At Saint Paul University, learning is more than knowledge — it’s transformation. In Context, hosted by Rector Louis Patrick Leroux, brings engaging conversations with professors on communication, culture, mental health, spirituality, justice, and community. Rooted in SPU’s spirit of openness and humanity, the podcast explores ideas that matter beyond the classroom, inviting listeners to reflect, challenge, and reimagine society for a more humane and just future.
Creating meaningful connections and the right to communicate
In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Aliaa Dakroury (https://ustpaul.ca/en/staff/aliaa-dakroury/), Full Professor in the School of Social Communication at Saint Paul University. Together, they explore how communication has evolved—from human rights frameworks and international policies to the fast-changing digital platforms that shape how we speak, listen and connect today.
Professor Dakroury discusses the right to communicate, tracing its philosophical and legal roots, and highlighting Canada’s contributions to shaping this global principle. The conversation also touches on how we navigate today’s complex media environment, the impact of technology on real dialogue, and what effective, responsible communication requires in an era of noise, speed, and constant performance.
They also dive into online teaching, discussing what we gained, what we lost, and how educators can create meaningful connection in virtual spaces.
Questions to reflect on:
Are we truly communicating—or simply producing content?
How do the tools we choose shape the messages we send and the relationships we build?
If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe on your favourite platform and never miss an episode.
And for our French-speaking listeners, don’t miss our sister podcast USP en conversation (https://youtu.be/MXO12RHp4Zg) .
10 Dec 2025
Exploring Multiculturalism in Contemporary Canada
In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Rajesh Shukla (https://ustpaul.ca/en/staff/rajesh-chandra-shukla/), Associate Professor in the School of Ethics and Public Affairs at Saint Paul University. His research explores the intersection of moral and political philosophy, with a particular focus on migration, multiculturalism, justice, and the ethics of belonging.
Together, they unpack what multiculturalism really means in the Canadian context—how it has evolved, how it differs across regions such as Quebec, and why it remains both a source of pride and a site of tension. Professor Shukla reflects on the layered identities immigrants carry, the balance between cultural preservation and civic integration, and the challenges newcomers face when navigating expectations, policies, and rapidly shifting social landscapes.
They also explore crucial questions: How do we build genuine intercultural dialogue? When does respect for culture risk slipping into cultural relativism? How can we critique practices while remaining empathetic, informed, and open? And what systemic obstacles—such as outdated credential policies—stand in the way of true equity and inclusion?
Questions to reflect on:
How can we honour cultural identity while still creating shared values in a diverse society?
Where is the line between respect, critique, and healthy dialogue in multicultural communities?
If this conversation resonates with you, follow the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode.
And for our French-speaking listeners, discover our sister show USP en conversation (https://youtu.be/Mh07JJcz1-k)
12 Nov 2025
The role of women, synod and church transformation
In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Catherine Clifford (https://ustpaul.ca/en/staff/catherine-e-clifford/), a leading scholar in systematic and historical theology at Saint Paul University. Her expertise in ecclesiology, humanism, and the development of doctrine has shaped her long-standing interest in how the Church evolves — an interest that led to her historic appointment as a delegate to the Synod of Bishops by Pope Francis.
Together, they explore what synodality really means: a global, multi-year effort to reshape the Church’s governance through listening, discernment, and shared responsibility among all the baptized. Professor Clifford offers a rare inside view of the Synod’s process — the prayerful small-group conversations, the equal participation of clergy and laypeople, and the transformative impact of seeing the global Church gathered around one table.
She reflects on the growing leadership of women in the Church, the challenges of implementing synodal practices at every level of parish and diocesan life, and the hopes tied to the ongoing international study commissions addressing questions such as ministry, governance, and the role of women, including the possibility of a renewed diaconal ministry.
Patrick and Professor Clifford also address essential questions: How do we build authentic communities of listening in a fast-paced world? How can synodality help the Church better reflect the dignity, diversity, and lived experience of its people? And what does shared responsibility look like for all the baptized — in daily life, work, family, and society?
Questions to reflect on:
What would it look like for every baptized person to see themselves as co-responsible for the Church’s mission?
How can communities cultivate deeper listening in a culture that moves so quickly?
If this conversation resonates with you, follow the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode.
And for our French-speaking listeners, discover our sister show USP en conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Boo-49XIBs0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Boo-49XIBs0)
15 Oct 2025
Healing, Empathy and the Power of the Arts
In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux sits down with Professor Laura Armstrong, a clinical psychologist whose work bridges psychotherapy, spirituality, and the transformative power of the arts. Their conversation explores how the arts can serve as pathways to empathy and self-understanding, how different art forms shape our emotional lives, and what role creativity can play in promoting mental health and well-being.
They also discuss the therapeutic risks and rewards of introducing the arts into clinical settings and reflect on why, even beyond therapy, art remains essential for everyone seeking meaning, connection, and healing in their lives.
For French-speaking listeners, Saint Paul University also produces a French-language podcast, USP en Conversations, exploring many of these same themes.
9 Oct 2025
Trailer - In Context Podcast
At Saint Paul University, learning is more than knowledge — it’s transformation. In Context, hosted by Rector Louis Patrick Leroux, brings engaging conversations with professors on communication, culture, mental health, spirituality, justice, and community. Rooted in SPU’s spirit of openness and humanity, the podcast explores ideas that matter beyond the classroom, inviting listeners to reflect, challenge, and reimagine society for a more humane and just future.
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