we often find it difficult to look at our woundedness and need for healing. Why is that, and what can we do to engage the process better in this important area? In this episode, renowned Catholic psychologist Dr. Bob Schuchts joins Jake and Brett to discuss healing in a deeply personal way. The three men share examples of healing in their own lives, and Dr. Bob helps Jake work through a childhood memory live on the episode. You can hear more from Dr. Bob and Jake on their podcast, Restore the Glory. Don’t forget to check the show notes for many helpful resources!
Guiding Quote:
“Healing is an essential dimension of the apostolic mission and of Christianity. When understood at a sufficiently deep level, this expresses the entire content of redemption.” - Pope Benedict XVI (Jesus of Nazareth)
Key Points
- How men’s ministry led to Dr. Bob’s healing work
- Off script discussion of the phenomenon of Jordan Peterson
- Dr. Bob shares what comes to mind when he thinks of healing in men
- Understanding why men resist healing
- The struggle against powerlessness as men
- The Seven Deadly Wounds that occurred in the Garden of Eden
- Description of the anatomy of a wound: wound, beliefs, vows
- How we can get a hold of what’s happening within our hearts
- Dr. Bob helps Jake break down the anatomy of a wound from his own life
- Hope and the Seven Signs of Healing
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do you fear the feeling of powerlessness?
- What are some everyday moments that have happened in the past week that can point you to what’s going on in your heart right now?
References
- Restore the Glory (podcast) with Jake Khym and Dr. Bob Schuchts
- Be Healed (book), Dr. Bob Schuchts
- Be Devoted (book), Dr. Bob Schuchts
- Restore the Glory Episodes 12-16: Anatomy of a Wound series
- Anatomy of a Wound (image)
- Seven Deadly Wounds
- JPII Healing Center
- The work of Jordan Peterson
- Wild at Heart (book), John Eldredge
- Jesus of Nazareth (book), Pope Benedict XVI
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Loneliness is epidemic among men today. The thing is, we’re not meant to live without deep friendship. Join Jake and Brett as they get real about the strength they’ve found in their own friendship and how they have intentionally invested in it over time. They share why every man needs true brothers who will walk with them through the trenches of life, and how to go about building friendships like that.
Key Quote:
Be a son. Love the process. Close the gap.
Key Points
- Jake asks Brett a vulnerable question about their friendship
- The importance of ‘checking in’ with our brothers
- The power of consistency and presence (companionship) in brotherhood
- Some simple things you can do to walk with someone through a hard time
- Learning long-suffering and being okay with it
- The difference between deep ‘3 am’ friendships and acquaintances
- Why men need friends
- Seasons of life that can be difficult that call for the support of good brothers: marriage challenges, parenting, work, health, mental health
- The intentional process of building a deep friendship
- It’s okay to be on your own but not all the time - we all need brotherhood
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Do I worry that walking with a brother who is going through a difficult time will be draining? How can I show up for them in a way that simply offers my presence?
- Have I ever experienced what Jake calls ‘long suffering’? Do I trust that it can make me a better man if I engage with it well?
- Who are my ‘3 am friendships’? If I can’t think of anyone, who in my life would I like to intentionally go deeper with to get there?
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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In today’s episode, Brett and Jake engage with deep questions of the heart as they discuss the shrinking church. While they begin by citing Canadian stats, this trend is evident in other Western countries. Brett and Jake address why it is that culturally speaking, Jesus isn’t seen as relevant anymore. They also share some thoughts on why it’s crucial that the Church as a whole accepts a share in the responsibility of this downward trend. The following episode does not seek to provide all the answers to these difficult topics, but rather to engage in a meaningful conversation about them. We hope you find this conversation enlightening as we journey together in the way of the heart. Key Quote:
The Catholic Church almost doesn’t even need a defense. It’s more like a lion; just let it out of its cage and it takes care of itself. - Dr. Scott Hahn
Key Points
- Religious affiliation has dropped significantly in the past 40 years, with Covid adding an extra blow
- The importance of relevance and leadership on the practice of faith
- The cultural shift from believing that what oppresses man is sin, to the belief that oppression comes from human ignorance, which removes our need for a Saviour
- Why Jesus must be central, and things which distract our gaze from him
- Some basic psychology and why our lack of fulfillment leads us either to numb or to embrace faith
- The importance of accepting responsibility as leaders and as the Church as a whole
- The challenge faced by leaders of Christian institutions to stay true to Christ as we move away from Christendom
- Why our podcast is not about answers, but rather engaging the questions of the heart
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- Examine your own life. Do you live as if Jesus is relevant to your everyday life? If not, why?
- Are you numbing or avoiding in any areas of your life?
- Where are the places that you appear to be Christian but you're not truly walking the walk?
References
- CTV News Article: Number of Canadians reporting religious affiliations at all-time low: StatCan
- From Christendom to Apostolic Mission (book)
- Live Not By Lies, Rod Dreher (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Editing by ForteCatholic.com
How often do we pause to think about how we’re spending our time? Are the things that are taking up our attention truly making us feel alive? In this episode, Jake and Brett explore a list of the things they turn to for life. Naturally, prayer, close relationships and sports make the list, but there are also a few surprises!
Key Quote:
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” - John 14:6
Key Points
- What we mean when we say, “What gives you life?”
- The misunderstanding of happiness and the tendency to go for an ‘all or nothing’ approach
- Aristotle’s Four Levels of Happiness
- Things that bring Jake and Brett life
- The importance of relationships for our happiness
- Learning to trust in God’s abundance
- Helping in small ways can have a huge impact on the life of someone else
Discussion Questions
- What stood out to you in this episode?
- What brings you life and makes you feel alive? Are you doing those things?
- What might you have to dial back in order to make space for more of what brings you life?
References
- Aristotle’s Four Levels of Happiness, Spitzer Center
- Suddenly Les Miserables (2012), song
- Patrick Roy, NHL Hall of Fame
Connect with Way of the Heart:
Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Editing by ForteCatholic.com
Now is not a very popular time to be a Catholic. The culture which was once steeped in Christian ideals is now hostile to those same ideals and beliefs. In this episode, Jake and Brett discuss a book that’s currently taking the Catholic world by storm which can help us understand this shift. “From Christendom to Apostolic Mission” is a short and pithy book that’s easy to read and extremely relevant, giving us a lens through which to understand how the Church fits into the current culture. The return to an Apostolic age presents it’s own opportunities and hope for a more authentic Church.
Key Quote:
“We are at the end of Christendom. Not Christianity, not the Church. Christendom is the economic, political, and social life as inspired by Christian principles. That is ending. We live in it from day to day, and we do not see the decline.” - Bishop Fulton Sheen
Key Points
- Christendom refers to the society in which the Church is planted, a society that is animated by Christian principles
- Christendom spanned from the reign of the Emperor Constantine to the 1960s
- The ‘Apostolic mode’ is not a new mode of church - it goes back to the early church
- Apostolic Christianity leaves no room for duplicity, hypocrisy. It is the narrow way.
- The importance of being grounded in eternal truths
- Looking at the culture, not in an alarmist way but taking stock of the facts, it’s not a popular time to be a Catholic
- Apostolic Mission calls us to live authentic, Christian lives
Discussion Questions
- Do you find it difficult to live out Christian values in our current culture?
- How does the shift to Apostolic Mission intimidate and/or inspire you as a Christian man?
- What’s one area of your life that you feel called to greater authenticity and integrity in living your faith?
References
- From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age (book)
Connect with Way of the Heart:
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Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Editing by ForteCatholic.com
Our lives are increasingly distracted, and our constantly connected state can threaten to overwhelm us. Jake and Brett discuss how the art of benevolent detachment can help you ‘get your life back’ and stay focused on what’s most important. Benevolent detachment allows us to re-prioritize our time to be more loving and frees us from self-reliance. It can help us to live happier and holier lives.
Guiding Scripture:
"Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
Key Points
- The downsides of relentless connection through technology and our increasingly distracted state
- The importance of developing healthy habits
- How detachment can help you to be more loving
- An explanation of how self-reliance indicates a lack of trust in the Father’s love
- Benevolent detachment means we are not ruled by needs or opportunities
Discussion Questions
- What things could you use some detachment from?
- What “rules” do you have in place to be able to separate yourself from work while off the clock?
- In what ways do you view yourself as an orphan or a son in your relationship with God?
References
- Get Your Life Back by John Eldredge (book)
- Pause App by John Eldredge
- News of the World with Tom Hanks (movie)
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k by Mark Manson (book)
- Surrender Novena by Fr. Dolindo
Connect with Way of the Heart:
- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Editing by ForteCatholic.com
We all have times in our life where the stress piles up and the tasklist seems endless. This week, Jake and Brett go down an unscripted route as they dive a little deeper into the reasons behind our desire to control as men. They talk about how to handle busy seasons as a man of God, how to find some sanity and learn the important difference between domination and dominion.
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Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Key Points
-
Overcoming an endless list of tasks
-
What in our life do we try to control?
-
Looking below the surface of control to our interior state: are we seeking domination or dominion
-
The difference between domination and dominion
-
In times of chaos, find simple tasks that you can complete
-
The difference between mistakes and sins
Discussion Questions
-
What struck you about this episode?
-
How do you typically deal with stressful, task-heavy seasons of life?
-
What things in your life are you seeking to control in order to satisfy your own needs (domination)?
-
What are some things in your life that you are able to approach with a spirit of dominion? How do you see fruitfulness in that dominion?
-
What tasks that help you emotionally regulate?
-
What have you learned from your mistakes?
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
This week, Jake and Brett take a special, extended look at their highs and lows. They both share great stories of what God is doing for them in their families and what new adventures they’re tackling at the moment. They also share about challenges due to Covid, election season and returning to school. We are all still dealing with the difficulties of a stressful and disunified time in our world and we hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone.
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- Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
Subscribe/Rate
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Key Points
- There is blessing in experiencing the wider Church, not just how it is experienced from our perspective.
- Story about obtaining relics
- Jake trying a new adventure
- Signs of a healthy discernment
- Disunity in the world weighing on our hearts
- Not feeling restored after Summer like usual
- Dealing with stressful topics internally like Covid and elections
Discussion Questions
- What struck you about this episode?
- What are your highs and lows this week? Share them with friends or loved one.
- What are the signs in any current areas of discernment that you are making healthy decisions? What might be the red flags that you are not discerning well?
- What is the last adventure you went on?
- How can you find rest in this season?
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
In this second part of a conversation with Fr. Richard Conlin about winning the battle of the mind, Jake and Brett discuss how to prepare for the battle of the mind before it even begins. Preparations include spending time in prayer, immersing yourself in scripture and surrounding yourself with allies. The three men share common scenarios that men find themselves in and how to change thought patterns during these crucial moments.
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- Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast
- Website: www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com
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Key Scripture
Romans 12:1 “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind”
Key Points
- Attack before the enemy begins. Wake up and pray/read Scripture.
- Have allies in the battle
- Remember that inner thoughts and reality can be very different
- Interpret things through a lens in relationships. Frustration can be compounded when we react to others as if they intended to wrong us when they may not have.
- Invite Jesus into the situation. Ask for clarity and how best to move forward
- The men provide strategies to engage in the battlefield of the mind when it comes to temptation toward impurity
Discussion Questions
- How can you prepare for the battle of the mind before it even begins?
- Who can be an ally in the battle of the mind? How can they help?
- What situations do you need to invite Jesus into?
References
- Fr. Conlin’s Website: The Prodigal Catholic Blog
- Fr. Conlin’s 33 Biblical “I Am” Statements for Catholics
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
This is the first of a two-part conversation with Fr. Richard Conlin about winning the battle of the mind. Fr. Richard, Jake & Brett discuss how managing our thoughts is critical to opening ourselves to grace, and why it’s impossible to stay neutral in this battle. They share how turning to Scripture in times of struggle is modelled by Jesus, and can seal us in truth to combat the lies of the enemy.
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
This week is the final episode in our series breaking open the three core desires of the masculine heart from John Eldredge’s book, “Wild at Heart.” The last core desire is a “beauty to rescue,” focussing on a man’s relationship with the women in his life.
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
This week, Jake and Brett break open the second of three core desires of the masculine heart, based on John Eldredge’s book, “Wild at Heart”: an adventure to live. In order to embrace adventure and live as we were created to, we have to have a certain amount of risk in our lives.
Editing by ForteCatholic.com
This week kicks off Jake & Brett’s new three part series based on John Eldridge’s "Wild At Heart". They explore the three key desires of every man’s heart: A Battle To Fight, An Adventure to Live & a Beauty to Rescue. This week is all about the most important battles we face and how to fight them. Enjoy!
On the anniversary of Stephen Covey’s death, Jake & Brett discuss the immense impact he’s had on their lives. They focus on one of his key quotes, “Live your life by the compass, not the clock." They discuss how hard it can be to truly live by our values and compass, and why it’s important to regularly stay connected to what matters most.
In celebration of St. Irenaeus’s feast day, Brett & Jake break down his famous quote: “The glory of God is man fully alive.” Taking inspiration from the life of St. Irenaeus and his fight against heresy in the early Church, they dive into what it means for us to live an abundant life and how we should use our freedom.
With Father’s Day right around the corner, Brett & Jake spend an episode discussing fatherhood and the call to sacrificial love shown to us by Christ on the cross. A major theme in fatherhood is making the right choices for our family even if this means sacrificing our own desires. Growing in spiritual maturity allows us to become the fathers that God intended as we learn more and more to love without counting the cost.
Jake & Brett take a deep dive into their highs and lows before continuing the conversation about how we, as men, can learn from the example of St. Joseph. This week, they focus on the “creative courage” that St. Joseph exemplified as he led the Holy Family through difficulties. They address the redemption that God can bring from difficult circumstances in our histories, and how the sacrifices we make can bring about new and greater possibilities for us and those we love.
This week, Jake and Brett explore the topic of work and responsibility through the lens of St. Joseph the Worker. How does his example help us to grow as men in our work? How we handle our work reveals our character and our hearts. We can find profound meaning in responsibility. How does responsibility help us to mature, and how can St. Joseph help show us the way? The hosts provide insight into these essential questions, helping us identify how we can mature from boys into men.
This week kicks off a series on St. Joseph. Brett shares his experience of doing the consecration to St. Joseph and Jake shares how St. Joseph was probably not an old man like we’ve often been told. They have a discussion on the implications of St. Joseph being a young man and also take lessons from him being the patron saint of workers. How does our work help to orient us towards the Lord? Tune in to learn about masculinity by focusing on one of the greatest men of all time: St. Joseph.
Brett & Jake are rejoined by Fr. BJ Hamilton to continue their conversation from the last episode. This week, the focus is on two of Father BJ’s primary passions: basketball & pastoral leadership. So many in Church leadership, whether lay or priests, haven’t had adequate training in how to be a leader. This has led to some very difficult situations in parishes/ministries. Fr. BJ shares how he has sought out growth as a leader and pleads for others to do the same.
Brett & Jake are joined by Fr. BJ Hamilton for a conversation on the importance of sharing and showing love as a father. They discuss the similarities between the heart of a dad and that of a priest. They share hardships and triumphs and what they have learned about how to love better as a man.
The wives are back for part 2 of their discussion continued from last episode. This week, Jake & Brett invite their wives to share the feminine perspective on masculine heart. Andrea & Heather share how their husbands have led them well and also how they have challenged and encouraged them to grow when they weren’t at their best. This conversation is helpful not only for married couples but also any man who one day wants to be married and any man who wants to heal broken parts of his heart. Connect with Way of the Heart: Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast (https://www.facebook.com/wayoftheheartpodcast/) Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/wayoftheheartpodcast/?hl=en) Website: https://www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com Subscribe/Rate Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
This week, Jake and Brett have on the most special guests in the history of the show: their wives! They have a lovely conversation about how they met, how they’ve grown as a couple in their years of marriage and how they’ve handled and learned from their wounds and hardships of marriage. Both couples have a depth of knowledge and experience with the heights and depths of marriage and the conversation is rich with laughter, insight and love.
Jake and Brett are joined by Bishop McCaig: the Bishop of the Canadian Military and member of the Companions of the Cross. They discuss the five areas of self-knowledge that are key to spiritual growth and the four primary ways that God speaks to us. There is a treasure trove of insight to the spiritual life from the good Bishop that led to a lot of “ah-ha” moments for our hosts. This episode can help you prepare for Lent in some real and tangible ways.
This week, Jake and Brett discuss the true meaning of being yourself. God created us in a particular way and we need to live in that truth. There’s a balance to be had between thinking too little or too highly of ourselves. Men are often afraid to show how strong they really are because they’re afraid they will hurt someone, but we were sent to be representatives of a powerful God and so we need to carry ourselves accordingly. Holding all these things in balance can be difficult, but this conversation will help in achieving that goal.
Jake and Brett kick off the show with their highs and lows involving conversations about being a Grandparent, empathy, presence over productivity and big news for Life Restoration Ministries. The topic this week is the Word of the Year. This is a practice that has become popular in recent years. Many use a Word of the Year generator to find their word but Jake and Brett share how they prayerfully discern their word and invite you to use the same process.
Lay evangelist and author Patrick Sullivan joins the show to share a key things that have been on his heart recently. The founder of Evango and father of nine talks with Jake and Brett about dealing with the stress of the pandemic, personal prayer and fatherhood from a breadth of experience. Each of the guys open up about a way they have been struggling as a man, husband or father. They share how they have tackled these issues while encouraging and challenging one another. If you’ve had a tough time over the last ten months and want to take the next step in being the man, husband or father you want to be, take a listen. Connect with Patrick Facebook: @evango(https://www.facebook.com/evango.net) Instagram: @Patrick_Evango(https://www.instagram.com/patrick_evango/) Twitter: @Patrick_Evango(https://twitter.com/Patrick_Evango) Evango Website:https://www.evango.net Connect with Way of the Heart: Facebook: @wayoftheheartpodcast (https://www.facebook.com/wayoftheheartpodcast/) Instagram: @wayoftheheartpodcast(https://www.instagram.com/wayoftheheartpodcast/?hl=en) Website: https://www.wayoftheheartpodcast.com Subscribe/Rate Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow as holy men by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!
Fr. Simon Lobo, CC returns to share about his water polo achievements, but more importantly, joins the guys for a deep and thought-provoking conversation on rest. Many men struggle to rest because of stress, our many responsibilities & consistent desire to achieve our goals. This episode will help you enter into rest in a way that leaves you feeling restored physically, mentally and spiritually. We hope this conversation equips and challenges you to adapt how you are able to rest and be restored by the Lord.
Jake and Brett finish a series on Advent and discuss the importance of being aware of how much we relate to God for what He has instead of who He is.
Jake and Brett start on series on Advent and discuss how Advent is a call to wake up and return to Jesus. The season might seem soft but it’s actually a radical call to humility and surrender.
Jake and Brett are joined by Morgan Snyder, author of Becoming a King and host of the blog and podcast Become Good Soil. Morgan, Jake, and Brett talk about sonship, how we have learned and can relearn masculinity, the role of adversity, and the restoration of the Church.
Jake and Brett discuss the vital importance of character in men. Despite the negative cultural messages, authentic masculinity is good and needed. As men, we must decide who we will be before we decide what we will do. Articulating our values is necessary.
Jake and Brett share about men who have shaped them in their masculine journey. There are men who mentor us (Paul's), men who are our peers (Barnabas'), and men we pour into (Timothy's). Acknowledging the influence these men have in our lives is valuable.
After sharing about an experience of attending a funeral, Jake and Brett talk about what some call the eulogy virtues, which are ways of living life that emphasize the character of a person more than their skills.
Jake and Brett are joined by Corey Robinson, a former Canadian Olympic wrestler, who speaks to young people about how to overcome adversity. After discussing Corey’s start in elite athletics, the three discuss numerous topics including masculinity, strength, addiction, mediocrity, marriage, and friendship.
Jake and Brett are joined once again by their friend Fr. Simon Lobo, pastor at St. Benedict’s Parish in Halifax. They discuss the concept of crucial conversations. Our relationships develop one conversation at a time and growing in the ability to have crucial conversations is an important part of the masculine journey.
Jake and Brett are joined by their friend Fr. Simon Lobo, pastor at St. Benedict’s Parish in Halifax. They all discuss the dynamics of the heart that make a good leader in a parish as well as in the family and world.
Jake and Brett are joined by their friend Jeff Graham, a businessman for over twenty years who has a passion for raising awareness about the impact of digital media and its capacity to distract us from what really matters. We discuss the alarming frequency of digital use as well as practical ways to return to what really matters both individually and as families.
Jake and Brett return to a staple in the podcast and share their highs and lows of the past few weeks. They talk about navigating marriage as well as addressing the self-life.
Jake and Brett finish their book study series on Fathered By God and discuss the Sage and offer some final thoughts. Good questions and conversations can draw out the wisdom of older men. The masculine journey is a quest arranged by God for your initiation. Stay with it!
Jake and Brett continue their book study series on Fathered By God and unpack the stage of the King. Despite seeming like a place of honour and power, being a king is about being a secure son who is a servant of all using authority to bless and bring life to those around him.
Jake and Brett continue their book study series on Fathered By God and unpack to next stages in the masculine journey: warrior and lover. Learning that there are things worth fighting for and how to maturely engage beauty are essential to the heart of every man.
Jake and Brett continue their book study series on John Eldredge’s Fathered By God. Today, they unpack boyhood and cowboy by discussing how knowing we are loved is foundational to the masculine journey but always seeking childish comfort is not the path to real masculinity.
Jake and Brett continue their book study series on Fathered By God by John Eldredge by discussing the richness of the masculine journey and being a son of God the Father.
Using a current, real, and personal struggle as a backdrop, Jake and Brett start a book study about one of the most influential books in their lives, Fathered By God by John Eldredge.
After checking in about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Jake and Brett talk about how Jesus’ resurrection is the greatest event in human history. They end with a special announcement about a future series.
Jake and Brett are joined by special guest, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, Archbishop of Vancouver, to discuss the life and legacy of St. John Paul II.
Jake and Brett have a conversation about the COVID-19 pandemic. They share how it has affected them as well as practical ways to navigate our hearts and relationships during these difficult times.
Jake and Brett conclude a three part series on Lent and discuss how having an imperfect Lent can open us to receive God's abundant mercy.
Jake and Brett continue a series on Lent and discuss the value of spiritual disciplines and how to have a fruitful Lent.
Jake and Brett start a series on the next liturgical season and ask the question, “Why Lent?” concluding that Lent is about the restoration of sonship.
Jake and Brett talk about how movies are modern day parables that reveal the deeper themes in life. They also discuss some of their all time favourites.
Following the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, Jake and Brett discuss the importance and centrality of personal conversion in Christianity and in our own lives.
Summary
Jake and Brett discuss how setting New Years resolutions is actually about growth in virtue. They share from their professional experience about how to make your resolutions become reality.
Guiding Scripture
“When the days drew near for him to be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51)
Key points
- Live as though when you wake up the enemy says, “Oh crap, she’s (he’s) awake.”
- Growing in benevolent detachment Is great for the way of the heart
- Discipline leads to freedom
- If you are working for and in the kingdom of God, you are under spiritual attack all the time
- “I was afraid, because I was naked, so I hid” (Gen 3:10)
- Resolve is seeing something through to the end
- Roughly 8% of people actually carry out their resolutions
- Good resolutions are where our intention actually becomes reality
- Resolutions are good if they keep us focused on what really matters
- Resolutions will be require steadfastness and the journey is often better than the end - the journey offers immense value
- “Many people want the results of commitment but few are willing to pay the price”
- Resolutions cannot be rooted in comparison
- Resolutions are more successful when done with others
- Bring our possible resolutions to the Father in prayer
- Tim Ferris says to forget New Years resolutions and evaluate the last year
- Four areas of reflection (formation): human, spiritual, intellectual, pastoral
- Trying to accomplish something over 365 days is very hard
- A what without a when is a never
- Usually resolutions are vague and that’s not good to accomplish a goal
- Create SMART goals (Specific/Simple, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time sensitive)
- Resolutions require and develop virtue
- We need to stretch a bit when we have a resolution or goal
- Maturity isn’t indolence but interdependence
- Writing goals down is valuable
- Setting quarterly goals might help because annual goals can be easier to avoid or forget
- “Grace is not opposed to effort. Grace is opposed to earning.” Earning is an attitude in relationship. (Dallas Willard)
- Grace builds on nature
Discussion Questions
- What struck you from this episode?
- When do you find your resolutions are most successful?
- In the past year, how was life humanly, spiritually, intellectually, and pastorally?
- What is a SMART resolution you might consider this year? Who can you share it with?
Resources
- Pause App
- Tim Ferris
Episode 37 - Word of the Year
Summary:
Jake and Brett discuss the practice of praying about a word for the year and how this practice is about having a prophetic vision from God for your year.
Guiding Scripture:
“Without prophetic vision, people abandon restraint, but those who obey the Law are happy.” (Proverbs 29:18)
Key points:
- Jake first heard about praying for a word for the year from his wife Heather and the Abiding Together Podcast
- The word of the year is about hearing about a personal and specific focus God has for our lives during the year - it’s a thematic vision from God
- The vision is given by God
- Prophetic is often misunderstood to be predicting the future but it’s actually about listening to God and responding to Him
- The word of the year is a theme that we hear from God that gives us focus for the year and it helps us navigate life
- Using a word of the year generator defeats the main purpose of the word of the year
- The purpose is to have relationship and listen to God to his word for us
- We all ache to hear God’s voice
- “Surely the Lord does nothing unless he reveals his hidden counsel to his servants” (Amos 3:7)
- Brett’s word is hidden
- “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter. The glory of kings is to search them out.” (Proverbs 25:2)
- Jesus said in John 10:10, “My sheep will hear my voice.”
- Once we have received a word of the year it can be good to then search the the Scriptures fo that word or look through our journal for that word
Discussion Questions:
- What struck you from this episode?
- What is your experience with hearing God’s voice?
- Will you pray about a word for the year? Why/Why not?
- Consider sharing your word of the year with a friend.
Resources:
- The Giving Tree Book
- Abiding Together Podcast
- "If you knew the gift of God!" The wonder of prayer is revealed beside the well where we come seeking water: there, Christ comes to meet every human being. It is he who first seeks us and asks for a drink. Jesus thirsts; his asking arises from the depths of God's desire for us. Whether we realize it or not, prayer is the encounter of God's thirst with ours. God thirsts that we may thirst for him.” (CCC 2560)
After sharing their high/low, Jake and Brett discuss the reality of the Christmas season and how, upon deeper examination, the holidays can expose important dynamics in our hearts.
Jake and Brett, joined again by their friend and ally Sean O’Brien, finish the three part series on Fr. Joe Fitzgerald’s powerful homily from the Men’s Retreat in September 2019.
Jake and Brett, joined again by their friend and ally Sean O’Brien, continue a three part series unpacking a powerful homily that was given by Fr. Joe Fitzgerald at the Men’s Retreat in September 2019.
Jake and Brett, joined by their friend and ally Sean O’Brien, start a three part series that unpacks a powerful homily that was given by Fr. Joe Fitzgerald at the Men’s Retreat in September 2019.
In this episode, Jake and Brett talk about masculinity in modern culture and how the heart of masculinity isn’t privilege, bravado, passivity, or power. Rather, authentic masculinity is dangerous, good, and sacrificial.
Summary:
Brett boldly initiates an unscripted, unplanned, honest conversation about his friendship with Jake and various things getting in the way of their fellowship.
Key points:
- Brett apologizes for not being a good friend as of late
- Suggestions and interpretations can given from the evil one
- We can harbour negative interpretations and reactions that aren’t good for relationships
- Deep brotherhood is unfortunately uncommon
- The interpretation(s) we make of someone’s actions, or lack thereof, are very powerful and potentially damaging
- There is great value to acknowledge if something seems off in an important relationship and talk about it
- Addressing the reality of a relationship can be scary
- We can just let the weeds take over a relationship
- We have to fight for the things that matter
- “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter: he that has found one has found a treasure. There is nothing so precious as a faithful friend, and no scales can measure his excellence. A faithful friend is an elixir of life; and those who fear the Lord will find him.” (Sirach 6:14-16)
- It’s important to acknowledge and address our “brother wounds”
- Generally, there are two types of wounds: A - absence of something that should have been there, B - some bad that happened
- The intensity and duration of wounds are other factors that matter
- Dr. Bob Schuchts is a great Catholic psychologist who offers healing retreats
Discussion Questions:
- What struck you from this episode?
- What gets in the way of your friendships with other men?
- What friend might you need to repair with? How can you do that?
Resources:
- “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship” (St. Thomas Aquinas)
- Dr. Bob Schuchts
By unpacking various ways life can unfold after a retreat, Jake and Brett emphasis the importance of assumptions and interpretations and how to keep our hearts alive following a powerful experience of God.
Jake and Brett continue their conversation about discernment of spirits and discuss the common false reasonings men struggle with including what it means to be a good Catholic man.
Jake shares with Brett about his experiences on an 8 day retreat, especially what he learned about the discernment of spirits.
Jake and Brett talk about the various movements and dynamics that occur behind the scenes in preparation for the Men’s Retreat.
Jake and Brett take the regular high low segment of the show and extend it for an entire episode. They discuss in more depth how the way of the heart is very real, up and down, and often unresolved.
Jake and Brett discuss how true boldness is manifesting the heart of Jesus in a given situation. By examining scenes from Jesus’ life, it becomes clear that boldness is a wonderful and essential part of authentic masculinity.
Brett and Jake finish the three part series about the internal world by discussing various practicals of how to navigate and experience healing in our hearts.
Brett and Jake continue the three part series about the internal world. After Brett shares how his internal world reacted when getting home from a long day at work, the value of examining the stories we tell ourselves are discussed. Brett and Jake then offer a simple 3 part process for navigating our internal worlds. The podcast ends with a discussion of how a core reality of the Christian life is allowing Jesus to enter and heal our inner worlds.
Brett and Jake start a three part series about our internal world. Using Jake’s experience of getting a speeding ticket as a spring board, the depth and importance of the heart and internal world are explored.
Brett and Jake start a new recurring series about books we need to read. In this episode, they discuss Dr. Gary Chapman’s book The 5 Love Languages and talk about the specific love languages and how life is better when our love tanks are full.
After the usual high/low, Jake shares with Brett about what he would say to his 20-year-old-self.
After the usual high/low, Brett shares with Jake about what he would say to his 20-year-old-self.
Summary:
Jake and Brett talk about two ideas to try in your men’s groups: mastermind and my experience of you. These could be done in your men’s group as a way to change things up or take it to a deeper level.
Key Points
- “How I experience you"
-
- Where a man is told, in love, by the other men, what it's like to be around him
- This requires relationship, trust, & openness
- there are times this is affirming and times this is exposing and constructively critical
- The foundation for good men's groups is trusting relationship
- Mastermind meeting
-
- Created by Napoleon Hill
- It’s an opportunity to glean collective wisdom
- Encouraging real conversation
- Process: Every man comes with a case (place he are stuck), everyone briefly shares their case, group votes on which case to discuss, man shares deeper on the case and the others ask clarifying questions, then the group responds, the following meeting the man comes back and reports on what he did or didn't do
- It isn't problem solving
- The key is to keep it real and safe while raising awareness and responsibility
- Being empathetic will be helpful
Discussion Questions:
- What struck you from this episode?
- What men’s group idea might you try? Why?
- What other men’s group ideas have you heard of that you could try out?
- If you aren’t in a men’s group, what’s holding you back?
Jake and Brett talk about two actions of disciples (disciplines), “mind over mattress” and journalling and how these disciplines are valuable on the way of the heart.
Jake and Brett talk about how the season of Lent is a time of conversion and return to sonship where we purge our idols. Lent isn’t a time where we try to earn the Father’s love through our fasting and prayers.
In this episode, Jake and Brett talk about two ideas that might seem basic, but, when reexamined, shed valuable light onto the journey of the heart.
Key Points
- It can feel like the wrong decision to get underneath the surface and address real areas of the heart
- Lenses - “It’s not what happens to you, but the meaning you attach to it that makes all the difference.”
- We don’t see things are they are, we see things as we are
- Whether we realize it or not, in all of life, we attach meaning to our experiences
- An essential principle for navigating the way of the heart is to pause and ask ourselves, “Is this true?” (What I’m feeling, thinking, believing?)
- We need each other to offer interpretation and perspective
- We can’t navigate life alone
- Triggers - A trigger is a current experience that causes something from the past (memory, emotion, belief) to shoot forward into the present.
- A daily examen prayer can be very helpful to remaining recollected and noticing our triggers and reactions
- We have to fight against diminishing the experiences we have that might need to be talked out with someone
Discussion Questions:
- What struck you from this episode?
- Think about a time when you attached negative meaning to an experience and it changed you. Summarize the basic belief/interpretation into a simple statement (Brett’s was, “I’m second place.”) Why does this bother you? How would the interactions after the interpretation gone better if you had seen the negative interpretation and had some perspective from a trusted friend? When where some times you felt this before? Where might this belief originate?
- Who are some people you could go to for perspective?
- When was a time in the past week that you got triggered? How did it affect you?
- What are some basics in the way of the heart that you’ve forgotten?
- What’s one way you could continue to stay aware of your heart throughout your day/week?
Resources:
- “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” (Teddy Roosevelt)
- Examen Prayer by Fr. Timothy Gallagher, https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0824523679/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_y5CyCbJ81YZS6
In this extended episode Jake and Brett are joined by their good friend Jason Jensen, partner at Glass Canvas, and discuss living as an orphan/son, three common styles of relating, and ways to foster stronger relationships with other men.
In this episode Jake and Brett talk about how we can often read or hear so many life changing truths but often we don’t really let them change us. The goal is to assimilate simple truths into daily living and to get beyond acknowledging good ideas and do what’s necessary to allow the truth to transform our hearts.
In this episode, Brett and Jake finish the series on Security, Maturity, Purity by discussing the meaning of purity as the quality of relationship we offer to others. Through personal examples, listeners are invited to be the leaders, husbands, and fathers God has designed them to be by making a sincere and ongoing gift of themselves to others.
In this episode, Brett and Jake continue the series on Security, Maturity, Purity with the second of two episodes on maturity.
In this episode, Brett and Jake continue the series on Security, Maturity, Purity with the first of two episodes on maturity. After discussing how the foundation for maturity is trust in God’s heart and reliance on His grace, they show how God often matures us through adversity. Brett and Jake end this episode with some practicals suggestions for how to better face adversity.
In this episode Jake and Brett continue the series on security, maturity, and purity by focusing on the stage of security which is the foundation of the masculine journey and our life in God.
In this episode, Jake and Brett begin a five-part series on a fundamental and effective path for the hearts of men, the path of security to maturity to purity.
In this episode, Jake and Brett discuss the experience and importance of being an apprentice of Jesus.
In this episode, Jake and Brett have an unscripted and honest conversation about the recent abuse scandals in the Catholic Church and they suggest some categories for discussing what’s broken and needs rebuilding.
In this episode, Jake and Brett talk about the two primary ways men relate to God, the world, and each other - either as orphan or son.
Jake and Brett talk about the importance of going on regular retreats and share some personal experiences of how retreats have changed their lives.
In this episode, Jake and Brett discuss how of our image of God affects our heart. Many of us struggle with false images of God and these are important to notice and try to change.