Mezzo is a space for the "in-between." For deconstructing and deconstructed Catholics, and those who want to learn with and from them. We cover Catholicism, intersectionality, dialogue, deconstruction, sexuality, race, creativity, healing, change, and much more!
Mezzo by Chris Damian
Claim This Podcastby Chris Damian
5.0(8 reviews)
40 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸
Podcast Overview
Mezzo is a space for the "in-between." For deconstructing and deconstructed Catholics, and those who want to learn with and from them. We cover Catholicism, intersectionality, dialogue, deconstruction, sexuality, race, creativity, healing, change, and much more!
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
10/5/2025
Reach the team behind Mezzo by Chris Damian
Verified contact details for this show aren't on file yet — sign up to get notified when they land.
Recent Episodes
July 2, 2026
My Grandfather Was an "Illegal Immigrant": A Catholic Perspective
<p>In this episode, I share some of my personal story about immigration, faith, and family. My grandfather once overstayed his visa and, for a time, was considered an "illegal immigrant." Looking at today's immigration debate, I can't help but wonder how differently my own family might have been treated under our current political climate.</p><p>I also reflect on why I was initially hopeful about JD Vance as a Catholic public figure, why that hope ultimately faded, and what I believe Catholic teaching—including the concept of ordo amoris (the order of charity)—actually asks of Christians when it comes to immigrants and refugees.</p><p>This isn't a discussion about political parties as much as it is about neighbors, compassion, and the responsibility we owe to the people whose lives become intertwined with our own. Whether you agree or disagree, I hope you'll listen with an open mind and join the conversation in the comments.</p><p>If you enjoy thoughtful discussions on Catholicism, politics, ethics, LGBTQ issues, and faith, consider subscribing for more.</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 The Personal Legacy of Immigration</p><p>02:55 Reflections on J.D. Vance and Political Discourse</p><p>05:52 The Complexity of Love and Responsibility</p><p>08:59 The Impact of Immigration Policies</p><p>11:58 A Call to Compassion and Understanding</p>
June 29, 2026
Why Catholic Arguments Against Transgender People Don't Work
<p>In this episode, we explore why many Catholic arguments against transgender identities fail to persuade—even among people who are sympathetic to Catholic teaching.Drawing on the work of Catholic philosopher Elizabeth Anscombe, we examine how many Catholic discussions about transgender people begin with assumptions that don't accurately describe how trans people understand themselves. Instead of engaging real experiences, Catholic leaders and apologists often end up arguing against simplified caricatures.We also examine the 2019 Vatican document Male and Female He Created Them, discuss how transgender people commonly describe their identities, and compare today's debates about gender to the ways Christians once misunderstood and misrepresented gay people.Whether you agree or not, I hope this conversation encourages a deeper, more honest engagement with both Catholic tradition and the lived experiences of transgender people.Subscribe for more conversations on Catholicism, sexuality, faith, culture, and the future of the Church.Follow me:Substack: Chris DamianInstagram/X: @cdamianwrites00:00 Why Arguments Fail01:47 Vatican Gender Document04:15 Trans Identity Not Choice05:47 Euthydemus Moral Discourse06:13 Lessons From Gay Debates07:15 Credibility And Consequences08:02 Better Conversation Ahead</p>
June 22, 2026
Can Gay Men Be Ordained Catholic Priests? Canon Lawyer Explains the Rules
<p>Can Catholic seminaries admit gay men to holy orders? In this long, nerdy, and surprisingly hopeful conversation, I sit down with my friend Dan Quinan, a canon lawyer and Substack writer, to unpack what Church law actually says about “homosexual tendencies,” “gay culture,” and seminary admissions.We walk through the 2005 Vatican instructions, the difference between actions, habits, and desires, and why canon law cares far more about chastity and double lives than about labels like “gay” or “homosexual.” We also talk about Pope Francis, the Italian bishops’ recent proposals, and how pathological frameworks around sexuality have fueled both confusion and abuse.If you care about vocations, gay Catholics, canon law, or just understanding what the Church really teaches beyond the hot takes, this one’s for you.00:00 Admittance to Holy Orders03:24 Understanding Canon Law and Instructions07:08 Frameworks and Interpretations of Homosexuality29:53 Discussing a Bishop's Allegations and Identity33:06 Understanding Celibacy and Chastity34:15 Seminary Admissions and Homosexuality41:06 Virtue Ethics and Canon Law</p>
40 total episodes available
Similar Podcasts
Discover related shows you might enjoy
Jesuitical
America Media
Inside The Vatican
America Media
The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.
America Media
Intrinsically Ordered
Cade Bradley
Catholic Classics
Ascension
The Jen Fulwiler Show
Jen Fulwiler
Whiplash with Maxwell Kuzma
Max
Data Over Dogma
Daniel McClellan and Daniel Beecher
Know Your Enemy
Matthew Sitman
Advisory Opinions
The Dispatch
Matter of Opinion
New York Times Opinion
Theology for the Unwanted
Theology for the Unwanted
Across the Movie Aisle
Across the Movie Aisle
Third Space Podcast
Paul Fahey
The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg
The Dispatch
Deep-dive analytics for Mezzo by Chris Damian
Frequently asked questions
Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our support team by sending us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
- What is Mezzo by Chris Damian?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
Legal Disclaimer
Pod Engine is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with any of the podcasts displayed on this platform. We operate independently as a podcast discovery and analytics service.
All podcast artwork, thumbnails, and content displayed on this page are the property of their respective owners and are protected by applicable copyright laws. This includes, but is not limited to, podcast cover art, episode artwork, show descriptions, episode titles, transcripts, audio snippets, and any other content originating from the podcast creators or their licensors.
We display this content under fair use principles and/or implied license for the purpose of podcast discovery, information, and commentary. We make no claim of ownership over any podcast content, artwork, or related materials shown on this platform. All trademarks, service marks, and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
While we strive to ensure all content usage is properly authorized, if you are a rights holder and believe your content is being used inappropriately or without proper authorization, please contact us immediately at hey@podengine.ai for prompt review and appropriate action, which may include content removal or proper attribution.
By accessing and using this platform, you acknowledge and agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and intellectual property rights of content owners. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or commercial use of the content displayed on this platform is strictly prohibited.