Summary of "Ep. 1733 - Pope Leo XIV Keeps Looking Better and Better" from The Michael Knowles Show

Released on May 12, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 1733 of The Michael Knowles Show, host Michael Knowles delves into a range of pressing topics that blend politics, religion, and cultural commentary. The episode primarily focuses on the emergence of the new Pope Leo XIV, a controversial insurrection led by Democratic officials, the evolving relationship between former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and a critical examination of Meghan Markle's first podcast appearance. Additionally, Knowles touches upon a reported religious resurgence among younger generations in the United States.

1. The Ascension of Pope Leo XIV

Traditionalism Signals and Early Actions

Michael Knowles opens the episode by discussing the unexpected emergence of Pope Leo XIV, highlighting the positive signs associated with his pontificate. Contrary to skeptics labeling him as "liberal" or "woke," Knowles emphasizes Pope Leo XIV's adherence to traditional Catholic practices.

• Notable Quote:
  • [04:15] Knowles: "Pope Leo XIV on his first day came out and sang the Regina Celi, a traditional Latin chant, signaling a return to orthodox traditions."

Comparison with Pope Francis

Knowles contrasts Pope Leo XIV's approach with that of his predecessor, Pope Francis. He notes the new pope's commitment to traditional attire, such as the mozzetta, and his residence in the papal palace—an indication of his dedication to longstanding papal customs.

• Notable Quote:
  • [12:30] Knowles: "While Pope Francis shunned the papal palace, opting for apartments to embody humility, Pope Leo XIV embraces tradition in both appearance and residence."

Hope for Continuity in Catholic Social Teaching

The host expresses optimism about the new pope's potential to uphold and adapt Catholic social teachings to contemporary challenges, such as artificial intelligence and new industrial revolutions, drawing parallels to Pope Leo XIII's influential encyclical, Rerum Novarum.

• Notable Quote:
  • [28:50] Knowles: "The choice of the name Leo XIV isn't arbitrary; it harks back to Leo XIII, whose teachings on social justice remain pivotal today."

2. Democrat-Led Insurrection: A Modern January 6th

Details of the Incident

Knowles shifts focus to a recent incident involving Democratic officials leading an insurrection at a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) facility. He draws parallels to the January 6th events, emphasizing the surprising role of Democrats in this unrest.

• Notable Quote:
  • [35:20] Knowles: "The Democrats did a January 6th – there was screaming, there was body slamming, there was assaulting police officers."

Legal and Political Repercussions

The episode discusses the legal charges faced by involved Democrats, including trespassing and assault. Knowles criticizes the media's portrayal and response, calling for equal accountability regardless of political affiliation.

• Notable Quote:
  • [38:11] DHS Spokesperson (Tricia McLaughlin): "We have body camera footage of some of these members of Congress assaulting our ICE enforcement officers."
  • [38:39] Knowles: "What is good for the goose is good for the gander. We must hold Democrats to the same standards we expect from others."

3. Strained Relations Between Trump and Netanyahu

Emerging Divisions

Knowles explores the deteriorating relationship between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Initially portrayed as close allies, recent developments suggest growing tensions over Middle East policies.

• Notable Quote:
  • [40:00] Knowles: "Trump is his own man. When he cuts a deal with the Houthis or negotiates with Hamas without Israel's input, it's clear he's prioritizing U.S. interests over blind alliance."

Key Points of Contention

The host highlights specific areas of disagreement, such as potential nuclear deals with Iran and Trump's direct negotiations with Hamas, which exclude Israeli involvement. These actions indicate a shift in traditional U.S.-Israel dynamics.

• Notable Quote:
  • [41:30] Knowles: "Trump's unpredictable foreign policy moves, like negotiating directly with Hamas, signify a departure from past alliances and suggest a new direction for U.S. diplomacy."

4. Critique of Meghan Markle's Podcast Appearance

Analysis of Content and Impact

Knowles provides a scathing critique of Meghan Markle's first podcast appearance on "The Jane Kern Lima Show." He dismisses her advice as unoriginal and self-serving, arguing that her approach lacks substantive value.

• Notable Quote:
  • [30:05] Knowles: "Meghan Markle's 'Power of Yet' is nothing more than recycled self-help jargon devoid of real insight or originality."

Broader Implications for Public Figures

The discussion extends to a broader criticism of public figures who seek prominence without offering meaningful contributions, using Markle as a prime example.

• Notable Quote:
  • [35:45] Knowles: "She runs into becoming a princess without wanting the responsibilities that come with it, opting instead to seek privileges without substantive effort."

5. Religious Resurgence Among Gen Z

Reporting on Increased Religious Attendance

Addressing a report from Axios, Knowles acknowledges the trend of increased religious service attendance among Generation Z, particularly young men. He attributes this resurgence to a deeper search for truth rather than mere social connection.

• Notable Quote:
  • [25:10] Axios Report Excerpt: "Young men are leading America's religion resurgence, attending weekly services more than millennials and even some Gen Xers."

Underlying Motivations

Contrary to mainstream explanations that cite pandemic-induced isolation, Knowles posits that the younger generation's return to faith is driven by a rejection of societal subjectivism and a yearning for traditional truths and community values.

• Notable Quote:
  • [27:25] Knowles: "Zoomers are going back to church because they want the truth. They've been denied a patrimony, an inheritance of our great civilization's foundations."

Conclusion

In this episode of The Michael Knowles Show, Michael Knowles delivers a compelling analysis of significant developments in both the religious and political spheres. From the promising signs surrounding Pope Leo XIV's traditionalist approach to the unsettling actions of Democratic officials mirroring past insurrections, Knowles offers his perspective rooted in conservative values. Additionally, the strained dynamics between Trump and Netanyahu, coupled with cultural critiques of figures like Meghan Markle, paint a vivid picture of the current socio-political landscape. The discussion on the religious resurgence among younger generations underscores a pivotal shift towards seeking deeper truths and stability in uncertain times.

Note: This summary intentionally omits promotional segments and advertisements featured in the original podcast to focus solely on the substantive content discussed by Michael Knowles.