In this episode, we unpack a powerful article we discussed on the show that tackles one of the most pressing questions of our digital age: What is an algorithm, really—and what is it doing to our souls? with guest, TJ Burdick

we explore how modern AI systems are not neutral tools, but machines designed to exploit our weaknesses, feed our vices, and keep us addicted to a hyper-reality that slowly pulls us away from real life, real relationships, and ultimately, God.

We dive into his article on CatholicExchange.com

• Why algorithms are not “smart” in the human sense
• How hyper-reality fuels addiction, isolation, and despair
• The spiritual and psychological cost of constant digital consumption
• Why only humans—not machines—can love, sacrifice, and seek the common good
• What a truly Catholic use of technology looks like in a world dominated by AI

This episode isn’t anti-technology—it’s a call to choose reality, practice virtue, and reclaim our humanity before ethics are completely removed from the digital systems shaping our lives.

As St. Paul reminds us, we weren’t made to finish the doomscroll—we were made to finish the race.

👉 Learn more and read more from TJ Burdick

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What if improving your marriage didn’t require a major overhaul—but a return to a few simple, intentional habits?

In this episode of The Catholic Couple Podcast, we break down four powerful marriage habits inspired by a viral clip from Arthur Brooks (Harvard professor and happiness researcher) that he shared on the Tim Ferriss Podcast. While Arthur Brooks approaches marriage from science and psychology, we show how his insights beautifully align with Catholic teaching, Sacred Scripture, and the wisdom of the saints.

Arthur Brooks challenges the idea that struggling marriages should immediately default to therapy alone. While therapy can help, he argues that many marriages heal not by digging up more past wounds—but by pouring in more joy, connection, and intentional love.

Using his “dirty cup” analogy, we explore how adding the right habits can push out resentment and rebuild intimacy.

In this episode, we discuss:

✔️ Why having more fun together matters and how many couples stop dating after marriage
✔️ How praying together—not just saying prayers—deepens spiritual and emotional intimacy
✔️ Why eye contact is essential for connection, trust, and feeling truly seen
✔️ The importance of physical touch in marriage, especially for men, and how it communicates love beyond words

We connect each habit to:
📖 Scripture
⛪ Catholic teaching and the Catechism
✨ Quotes and insights from the saints
🧠 Modern science and relationship research

Whether your marriage is thriving or feeling stuck, these four habits can help you strengthen your bond, grow in holiness together, and rediscover joy in your vocation.

👉 If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to the channel, leave a comment, and share this with another couple who could use hope and practical wisdom for their marriage.

Great marriages aren’t found—they’re built. One intentional habit at a time.

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Keywords
Catholic marriage, Catholic couples podcast, marriage advice, Arthur Brooks marriage, Tim Ferriss podcast marriage, Christian marriage tips, praying together as a couple, how to improve your marriage, Catholic relationship advice, marriage habits, Theology of the Body, faith and marriage

https://linktr.ee/bobbyfred85

What does real renewal in the Church actually look like—and why do so many parishes struggle to move from maintenance to mission?

In this episode of The Catholic Couple Podcast, we sit down with our good friend Ron Huntley, a seasoned Catholic leadership coach who works with dozens of dioceses and countless priests across the country. Ron has spent years helping Church leaders build healthy cultures, authentic discipleship, and truly evangelizing parishes—and his work is rooted in one clear mission: bringing the Great Commission (Matthew 28) to life.

We dive deep into Ron’s new book, Road to Renewal, which features 14 total chapters—12 written by priests and Church leaders who candidly share their struggles, breakthroughs, failures, and victories, and 2 written by Ron himself, offering wisdom and clarity from decades of walking alongside parish leadership. Together, these chapters paint an honest picture of what it really takes to move a parish from maintenance to mission. Checkout Ron's website, Huntley Leadership for a lot of free resources and his links to podcast and youtube episodes.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Why so many parishes are stuck in “maintenance mode”
• What renewal actually requires from priests and parish leaders
• The common obstacles that prevent authentic discipleship
• How relationships—not programs—fuel evangelization
• What the Church can learn from leaders who are courageously trying something new
• How moving toward mission brings life back into parishes

Whether you’re a priest, parish leader, ministry volunteer, or a Catholic who longs to see the Church fully alive, this episode will challenge, encourage, and equip you to think differently about renewal—and your role in it.

📘 Learn more about Ron’s book: Road to Renewal
🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on faith, marriage, leadership, and discipleship

📩 Share this episode with someone who cares deeply about the future of the Church

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19)
This episode is about making that command real—right where you are.

https://linktr.ee/bobbyfred85