Forge the Man

Folgen

• 
  Your Future Wife Can't Marry You Until She Finds You: Dating, Breakups, and Getting Back Out There 30.09.2026 37Min.

  If you've ever felt like dating today is somehow harder than it used to be, this episode is for you.Dana, a California government attorney, Harvard grad, and returning guest, is back on the show, and a lot has changed since his last appearance: he's now engaged. In this conversation, Dana and Paul get honest about the real risks of dating, where to actually meet someone worth pursuing, how to handle breakups without spiraling, and what changed for Dana when he met his fiancée. You don't want to miss Dana's insights on navigating the complexities of modern dating, the importance of virtue and community, and how to discern God's will in finding a life partner. A perfect episode for Catholic men seeking guidance on their journey to marriage.
• 
  What Does Abandonment to Divine Providence Actually Look Like? Lessons from Milton Ogdoc 22.09.2026 26Min.

  You don't need a full bank account or a clear plan to trust God with your future, you just need to be willing to take the next step.That's the heart of this episode. Milton Ogdoc is an architect who moved his family, including four children with special needs, from the Philippines to California with almost nothing to his name. In this conversation, Milton talks about the years of real financial pressure, a wildfire that nearly took everything, and the daily habits of faith — Mass, the rosary, a total trust in providence — that carried him through. He also shares what he looks for looking back, in the woman he married, and what he'd tell a young man who feels like he can't start a life of his own until he has more money or more certainty.Milton Ogdoc shares his inspiring journey from the Philippines to the United States, highlighting faith, family sacrifices, and the importance of divine providence in overcoming life's challenges. This episode offers valuable insights on marriage, faith practices, and resilience.If you're single, still figuring out your career, or waiting for the "right time" to pursue marriage, this one's for you.
• 
  The Human Problem Behind Your Phone Problem: Andrew Laubacher on Digital Addiction and Reclaiming Your Soul x Fairest Love Podcast Crossover 15.09.2026 48Min.

  Your phone may be quietly rewiring your attention, your habits, and even your soul. Andrew Laubacher, co-founder of Humanality and creator of Illumined Wellness reveals why digital addiction is not just a productivity problem, but a human problem and what it takes to reclaim your focus, your freedom, and your life.In this Forge the Man and Fairest Love podcast crossover, Andrew shares about why he believes “moderation” with social media is often a myth, the warning signs of phone addiction, including nomophobia and compulsive checking and how platforms are designed to exploit comparison, anxiety, lust, and dopamine loops.Learn more here: https://www.humanality.org/
• 
  Four Parts of the Car, The Cardinal Virtues: In The Forge with Paul Ybarra 08.09.2026 7Min.

  Ever made a decision you were completely sure about, brushed off someone's caution, and later wished you could take it all back?In this solo reflection, Paul uses a simple picture, four parts of a car, to talk through the cardinal virtues: prudence, temperance, courage, and justice. It's a short, practical episode, the kind you could listen to on a drive to work and actually carry with you for the rest of the day. Paul also shares a favorite book on virtue, a surprising quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, and a simple daily habit he's kept for years that he thinks more men should try.
• 
  A Life of Joy Anchored in God with Anthony Giuntini 01.09.2026 31Min.

  Have you ever had your whole life planned out — college, the girl, the wedding, the kids, right on schedule — and then felt God quietly rearrange the timeline on you?That's exactly where our guest this week found himself. Anthony Giuntini is an electrical engineer who spends his weekdays designing power and lighting systems for buildings. Underneath the engineer's logic is a guy who once had a literal countdown to marriage running through his head at thirteen years old, and found himself, instead, called to something he never saw coming, a vocation to give his life to God as a Numerary in Opus Dei.This is an honest conversation in a way discernment stories don't always get to be. Anthony walks us through the disorienting season when he moved cities away from his friends, the mentor who helped guide him, and a breakthrough moment in Rome that reframed everything for his very analytical mind. Along the way, there's a story about a dying man's final prayer that you'll want to hear Anthony tell it himself.Whether you're married, discerning, or just trying to figure out what God is asking of you right now, we think you'll find something here worth sitting with.
• 
  From a Failed Bar Exam to Lieutenant Colonel - Resilience with Lt. Col. Joe Groff 25.08.2026 36Min.

  Lieutenant Colonel Joe Groff has spent nearly 14 years in the United States Air Force as a JAG officer — an attorney handling criminal prosecution and defense within the military justice system. In this episode of Forge The Man, Joe walks Paul through his path from UCLA history major and Bush campaign field director to law school, failing the notoriously difficult California bar exam twice before finally passing, and commissioning into the Air Force in 2012. Joe gets candid about what actually separates officers who thrive from those who struggle (hint: preparation), and the real trade-offs of raising five kids across five moves in six years. The conversation closes on a reflective note about identity, public service, and the deep, lifelong friendships forged in the "crucible" of military life — including a friend who converted to Catholicism while deployed to Afghanistan.
• 
  The Captain of the Ship: Life as a Film Director with Roberto Girault 18.08.2026 42Min.

  Roberto "Bobby" Girault is an award-winning Mexican filmmaker best known for his breakout 2009 film El Estudiante, which won six Silver Goddess Awards including Best Director and Best Picture. In this episode of Forge The Man, Bobby talks with Paul about his winding path from law school to Vancouver Film School, the tension of choosing a "romantic" creative calling over the business path his family expected, and what he learned watching his father face both huge success and real failure without ever staying down. The conversation moves into the craft and leadership side of directing — confidence, fatherhood-style leadership, and knowing when to draw a hard line of authority on set — before landing on Bobby's deeper "why": using film to remind audiences of their God-given dignity. Paul and Bobby also get honest about the boundaries of storytelling, how far is too far when depicting violence or intimacy on screen, and close with a genuinely funny behind-the-scenes story from the set of El Estudiante.
• 
  Fitness Isn't the Problem — Your Priorities Are: In The Forge with Paul Ybarra 11.08.2026 7Min.

  In this solo reflection, Paul Ybarra digs into a 2018 Vatican document, Giving the Best of Yourself, from the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, which explores the role of sports in the Christian life — largely drawing on the "theology of the body" and personal example of Pope St. John Paul II, famously known as the "athlete pope." Paul makes the case that sports and physical fitness are genuine gifts from God, capable of building virtue, humility, and team-oriented character — but warns that, left unchecked, the same good desire for strength and health can quietly crowd out prayer, family, and the interior life. Drawing on a story about Magic Johnson learning the joy of assisting his teammates, a conversation with a young man preparing for the fire department, and John Paul II's own words to athletes, Paul lays out a simple but challenging question for every man who loves sports: are you training your body while letting your soul go dry? Share this episode with a friend who might be chasing fitness (or any good thing) a little harder than his prayer life right now.Subscribe to Forge The Man for more reflections on faith, virtue, and living with the right priorities as a Catholic man.
• 
  Roll Up Your Sleeves: the Fight to Work for the Right Reasons with Regional COO Joel Ojeda 05.08.2026 32Min.

  Joel Ojeda is the Chief Operating Officer for the West region of an infrastructure consulting company, where he's helped scale the organization from roughly 1,000 to 6,500 employees. In this episode of Forge The Man, Joel — a USC engineering grad and Yale MBA — gets refreshingly practical about what it actually takes to lead well and grow a career: how he protects his focus from constant digital noise, what he looks for when hiring (and firing), how he handles team conflict, and why owning your mistakes builds more trust than trying to look perfect. The conversation also goes deeper into Joel's own struggle with overwork and perfectionism, his decision (with his wife) to become a single-income family, and how he's learned to turn a hard day's work into prayer instead of a search for recognition. It's a grounded, tactical episode for any young man trying to build a career without losing himself — or his family — in the process.
• 
  "It's Not Expensive" — Father of Eight Carlo Boton Debunks the Big Family Myth 28.07.2026 32Min.

  Carlo Boton is a Certified Financial Planner in Southern California whose team manages roughly $200 million in client wealth — and he's also a father of eight, married to his wife Joy for 21 years. In this episode of Forge The Man, Carlo shares the whirlwind story of proposing to Joy after just ten days of courtship, why he believes raising a large family is far less expensive than most young couples assume, and the daily rhythm that keeps a household of ten running. He also gets candid about parenting through conflict — how he and Joy resolve sibling disputes "court of law" style, how Joy's tenderness balances his own more demanding style of love, and why he believes the real beneficiary of a hard parenting season isn't the child, but the parent being refined. It's a grounded, practical conversation about marriage, money, and fatherhood from a man living all three at full capacity.Subscribe to Forge The Man for more real conversations on marriage, fatherhood, and building a life of purpose as a Catholic man. Share this episode with a friend who's on the fence about starting — or growing — a family.Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: KG6Q7T0Y3MODLYQV
• 
  Winning the "Spiritual Lottery" of Apostolic Celibacy with James Herrick 21.07.2026 30Min.

  Most Catholic men have heard of two vocations: marriage or the priesthood. In this episode of Forge The Man, Paul talks with James Herrick — a civil engineer, poet, and mentor living in the Bay Area — about a third path many have never considered: the celibate vocation of a numerary in Opus Dei. James walks through his own discernment story from third grade all the way through his decisive commitment in 2010, including the mentors, retreats, and quiet nudges that shaped his path. The conversation moves into the practical side of discernment — building a real prayer life, finding a spiritual director, and learning to hear God's voice in the ordinary noise of daily life — and closes with a moving tribute to two close friends, both numeraries, who died saving a third man from drowning. It's a conversation about vocation, mentorship, legacy, and what it really means to give your life away.James Herrick grew up in Colorado, New Jersey, and Virginia, and attended the University of Notre Dame, graduating in 2016. He has worked as a civil engineer in New York, Los Angeles, and now the Bay Area, and is preparing to begin a master's program at Pepperdine University. James comes from a family with a long military and pilgrim history. Since high school, he's written poetry, deepened his prayer life, and mentored young men through Opus Dei programs and service trips around the world. Subscribe to Forge The Man for more real conversations on vocation, discernment, and what it looks like for Catholic men to give their lives away — whether married, single, or still figuring it out. Share this episode with a friend who's in the thick of discernment right now.
• 
  You Don't Know What You Want (And That's the Problem) - Unpacking René Girard with Trevor Merrill 14.07.2026 36Min.

  What if most of what you want — the job, the truck, the girl, the tattoo — isn't really yours? In this episode of Forge The Man, Paul sits down with Trevor Merrill, scholar, novelist, and director of Imitatio, to unpack the work of French thinker René Girard — the man Peter Thiel has credited with shaping his approach to leadership. Trevor breaks down two of Girard's biggest ideas: mimetic desire (we imitate the desires of others more than we realize) and scapegoating (how groups — from ancient tribes to Twitter mobs — offload tension onto a single target). Along the way, Paul and Trevor get practical: how to avoid office politics, how to choose good models instead of flashy ones, why freshman year roommates become rivals, and how young men can build a life around something deeper than comparative advantage. It's a conversation for any man trying to figure out what he actually wants — and who he should be listening to.Trevor Merrill manages Imitatio, a program devoted to advancing René Girard's mimetic theory, and has translated and edited several of Girard's books. He's a novelist (Minor Indignities, 2020; The Comforts of Exile, forthcoming September 2026), a co-producer of the documentary Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard, and has taught French language and literature at Caltech for over a decade. He is currently translating a forthcoming biography of Girard for Stanford University Press. Trevor and his wife Carolyn converted to Catholicism (2015 and 2017, respectively) and have four children.Resources & Books MentionedDeceit, Desire, and the Novel — René GirardViolence and the Sacred — René GirardThings Hidden Since the Foundation of the World — René GirardWanting — Luke BurgessClever as Serpents — (mimetic theory applied to management/office politics)Finding True Happiness — Fr. Robert SpitzerAristotle's Way — Edith HallDocumentary: Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René GirardTrevor Merrill's novels: Minor Indignities (2020), The Comforts of Exile (forthcoming Sept. 2026)
• 
  What 41 Years with the LAPD Taught Me About Being a Man with Ignacio Verduzco 07.07.2026 27Min.

  What does over 40 years in law enforcement teach a man about leadership, faith, marriage, and vocation?Former LAPD Commander Ignacio Verduzco shares lessons from over four decades of service as a Marine, police officer, and leader. to discuss serving as a Marine, leading police officers through some of Los Angeles' most difficult decades, and why integrity, patience, and mentorship matter more than ever.From growing up in Los Angeles after immigrating from Mexico to serving 37 years with the LAPD (and continuing in the Honor Guard), Ignacio reflects on what young Catholic men need most today: integrity, patience, courage, mentorship, and a vocation of service.This conversation isn't just for aspiring police officers—it's for every Catholic man seeking excellence in his work, family, and spiritual life.Whether you're considering law enforcement or simply striving to become a better husband, father, leader, or professional, this conversation offers timeless wisdom forged through decades of difficult decisions.
• 
  The Power of Great Books and Great Mentors with Ray Tittmann 30.06.2026 28Min.

  What does it take to build a life of purpose? In this episode of Forge The Man, Paul Ybarra talks with Ray Tittmann about his path to becoming a lawyer, the transformative power of a liberal arts education, and why faith, mentorship, and great books remain essential for personal and professional growth. Ray shares why mentorship is essential for both personal and professional growth and explains how spending time with the world's greatest thinkers helps sharpen critical thinking, and how cultivating critical thinking through timeless wisdom can help you make better decisions, pursue meaningful success, and ultimately live a more fulfilled life.00:00 Introduction to Ray and His Journey02:16 Educational Background and Its Impact on Law03:54 The Home Depot Case and Law 360 MVP Award05:19 The Importance of Reading and Critical Thinking08:18 Choosing the Right College and Education Philosophy10:12 The Value of Mentorship12:48 Approaching Mentors and Building Relationships15:45 Following Opportunities Over Passions20:18 The Role of Great Thinkers in Personal Development22:24 Engaging with Difficult Texts and Mental Exercise25:01 The Importance of Work and Pursuing Excellence26:58 Action Items for Professional Preparation
• 
  Generational Wealth: The Impact of a Good Father with Will Boles 23.06.2026 31Min.

  What makes a father's influence last for generations?In this episode, Will Boles shares how his father's example shaped his faith, family, and leadership. From prioritizing spiritual formation despite a demanding career to creating meaningful family traditions and modeling humility in marriage and parenting, Will unpacks the lessons that continue to guide his life today.Whether you're a father, husband, leader, or simply someone thinking about the legacy you want to leave, this conversation offers practical wisdom on sacrifice, presence, and the transformative power of self-giving love.
• 
  Heroic Virtue and Courage: Remembering the Lives of Val Creus, Matthew Schoenecker, and Matthew Anthony 16.06.2026 37Min.

  In this special episode, we remember the inspiring lives of Val Creus, Matthew Schoenecker, and Matthew Anthony, three numerary members of Opus Dei who tragically passed away on June 18th 2025 after attempting to save one another in the waters of Rattlesnake Falls. Listen as we explore their exemplified virtue, courage, dedication to their faith, and generosity for others. Through their lives, we learn how ordinary responsibilities can be transformed into acts of sanctity, service, and preparation for the heroic sacrifices God calls each of us to make.00:00 Introduction to Forge the Man and Guest Introduction02:06 The Lives and Vocation of Val Creus, Matt Anthony, and Matt Schoenecker10:09 Annual Courses and Community Life in Opus Dei10:41 The Tragic Accident at Rattlesnake Falls19:01 Processing Grief and Finding Hope24:38 Lessons from the Lives of Val Creus, Matt Anthony, and Matt Schoenecker30:54 Advice for Young Men on Discerning Vocation34:58 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement
• 
  A Physician With A Mission: A Journey of Faith and Purpose with Dominic Dizon 09.06.2026 34Min.

  In this insightful interview, Dominic Dizon shares his journey through medical school, the challenges faced, and the virtues essential for aspiring physicians. He emphasizes the importance of soft skills, faith, and purpose in a medical career, offering practical advice for those discerning their vocation.00:00Introduction to the Forge and Guest Background02:33Overcoming Personal Hurdles in Medical School05:08The Importance of Mentorship in Medicine07:54Essential Skills for Aspiring Physicians11:02Navigating Residency and Financial Challenges13:17Traits of Successful Medical Students16:17A Day in the Life of a Physician21:48Balancing Family Life and Professional Responsibilities27:39The Purpose Behind Medical Work and Vocation31:25Advice for Career Discernment
• 
  A Big and Beautiful Life: Leading a Large Family with Kirby Fike 01.06.2026 36Min.

  In this inspiring interview, Kirby Fike shares his journey of faith, family, and fatherhood, including how he supports a large family of 12 children while balancing career and faith. Discover practical insights on raising children, maintaining a strong marriage, and embracing a life of virtue and purpose.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:57 Meeting and Marrying His Wife01:41 Deciding on a Large Family02:50 Educational Background and Career Shift04:29 Financial Support and Family Life in California06:51 The Role of a Stay-at-Home Mom08:35 Children’s Responsibilities and Family Leadership10:00 The Joys of a Large Family13:12 Overcoming Social Pressure and Cultural Views16:20 Family Meals and Virtue Education19:27 Conflict Resolution in a Large Household21:34 Supporting His Children in Sports26:50 Life with Young Children and Twins29:53 Advice for Young Men Considering Marriage34:36 Prayers and Spiritual Practices for Future Families36:06 Closing Remarks and Inspiration Resources:Father the Family Protector by Jim Stenson
• 
  Resilience, Law and Policy: Insights from Dana Cruz 01.06.2026 31Min.

  Dana Cruz, an attorney with extensive experience in government, policy, and military law, shares his inspiring journey from a working-class background to Harvard and his career in California's legal and legislative systems. He offers valuable insights on preparation, resilience, networking, and the virtues needed for success in law and public service.00:00 Introduction to Dana Cruz and His Journey02:51 From Aspirations to Reality: Dana's Career Path05:51 Academic Preparation for Law School09:03 The Importance of Discipline and Grit12:03 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development12:56 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity15:34 Advice on Seeking Excellence Over Glory17:49 Networking Strategies for Aspiring Lawyers20:30 A Day in the Life of a Policy Lawyer22:22 Debunking Myths About Lawyers25:17 Actionable Steps for Aspiring Lawyers28:50 Closing Thoughts and Final Advice
• 
  Welcome to Forge the Man 29.05.2026 9Min.

  In this introductory episode of the Forge the Man podcast, host Paul Ybarra, discusses the purpose and vision behind the podcast, which aims to mentor young men by sharing valuable life lessons and experiences from various role models. Paul shares his own background, the importance of mentorship, and the types of guests that will be featured in future episodes, emphasizing the need for positive male influences in today's society.This podcast is aimed at young men aged 21 to 36. There is a significant need for mentorship in today's culture. Paul's father played a crucial role in his upbringing. Mentorship can help young men avoid mistakes and build confidence. The podcast will feature stories from virtuous role models. Coaching and mentorship are essential for personal development.Paul emphasizes the importance of a good work ethic. The podcast aims to fill gaps in mentorship for young men. Listeners will gain hope and inspiration from the guests' stories. The podcast is part of a larger initiative to support family life.