A More Just and Merciful World is Carlow University’s podcast dedicated to conversations that inspire change. In Season One, Carlow’s President Kathy Humphrey, PhD sat down with a remarkable guest lineup of poets, educators, advocates, thought leaders, and not one, but two bishops, each offering a unique perspective on building a more compassionate and ethical world.
Here, we are gathering some of our favorite episodes from the podcast’s first season. They explore ideas that challenge, uplift, and connect us. With Season 2 launching later this month, now is your chance to catch up on any episodes you may have missed.
So please listen, think critically, and imagine what’s possible when mercy and justice guide our actions.
S1E1: Richard Blanco | The Power of Words in a Just and Merciful World
In the inaugural episode of the series, Poet Laureate Richard Blanco and Dr. Humphrey explore how belonging and expressing ourselves through written and spoken word can make the world a just and merciful place. Together, they illuminate how storytelling and poetic expression can help tackle injustice and promote kindness, advocating for the power of words and belonging to create positive change in society.
S1E4: Evan Rosenberg | Human Connection and Ethical Leadership
Evan Rosenberg, market president and publisher of the Pittsburgh Business Times, joined Dr. Humphrey in Episode 4 to discuss ethical leadership in the media and our community. “Specialized training is more important than ever before,” he explains. “The days of going to school to get your degree without an end game or a specific (career) path applies less these days in a more hyper-focused and advanced world.”
“We are human beings. Connection is a critical part of what keeps us going.”
S1E7: FRZY | Inspiring Greatness Starts Within
In Episode 7, Dr. Humphrey met with award-winning recording artist FRZY for a meaningful conversation about personal growth and the capacity to inspire others.
Coming off his celebrated collaboration with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, FRZY shares his own story of setting and working toward our highest goals with confident intention and clear purpose.
S1E9: Bishop David Zubik | Embracing One’s Calling
In Episode 9, Dr. Humphrey and the Most Reverend David A. Zubik of the Pittsburgh Diocese engaged in a lively discussion about embracing change, overcoming challenges, and discovering your true calling to shape a bright and meaningful future. Drawing from his own experiences as a young man unexpectedly called to the priesthood, Bishop Zubik discusses the importance of finding your purpose and remaining open to the possibilities of how you can be called to make a difference in our world.
S1E12: Michele Atkins | The Ethical Path
Michele Atkins, President & CEO at Heritage Community Initiatives, Carlow alumna, and founder of The Atkins Center for Ethics at Carlow University, joined Dr. Humphrey for an engaging conversation defining ethics and morality. Together they explore how education and ethical leadership go hand in hand:
“Ethics is: it’s 2 o’clock in the morning and you’re at an intersection and there’s nobody around. Do you stop for the red light? And if your core says yes, I stop for the red light because that’s the right thing to do, that’s ethics.”
S1 Special Edition: Bishop Mark Eckman | A New Installation, a Familiar Purpose, and a Call to Lead
In this powerful episode, Dr. Kathy Humphrey sits down with Bishop Mark Eckman, newly installed Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, for an honest and inspiring conversation.
Together, they explore what it means to follow your personal calling, the courage it takes to walk your own path, and how we each contribute to a more just and merciful world. With deep roots in the Pittsburgh region, Bishop Eckman also shares his hopes for the city he serves—and how faith, service, education, and compassion can transform both lives and communities.
We’re grateful for every listener who joined us, and we’re just getting started. Season 2 launches on September 22 with a brand-new episode featuring guest Sister Patricia McCann: proud Carlow alumna, Sister of Mercy, and fearless advocate for human rights. Find A More Just and Merciful World on your favorite platform, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.