CASTLcast

About CASTLcast

Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Welcome to CASTLcast (Rhino Radio). As the official podcast of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis, we explore the intersection of classical education and the formation of the modern teenager. From sitdowns with the Headmaster to curriculum deep dives with our amazing faculty - not to mention impressive student perspectives - please join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints.

Publisher

Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis

Category

education · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Sept 2026

Latest episode

5 Nov 2026

Latest episodes

9 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Nov 2026

   9 | Joan of Arc Part 1...The Hundred Years' War

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, Mr. Adam Gordon sits down for a special deep dive with Chesterton history teacher Dr. Thomas Barrows to examine the Hundred Years’ War and the lead up to Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans. It was more than a dynastic contest: it reshaped ideas of political identity, warfare, and social power. In this first part, they cover England’s competing claims in France, the Valois succession, longbow warfare, and the social pressures behind the Peasants’ Revolt. Their conversation connects military events to changing ideas of class, royal legitimacy, and national identity. In Part 2, they will cover Henry V of Shakespeare-Richard Branagh fame and especially Joan of Arc - which is perfect because the Junior Class will present a dramatic retelling in their play "Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans" on Friday November 20th at Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis. Keywords Hundred Years' War, medieval history, Edward III, Valois dynasty, Salic law, longbow, Peasants' Revolt, medieval warfare Hundred Years' War, Joan of Arc, Henry V, Battle of Agincourt, Treaty of Troyes, medieval France, Jacquerie, medieval social classes Key Topics The war began as a dynastic claim between England’s royal family and the French Valois, amid overlapping feudal ties and territorial claims. English kings held French lands and owed homage to French kings; Gascony, Normandy, and Aquitaine illustrate why medieval borders and loyalties were complicated. The Salic-law argument excluded inheritance through women, while Edward III could claim the French throne through his mother, Isabella of France. The conflict helped strengthen national identity and state centralization, although France remained a diverse patchwork of regions and languages. Longbowmen and other common soldiers challenged the battlefield dominance of knights; Barrows links military change to the changing status of the ruling warrior class. The longbow required years of training and physical strength, whereas firearms and crossbows were easier to learn, influencing how armies could be recruited and organized. The Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 reflected war taxation as well as tensions after the Black Death, including labor bargaining power and efforts to restrict wages and mobility. Churchmen viewed wars over land as petty compared with crusading ideals; the Hundred Years’ War’s violence gradually acquired a different national and moral framing. The Jacquerie illustrates how English and French nobles could show greater class solidarity with one another than with their own peasants. Urban townspeople formed a distinct political faction, with Paris pursuing its own interests rather than simply siding with nobles or peasants. Chapters 00:00 Why revisit the Hundred Years’ War with a historian 05:01 The war’s dynastic dispute and nation-state legacy 08:13 English lands and vassal ties in France 12:25 Flanders, regional identity, and France’s unsettled borders 15:15 Philip IV and the Valois succession crisis 18:52 Salic law and Edward III’s claim 19:47 The war’s phases and why themes matter more than battle lists 21:27 Medieval war justifications and crusading ideals 26:36 Longbows, knights, and changes in battlefield power 29:31 Peasant soldiers and the changing social order 39:57 The Caroline War and the Peasants’ Revolt 48:44 The Black Death, labor bargaining, and revolt 49:09 Townspeople emerge as a third political faction CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

2. 

   29 Oct 2026

   8 | No Pilgrimage Unchanged - with Dr. Alexander Schimpf

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, our Headmaster Dr. Alexander Schimpf explains why Chesterton Academy of St. Louis has an optional - but highly meritorious - Pilgrimage Weekend instead of the more traditional "Fall Break" - then examines what makes a trip a pilgrimage rather than religious tourism. We discuss the risks of turning a pilgrimage into a party, intention, penitence, spiritual change, community, and grace which all culminates in the Senior Capstone Pilgrimage to Rome. Keywords Catholic pilgrimage, pilgrimage weekend, Chesterton Academy of St. Louis, Three Hearts Pilgrimage, Lourdes, spiritual formation, Catholic education, religious pilgrimage, Rome, classical education Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode 00:00 Why the school calls it pilgrimage weekend 03:24 The Three Hearts Pilgrimage inspires a school tradition 05:03 Does pilgrimage belong in a busy academic calendar? 08:23 Lourdes, Rome, and the journeys that shape the hosts 11:32 What makes a trip a pilgrimage? 14:12 The goal: return changed 17:15 A clear intention, an unexpected answer 20:45 Jake's pilgrimage lesson: make room for contemplation 22:11 Training students for a senior pilgrimage to Italy 24:23 Why pilgrimage is a communal effort 30:31 What Christianity adds to a human practice 37:07 Why the hosts feel qualified to talk pilgrimage 40:00 When pilgrimage becomes a party 44:59 Can a place itself be holy? 49:40 Stories of students changed by pilgrimage CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

3. 

   21 Oct 2026

   7 | Wonder is the Goal of Science - with Adam Gordon

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, Chesterton Math and Science Teacher Mr. Adam Gordon discusses the nature of scientific models, the development of biology, and the integration of faith and science in the biology curriculum at a classical school, and how it all culminates in wonder in God's Creation. Keywords biology, science education, models, evolution, faith and science, teaching biology, scientific discovery, Chesterton, biology curriculum Key Topics The metaphor of rhinos to understand unseen realities in science The development of biological sciences from the 1500s to today The importance of models in scientific understanding The integration of faith and scientific inquiry in education The process of discovery in biology, from microorganisms to complex organisms The role of history in understanding scientific theories The purpose and design in living beings as a reflection of divine order The pedagogical approach to teaching complex biological concepts The significance of wonder and curiosity in science education The relationship between scientific models and theological truths Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and Mr. Adam Gordon 02:01 The story behind the school mascot and Chesterton's fascination with rhinos 03:57 The existence of rhinos and the reality of unseen truths in science 06:51 The historical development of biology from the 1500s to modern times 09:04 The discovery of cells and the evolution of biological theories 11:11 Mastery of biological content and the importance of models 13:07 The biochemical foundation of life and the question of divine design 15:04 The integration of faith, philosophy, and science in teaching biology 17:03 Application of biological knowledge to real-world issues like genetics and IVF 20:04 The diversity of life and the perfection in creation 22:06 Wonder and curiosity as the ultimate goals of science education 24:05 The evolution unit and the discussion of Darwin's theory 25:59 Encouraging critical thinking and multiple perspectives in science 28:06 The big picture of biology and the importance of wonder in learning 29:11 Closing thoughts and the metaphor of rhinos as unseen truths. CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

4. 

   14 Oct 2026

   6 | Is Chesterton Academy a Good Name?? - with Dr. Alexander Schimpf

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, our Headmaster Dr. Alexander Schimpf explores why the school is named Chesterton Academy, delving into G.K. Chesterton's life, philosophy, and the reasons behind choosing his name. We discuss his faith, writings, and how his legacy influences the school's mission and identity. Dr. Schimpf muses that "over-coming requirements" is an exercise that can bear a lot of fruit including in this "What's in a Name" debate. Keywords Chesterton Academy, GK Chesterton, Catholic education, classical school, faith, philosophy, school naming, tradition, virtue, education philosophy Key Topics The origin of the school's name and its connection to GK Chesterton Chesterton's life, writings, and his role as a Catholic apologist The significance of tradition and joy in Chesterton’s philosophy The reasons for choosing Chesterton as a patron for a classical school The importance of integrating arts and faith in education Chesterton's views on virtue, family, and community The concept of overcoming requirements and embracing tradition The role of joy and humor in Chesterton's approach to faith The influence of Chesterton's wife and his personal life on his work The growth of the Chesterton Schools Network post-COVID Chapters 00:00 Welcome 02:30 Why is the school named after Chesterton? Initial impressions 04:49 Chesterton's background and his connection to classical education 05:48 Chesterton's faith, writings, and his role as a Catholic apologist 08:01 Why not name the school after a saint? The reasoning behind the choice 09:11 Chesterton's personal academic struggles and unconventional path 11:00 Chesterton's physicality and his model for a school community 12:37 The significance of Chesterton's joyfulness and love for life 13:30 The importance of tradition and living faith in Chesterton's view 16:39 Overcoming requirements and embracing tradition 20:18 Chesterton as a complete thinker and his intellectual versatility 24:57 Chesterton's conversion and his joyful defense of the faith 28:37 The influence of Chesterton's wife and his model of lay virtue 34:30 The growth of the Chesterton Schools Network and its mission 36:18 The significance of Chesterton's legacy and the school's mission CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

5. 

   8 Oct 2026

   5 | Made in the Image of a Creator & The Struggle to Create - with Bernadette Lamb

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode with Bernadette Lamb (Art & Literature) we discuss the integration of art into the curriculum at Chesterton Academy, emphasizing its role in human and spiritual formation. She shares insights from her background as a working artist, the importance of observation, humility, and the pursuit of beauty in art as a reflection of divine creativity. Keywords art education, human formation, observation, humility, divine creativity, Chesterton Academy, art history, spiritual growth, artistic process, Catholic education Key Topics The role of art in human and spiritual formation Observation and close looking as tools for growth Humility and humility in the creative process The connection between art and divine creativity The stages of art education from foundation to mastery The importance of patience and discipline in art Art as a reflection of God's creation and beauty The integration of art history and technique in education Chapters 00:00 Welcome 01:05 Introduction to Art in Human and Spiritual Formation 02:23 Defining the Humanities Through Art and Literature 03:50 Artist Background and Artistic Practice 05:21 Immersive Artistic Experiences and Residencies 06:16 Arts Curriculum at Chesterton Academy 07:29 Foundations of Observational Drawing 08:05 Calligraphy and Illuminated Manuscripts 09:06 Oil Painting and Contemplative Practice 10:35 Shared Vocabulary in Art Analysis and Creation 11:22 Teaching Art Elements and Principles 12:45 The Artistic Process and Inner Growth 13:26 Humility and Identity in Art 15:02 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism 16:21 Observing Mundane Objects and Human Wonder 18:31 Training Patience and Deep Looking 20:05 Art as Human and Divine Reflection 23:40 The Creator and the Created 25:02 Humility and the Gap in Artistic Creation 26:37 Grace, Growth, and the Journey Toward Holiness 27:08 The Ultimate Call to Love and Perfection CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

6. 

   1 Oct 2026

   4 | It Matters Who the Teachers Are - with Grayson Gunn

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode with Mr. Grayson Gunn (Academic Dean of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis), we explore how teachers help students to discern the true voices worth listening to amidst the noise of modern life. We discuss the importance of cultivating silence, reflection, and virtue to help students and ourselves recognize and follow the right path. Keywords discernment, silence, virtue, education, spiritual growth, classical education, Dante, John the Baptist, moral development Key Topics How to discern which voices to listen to in a noisy world The role of silence and reflection in spiritual growth Using classical literature like Dante to teach moral judgment The importance of modeling virtue for students The concept of acedia and spiritual sloth in moral development The significance of the Mass and prayer in hearing God's voice The influence of environment and media on discernment The process of cultivating desire for virtue and sanctity Chapters 00:00 — Introducing Grayson Gunn 01:03 — What Circe Is and Why the Article Matters 02:01 — John the Baptist’s Question for Teachers 03:30 — How to Make Students Want to Be in Class 04:17 — Classical Education and the Whole Person 05:47 — Understanding Teenagers Through Aristotle 07:45 — Students Want Truth and Reasons to Care 08:43 — Why Commitment Makes Teachers Compelling 10:10 — Teacher and Student in the Pursuit of the Good 12:32 — Freedom Matters More Than Efficiency 13:59 — The Limits of Standardized Education 15:10 — Forming the Whole Person Comes First 16:21 — Why the Teacher’s Soul Matters 17:19 — Memorable Teachers and the Power of Example 20:41 — Friendship as Part of Learning 23:37 — Socrates: Teaching Beyond the Classroom 25:55 — Becoming a Teacher for the Conversations 27:24 — Building a Culture That Notices Virtue 29:18 — Correcting Students with Charity 32:49 — Chesterton on Overeducation and Too Many Voices 33:46 — Why Students Need Wisdom, Not Just Information CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

7. 

   23 Sept 2026

   3 | And the word becomes flesh - The Drama Program with Mrs. Maria Romine

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, Mrs. Maria Romine shares her journey into the world of drama education, the importance of drama in student formation, and how the curriculum at Chesterton integrates arts, theology, and character development. Discover how drama fosters confidence, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of faith and literature. Keywords Drama education, student formation, Catholic curriculum, Shakespeare, arts in school, character development, GK Chesterton, Catholic high school, theater, student confidence Key Topics Importance of drama in student formation Integration of arts, theology, and literature Role of Shakespeare in Catholic education Drama as a tool for confidence and teamwork Curriculum development at CASTL and Chesterton schools Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Drama and Its Role in Education 02:01 Why Drama Is Central to the Curriculum 03:12 The Development of the Drama Program at Castle 06:12 Mrs. Romine's Involvement with GK Chesterton 09:11 The Beginning of the Chesterton School in St. Louis 11:38 The Role of the Society and Community Support 14:11 The Call to Teach Drama and Its Challenges 16:03 The Significance of Prayer and Faith in Teaching 18:42 Embodiment of Saints and Deeper Faith 20:19 Drama as a Reflection of God's Creativity 22:27 The Process of Rehearsals and Line Memorization 24:29 Transformative Power of Acting for Shy Students 25:20 Life Lessons Through Drama and Confidence 26:19 Individualized Approach to Student Development 27:26 Audition Process and Student Growth 30:12 Expectations for Students During Production 33:07 The Importance of Memorization and Props 35:31 Connecting Drama with Literature, History, and Faith 36:45 Encouraging Humility and Gratitude in Students 37:24 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

8. 

   17 Sept 2026

   2 | The Socratic Search for Engaged Listening

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, headmaster Dr. Alex Schimpf helps us explore the nature of Socratic discussion, its historical roots, pedagogical challenges, and how it can be effectively integrated into modern education. They discuss the obstacles and opportunities of fostering truth-oriented dialogue in schools inspired by classical models. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Socratic Discussion and Its Relevance 04:05 The Origins of Socratic Inquiry in Ancient Athens 06:08 Differences Between Debate and Socratic Dialogue 09:32 Challenges of Teaching Socratic Discussion in Schools 12:23 Common Failures of Socratic Dialogues 15:52 Why Classical Education Emphasizes Socratic Methods 19:40 The Human Freedom in Socratic Discussion 22:22 The Role of Friendship and Community in Learning 26:20 Practical Techniques for Teaching Socratic Discussion 31:14 Building Habits of Inquiry in Students 40:38 Chesterton's Perspective on Socratic Inquiry and Friendship 43:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Socratic Education Keywords Socratic discussion, classical education, pedagogy, truth, philosophy, teaching methods, Chesterton Academy, education challenges, Socrates, Aristotle Key Topics Origins of Socratic discussion in ancient Athens Differences between debate and Socratic dialogue Obstacles to implementing Socratic methods in schools The importance of a teacher as a Socratic guide Building habits of questioning and knowledge in students The role of friendship and inquiry in Chesterton's view of learning Practical techniques for teaching Socratic discussion, including fishbowl and castle building methods The relationship between Socratic discussion and classical education principles CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

9. 

   10 Sept 2026

   PILOT - Kicking off a Brand New School Year

   Classical tradition. Modern teens. One joyful mission. Join us as we partner with parents in the essential work of raising a new generation of joyful leaders and saints. Summary In this episode, the headmaster of Chesterton Academy of St. Louis shares insights on starting a new school year, building school culture, and applying classical education principles. Discover how the preventative method of St. John Bosco shape their approach to education and community building and how Heraclitus' ancient philosophy has something to say about the "back to school" time of year. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the School Year and Podcast 01:52 The Challenge of Starting Fresh and Building Culture 03:56 The Role of Heraclitus' Philosophy in Education 08:07 The Preventative Method of St. John Bosco 12:08 Building School Culture with Student Leaders and Teachers 15:56 Classical Curriculum and Summer Reading Expectations 20:02 Dealing with Flux and Change in School and Life 24:55 The Role of Prayer and Tradition in School Culture 29:49 Reflections on Building a School Community 34:52 Practical Strategies for New Teachers and Leaders 39:48 The Value of Classical Literature and Art in Education 45:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes Keywords classical education, school culture, Heraclitus, St. John Bosco, preventative method, school year kickoff, student leadership, curriculum, community building Key Topics Heraclitus' philosophy of flux and renewal The preventive method of St. John Bosco Building school culture through student leadership The importance of summer reading and curriculum Balancing tradition and innovation in education The role of teachers and prefects in culture building Dealing with flux and change in school and life The significance of daily mass and prayer in school culture CASTLcast is a production of Chesterton Academy of Saint Louis in Maryland Heights, Missouri. https://chestertonacademystl.org/ (https://chestertonacademystl.org/) All rights reserved.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

7 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

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