Shawn Ryan Show - Episode #224: Dan Schneider - U.S. Army Attack Helicopter Pilot Turned Exorcist Assistant
Release Date: August 4, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, host Shawn Ryan welcomes Dr. Dan Schneider, a multifaceted individual whose journey spans from being a U.S. Army attack helicopter pilot and Gulf War veteran to becoming an expert in spiritual warfare and exorcism within the Catholic Church. Their in-depth conversation delves into the realms of theology, personal trauma, and the ongoing battle between good and evil.
Guest Background
Dr. Dan Schneider is an adjunct professor of theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville and a member of the St. John Henry Newman Research Center of Theology at the Maryvale Institute in Birmingham, England. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Notre Dame, a master's degree in theology from Franciscan University, and a Ph.D. in biblical studies from the Maryvale Institute. Beyond his academic achievements, Schneider is a former amateur boxer, U.S. Army attack helicopter pilot, Gulf War veteran, and a Benedictine oblate involved in Catholic teaching and evangelization for nearly two decades. He co-hosts the podcast War College with Jesse Romero and has participated in approximately 500 exorcisms.
Notable Quote:
Sean Ryan [01:35]: "Dr. Dan Schneider, adjunct professor of theology... your book, the Liber Christo Method, a field manual for spiritual combat."
Spiritual Warfare and Exorcism
The heart of the conversation centers on spiritual warfare—a concept Schneider explains as a battle between good and evil forces influencing individuals and societies. He distinguishes between ordinary diabolic activity, such as temptation, and extraordinary diabolic activity, which includes oppression, obsession, and possession.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [03:14]: "Often a psychological obsession can open you to a spiritual oppression or even spiritual obsession."
Exorcism Process and Protocols
Schneider outlines the four-phase protocol developed with Father Ripker:
- Prayer Discipline: Emphasizing daily prayer, meditation on scriptures, and the rosary as foundational practices.
- Deep Dive: Conducting thorough assessments to differentiate between psychological afflictions and genuine demonic possessions.
- Order Imposition: Priests exercise authority to command demons, relying on sacred rituals and prayers.
- Consecration: Strengthening the individual’s spiritual defenses through sacraments and communal prayers.
He also underscores the importance of a systematic approach in exorcisms to avoid psychological misdiagnoses that can lead to ineffective or harmful interventions.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [07:34]: "If we can get people to self-liberate, returning to the sacraments, etc., we've got a process in place for that."
Personal Stories and Experiences
Schneider shares profound personal anecdotes, including his transformative experience during a military deployment in Iraq. Faced with life-threatening situations, he encountered moments that deepened his faith and rekindled his commitment to spiritual warfare.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [65:34]: "I say, lord, if this is what you want from me, I'm not messing with. I'm not participating in this anymore."
Theological Insights
A significant portion of the discussion delves into Catholic theology, particularly the role of sacraments like confession and the authority of priests in combating demonic forces. Schneider emphasizes that priests act "in persona Christi" (in the person of Christ), granting them the authority to perform exorcisms effectively.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [08:49]: "In Catholic theology, the priest stands in persona Christi, the person of Christ. Whoever listens to you, listens to me."
Modern Impacts and Media Portrayal
The episode critiques modern media portrayals of exorcism, highlighting how films like Nefarious strive for authenticity in depicting spiritual battles. Schneider argues that understanding diabolic psychology is crucial for effective spiritual combat, akin to studying an enemy's tactics in conventional warfare.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [22:19]: "Nefarious is good because it's not a slasher. It begins to show what the enemy thinks and how he operates."
Advice for Individuals and Families
Schneider offers practical advice for those grappling with spiritual warfare:
- Prayer and Virtue: Encourage daily prayer, meditation, and the cultivation of virtues to strengthen spiritual defenses.
- Confession: Regular confession is vital for purifying the soul and maintaining a strong relationship with God.
- Family Support: Emphasizes the importance of family prayers, such as praying the rosary together, to create a protective spiritual environment.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [27:35]: "Just keep praying, keep working, get your house in order, get your relationship in the right order."
Conclusion and Prayers
The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer led by Dr. Dan Schneider, invoking the Holy Trinity and seeking protection against evil. Both host and guest express mutual respect and hope for continued collaboration in their spiritual missions.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dan Schneider [29:07]: "Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. Hail Mary, full of grace..."
Key Takeaways
- Spiritual warfare is a tangible battle influencing personal and societal well-being.
- Exorcism requires a structured, prayerful approach rooted in Catholic theology.
- Personal faith journeys can lead to profound transformations and commitments to combating evil.
- Daily spiritual practices like prayer, confession, and meditation are essential for maintaining spiritual resilience.
- Authority and order within the Church play pivotal roles in the effectiveness of exorcisms and spiritual battles.
Notable Quotes Summary
- Dan Schneider [03:14]: Explains the distinction between psychological and demonic influences.
- Dan Schneider [07:34]: Highlights the importance of self-liberation and returning to sacraments.
- Dan Schneider [08:49]: Discusses the priest's role as an instrument of Christ.
- Dan Schneider [22:19]: Comments on the authenticity of media portrayals like Nefarious.
- Dan Schneider [27:35]: Advises on maintaining spiritual and familial order through prayer.
Note: This summary captures the essence and key discussions of Episode #224, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of Dr. Dan Schneider's insights into spiritual warfare and exorcism within the Catholic tradition.