JustLove – Kevin Sullivan's: Recent Episodes
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This week on JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan welcomes Suzanne J. Currie, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA. They discuss the transformative experiences this program offers youth aged 14 to 24, empowering them to cultivate essential skills and leadership qualities. Monsignor Sullivan also interviews Colten Stanberry from Becket Law about a crucial Supreme Court case involving the Catholic Charities Bureau of the Diocese of Superior, Wisconsin. The case seeks to overturn a lower court’s ruling that challenges the Bureau’s right to exempt its vital social services from Wisconsin’s Unemployment Insurance System, raising important questions about the intersection of faith and public service. Don’t miss this compelling episode filled with inspiration and advocacy!
This week, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages with Stephanie Kramer, Senior Researcher at Pew Research Center, who provides insights into Pew’s latest report, “The Religious Composition of the World’s Migrants.” Monsignor also converses with Knox Thames, Senior Fellow and Director of the Program on Global Faith and Inclusive Societies at Pepperdine University’s Washington D.C. campus, about his new book published by Notre Dame University Press, “Ending Persecution: Charting the Path to Global Religious Freedom.”
On this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a compelling discussion with Michael Z. Green, Professor of Law and Director of the Workplace Law Program at Texas A&M University School of Law. They delve into the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Starbucks Corp. v. McKinney and explore its implications for workers’ rights to organize in the future. In addition, Monsignor Sullivan speaks with Michelle Sherman, Project Director for Non-violence & Campus Outreach at Pax Christi USA, and Becky McIntyre, Community Artist, Muralist, and Printmaker with the Synodality in Catholic Higher Education Archdiocese of Philadelphia (SCHEAP) Project. They provide insights into the 2024 Catholic Nonviolence Initiative’s Fall Series on “Synodality & Nonviolence,” detailing the series’ objectives and how listeners can get involved. For more information and to participate, visit here: https://cnifallseries.info/.
This week on Just Love, with the Paralympic Games kicking off in Paris on August 28th, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks with Dr. P. David Howe, Ph.D., a former Canadian Paralympian and Professor of Medical Anthropology at Western University in Canada. They discuss the Paralympics, Howe’s personal experiences, and his research on enhancing sports and physical activity for marginalized populations. Additionally, as Pope Francis prepares for his 45th Apostolic Journey to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore starting September 2nd, Monsignor Sullivan converses with Prof. Jonathan Tan, Archbishop Paul Hallinan Professor of Catholic Studies at Case Western Reserve University. They explore the Catholic Church’s presence in these countries and what Pope Francis might encounter during his visit.
This week on Just Love, in conjunction with the Democratic National Convention taking place in Chicago, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a conversation with Katie Tobin, a Nonresident Scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former Deputy Assistant to the President at the National Security Council. Tobin recently penned an article for the Wall Street Journal titled “Kamala Harris Made Progress on the Border Crisis.” Additionally, Monsignor Sullivan speaks with Brian and Kelly Estes, the Producers and Creators of the documentary film “God Bless Bitcoin,” which explores the shortcomings of the current monetary system and considers how Bitcoin might offer a viable alternative.
This weekend on Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan explores the impactful work of the Social Justice Summer Camp in St. Louis, Missouri, with Director Lisa Burks, Director and Two Youth Leaders, Luke Jarboe and Joy Garavaglia where young teens learn about Catholic Social Teaching and engage in hands-on service to address community needs. Additionally, he discusses the crucial role of the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office in advocating for fairness and justice in Immigration Law and Policy with Special Counsel for Immigrant Affairs, David Satnarine.
On this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is joined by Prof. Timothy Baghurst, a Full Professor at Florida State University and Director of the FSU COACH: Interdisciplinary Center for Athletic Coaching. Together, they explore the significant impact of good and supportive coaching on the performance of athletes, spanning from the Olympics to college sports and local youth teams. Additionally, the episode commemorates the 79th Anniversary of the Dropping of the Atomic Bomb on the Japanese Cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6th and 9th. George B. Horton, Former Director of Catholic Charities Department of Social and Community Development, shares his experience accompanying Members of Pax Christi USA on a Peace Pilgrimage to those cities in March.
This week on Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a discussion with Director Robin Klueber and volunteers Kevin O’Neill and Georgiana Barth at the only “Kid Run” Food Pantry in New York City – the Ascension Food Pantry of Ascension Parish on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The pantry is operated by the children of the Religious Education Program of Ascension Parish, who will share insights about their Ministry and how it contributes to their learning of the Faith through helping to Feed the Hungry. Additionally, he speaks with New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Manuel Castro about the work of his office, which is dedicated to serving New York City’s 3.3 million immigrant New Yorkers representing over 160 countries and speaking over 700 languages and dialects. Commissioner Castro also shares his own experience of growing up as an immigrant New Yorker.
This week, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan discusses the work of Fordham University’s Center on Religion and Culture with David Gibson, the Director. They explore how the Center uses Cultural Events and the Arts to unite People of Diverse Views in today's polarized world. In addition, Monsignor Sullivan speaks with Prof. William F. Hall, Adjunct Professor of Political Science at Webster University, about the history and ongoing significance of this important legislation.
This week on Just Love, during the last weekend of the month we commemorated the “Juneteenth” National Holiday back on June 19th. Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is joined by Prof. Fields-Black Associate Professor - Department of History & Author of “COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid and Black Freedom during the Civil War” at Carnegie Mellon University. She speaks about her recently published book from Oxford University Press titled: “Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid and Black Freedom during the Civil War” which recounts the history of the Combahee River Raid – which an ancestor of her’s participated in - and its importance to Black American History. He also has a discussion with Alessandro DiSanto who is Co-Founder – at Hallow. The #1 Catholic App in the world and how Hallow is helping people to build and strengthen their faith lives through audio-guided prayer and meditation on the app.
Ahead of the anniversary of the historic Stonewall Uprising on June 28, 1969 – a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ movement, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a discussion with Stan JR Zerkowski, the Executive Director of Fortunate Families. This Catholic ministry based in Lexington, Kentucky is dedicated to fostering respectful conversations within the church about the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. They explore ways to embrace and include the LGBTQ+ community within the church. Furthermore, Bobby Gates, Program Director of Youth Employment and College Readiness Program at Alianza Youth Services, a division of Catholic Charities, shares insights into the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). As summer vacation begins, the SYEP not only provides youth with employment opportunities but also equips them with valuable workplace skills, resume writing techniques, and the importance of earning a paycheck for their hard work.
This week on Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan delves into thought-provoking discussions with Professor John Vile, an esteemed Political Science expert, and Dean of the University Honors College at Middle Tennessee State University, on the provocative topic of the American Flag’s presentation and recent controversies surrounding the symbolic use of an Inverted American Flag as a form of protest. Additionally, Monsignor Sullivan engages in a poignant conversation with Jeff Steiner, the dedicated Executive Director of Dad’s Resources Center, shedding light on the vital significance of fatherhood and the invaluable work undertaken by the center to equip fathers with the emotional and psychological tools needed to navigate the challenges of single parenting post-separation or divorce, while offering unwavering support and essential resources for successful parenting.
As we prepare to honor and appreciate fathers and the essential role they play in their families, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in meaningful conversations with two remarkable individuals. Mark A. Harris, a fitness instructor and patient advocate, shares his experience of coping with his personal struggle with prostate cancer and the loss of his son to the disease. Drawing from his own experiences, Harris offers insights on how to support men and their families who are dealing with the diagnosis of prostate cancer. In another segment, Dr. Rami Arav, Ph.D., a Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Religion and History at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, sheds light on the ancient and modern history of Israel from his current location in the country, just a week after the State of Israel celebrated with the Annual Israel Day Parade in New York City.
On this episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan discusses the newly published book “Mutuality in El Barrio: Stories of the Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Services” with Prof. Brenna Moore, Ph.D., co-author of the book from Fordham University Press. The book examines the encounters of the Little Sisters of the Assumption with women and children who migrated from Mexico to East Harlem over the past 50 years, and details the impact of these encounters on the Sisters, the women and children, and the community as a whole. Additionally, Monsignor Sullivan speaks with Melina Gonzalez, the Community & Individual Engagement Manager at LSA Family Health Services, who shares her personal story of encountering the Little Sisters of the Assumption, as recounted in the book. Finally, Commissioner Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez discusses her work at the Department of Aging and her nearly 30-year career in the non-profit, government, and corporate sectors, including her tenure as New York State’s 65th Secretary of State from 2007 to 2010, making her the first Hispanic appointee to serve in that role.
On this episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan speaks with Shawn Carney the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Madison, Wisconsin about the Virtual Nursing Platform “Nurse Disrupted” – a tablet-based technology designed to virtually connect registered nurses to those who are homeless and other vulnerable populations – which is being utilized by Catholic Charities of Madison as part of its “Health Housing Initiative. He also talks with Prof. Francois Pierre-Louis, Ph.D., a Haitian-born Professor of Political Science at Queens College of the City University of New York about the worsening security situation in Haiti – primarily at the hands of heavily-armed street gangs – and what can be done to try to address the situation and stop the gang assaults and violence.
On today’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan has a conversation with Prof. David Thang Moe, Ph.D. about the religious nationalism and tribalism that has fueled the ongoing conflict in Southeast Asia Nation of Myanmar. Moe who himself was born and raised in a small village in Myanmar – and where he sees hope for the future of the country of his birth. In addition, he talks with Dr. James Sullivan, Ph.D. as we look at the University of Notre Dame’s new antipoverty initiative dedicated to developing and advancing innovative solutions to assist vulnerable populations in addition to training a new generation of leaders committed to the fight against poverty.
On this weekend of Mother’s Day where we will be focusing on the topic of Maternal Health, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan speaks to Jonah Gensler, Chief Executive Officer, and Pura Cruz, Senior Client Advocate of LSA Family Health Services about how the organization they serve focuses their work on women and provides these women with the best care possible. He also has a conversation with Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut Prof Christine Susienka about Human Rights – both what they are specifically, and who has the responsibility – legally and morally – to protect them.
On this week’s JustLove before Mother’s Day, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan has a conversation with Certified Postpartum Doula and Author Manon Chevallerau about her recently published book “You’re Going to be a Big Sibling” to help teach older siblings necessary tools and confidence to help and to welcome their newborn siblings. In addition, before we commemorate National Foster Care Day on Tuesday, May 7th, the Director of Foster Parent Recruitment for Catholic Guardian Services in New York Che Stokes discusses Foster Care – what it is and what types of foster homes are needed to care for children in need of foster care today.
On this episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan highlights the spirit of volunteerism in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week. He engages in a heartfelt conversation with Danielle Crews, who discovered Catholic Charities during a food pantry distribution at St. Cecilia’s Parish in East Harlem, about the impact of serving their community. At Catholic Charities, our commitment to immigrants is unwavering. To shed light on the issue, Monsignor speaks with Gabriel Pithan Daudt about his journey to the United States and his current efforts to support others, including asylum seekers with their immigration applications. Lastly, we hear from Pat Perlstein, who shares her journey of educating others and transitioning into a role at the Yonkers Case Management Center at Catholic Charities. These inspiring stories embody the compassion and dedication that drive our mission of serving those in need.
On this episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a conversation with Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin, a contributing editor at Religion News Services, as Jewish people worldwide prepare to celebrate Passover on April 22nd. In light of the tragic events in Israel on October 7th, they discuss the significance of this First Passover since and delve into Rabbi Salkin’s reflection titled “Six Months of Jewish Loneliness,” which was written for Religion News Services on the six-month anniversary of that tragic day. Additionally, as Volunteer Appreciation Week commences on April 21st, Danielle Crews joins the show to share her experience of discovering Catholic Charities during a food pantry distribution at St. Cecilia’s Parish in East Harlem.
This week on JustLove, Monsignor Sullivan has a conversation with Sarai Manuel, LMFT who is the Bronx Administrator & Bronx Prevention Program Director of Astor Services about the new Trauma Recovery Center that the Non-profit operates to provide much needed services to help and heal Survivors of Trauma and Violent Crime. He also talks with Dan Gordon who is a Screenwriter and Play-write about his newest film he has written – “Irena’s Vow” – that tells the true story of 19 year old Polish girl named Irena Gut who was a housekeeper in the home of a prominent Nazi during the Second World War in Poland who courageously saved the lives of 12 Jewish Workers in the Cellar of the House she was working in until the end of the German Occupation.
On today’s Episode of JustLove –in this First Week after Easter, we welcome back to our show a member of what has been described as “Pope Francis’ favorite Electro-pop Band” the London-based Ooberfuse – Hal St John, Multi-Instrumentalist and Producer who performed at last summer’s World Youth Day in Lisbon talks about their new Easter song titled “Dying Son” dedicated to bringing some light to the darkness of war that has surrounded the Holy Land this Easter. In addition, Monsignor Sullivan has a conversation with the Charge of the Holy See for the Pontifical Institute Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center about the work of the Notre Dame Center – a Guest House in Jerusalem that offer pilgrims a place of hospitality, and cultural and spiritual enrichment – as well as how the present situation in the Holy Land is impacting the local Christian community and pilgrimages to the Holy City.
This week on JustLove, as we celebrate Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Monsignor Kevin Sullivan engages in a conversation with Most Reverend Mark Joseph Seitz, the sixth Bishop of El Paso, Texas, about his dedicated work serving the borderland community of El Paso, particularly his efforts in support of migrant families and refugees. Additionally, he welcomes Mr. Bruce Chung, the Founder and Owner of Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwan Do Studio in Harrison, New York. Bruce shares his journey of participating in the RCIA program at Saint John the Evangelist Church in White Plains and his upcoming baptism into the Catholic Church this Easter. Finally, Msgr. Sullivan offers his Easter reflection, providing insightful thoughts for the holiday season.
On this Saint Patrick’s Day weekend, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan has a conversation with Prof. Mary C. Murphy, Ph.D., the Head of the Department of Government and Politics at the University of Cork in Ireland about the Good Friday Peace Accords – signed on Good Friday – April 10, 1998 – that ended most of the Violence that had plagued the North of Ireland for nearly Three Decades. He is also joined by Prof. Carl Minzner, J.D., who is Professor of Law at Fordham University School of Law; about the recent decline in China’s Population, and what this decline could mean.
On this weekend of the 96th Annual Academy Awards taking place this Sunday, March 10th – Monsignor is joined by Actor Damian Buzzerio who – when he is not performing on the stage, he works in Administrative Support here at Catholic Charities. He talks about this Year’s Oscar Nominated Motion Pictures and whom he predicts will take home the Award for Best Picture. In addition, ahead of the First Day of Ramadan on Sunday, March 10th. He is joined by the Deputy Imam of the Masjid Al-Haram Mosque in the Bronx about the Essence and Meaning of Ramadan in the Islamic Faith, and what the purpose of the Ramadan Fast is in the practice of Islam.
This week on JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is joined by Chris West the Senior Trainer for Chapter Building at Catholic Relief Services about “CRS Rice Bowl” – Catholic Relief Services’ Annual Lenten Program for families and Faith Communities who want to put their Faith into Action during Lent through Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving to help change the lives of those who live in poverty across the world. In addition, he is also joined by Dr. Meisha Porter, Ed.D. President and Chief Executive Officer of The Bronx Community Foundation about the work of the Foundation that she leads, her experiences as an educational leader, and how the Supreme Court’s decision last term on overturning Affirmative Action has impacted not only higher education, but also the work of nonprofits and foundations like the Bronx Community Foundation.
This week on JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is joined by Prof. Kevin Ahern, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Religious Studies & Co-Chair of the Dorothy Day Guild & Director of the Dorothy Day Center at Manhattan College. He talks about the Dedication of the Dorothy Day Center for the Promotion of Social Catholicism at Manhattan College back on Thursday, February 22nd, as well as some updates on the Cause of Canonization of Dorothy Day. He is also joined by Tamara Payne, Pulitzer Prize winning co-author of “The Dead are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X ” written with her late Father, Pulitzer-prize winning journalist Les Payne – about the Life and Legacy of Malcom X.
Monsignor Kevin Sullivan is joined by Debbie Walsh who is Director of the Center for American Women and Politics at the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. She talks about the women who have run for the presidency of the United States and what the center for American Women and Politics does to encourage women to get involved with and run for political office from the local to the national level. In addition, Charlene Gayle, who is Executive Director of the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislators; discusses the work, history and significance of the historic association she leads, as well as the Annual Legislative Conference sponsored by the association taking place in Albany this weekend.
Today on JustLove, we are joined by Denise Iglesias, who is the Assistant Director for the Wage and Hour Division of the Hudson Valley Area for the Department of Labor. She talks with us about promoting and achieving compliance with labor standards and protecting and enhancing the welfare of the nation’s workforce. We are also joined by the Jeremy Molina, who is the Director of Bronx Rises Against Gun-Violence (BRAG) West, of Good Shepherd Services. He leads an organization that works to curb gun violence in the Bronx by building coalitions and providing interventions to young disenfranchised persons in the community. Denise Iglesias is the Assistant Director for the Wage and Hour Division of the Hudson Valley Area for the Department of Labor. Jeremy Molina is the Director of Bronx Rises Against Gun-Violence West of Good Shepherd Services. Listen now.
To begin our conversation today about religious liberty, a core value associated with the upcoming Independence Day, we are joined by Rabbi Abraham Cooper, Ph.D. Rabbi Cooper is the Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, and shares with us the findings of their most recent Annual Report. We are then joined by Assistant Professor Nathan Schneider, M.A., who shares with us the history of the Cooperative Movement, its strong Catholic connections, and the challenges to the movement today. Rabbi Abraham Cooper, Ph.D., is the Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. Prof. Nathan Schneider, M.A., is an assistant professor at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Listen now.
On today’s episode of JustLove, we open the conversation with Desire Findlay, a trainer and facilitator at Catholic Relief Services. She talks with us about how this week, she and other chapter members head to Washington DC and take part in the Catholic Relief Services National Gathering at Catholic University. Afterward, marking the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising on June 28, 1969, we are joined by Stan J.R. Zerkowski, the Executive Director of Fortunate Families. Fortunate Families is a Lexington, Kentucky based Catholic Ministry dedicated to facilitating respectful conversations within the church about the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals and how we can go about expanding the tent to include them in the life of the Church. Desire Findlay is a trainer and facilitator at Catholic Relief Services. Stan J.R. Zerkowski is the Executive Director of Fortunate Families. Listen now.
Today on JustLove, we begin with a conversation with Professor Kevin Foster, Ph.D., of the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Foster shares with us his expertise on African Diaspora Studies and the particular history of the Juneteenth holiday, which first began in 1865. Then, Jeff and Jonaan, a “Big” and “Little” respectively from Bigs & Littles NYC Mentoring, join us to talk about the significance of Father’s Day. Their program provides mentors to children in need of reliable adult figures in their lives. Professor Kevin Foster, Ph.D., is the Associate Chair of the African and African Diaspora Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Jeff and Jonaan are a “Big” and “Little” from Bigs & Littles NYC Mentoring. Check out their website where you can volunteer and donate. They are in search of male volunteers! Listen now.
Today on JustLove, we are joined by Dr. Sarah Sayeed, Ph.D., who is the Executive Director and Chair of the New York City Civic Engagement Commission. She joins us to discuss the connection between democracy and civic engagement. Her mission is to encourage all New Yorkers to participate in civic affairs through activities such as participatory budgeting. Dr. Sarah Sayeed, Ph.D., is the Executive Director and Chair of the New York City Civic Engagement Commission. Listen now.
On today’s episode of JustLove, we are joined by Helen Jaccard, the Project Manager of the Veterans for Peace Golden Rule Project. She talks to us about “The Golden Rule Sailboat,” which originally set sail in 1958 and recently arrived in New York Harbor, the mission of the project, and the future of peace activism. We also speak with Prof. Paul Marshall, Ph.D., who is the Director of the Religious Freedom Insitute’s South & Southeast Asia Action Team about the recent designation by the U.S. Commission on Religious Freedom of India as a “Country of Particular Concern.” Helen Jaccard is the Project Manager for the Golden Rule Project by Veterans for Peace. Prof. Paul Marshall, Ph.D., is the Director of the Religious Freedom Institute’s South & Southeast Asia Action Team and is The Wilson Professor of Religious Freedom at Baylor University. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we observe Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in a conversation with Wayne Ho, CEO and President of the Chinese American Planning Council. He speaks with us about persistent challenges that confront AAPI communities in this country. An occurrence that has affected too many in our nation, we turn our attention to the horrific number of over 200 mass shootings that have taken place so far this year. Professor Emeritus of the State University of New York, Cortland, Robert J. Spitzer, Ph.D., joins our call to talk about the surprising history of gun rights, regulations, and the current state of political discourse on the subject. Wayne Ho is CEO and President of the Chinese American Planning Council. Prof. Robert J. Spitzer, PH.D., is a Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the State University of New York, Cortland. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we are taking a moment to celebrate something years in the making – the dedication of the new Catholic Charities Day Laborer’s Center in Yonkers that took place on May 1st. Lucia Goyen, Director of the Day Laborer Program within CCCS, an agency of Catholic Charities New York, has a conversation with us about the importance of this new establishment in the first week of May in honor of Saint Joseph, the Patron Saint of Workers. Being May, it’s prom season! Another guest on today’s recording is Samiyah Green, a student at Innovation Diploma Plus High School, who speaks with us about the recent 17th Annual Prom Clothing Giveaway, sponsored by Catholic Charities New York and held at the Alianza Dominicana Cultural Center in Washington Heights. To wrap up, we can’t forget about Mother’s Day! Chrissy Stonebraker-Martinez is the Co-Director of the Interreligious Task Force on Central America and Columbia joins us to talk about the universal Mother’s Day gift: flowers. Americans spend almost three billion dollars on flowers per year, and she talks with us about the countries where most of these flowers are grown and harvested, and the working conditions that the floriculture workers operate under. Lucia Goyen is the Director of the Day Laborer Program of Catholic Charities New York. Samiyah Green is a student at Innovation Diploma Plus High School. Chrissy Stonebraker-Martinez is the Co-Director of the Interreligious Task Force on Central America and Columbia. Listen now.
For today’s episode of JustLove, we are joined by Prof. Xiaolin Shi, Ph.D., Assistant Teaching Professor at Northeastern University. Dr. Shi is a professor of Labor, Demographics, and Economics and discusses with us the shrinking population of China, its causes, and its social and economic ramifications. We are also joined by Prof. Kevin Ahern, Ph.D., Co-Chair of the Dorothy Day Guild and Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Manhattan College. He now serves as the Director of the Dorothy Day Center at the college and provides some insight into the recent developments in the cause for her canonization. Dr. Xiaolin Shi is a Professor of Labor, Demographics, and Economics at Northeastern University. Dr. Kevin Ahern is Co-Chair of the Dorothy Day Guild, Director of the Dorothy Day Center at Manhattan College, and an Associate Professor of Religious Studies. Listen now.
This week on JustLove, we talk about the fulfilling work of volunteerism with Stephanie Osterland, MA, CEO of Habitat for Humanity’s Detroit Chapter. Habitat for Humanity is one of the best-known volunteer-powered organizations dedicated to providing decent housing across the world. We also talk with Monica Braun, who is a Christian Relationship Coach and author of “From Toxic to Soulmate Love.” She joins us to discuss the concept of intentional dating and the work that comes before the wedding. Stephanie Osterland, MA, is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Detroit. Monica Braun is a Christian Relationship Coach and author. Listen now.
On today’s episode of JustLove, we are joined by Brian Licata of Marvel Consults who discusses his work on a recent event that broke a Guinness World Record! He is one of the coordinators of the recent Puzzle for Autism Guinesss Book of World REcords Staten Island Ferryhawks Event, to raise awareness of the condition during Autism Acceptance Month this April. We also talk with Dr. Erin Lothes, Ph.D., who is the Senior Manager of the Laudato Si Animators Program. She works for the Laudato Si Movement to do training courses for Catholic leaders all over the world on various aspects of integral ecology. Brian Licata is the owner of Marvel Consults, which is a Business and Non-Profit consultant firm. Dr. Erin Lothes, Ph.D., is a theologian at Saint Elizabeth University and is currently senior manager of the Laudato Si Animators Program. Listen now.
On today’s episode of JustLove, we are joined by J.J. Wright, DMA, Director of the Notre Dame Folk Choir, who will talk with us about the 40-track album titled The Passion, which presents the events of Holy Week through song and spoken word. We are also joined by Dr. Iqbal Akhtar, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Religion, Politics, and International Relations of Florida International University who discusses the tradition of fasting during Ramadan and how it compares to other religious acts of fasting. J.J. Wright, DMA, is the Director of the Notre Dame Folk Choir. Dr. Iqbal Akhtar, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Religion, Politics, and International Relations at Florida International University. Listen now.
For this week’s episode of JustLove, we explore the connection between Christ’s fate and modern incarnations of capital punishment. We are joined by the Executive Director of the Death Penalty Information Center in Washington D.C. to discuss recent trends regarding the death penalty across the United States. We then turn to Film Director Gianfranco Rosi9 about his recent documentary film In Viaggio – The Travels of Pope Francis, which translates to “in route” from Italian. The film distributed by Magnolia Pictures follows the Pope’s travels over his ten-year pontificate. Richard C. Dieter, J.D., is the Executive Director of the Death Penalty Information Center. Gianfranco Rosie is the Director of the documentary film In Viaggio – The Travels of Pope Francis, distributed by Magnolia Films. Listen now.
After the broadcast of the 95th Academy Awards, for this episode of JustLove, we have a conversation with the Founder and Executive Producer at Minaflores Films, Jessica P. Sarowitz. We discuss the upcoming documentary With This Light. In the following segment, we are joined by Ashok Rajamani, the author of The Day My Brain Exploded: A True Story, who speaks with us about brain injuries and his experience of God and His impact on his recovery. Jessica P. Sarowitz is the Founder and Executive Producer of Minalfores Films and Managing Partner at 4S Bay Partners LLC. Ashok Rajamani is a speaker and author of The Day Myt Brain Exploded: A True Story. Listen now.
This week on JustLove, we speak with Adina Lichtman, the founder of Knock, Knock, Give a Sock, a nonprofit that encourages companies, campuses, and communities to host sock drives for their homeless neighbors, then offers the organizers an opportunity to host a dinner for the benefactors – with the goal to break the ice and stigmas. On the week of the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis’ Pontificate, we speak with Victor Gaetan, Ph.D., the author of God’s Diplomats: Pope Francis Vatican Diplomacy, and American Armageddon about the new bilateral relations between the Holy See and Oman. Adina Lichtman is the founder of the Knock, Knock, Give a Sock nonprofit foundation. Victor Gaetan, Ph.D., is an author of works that include God’s Diplomats Listen now.
On today’s episode of JustLove, we are joined by two esteemed Catholics whose work is highlighted during February. Beth Knobbe is the Senior Training Advisor at Catholic Relief Services. She will be sharing with us about CRS’ Annual Lenten Program for families and faith communities who want to put their faith into action during lent through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving to help change the lives of those who live in poverty across the world. We are then joined by Lucas Swanepoel, J.D., the Senior Director for Government Relations at the Catholic Health Association of the United States, who discusses with us updated healthcare policies for maternal and pediatric health for low-income families passed by the previous Congress in December 2022, as a part of the year-end Appropriations Bill. He helps us understand the importance of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act to help address a crisis in Black maternal and infant health. Beth Knobbe is the SEnior Training advisor at Catholic Relief Services. Lucas Swanepoel, J.D., is the Senior Director for Government Relations at the Catholic Health Association of the United States. Listen now.
Today’s episode covers the exciting topic of finding love, Catholic style! We are joined by Mariette Rintoul who is the Community Experience Director of Catholic-Match, the largest and most successful website for single Catholics. She talks with us about common misconceptions about online dating, best practices, and her own experience of finding her husband. Then, we are joined by Dr. Zulema Blair, Ph.D., in acknowledgment of Black History Month to discuss the pattern of black Americans moving out of urban areas to rural and suburban residences. Mariette Rintoul is the Community Experience Director at Catholic-Match. Dr. Zulema Blair, Ph.D., is the Chair of Public Administration at Medgar Evers College at the City University of New York. Listen now.
To begin today’s program, we have a conversation with the Executive VP and CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, Gideon Taylor. Mr. Taylor joins us to discuss the work of his organization and the recent commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day on January 27th. We then talk about Pope Francis’ visit to South Sudan with Brain Adeba, Deputy Director of Policy at The Sentry, an investigative and policy organization in Washington D.C. Adeba discusses the significance of the first papal visit in over forty years to the world’s youngest country. Gideon Taylor is the Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York. Brian Adeba is the Deputy Director of Policy at The Sentry in Washington D.C. Listen now.
Today on JustLove, we bring you an arc of pain and redemption. We begin with a conversation with a Professor of Economics and Director of the Center for Poverty Research at U.C. Davis, Prof. Marianne Page, Ph.D., who walks us through the impact of inflation on lower-income households. In times of strife, we look for forgiveness and warmth. A spokesperson for the “He Gets Us” campaign, Brad Hill, joins our conversation to discuss his organization’s goal to help people discover the love and redemption of Jesus Christ. Professor Marianne Paige, Ph.D., is a Professor of Economics and Director of the Center for Poverty Research at the University of California Davis. Brad Hill is the Spokesperson of the “He Gets Us” campaign and the Chief Solutions Officer at Gloo. Listen now.
On today’s edition of JustLove, we are joined by Professor Emerita of Santa Clara University, Dr. Lisa Fullam, D.V.M., Th.D., After her Veterinary Studies at Cornell, Dr. Fullam earned a doctorate in Ethics from Harvard Divinity School. Today, she discusses the phenomenon of Juana, SJ., the only female Jesuit in history, and the future of women in the Society of Jesus, founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius Loyola. Dr. Lisa Fullam, D.V.M., Th.D., is a Professor Emerita at Santa Clara University and Associate Veterinarian at New Baltimore Animal Hospital. Listen now.
Today on JustLove, we are discussing some of the policy that has passed the desk of Mayor Eric Adams. Prof. Kim Hopper, Ph.D., is a medical anthropologist at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. Dr. Hoppers joins us to talk about the concerns homeless advocates have about the new policy, its implementation, and the broader systemic changes that are needed beyond forced removal from public spaces. Though these policies are technically only enforceable for those who have been deemed a risk, the infrastructure to receive these individuals is lacking – and long-term solutions are still sought after. Dr. Hopper will illuminate the subtleties of the situation our city and organizations like Catholic Charities New York face. Prof. Kim Hopper, Ph.D., is a professor of Clinical Socio-Medical Sciences at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. Listen now.
For today’s edition of JustLove, we explore the work undertaken to address acute vulnerabilities come wintertime – the need for housing and and warm clothing. Sarah Trillo is the recent Chair electee of the Junior Board of Catholic Charities New York; she discusses the Saint Nicholas Project – whereby the Board and and CCNY volunteers distribute clothing directly to families in need. Then, Josiah Haken of the City Relief organization talks with us about the mobile outreach that brings hygiene, food, and health supplies to the unhoused across New York City. Sarah Trillo is the newly appointed CHair of the Junior Board of Catholic Charities New York, which during the Christmas season focuses on the Saint Nicholas Project and the Adopt-A-Family program. Josiah Haken is the Chief Executive Officer of City Relief, a nonprofit that brings “mobility” to its efforts to assist the homeless of New York City; visit cityrelief.org to learn more. His new book can be found at neighborswithnodoors.com. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we are joined by the Reverend Dr. Shakeema North of Covenant House New York. She takes on the complicated issue of youth homelessness with us and shares the relief work of the Covenant House. We then turn to the related issue of mental health more broadly, and have a conversation with Chuck Ingoglia of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. He talks to us about what “Mental Health First Aid” is, and how the public can make use of available resources during the season often associated with elevated levels of depression. The Reverend Dr. Shakeema North is the Vice President of Youth Development, Equity, and Inclusion at Covenant House New York. Charles “Chuck” Ingoglia is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. Listen now.
Today we benefit from some distance from election day and spend our hour of JustLove trying to make sense of the electoral outcomes from the 2022 midterms. James “Jim” Castro-Blanco, Esq., is Counsel to the Westchester County Republican Committee, and Dirk McCall is a Tenured Board Member of the Stonewall Democratic Club of New York City. These two gentlemen help us understand the election from all sides of the issues at hand. James “Jim” Castro-Blanco, Esq., is Counsel to the Westchester County Republican Committee and a Partner at Murtagh, Cossu, Venditti, and Castro-Blanco, LLP. Dirk McCall is a Tenured Board Member of the Stonewall Democratic Club of New York City. Listen now.
On today’s pre-Thanksgiving show of JustLove, we are inviting three guests to cover a variety of topics. Vicki Trujillo of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gallup, Inc., New Mexico tells us about the support their branch provides to the local Native American communities of New Mexico and Arizona. Then, Eddie Gloria of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Venice talks with us about the continued efforts to rebuild after Hurricane Ian as the holidays approach. To wrap up, we discuss the current state of college football with Dr. Victoria Jackson, Ph.D., of Arizona State University. Vicki Trujillo is the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Gallup, Inc. Eddie Gloria is the Chief Executive Officer at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Venice, Inc. Dr. Victoria Jackson, Ph.D., is a sports historian and Clinical Assistant Professor of History at the School of Historical, Philosophical, and Religious Studies at Arizona State University. Listen now.
This week we focus heavily on the rich connection between the island of Puerto Rico and the Hispanic population that emigrated to New York State, contributing so much to our modern cultural makeup. Carmen Villafane, of New York Foundling, discusses with us the Head Start Division of her organization and the work it is undertaking to alleviate the educational and developmental disparities faced by children in Puerto Rico. Teresa Santiago of TAS Communications LLC then joins us to discuss the “I Am Because We Are” Conference that took place in Puerto Rico between November 9th and 12th. The conference was sponsored by SOMOS Inc., a charitable non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of the Hispanic population in New York State. Carmen Villafane is the Senior Vice President for Early Head Start and the Head Start Division in Puerto Rico for New York Foundling. Teresa Santiago is the President and CEO of TAS Communications, LLC. Listen now.
On today’s edition of JustLove, Dr. Mike Carotta, Ed.D., is a religious educator and chief developer of “Whole-Hearted” – Catholic Charities of the United States of America (CCUSA)’s new Parish-based trauma resource. He will discuss how the new program can assist participants to move forward mentally and spiritually after a traumatic event. After, we are joined by Dr. Charlie Camosy, Ph.D., to discuss the concept of justice that animates the Catholic vision of faithful citizenship and radical solidarity on this weekend before Election Day (November 8th). Dr. Michael “Mike” Carotta, Ed.D., is a religious educator, author, and Visiting Theology Instructor at Creighton University. Dr. Charles “Charlie” Camosy, Ph.D., is a Professor of Medical Humanities at Creighton University’s School of Medicine. Listen now.
On JustLove, we are inviting Prof. Ramona Lampley, J.D., to discuss with us her research on gun violence and policy across the United States, and how the Uvalde community has been changed over the course of the past five months since the shooting at the community’s elementary school. A seemingly more abstract threat, echoing worries of the last century, is the rhetoric of nuclear war in Eastern Europe. Dr. Matthew Bunn, Ph.d., joins us to discuss our concerns with expertise in foreign policy and international conflict. Prof. Ramona Lampley, J.D., is the Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development and Professor of Law at Saint Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Mathew Bunn, Ph.d, is the James Schlesinger Professor of the Practice of Energy, National Security, and Foreign Policy at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Listen now.
On today’s edition of JustLove, we look further back than Ian to Hurricane Fiona and its impact on the Caribbean, including the islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, which struck the region earlier in September. Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of the Hispanic Federation, walks us through the experience of those who live in the path of these storms. We also look towards one of the battleground states of Georgia, as it ramps up for the midterm election, in our conversation with Frank Mulcahy, J.D., who is the Executive Director of the Georgia State Catholic Conference. Frankie Miranda is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hispanic Federation, which is currently working on the recovery from Hurricane Fiona. Frank Mulcahy, J.D., is the Executive Director of the Georgia State Catholic Conference. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we check in with the CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Venice in Florida. We learn how the organization is reaching out to all those struggling to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. We also examine the complicated history of Indigenous People’s Day in our conversation with Dr. Robert Senkewicz. We discuss the life and legacy of Father Junipero Serra, canonized by Pope Francis in 2015, and who has been criticized in recent years for being an instrument of Spanish imperial colonialism. Eduardo Gloria is the Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Venice. Dr. Robert Senkewicz, Ph.D., is a Professor of History Emeritus of Santa Clara University in California. Listen now.
As followers of the work of Catholic Charities New York may know, we are engaged in assisting an influx of Venezuelan asylees migrating to the United States. Father Alexis Bastidas, a Venezeuelan-born pastor of Saint Teresa’s Parish in Lower Manhattan, joins us on JustLove to talk about the reasons why his fellow Venezuelans are choosing the perilous journey over remaining in their country of origin. On a lighter note, we follow this up with preparations for Rosh Hashanah and the Jewish New Year of 5779. Israeli-born Eti Farber, a child of Moroccan-born immigrants to Israel, talks about the significance of Rosh Hashanah to her family and how she keeps the traditions she learned alive here in the United States. Father Alexis Bastidas is the Paster of Saint Teresa’s Parish on the Lowe East Side of Manhattan. Esther “Eti” Farber is a Realtor for Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Sarasota, Florida. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we examine the continued reality of high inflation and its effects on American consumers. Economist Desmond Lachman, Ph.D., joins us to discuss what he sees as the causes of inflation and what policies he suggests could help address them. Professor Paul Marshall, Ph.D., joins us for the second half of our show to discuss religious persecution. In the wake of the attack on Author Salman Rushdie, we discuss religiously motivated violence across the globe, particularly those against Christians. Desmond Lachman, Ph.D., is an economist and Senior Fellow of the American Enterprise Institute. Professor Paul Marshall, Ph.D., is an author and Wilson Professor of Religious Freedom at Baylor University. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, begin our program joined by Afghani-born Nahela Hadi, about the work she has done helping other Afghani women who have spent the past year acclimating to life in the United States. We discuss the complex issues faced by women and children here and abroad. Next on our program, Executive Director of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, Bhairavi Desai helps us anticipate the implementation of a 2019 New York State “Congestion Pricing” Law which aims to cut traffic to Manhattan’s “Central Business District” south of 60th St. with a toll. Desai is working to organize the taxi and fee-for-hire industry to ask for exemptions from these tolls that have the potential to cripple the taxi industry. Nahela Hadi is an independent non-profit consultant who has worked for many years at the United Nations Association of the United States of America. Her career has focused on the complex struggles faced by vulnerable women and children in the United States and Abroad. Bhairavi Desai is the Executive Director for the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, a union representing approximately 15,000 taxi drivers in New York City. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we talk about the present phenomenon of law enforcement officers leaving the force with NYPD Retired Lieutenant Sammy Ravelo – also President and Founder of the Dominican Veterans of America. Following this, we are joined by Father Enrique Camacho Monserrate, Executive Director of Caritas Puerto Rico, to discuss the April 21st Supreme Court move to kick back to Congress the decision of whether the residents of Puerto Rico are eligible for the Federal SSI Program. Sammy Ravelo is a retired Lieutenant from the NYPD and is the President and Founder of the Dominican Veterans of America. Father Enrique Camacho Monserrate is the Executie Director at Caritas Puerto Rico. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, in the wake of discovering fifty bodies of migrants in an abandoned tractor-trailer in San Antonio, Texas, left by human traffickers on July 27th, we will be having a conversation with J. Antonio Fernandez, the CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio about the tragic event. Then, we are joined by Prof. Jeffrey M. Wice, Esq., Adjunct Professor and Senior Fellow at New York Law School and Special Counsel to the New York City Redistricting Commission to talk about the new political district maps drawn for New York State. J. Antonio Fernandez is the President and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. Prof. Jeffrey M. Wice, Esq., is an Adjunct Professor and Senior Fellow at New York Law School, and serves as Special Counsel to the New York City Redistricting Commission. Listen now.
In today’s recording of JustLove we return to the difficult situation facing our brethren in Afghanistan: over the past ten months since the withdrawal of American Forces on August 30th, 2021, the people of Afghanistan have faced enormous challenges including drought, a food crisis, and a devastating earthquake. We speak with Megan Gilbert, Communications Officer with Catholic Relief Services, about what the organization is and has been doing to assist tens of thousands of households in Afghanistan. Second, today’s episode is an examination of Nigeria where on June 5th a terrible massacre took place at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in that country, in which 40 congregants were killed and scores more injured. Nina Shea, Director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the Hudson Institute will be sharing with us a bit about this terrible event, and why Christians in Nigeria are facing persecution. Megan Gilbert is a Communications Officer for Representation & Social Media Campaigns at Catholic Relief Services, the international relief and aid organization of the United States Bishops Conference. Nina Shea is Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Religious Freedom at The Hudson Institute based in Washington D.C. Listen now.
This week we celebrate the birthday of the United States by having two conversations about civics. First, we will be joined by Tony Williams, a Senior Teaching Fellow at the Bill of Rights Institute of Arlington, Virginia. He discusses the history of the Declaration of Independence and its legacy. Then, we mark the 50th anniversary of Title IX with Prof. Courtney Flower, Ph.D., an Associate Professor of Sports Studies at Texas Southern University. Title IX was the Federal Civil Rights Law that was passed in 1972 that prohibits sex-based discrimination in any school or other education program receiving funding from the Federal Government. Tony Williams is an author and Senior Teaching Fellow at the Bill of Rights Institute – a non-profit educational organization based in Arlington, Virginia. Prof. Courtney Flowers, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Sports at Texas Southern University. Listen now.
On today’s edition of JustLove, we examine the intersection of Catholic theology and social questions facing the United States public. In acknowledgment of the Annual Pride March in New York City, we talk with Stan “JR” Zerkowski, Executive Director of Fortunate Families, a Lexington, Kentucky-based Catholic Ministry dedicated to facilitating respectful conversations within the Church about the dignity of LGBTQ+ persons of faith. Then, we talk with Christopher Bell, Executive Director of Good Counsel Homes (a CCNY affiliate) in preparation for the anticipated Dobs v Jackson Woman’s Health Organization case, and how the organization’s work might change in light of a potential overturn of Roe v Wade. Stan “JR” Zerkowski is the Executive Director of Fortunate Families, which is working to establish intentional Catholic LGBTQ+ Ministries in Dioceses, Parishes, Educational Institutions, and communities across the country. Christopher Bell is the Executive Director of Good Counsel Homes, an affiliated Catholic Charities New York agency, which provides various forms of assistance to expecting mothers. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we celebrate Father’s Day weekend by talking with the founder of the Texas-based nonprofit Voices of the Fatherless, Percy L. Kennedy Jr. This mentoring program is focused on helping incarcerated fathers connect with their children, also the subject of a book recently published by Kennedy, “Voices of the Fatherless: Letters from Incarcerated Dads Aimed at Breaking the Prison Pipeline.” We then celebrate an equally important holiday, Juneteenth, which originated in Galveston, Texas in 1865, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the emancipation of black Americans from slavery. We are joined by the President of One Hundred Black Men Inc., Aldrin Enis, an organization dedicated to mentorship, wealth-building strategies, and fostering economic development in black communities. Percy L. Kennedy Jr. leads Voices of the Fatherless, a nonprofit based in Texas, and edited a compilation of letters written by incarcerated fathers titled “Voices of the Fatherless: Letters from Incarcerated Dads Aimed at Breaking the Prison Pipeline.” Aldrin Enis is the Outreach Coordinator for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the President of One Hundred Black Men Inc. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we discuss the foundational concept of Religious Freedom as essential to civic harmony with Elizabeth Clark, J.D., of Brigham Young University. Then, we revisit the takeaways of our fact-finding trip to the border of Ukraine in Poland and discuss the ongoing conflict with Michael La Civita, Director of Communications of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) – which continues to aid Ukrainians displaced by the war. Professor Elizabeth Clark, J.D., is the Associate Director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at the J. Reuben Clark Law School of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Michael La Civita is the Director of Communications for the CNEWA, and traveled with us on our trip to Poland and is in touch with those on the ground in the conflict areas and those assisting the displaced. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we reflect on the tragic events in Uvalde, Texas, with two community members, Dr. Hector and Jaclyn Gonzales. They and fellow parishioners of Sacred Heart Church in Uvalde are planning healing events and activities for those impacted in the community to heal. Afterward, our very own Corporate Secretary and Chief of Staff for Catholic Charities New York, Marion Boteju, to discuss the economic and political turmoil that has been roiling the South Asian nation of Sri Lanka. Dr. Hector Gonzales, Ph.D., is the President of Southwest Texas Junior College. He is joined by his Wife, Jaclyn Gonzales, who is a licensed professional counselor. Marion Boteju is the Corporate Secretary and Chief of Staff of Catholic Charities New York. Listen now.
In today’s recording of JustLove, we honor the service of our fallen military service members by taking a look at the healthcare services available to veterans and active duty service members in the United States. We then compare the United States’ tradition and history of honoring its veterans with the equivalent celebrations in other nations. Dr. Carrie Farmer joins us to discuss veteran health care as an expert Senior Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation’s Epstein Family Veteran’s Policy Research Institute and Director of RAND’s Health Care Quality Measurement and Improvement Program. Blake Stilwell is a former United States Air Force Combat Photographer as well as Veteran’s Jobs Editor for military.com where he helps other Veterans find jobs. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we talk about the phenomenon of underdog stories like that of the recent victor of the Kentucky Derby, “Rich Strike,” who superseded the eighty-to-one odds against him in the second-biggest upset in the 148-year history of America’s oldest continuous sporting event. We are joined by Professor Matt Johnson, Ph.D., a researcher on the topic of the public’s fascination with underdog stories. Then, we are joined by Professor Will Kaufman, one of the leading authorities on Woodie Guthrie, the subject of New York Morgan Library and Museum’s “Woodie Guthrie: People are the Song” exhibition. He joins us to discuss the impact of the balladeer’s music on American culture. Matt Johnson, Ph.D., is a speaker, researcher, writer, and Professor of Psychology and Marketing at the Hult School of International Business. Will Kaufman, Ph.D., is a Professor of American Literature and Culture at the University of Central Lancashire in the United Kingdom. His expertise will help us examine Woodie Guthrie’s music, philosophy, and impact on American culture. Listen now.
Today we gather three representatives of various Catholic Charities agencies across the country for a “round table” to discuss the ongoing financial calamity of rising inflation across all sectors of the economy, and its impact on those that Catholic Charities aims to serve. We are then joined by Prof. John M. Owen IV, Ph.D., to continue the ongoing examination of the Russian aggression in Ukraine, and the potential next moves of the United States and other NATO members. From the Catholic Charities network across the country, we are joined by Paul Propson, CEO of Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, Randy Chappell, Basic Needs Director of Catholic Community Services of Utah, and Phil Vottiero CFO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Denver. John M. Owen IV, Ph.D., is the Ambassador Henry J. and Mrs. Marion R. Taylor Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia. He shares his expertise on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine spurred by Russia’s questionable ambitions. Listen now.
In today’s recording of JustLove, we talk with the Senior Maternal Justice Campaign Director of Mom’s Rising Together, Tina Sherman. She joins us to highlight issues faced by mothers across the country, like family economic security, maternal mortality among people of color, and sex-based discrimination. Then, we talk about a recent trip to Poland and Ukraine with the Director of Government, Community & External Relations of Catholic Charities New York, Luz Tavarez. The staff of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association joined us to witness the relief work on the ground in the troubled region. Tina Sherman joins us from Mom’s Rising Together to discuss her expertise as the Senior Maternal Justice Campaign Director to discuss the maternal health crisis faced by impoverished mothers, particularly black women. Luz Tavarez, the Director of Government, Community, & External Relations of Catholic Charities New York joins us to discuss Msgr. Sullivan’s recent trip to Poland. Listen now.
In today’s recording of JustLove, we discuss a prolonged topic highlighted by the violence in Ukraine, that of refugees and their resettlement in the United States. WE are joined by Kelly Agnew-Barajas who is the Director of the Catholic Charities Department of Refugee Resettlement here in New York City. Then, we acknowledge May Day weekend by having a conversation with the former Chair of the National Labor Relations Board, Wilma Liebman, J.D., about the current state of labor organizing in the country, such as at Amazon Fulfillment Center and Starbucks Stores. Kelly Agnew-Barajas directs the Catholic Charities of New York refugee resettlement operations, and will join us to discuss what that line of work looks like, the scope of it, and how might the influx of Ukrainian refugees impact her work and that of similar missions. Wilma Liebman, J.D., was the Chair of the National Labor Relations Board under the Obama Administration. She will share her thoughts on the contemporary wave of labor organizations and the changing landscape of collective bargaining. Listen now.
In today’s recording of JustLove, we talk about the faith-based environmental activism taking place at the St. James Parish in Louisiana, where parishioners are resisting the construction of a petrochemical plant. Following, we learn about Pope Francis’ Easter weekend activities and his upcoming summer schedule, as well as updates on his thoughts on the war in Ukraine. Sharon Lavigne is the Founder and Director of Rise Saint James, a faith-based grassroots environmental organization fighting for ecological justice. She was the recipient of the 2022 Laetare Medal from Notre Dame University. Christopher White is the Vatican correspondent for the National Catholic Reporter, and he joins us to discuss the Easter activities around the Vatican, the Pope’s concerns about the war in Ukraine, as well as his busy summer schedule. Listen now.
On Today’s recording of JustLove, we are getting ready for Easter’s theme of transformation by talking with Christopher Flores, a Catechumen taking the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) classes at St. Brigid-St. Emeric Parish and who will be receiving sacraments over the holiday weekend. We will then follow that up with a conversation with Philip Brach, Vice President for College Relations at Belmont Abbey College, about the little-known fact of how an American Saint, St. Katherine Drexel, influenced the U.S. Tax Code by changing philanthropy in the process. Christopher Flores is taking RCIA classes at the St. Brigid-St. Emeric Parish on Avenue B in the East Village neighborhood of Manhattan, and will be receiving the sacraments this Easter. He will be sharing his experience and his journey towards officially becoming a Catholic. Philip Brach will join us to discuss St. Katherine Drexel, who helped change the U.S. Tax Code and philanthropy, and who might give us a little more context to the paperwork at the center of the mundane task of filing taxes. Listen now.
Christians living in Ukraine will be celebrating Holy Week while under the threat of war and hunger. Msgr. Peter Vaccari will help us to understand their experiences and the work of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) and its impact on the region. Following this, we will talk with Barron Segar, President and CEO of the World Food Program USA. His expertise will help us understand the ripple effects of war on the global wheat supply, rising food prices, and collateral hunger across the world. Msgr. Peter Vaccari is President of the CNEWA which was founded by Pope Pius XI in 1926 to support Eastern Churches throughout the Middle East, Northeast Africa, India, and Eastern Europe. Msgr. Vaccari will share with us a bit about what CNEWA is doing in Ukraine and what Catholics might experience during this Holy Week and Easter holiday during a time of war. Barron Segar is President and CEO of World Food Program USA, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to building support within the United States for the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) – the largest humanitarian organization working to alleviate hunger in the world globally. We will talk with Mr. Segar about the role of the WFP in alleviating hunger in Ukraine, and how the destabilization of the country is leading to food insecurity elsewhere in the world. Listen now.
On today’s recording of JustLove, we are sharing in the commemoration of the Holy Month of Ramadan with our Muslim brothers and sisters by having a conversation with Dr. Hussein Rashid. We will follow that up with a conversation with the President and CEO of UNICEF USA to discuss the issues facing children fleeing the war in Ukraine and others who face catastrophes across the world. Dr. Hussein Rashid is a freelance academic who focuses on the intersection of Muslims and U.S. Popular Culture. He will talk with us about the Muslim experience of Ramadan over the past two years of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Michael J. Nyenhuis is President and CEO of UNICEF USA which is dedicated to supporting the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). We talk with Mr. Nyenhuis about the work in UNICEF regarding the situation of children fleeing the war in Ukraine and other catastrophes. Listen now.
For today’s recording of JustLove, we talk with the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Emergency Communications Director Caroline Brennan soon after her return from Moldova where she assisted in the CRS response to the influx of Ukrainian refugees. After, we find something to look forward to in the upcoming 94th Academy Awards with Sister Rose Pacatte, FSP, founding director of the Pauline Center for Media Studies. Caroline Brennan is the CRS Emergency Communications Director, and she flew to Moldova to witness the efforts of the CRS staff working to support incoming refugees fleeing Ukraine. She talks with us about her observations and what listeners can do to assist these efforts. Sister Rose Pacatte, FSP, a Daughter of Saint Paul, is the Founding Director of the Pauline Center for Media Studies. She is on the call from Culver City, California. She talks with us about some of the films nominated in this year’s Academy Awards, and what her predictions are for the coveted Oscar in 2022. Listen now.
For today’s episode of JustLove, we discuss the Lenten Practices such as Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving with the Associate Editor of America Magazine Colleen Dulle. She tells us about an online Lenten Series sponsored by the Casa Esther Catholic Worker, where they explore the Gospel of non-violence. The second segment of our show will feature the Ukrainian-born Chair of Theology and Philosophy at the University of Saint Thomas, Dr. Paul Gavrilyuk, who leads us through the political and religious ramifications of the Russian invasion of his home country. Colleen Dulle is the Associate Editor of America Magazine and the co-host of the publication’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast. She talks about being a participant in an online Lenten series sponsored by the Casa Esther Catholic Worker, taking place in the evenings for the six weeks of Lent. Dr. Paul Gavrilyuk, who was born in Kyiv, joins our call to talk about the ongoing impact of the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine beginning on February 24th. Dr. Gavrilyuk is the Aquinas Chair in Theology and Philosophy at the University of Saint Thomas in St. Paul Minnesota, and the Founding President of the International Orthodox Theological Association (IOTA). Listen now.
Spring evokes thoughts of new beginnings, youthfulness, and renewed energy. This week on JustLove, we explore two sides of this transition. We discuss Changing the Game Project, an organization dedicated to creating positive youth sporting environments, with CEO and Founder John O’Sullivan. After, we look at student activism in Ukraine and how it colors the emerging narrative of war, with Evgeny Afieneevsky who Directed Winter on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom released in 2013. We will be talking with John O’Sullivan about the impact that COVID has had on youth sports, and how to make youth sports a more positive, child-centered experience for all involved. He is the CEO and Founder of Changing the Game Project, an organization dedicated to assisting parents and coaches in creating positive sporting environments for youth. Evgeny Afineevsky Directed Winter on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom, which covers the 2013 student uprising in Ukraine that ousted a pro-Russian leader and transformed Ukraine into a truly democratic republic. We talk about the experiences he had and his thoughts about the throughline to today’s resistance to Russian invading forces. Listen now.
Today we talk with the CEO and President of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA), Lincoln Snyder, regarding the evolving responses and challenges of the pandemic. Following, we are joined by Andy Peterson, the Founder and Director of the Justice Film Festival, which returns March 9th-12th. LIncoln Snyder, who is joining us from the NCEA, will share with us a just-released survey (by the NCEA) showing the welcome news that enrollment in U.S. Catholic Schools rebounded after a sharp drop caused by the pandemic. Andy Peterson, principal of Aspiration Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, and Founder and Director of Justice Film Festival, joins us to discuss the duty of media to drive narratives of social justice and what is being planned for this year’s 10th Anniversary of the Festival when it returns to the Sheen Center for Thought and Culture in New York City on March 9th-12th. Listen now.
In this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan discusses the Laudato Si Corporation, a green-energy initiative, and the Recent Portrait Book on Immigrants Published by Former President George W. Bush – “Out of Many, One: Portraits of America’s Immigrants.”
Tim McManus is the Senior Vice President of Catholic Charities Progress of People’s Development Corporation of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens. During this early summer week when so many listeners are out enjoying the sunny weather, Tim McManus shares with us a bit about the Laudato Si Corporation, a green-energy initiative of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, which uses the energy of the sun to generate renewable energy with solar panels on Rooftops throughout the Brooklyn Diocese.
Laura Collins is the Director of The Bush Institute – SMU (Southern Methodist University) Growth Initiative, the non-partisan public policy arm of the George W. Bush Presidential Center on the campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas. On today’s recording of JustLove, Laura Collins shares with us a bit about her work at the Bush Institute, and particularly on the recent portrait book on immigrants published by former President George W. Bush titled: “Out of Many, One: Portraits of America’s Immigrants”, which details how immigration policy impacts ordinary immigrant.
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In this week’s episode of Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks about the Legacy Labor Leader and President of the AFL-CIO Richard Trumka and how he lived out the value of solidarity. Monsignor also discusses the Catholic tradition of just war and whether or not it ought to be reevaluated in light of the different contexts in modern warfare.
Clayton Sinyai, Ph.D. is the Executive Director of the Catholic Labor Network, a national Catholic organization dedicated to promoting the cause of workers and catholic social teaching in labor unions, parishes and other organizations. On Labor Day Weekend, Clayton Sinyai talks about the legacy of labor leader and president of the AFL-CIO Richard Trumka, who passed away suddenly this summer, and how he and others in the labor movement live out the value of solidarity.
Prof. Michael Baxter, Ph.D. is a Professor of Theology and the Director of the Catholic Studies Program of Regis University in Denver, Colorado. During this week that the United States officially ended its longest-running war in Afghanistan, Prof. Michael Baxter talks about the Catholic tradition of just war and whether or not it ought to be reevaluated in light of the different contexts in modern warfare.
In this week’s episode of Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks about the work of Catholic Relief Services in Haiti and its response to the emergency needs of the people of southern Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake that struck the island on Saturday, August 14th. The second guest on that show talks about the importance of grandparents to our families and society in consideration of the Church’s first “World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly,” which was celebrated on Sunday, July 25th.
Beth Carroll is the Head of Programs in Haiti for Catholic Relief Services. A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean nation killing 1,900 people and injuring over 7,000. In today’s recording, Beth Carroll talks to us about what Catholic Relief Services is doing to respond to the emergency needs of the people of southern Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, as well as CRS’s ongoing efforts to support development in the country.
Bruce Gordon is the author of a number of devotional books for the age 55+ demographic and the Director of Mentor Matrix Services Incorporated. In consideration of the Church’s very first “World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly,” Bruce Gordon shares with us the importance of grandparents and the unique and significant role they can play in the lives of their grandchildren.
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On this week’s episode of Just Love, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks about growing Protestant interest in the Virgin Mary and how Mary herself can help to promote the Gospel that is common to all Christians. During the commemoration of the 101st Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage, the second guest will discuss with Monsignor talks about black women’s struggle to secure the right to vote with the author of the recent book “Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All.”
Prof. Matthew Milliner, Ph.D. is the Associate Professor of Art History at Wheaton College a Christian residential liberal arts college located in the Chicago area. During this week, we commemorate the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Prof. Matthew Milliner, Ph.D. talks with us about his experience of the growing Protestant interest in the Virgin Mary he has experienced with his students, and how Mary herself can help to promote the Gospel that is common to all Christians.
Prof. Martha Jones, JD, Ph.D. is the Society of Black Alumni Presidential Professor and Professor of History at the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University. During this week we commemorate the 101st Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage, Prof. Martha Jones, author of the recent book: “Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All,” shares with us a bit about the Woman’s Suffrage Movement, its relationship to black women and the history of the struggle of black women to secure the right to the franchise that is detailed in her book “Vanguard”.
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In this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks about the Penn State University’s Berkey Creamery, the largest – and at 150 years one of the oldest – university creamery in the country, where the ice cream they make and sell help to support the teaching, research and outreach programs of the Department of Food Science at Penn State University. Monsignor also has a conversation with the Executive Director of the Center for Migration Studies on the report they issued earlier this month, “The CRISIS Survey: The Catholic Church’s Work with Immigrants in the United States in a Period of Crisis,” about the vital role Catholic intuitions played during the COVID pandemic when many immigrants were excluded from federal support.
James T. Brown is the Assistant Manager of Creamery Operations and the Sales and Marketing Manager for Pen State’s Berkey Creamery, where they make about 100 different flavors of ice cream. In today’s recording, Jim Brown talks about the operations and history of the Berkey Creamery, how proceeds from the Berkey Creamery help to support the teaching, research, and outreach programs of the Department of Food Science at Penn State University, and where listeners can go to purchase this ice cream and support the Berkey Creamery’s mission.
Donald Kerwin, Esq. is the Executive Director of the Center for Migration Studies, a think tank and educational institute devoted to the study of international migration, to the promotion of understanding between immigrants and receiving communities, and to public policies that safeguard the dignity and rights of migrants, refugees and newcomers. Don Kerwin shares with us a bit about the Center for Migration Studies report they issued earlier this month entitled “The CRISIS Survey: The Catholic Church’s Work with Immigrants in the United States in a Period of Crisis” about the vital role Catholic intuitions played during the COVID pandemic when many immigrants were excluded from federal support.
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In this week’s Episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks about the recent events in Haiti, including the assassination of the president. During the second part of the show, Monsignor discusses the recent events in Cuba, the protests against the government taking place on the island, and the little-known but influential role that Cuban lay Catholics are playing in the current protests there.
Dimitry Elias Leger is a Senior Content Writer for Vanguard, the financial services giant, and the author of “GOD LOVES HAITI.” In the aftermath of the assassination of the president of Haiti, Dimitry Elias Leger talks to us about the recent events in Haiti, and some ways other nations can help Haiti in this moment of crisis.
Alejandro Bermudez is the Executive Director of The Catholic News Agency and ACI Group, which is part of the EWTN News family. On today’s recording of JustLove, Alejandro Bermudez shares with us about the recent events in Cuba protesting the government there, and particularly on the little-known but influential role that Cuban lay Catholics are playing in the current protests on the island.
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In this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan the recent U.S. Airstrikes against Iran-backed militia in Iraq and Syria in response to drone attacks against U.S. personnel and facilities in Iraq back on June 27th. Monsignor also discusses the 2021 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and how it is emerging from last year’s pandemic to assist young people on their path to college and careers.
Adam Saxton is a Research Associate with the International Security Program for the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to the world’s greatest challenges. In the wake of the recent U.S. Airstrikes against Iran-backed militia in Iraq and Syria in response to drone attacks against U.S. personnel and facilities, Adam Saxton shares about what the June 27th airstrikes were in response to, and on what legal authority – domestic and international – these airstrikes were conducted under.
Monique Myers is the Director of the Youth Employment Program of the Alianza Division of Catholic Charities Community Services of New York. In today’s recording, Monique Myers discusses the Alianza Divisions of Catholic Charities Community Services’ participation in New York City’s Summer Youth Employment Program, the nation’s largest youth employment program connecting New York City youth between ages of 14 to 24 years with career exploration opportunities and paid work experiences each summer, and how the program is slowly emerging from this past year’s COVID restrictions.
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On this week’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan talks to the Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami about what Catholic Charities in that community are doing to help those impacted by the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers in Surfside Florida. During this Fourth of July weekend when we celebrate our independence as well as our political freedoms, including our freedom of religion, Monsignor talks about religious freedom, and what ordinary people can do to not only advocate for religious freedom but to build it as well.
Peter Routsis-Arroyo is the Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami. Our nation’s attention is focused on the tragic collapse of the Champlain Tower last Thursday down in the town of Surfside Florida, and the loss of life, anxiety, and anguish it has caused that community. Peter Routsis Arroyo shares with us what he witnessed when he went to the sight of the tragic collapse this week, as well as what Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami is doing to help meet the needs of those who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy.
Dr. Brian J. Grim, Ph.D. is the President of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation, which is a non-partisan, non-political 501-C-3 non-profit organization dedicated to educating policymakers, non-governmental organizations, business leaders and consumers about the positive power of religious belief and religious freedom for all has on economies and business. On this weekend that we celebrate the Fourth of July and our political freedoms, including our freedom of religion, Dr. Brian Grim, Ph.D. shares with us a bit about religious freedom, his research, which examines government restrictions on religious freedom and other social restrictions, and what ordinary people can do to advocate for religious freedom.
On this week’s episode of JustLove, during the week of the New York City Mayoral Primary Election, a conversation about what New Yorker’s are looking for from their next mayor; and a conversation with the economic empowerment supervisor for the Refugee Resettlement Department of Catholic Charities Community Services who will be sharing with us his experiences as an asylee here in the United States.
Michael Hendrix is the Director of State and Local Policy for the Manhattan Institute, a think tank whose mission is to develop and disseminate new ideas that foster greater economic choice and individual responsibility. This week when residents of New York City went to the polls to vote in a Primary Election, Michael Hendrix will be sharing with us a bit about the Primary Elections and, according to the results of a recent poll commissioned by The Manhattan Institute, what New Yorkers are looking for in the next mayor.
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On this week’s episode of JustLove, as our cities and states come back alive and reopen after over a year of being shut-down because of COVID-related restrictions, we will have a discussion on the reopening of religious institutions here in New York City; and because we commemorate World Refugee Day on this Sunday, June 20th, we’ll also have a conversation about the current situation of Palestinian Refugees in Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan.
Rev. Matthew Heyd is an Episcopal Priest and the Rector of the Episcopal Church of Heavenly Rest located in New York City. This week, while cities and states all over the country come back alive and reopen after over a year of being shut-down due to COVID-19 restrictions, Rev. Matthew Heyd, who is a member of the Partnership for New York City’s Coalition of Sectors on the Reopening of New York, shares with us a bit about the re-opening of religious and other institutions here in New York City in the aftermath of the COVID-19 restrictions.
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