The Conor Gallagher Show

When is a war truly just—and who gets to decide? Drawing on the thought of St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, this conversation unpacks how Catholic Just War Theory provides a coherent framework for judging the morality of war.Msgr. Stuart Swetland applies these principles to real conflicts, including World War II, Vietnam War, and the use of the atomic bomb, while also addressing Ukraine, terrorism, and modern warfare—offering a clear and challenging lens on justice in a fallen world.👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram:https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok:https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS0:00 - Introduction0:53 - Trailer2:36 - Monsignor Swetland’s Background13:40 - How Catholic Just War Theory Developed32:55 - The Role of Nato and Immigration Regulation55:49 - The Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki1:05:10 - The Morality of Nuclear Deterrence1:10:50 - The Dark Passages of the Bible1:21:10 - The Morality of Modern Warfare1:44:20 - The Russia-Ukraine War1:54:30 - Tensions in the Catholic Church2:08:41 - Catholicism and African-American Culture

Do you struggle to pray? Most of us do, but the truth is, prayer is essential, not optional. Without it, the spiritual life withers; with it, everything begins to fall into place.Fr. Christian Goduti breaks down a simple, practical method of mental prayer inspired by Saint Francis de Sales—one that anyone can start using today. His step-by-step approach makes the interior life accessible—even if you only have a few minutes. So tune in and learn how a consistent prayer life—no matter how small the start—can transform the way you live.👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer1:25 - Fr. Christian’s Childhood & Vocation Story34:12 - Introducing Mental Prayer37:15 - Distinguishing Mental Prayer from Vocal Prayer50:44 - St. Francis De Sales’ Method 1:02:17 - Fr. Christian’s Simplified 4-Part Method 1:22:12 - Using This Method with the Rosary1:27:54 - Using this Practice at the Mass1:45:19 - Conclusion

Conor is joined by Father Kauth, Rector of St. Joseph College Seminary in the Diocese of Charlotte, to explore the hidden life and heroic virtue of St. Joseph. Drawing on Father Kauth’s book The Imitation of St. Joseph, they examine Joseph’s role in salvation history, his connection to the patriarchs, and the profound lessons his life offers on fatherhood, obedience, and silent suffering.In a world struggling with a shortage of good men, fathers, and role models, devotion to St. Joseph offers a powerful response. His example of purity, courage, and obedience to the word of God provides guidance for men today who are seeking to lead and protect in their families and in the Church.📕 Use coupon code CGS50 to get 50% off The Imitation of Saint Joseph: https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-imitation-of-st-joseph/🙏 Learn more and support the work of St. Joseph College Seminary: https://stjcs.org🎧 Listen to Father Kauth's podcast from TAN Books, From the Rooftops: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfAMkqREoxMsbc3nj8qnvz84IiTiDZpyu&si=ZBi2CjMk_4x-xaam👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer1:42 - St. Joseph College Seminary in the Charlotte Diocese5:16 - Why Didn't Devotion to St. Joseph Arise Sooner?15:58 - The Method of Writing The Imitation of Saint Joseph19:33 - Adam & Noah40:30 - Abraham & Isaac53:36 - Jacob1:06:55 - Joseph (Old Testament)1:13:27 - Moses1:21:08 - King David1:28:00 - Saint Joseph

Join Conor and the late Dr. Paul Thigpen as they trace the life of St. Augustine, from a youth of sin and searching to his eventual encounter with the Gospel through St. Ambrose. His journey to a grace-filled conversion shows why he is one of the most relatable saints, wrestling with doubt, desire, and the challenge of turning fully to God.Augustine has also had a lasting impact through his writings—The Confessions, City of God, On the Trinity, and more. Known as the Father of Western Theology and the Doctor of Grace, his thought continues to shape Christian life and theology today, inspiring all who seek truth and authentic conversion of heart and mind.Use code CGS50 to get 50% off a deluxe copy of The Confessions: https://tanbooks.com/products/confessions-of-st-augustine-of-hippo/👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS:0:00 - The Passing of Dr. Paul Thigpen4:03 - Trailer5:43 - Paul’s Story and Augustine’s Story47:44 - The Confessions1:17:28 - The City of God1:36:05 - The Heresies2:18:09 - On Christian Doctrine2:39:40 - On the Trinity2:56:20 - Augustine’s Sermons3:11:19 - Augustine: Model for Holiness

Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., unpacks the tensions behind the SSPX’s plan for episcopal consecrations, clarifying what’s at stake theologically and canonically—and why unity in the Church matters. Conor and Fr. Pine also examine why the Vatican recently cautioned against using the title “Co-Redemptrix” for Mary, as well as the very practical matters of mortal sin, the necessity and beauty of Confession, and how Catholics can grow closer to God in a confused age.Rooted throughout is the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas—clear thinking, moral seriousness, and confidence in grace. The result is a thoughtful, grounded conversation about truth, authority, and the path to holiness in the modern world.📕 Use coupon code CGS50 to get 50% off Fr. Pine’s book - authored with Matt Fradd - on Marian Consecration with Aquinas: https://tanbooks.com/products/books/marian-consecration-with-aquinas-a-nine-day-path-for-growing-closer-to-the-mother-of-god/Check out the other books by Fr. Pine mentioned in the episode: - Your Eucharistic Identity: Ignatius PressYour Eucharistic Identity​- Training the Tongue: https://stpaulcenter.com/store/training-the-tongue-and-growing-beyond-sins-of-speech👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS:0:00 - Trailer1:21 - Opening Remarks6:28 - What Would Thomas Aquinas Be Like As a Spiritual Director?18:09 - Distractions in Prayer23:51 - St. Thomas Aquinas’s Influence on Fr. Pine’s Vocation 33:24 - Breaking Down the Standoff between the Vatican and the SSPX1:14:20 - Fr. Pine’s Latest Books1:25:38 - Mater Populi Fidelis: the “Co-redemptrix” Question1:42:03 - The Importance of Keeping the Christian Life Simple 1:45:15 - Confession and Mortal Sin2:22:10 - How to Have a Good Lent

The stories of the stigmatists - men and women who have borne the wounds of Christ in their own bodies - are profound.In this episode Conor speaks with John Clark, author of: God’s Wounds | The Remarkable Truth of Those Who Bore the Signs of Christ’s Passion. John walks through the history of stigmatists from St. Francis and Padre Pio to lesser-known figures like Louise Lateau and Blessed Alexandrina.Together, Conor and John discuss: The skeptical scrutiny surrounding these casesWhy so many stigmatists were womenAnd what the stigmatists can teach us about prayer, suffering, and faithThese remarkable stories invite us to take a serious look at the evidence and to consider how suffering can draw us closer to God - if we let it. 👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722👉 Get John’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Wounds-Remarkable-Truth-Christs-Passion/dp/1683573846CHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer1:28 - Introduction2:36 - How John Learned the Redemptive Value of Suffering from His Dad12:37 - A Miraculous Witness to the World21:42 - What the Crucifixion Would Have Been Like32:20 - Louise Lateau38:03 - Blessed Alexandrina41:26 - Catherine of Siena51:54 - Padre Pio54:30 - Discerning the Authenticity of a Stigmatist1:00:50 - The Prayer Life of the StigmatistsImages of Louise Lateau used under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Figure-Louise-Lateau-praying-October-photograph-no-in-series-taken-by_fig1_318027654

Conor sits down with Bill Donohue to discuss the mounting cultural and political pressures on Western civilization—and why Christianity remains the primary target. Drawing from his new book, Christianity in the Crosshairs, Bill argues that the West’s understanding of human dignity, liberty, and moral order flows directly from Christianity, and that efforts to marginalize the faith are inseparable from broader attempts to reshape society.Over the course of the hour-long conversation, Bill also explains:- The connection between welfare policy and the breakdown of the African-American family- The vital cultural need for strong fathers- The role of family life and parenthood in providing meaning in life- and much more!📕 Get 50% off Bill’s new book, Christianity in the Crosshairs, with the coupon code CGS50: https://tanbooks.com/products/books/christianity-in-the-crosshairs-ruling-class-and-radicals-find-a-common-enemy👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS:0:00 - Trailer1:26 - Introduction2:18 - Growing Up Without a Father: Bill’s Childhood11:54 - Fatherlessness in the Black Community21:26 - Liberalism & Bill’s Dissertation on the ACLU30:12 - The Catholic League: Defending the Church from the State46:02 - The Religious Influence of Fathers48:20 - Tools of Control54:46 - The Theme of Fatherhood in The Odyssey 1:04:07 - Population Control1:06: 47 - Catholicism is the Target

Some within the Church claim Pope Benedict XVI never actually resigned the Papacy. Is there any evidence to support this claim?This thorough discussion with Steven O’Reilly explores the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the ongoing controversies surrounding it. Conor and Steven examine Benedict’s Declaratio, canon law, the timing of his resignation, and how these elements have fueled debate among scholars and Church observers.The conversation also delves into the 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis, discussing the involvement of groups such as the St. Gallen Mafia and the potential for behind-the-scenes maneuvering. With a focus on evidence over unfounded speculation - this is a deep dive you won’t want to miss.📕 Get Steven’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Valid-Resignation-Pope-Benedict-XVI-ebook/dp/B0BGQPP4KX🌐 Visit Steven’s blog: https://romalocutaest.com👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer and Introduction4:47 - Defining “Beni-Papist”15:40 - The Canonical Requirements for a Papal Resignation39:38 - Bifurcation of the Papacy1:08:44 - The Ratzinger Code Explained1:33:21 - The 2013 Conclave1:41:00 - Questions Regarding Francis’s Election2:04:44 - The Impact of Francis’s Papacy

Conor is joined by Fr. Dan Reehil, a Catholic priest and diocesan exorcist, for a grounded and hope-filled conversation about how God is actively at work in the world today—even in the midst of spiritual darkness.Drawing from firsthand experience, Fr. Reehil explains how the Church carefully discerns true demonic activity, what exorcisms are actually like in real life, and why Hollywood depictions miss the mark. The conversation ranges far beyond exorcism, however: listen as Fr. Reehil emphasizes trust in God, the spiritual authority given through our Baptism, and the importance of prayer and the sacraments in our daily life. Rather than fostering fear, he points all Catholics toward confidence, peace, and the reality that Christ has already won—and continues to work through His Church today.💲Use Coupon Code CGS50 to get 50% off any work of Spiritual Warfare at TAN Books: https://tanbooks.com/books/topic/spiritual-warfare👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722🎤 If you are interested in booking Fr. Dan Reehil for a talk, please contact him at CatholicSpeakers.com: https://catholicspeakers.com/profiles/fr-dan-reehilCHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer1:45 - Opening Prayer and Introduction2:34 - Discerning Demonic Activity from Psychological Illness 8:18 - Speaking to Demons22:29 - The Importance of Father As Spiritual Guardian 28:47 - The Connection between Mental Illness and Demonic Activity34:55 - The Rite of Exorcism45:12 - Father’s Personal Story55:35 - What Makes a Good Exorcist1:01:29 - How to Discern God’s Voice1:20:00 - How People Open Themselves to Demonic Influence1:26:35 - Dangers in the Culture1:35:17 - Satanism, the Occult, and Other Evils2:01:28 - Grace, Miracles, and Trusting in God

💲Use Coupon Code FRODO to get 50% off any Joseph Pearce book at TAN Books: https://tanbooks.com/search?tanbooks%5Bquery%5D=Joseph%20pearceIn this episode Conor sits down with renowned author and literary scholar Joseph Pearce for a deep dive into the life, faith, and imagination of J.R.R. Tolkien. From Tolkien’s childhood and the trauma of World War I to his years at Oxford and friendship with C.S. Lewis, Pearce reveals how Tolkien’s personal suffering and deeply-held Catholic faith shaped his life and the creation of Middle-earth.At the heart of the conversation is Tolkien’s idea of “dragon sickness”: the danger of comfort, greed, and being owned by what we own. Through Bilbo’s journey, Tolkien delivers a timeless warning to a culture obsessed with wealth, security, and ease—and points toward freedom through sacrifice, humility, and adventure.🌐 Learn more about Joseph and support his work at: https://jpearce.co🎧 If you enjoy this episode, then check out The Authority: TAN’s Podcast with Joseph on great works of literature: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfAMkqREoxMvFVf9Ww5DBsUENSyLB6f34&si=KwLlDgsbEePV7ZTP👍 Like, Subscribe, or Follow The Conor Gallagher Show on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorgallaghershowInstagram: https://instagram.com/conorgallaghershowTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@conorgallaghershowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qtdMK8FqjAQ3ODlFXCEYt?si=ae4598b16c1d4cdeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-conor-gallagher-show/id1789476722CHAPTERS0:00 - Trailer6:55 - Joseph's Work11:35 - Tolkien's Early Life17:55 - Meeting His Wife, Edith24:02 - Tolkien's Creation Myth30:13 - Oxford Years and World War I47:45 - Writing Stories58:11 - The Father Christmas Letters & Family Life1:05:17 - The Inklings1:17:13 - Tolkien's Faith1:32:56 - Dragon Sickness & the Catholic Imagery of Middle Earth1:51:20 - Gandalf, Frodo, and Bilbo2:11:43 - Magic in Tolkien Versus Rowling2:16:18 - Samwise Gamgee2:18:00 - Providence