Brave New Us: Choosing Human in a Synthetic World

Samantha N Stephenson · snstephenson.com

From gene editing and artificial wombs to brain implants and digital immortality—what does it mean to be human in a world trying to remake us? Brave New Us explores how emerging technologies are reshaping what it means to be human. Hosted by Catholic bioethicist and author Samantha Stephenson, the podcast sits at the crossroads of faith, science, and ethics, featuring expert interviews and incisive commentary on biotechnology, AI, transhumanism, reproductive technologies, human enhancement, and the moral questions they raise. Whether you're questioning the ethics of cutting-edge science, navigating a rapidly changing technological world, or simply seeking clarity in an age of unprecedented innovation, Brave New Us will help you think critically, live intentionally, and choose what is deeply human. Samantha Stephenson holds master's degrees in theology and bioethics, served as a Paul Ramsey Fellow at the Center for Bioethics and Culture,

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Episodes 50

BONUS: Guardians of the Home: Discerning the Voice of Truth and Forming Peace-Filled Homes
1mo ago · 1:03:00
Recorded live at the Rocky Mountain Catholic Home Educators Conference (June 20, 2026) Our homes are not just places where we live—they are places where souls are formed. In this keynote from the 2026 Rocky Mountain Catholic Home Educators Conference, Samantha Stephenson invites parents to see their vocation with fresh eyes. In a culture saturated with anxiety, distraction, algorithms, and competing voices, mothers and fathers are called to become guardians of their homes—carefully discerning what enters their family's imagination, habits, and hearts. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic tradition
BONUS: Should Catholics Trust AI?
1mo ago · 1:03:00
Artificial intelligence is changing how we search for information, write, create, learn, and even pray. But what happens when AI enters the life of the Church? In this episode of Brave New Us, Samantha Stephenson sits down with Tim, creator of Chatechism, one of the most ambitious Catholic AI projects to date. Together they explore not only what AI can do for Catholics, but also where it should—and shouldn't—go. Rather than offering easy answers, this conversation wrestles honestly with some of the biggest questions facing the Church in the age of artificial intelligence: Can an AI ever be tru
Touching Grass: Why I Gave Up My Homestead Dream
4mo ago · 21:47
What if the answer isn’t escaping modern life, but learning to inhabit it differently? In this season finale, Samantha reflects on her own attraction to the homestead ideal — and why she ultimately reconsidered what it means to live sustainably, faithfully, and attentively in the place God has already given her. This episode marks the beginning of a summer pause for Brave New Us and an invitation to continue the conversation through gardening, stewardship, and cultivation on YouTube. In this episode: The appeal and limits of the homestead dream Stewardship versus escape Gardening as an embodie
Your Uterus or Mine? How Transplantation Is Changing the Face of Reproductive Medicine | Dr. Andrew Kubick
4mo ago · 57:53
Medical breakthroughs often arrive faster than our moral vocabulary can keep up. Samantha speaks with Andrew Kubick of the National Catholic Bioethics Center about uterine transplantation — from its therapeutic promise for women experiencing infertility to the profound ethical questions raised as reproductive technology expands toward increasingly experimental possibilities. When medicine gains the power not only to heal but to redesign reproduction, how should we think about human dignity, motherhood, and the meaning of the body itself? In this episode: The science and ethics of uterine trans
Made Good: Making Peace with the Body (with a Catholic Nutritionist)
4mo ago · 1:01:37
What if health begins not with control, but with trust? Samantha speaks with a Catholic nutritionist about holistic health, women’s metabolism, and the growing desire to step out of cycles of restriction and anxiety surrounding food and wellness. Together they explore how Christian anthropology offers a different starting point for health: the body as created good, meaningful, and worthy of care rather than suspicion. In this episode: Holistic health and the limits of modern wellness culture Women’s health, metabolism, and stress Faith and nutrition Learning to cooperate with the body instead
Disembodiment — Or Something Else?
5mo ago · 17:56
Modern culture is often described as disembodied — detached from physical reality and increasingly virtual. But is that diagnosis accurate? In this episode, Samantha responds to arguments about “disembodiment,” proposing instead that modern life has produced a cluster of bodily effects: heightened anxiety about health, constant self-monitoring, and confusion about what the body means or how it should be understood. Rather than abandoning the body, we may be struggling to interpret it. In this episode: A response to Helen Roy’s argument on disembodiment Why modern people are hyper-focused on th
Infertile. Now What? | Leigh Snead
5mo ago · 45:00
Infertility is often treated as a medical problem waiting for a solution. But for many women, the deeper questions begin after diagnosis. Samantha speaks with Leigh Snead, author of Infertile but Fruitful, about the emotional, spiritual, and relational realities of infertility — and the challenge of understanding the meaning of spiritual motherhood when life unfolds differently than expected. Together they explore how faith reframes suffering, vocation, and hope without reducing them to easy answers. In this episode: The lived experience of infertility beyond clinical language Marriage, identi
Change the Language, Change the Culture
6mo ago · 15:00
Language does more than describe reality. Over time, it teaches us how to see it. In this episode of Brave New Us, Samantha shares a reading and reflection connected to her spiritual fiction project, The Bellbind Letters, exploring how cultural change often begins not with laws or technologies, but with shifts in vocabulary — especially around the body, femininity, and identity. What happens when familiar words slowly take on new meanings? And how does language shape the way a society understands what it means to be human? This episode opens a larger season-long conversation about embodiment,
Reject and Inject: Why Cosmetic Procedures Aren’t Just Skin Deep
7mo ago · 15:36
In a culture that normalizes medical means for non-medical problems, where do we draw the line in the pursuit of beauty? In This Episode We explore the ethics of cosmetic procedures—from “baby Botox” and fillers to plastic surgery—and what they communicate about our bodies, our worth, and our deepest desires. Through the story of “Katie” and reflections from Theology of the Body, we ask: Does altering a healthy body help us love ourselves…or teach us to reject the gift we’ve been given? Is cosmetic “enhancement” actually making women more confident, or more insecure? How do we distinguish heal
The Case Against Assisted Suicide: Why MAID, Death with "Dignity," and Suicide Pods Fall Short | Stephanie Gray Connors
8mo ago · 1:00:00
Is assisted suicide compassionate—or is it a cultural failure to respond humanely to suffering? In this episode of Brave New Us, host Samantha Stephenson speaks with author and bioethics speaker Stephanie Gray Connors about physician-assisted suicide, euthanasia, and end-of-life ethics in the age of medical and technological power. Drawing on her book On Assisted Suicide (Word on Fire’s Dignity series), Stephanie examines how language like “death with dignity” and “medical aid in dying” reshapes our moral imagination—and why dignity is not something we lose when we suffer. From Canada’s rapidl
Why Women Are Getting Sicker Younger
8mo ago · 15:00
Why are women developing chronic illness at younger ages—and why are they so often dismissed when they seek answers? In this episode of Brave New Us, bioethicist and chronic illness patient Samantha Stephenson explores why women are disproportionately affected by autoimmune disease, migraines, infertility, depression, and other chronic conditions. Drawing from ethics, medicine, and lived experience, she examines the role of environmental toxins, hormonal contraception, abortion, and inequities in medical research—and asks how women can pursue real healing without ignoring the spiritual meaning
Why Smart Women Still Choose Motherhood (And Why So Many Kids?) | Dr. Catherine Pakaluk
8mo ago · 44:00
Why are highly educated, ambitious women choosing large families in an age of falling birthrates, frozen eggs, and fertility tech? In this episode, Dr. Catherine Pakaluk joins Brave New Us to unpack her groundbreaking book Hannah’s Children: The Women Who Defied the Birth Dearth. We explore: What drives women to embrace motherhood as a vocation—not a fallback How the fertility crisis and biotech age shape our cultural assumptions about children, work, and worth Why choosing family is the most radical—and future-focused—choice a woman can make today About the guest: Dr. Catherine Pakaluk is a p
The Case Against IVF | Dr. Stacy Trasancos
9mo ago
Stacy Trasancos, author of IVF Is Not the Way, joins Samantha to unpack the hidden costs and ethical challenges of IVF and fertility technology. Drawing on her science background and faith, Stacy reveals why IVF often falls short—and why natural fertility awareness and restorative reproductive medicine offer hope that’s overlooked by mainstream medicine. We explore how the fertility industry profits from desperation, the ethical dilemmas of embryo freezing and manipulation, and how couples can reclaim control of their fertility through informed, compassionate alternatives. Links mentioned in t
The Sexual Revolution Lied—And We're Still Paying the Price | Dr. Nathanael Blake
10mo ago · 44:00
In this episode of Brave New Us, Dr. Nathanael Blake joins host Samantha Stephenson to discuss his bold new book, Victims of the Revolution: How Sexual Liberation Hurts Us All. Together, they unpack how a movement that promised personal freedom has led to cultural confusion, emotional harm, and deep philosophical contradictions. We explore: What sets Victims of the Revolution apart from other critiques of the Sexual Revolution Why the revolution’s “freedom” often means detaching the self from the body The real-life consequences for the most vulnerable—especially women and children What a more
When Medicine Goes Too Far: Surrogacy, Gender Clinics & the Ethics We Ignore | Kallie Fell
10mo ago
When does medicine cross the line from healing to harm? In this episode of Brave New Us, bioethicist and nurse researcher Kallie Fell, Executive Director of the Center for Bioethics and Culture (CBC), joins Samantha Stephenson to expose critical ethical questions around reproductive technologies, gender medicine, and medical consent. We dig into: The hidden risks and ethical concerns of IVF, egg donation, and commercial surrogacy How “informed consent” often fails in fertility treatments and gender-affirming care The rapid rise of pediatric gender clinics and controversies surrounding transgen
The Transhumanist Temptation: Hacking Humanity or Destroying It? | Grayson Quay
11mo ago
Grayson Quay joins Samantha Stephenson to expose the seductive logic of transhumanism—and the moral and spiritual cost of buying in. From AI and brain chips to synthetic immortality and gene editing, the push to “upgrade” the human experience promises power but may unravel what makes us human. This conversation cuts through the hype to reveal what’s really at stake. Is transhumanism a scientific breakthrough or a new form of worship? What happens when we lose our reverence for the body and our humility before its limits? Topics we cover: – Why transhumanism is less science, more spiritual coun
How to Heal Women | Grace Emily Stark
11mo ago · 44:00
Is IVF the only answer for infertility—or is there a better way? In this episode, Samantha Stephenson welcomes back Grace Emily Stark, editor of Natural Womanhood and a leading voice in restorative reproductive medicine (RRM). Together, they unpack what RRM really is, how it differs from conventional gynecology and fertility treatments like IVF, and why so few women have ever heard of it. We explore: The science behind cycle charting and hormone diagnostics Why the birth control pill often masks—not solves—reproductive issues How RRM treats the root causes of infertility (like PCOS, endometrio
Reversing Chronic Autoimmune Disease with Stem Cells | Dr. Richard Burt
1y ago · 44:00
Is it possible to reverse autoimmune disease—permanently? In this episode of Brave New Us, Dr. Richard Burt, pioneering stem cell physician and author of Everyday Miracles, joins host Samantha Stephenson to unpack his revolutionary treatment for autoimmune disorders. Hailed by Scientific American as one of the top 10 medical advances of the decade, Dr. Burt’s non-myeloablative stem cell therapy has changed—and saved—lives. Dr. Burt opens up about his early skepticism, the medical establishment's resistance, and the patients who inspired him to push forward. Together, we explore the promise and
Pronatalism, Silicon Valley, and the New Eugenics | Emma Waters
1y ago · 44:00
What happens when creating a child becomes a consumer choice? In this provocative episode of Brave New Us, research associate at the Heritage Foundation Emma Waters joins host Samantha Stephenson to break down the rising trend of embryo screening, designer genetics, and artificial wombs. From Elon Musk's child-maxxing to CRISPR enhancements and Build-a-Baby startups like Nucleus Genomics and Orchid, we explore how reproductive technologies are reshaping what it means to become a parent—and what’s at stake for the children created through these tools. If you've ever asked yourself: • Is embryo
From Contraceptives to Catholicism | My Conversion Story
1y ago · 20:00
In this episode, I open up about my personal journey from hormonal contraceptives to finding my faith within the Catholic Church. My relentless pursuit of truth led me to a profound understanding of Catholic doctrine, culminating in my conversion and a renewed commitment to my beliefs. Join me as I share how contraceptives became my ‘gateway drug’ to my home in Christ's one true Church. … Don't forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to never miss a video! STAY CONNECTED Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Editor Click here to sign up for our FREE weekly Substack NEWSLETTER!!
The Toxic War on Masculinity | Nancy Pearcey
2y ago · 44:00
In this episode of Brave New Us, we delve into the dual expectations society places on men and the concept of masculinity. We discuss the innate understanding of what it means to be a ‘good man’—characterized by duty, honor, integrity, and sacrifice—and contrast it with the societal pressure to ‘man up’ and embody toughness, competitiveness, and stoicism. Joining us is Professor Pearcey, author of “The Toxic War on Masculinity, How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes,” who shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her controversial book. She challenges the negative portrayal of masc
Why Pope Francis Is Right about Surrogacy
2y ago · 22:00
Following Pope Francis’s condemnation of surrogacy, headlines exploded with accusations of misogyny and moral overreach. But beneath the outrage lies a deeper question: what if the Church’s position is more empowering—and more human—than critics are willing to admit? In this solo episode, Samantha Stephenson responds to a viral CNN opinion piece, challenges media distortions, and defends the Church’s stance as a voice for women’s dignity, children’s rights, and the sanctity of motherhood. She also reflects on activist Olivia Morel, a child of surrogacy, and what her surprise at Donum Vitae rev
A Catholic Guide to Infertility | Dr. John DiCamillo
2y ago · 54:27
When IVF is off the table, what options remain for Catholic couples struggling with infertility? In this episode, Samantha Stephenson is joined by John DiCamillo, Ethicist and Director of Personal Consultations at the National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC). With over a decade of experience, John helps untangle the ethical questions surrounding fertility treatments like GIFT, IUI, and other interventions involving the couple’s own gametes. Together, they explore: Why IVF is morally problematic How to evaluate other fertility treatments through a Catholic lens The role of NCBC in guiding coup
Affirming or Abandoning? Rethinking Transgender Care | Stephanie Winn
2y ago · 54:27
Is “affirming care” helping—or harming—the people it claims to serve? Therapist and documentary producer Stephanie Winn joins Samantha Stephenson to expose the psychological and cultural fallout of gender ideology. Drawing on her clinical experience and work on the film No Way Back, Stephanie unpacks the troubling realities behind gender transitions, the pressure to conform, and what true mental health support looks like for gender-questioning youth and their families. This episode cuts through the noise to ask the hard questions few are willing to raise. Some Kind of Therapist podcast: / @som
Unmasking the Hidden Ideology of the Sexual Revolution | Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse
2y ago · 54:27
Samantha Stephenson talks with Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse, economist, writer, and founder of the Ruth Institute, about the hidden costs of the Sexual Revolution. They explore her sharp critique of its three dominant ideologies: The contraceptive ideology The divorce ideology The gender ideology Discover how these ideas shape—and sometimes distort—our understanding of marriage, family, and the human body. Dive deep into the assumptions, contradictions, and societal consequences of the sexual revolution. https://ruthinstitute.org/about/dr-morse/ … Don't forget to hit the SUBSCRIBE button to never

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Brave New Us: Choosing Human in a Synthetic World

Episodes 50

BONUS: Guardians of the Home: Discerning the Voice of Truth and Forming Peace-Filled Homes

BONUS: Should Catholics Trust AI?

Touching Grass: Why I Gave Up My Homestead Dream

Your Uterus or Mine? How Transplantation Is Changing the Face of Reproductive Medicine | Dr. Andrew Kubick

Made Good: Making Peace with the Body (with a Catholic Nutritionist)

Disembodiment — Or Something Else?

Infertile. Now What? | Leigh Snead

Change the Language, Change the Culture

Reject and Inject: Why Cosmetic Procedures Aren’t Just Skin Deep

The Case Against Assisted Suicide: Why MAID, Death with "Dignity," and Suicide Pods Fall Short | Stephanie Gray Connors

Why Women Are Getting Sicker Younger

Why Smart Women Still Choose Motherhood (And Why So Many Kids?) | Dr. Catherine Pakaluk

The Case Against IVF | Dr. Stacy Trasancos

The Sexual Revolution Lied—And We're Still Paying the Price | Dr. Nathanael Blake

When Medicine Goes Too Far: Surrogacy, Gender Clinics & the Ethics We Ignore | Kallie Fell

The Transhumanist Temptation: Hacking Humanity or Destroying It? | Grayson Quay

How to Heal Women | Grace Emily Stark

Reversing Chronic Autoimmune Disease with Stem Cells | Dr. Richard Burt

Pronatalism, Silicon Valley, and the New Eugenics | Emma Waters

From Contraceptives to Catholicism | My Conversion Story

The Toxic War on Masculinity | Nancy Pearcey

Why Pope Francis Is Right about Surrogacy

A Catholic Guide to Infertility | Dr. John DiCamillo

Affirming or Abandoning? Rethinking Transgender Care | Stephanie Winn

Unmasking the Hidden Ideology of the Sexual Revolution | Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse

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Episodes 50

BONUS: Guardians of the Home: Discerning the Voice of Truth and Forming Peace-Filled Homes

BONUS: Should Catholics Trust AI?

Touching Grass: Why I Gave Up My Homestead Dream

Your Uterus or Mine? How Transplantation Is Changing the Face of Reproductive Medicine | Dr. Andrew Kubick

Made Good: Making Peace with the Body (with a Catholic Nutritionist)

Disembodiment — Or Something Else?

Infertile. Now What? | Leigh Snead

Change the Language, Change the Culture

Reject and Inject: Why Cosmetic Procedures Aren’t Just Skin Deep

The Case Against Assisted Suicide: Why MAID, Death with "Dignity," and Suicide Pods Fall Short | Stephanie Gray Connors

Why Women Are Getting Sicker Younger

Why Smart Women Still Choose Motherhood (And Why So Many Kids?) | Dr. Catherine Pakaluk

The Case Against IVF | Dr. Stacy Trasancos

The Sexual Revolution Lied—And We're Still Paying the Price | Dr. Nathanael Blake

When Medicine Goes Too Far: Surrogacy, Gender Clinics & the Ethics We Ignore | Kallie Fell

The Transhumanist Temptation: Hacking Humanity or Destroying It? | Grayson Quay

How to Heal Women | Grace Emily Stark

Reversing Chronic Autoimmune Disease with Stem Cells | Dr. Richard Burt

Pronatalism, Silicon Valley, and the New Eugenics | Emma Waters

From Contraceptives to Catholicism | My Conversion Story

The Toxic War on Masculinity | Nancy Pearcey

Why Pope Francis Is Right about Surrogacy

A Catholic Guide to Infertility | Dr. John DiCamillo

Affirming or Abandoning? Rethinking Transgender Care | Stephanie Winn

Unmasking the Hidden Ideology of the Sexual Revolution | Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse