Call Me Tony

In this episode, I reflect on why I’ve changed my mind about one of my core beliefs: that we all have more in common than we have in conflict. I used to think any two people could connect if they just tried hard enough. Now, I’m not so sure. I talk about what it feels like to watch a movement built on cruelty gain momentum, and why I no longer want to seek connection with people who openly threate...

Matt Dillahunty has influenced many deconversions—including mine. His ability to break down religious arguments is undeniable. But does his confrontational approach help the atheist movement, or does it drive more people away? Many atheists focus on the rare cases where hostility led to deconversion, using them as proof that aggression works. But what about the larger audience? What about those wh...

Since launching Call Me Tony, I’ve focused on sharing my personal experiences, stories, and reflections. I wanted people to get to know me as my friends do. But lately, I’ve realized that I’ve been holding back. I’ve avoided inserting my strongest opinions into this podcast—not because I don’t have them, but because I didn’t want to push people away. I wanted to keep things relatable. But the trut...

I used to think logic could change minds. That if you laid out the facts clearly enough, people would have no choice but to acknowledge reality. But the truth is, people don’t want logic—they want lies that make them feel safe. And I’m exhausted from trying to push back against it. Chronic fatigue syndrome has drained me physically, but the mental exhaustion of watching bad arguments win, seeing r...

Can an atheist have a God? That might sound like a contradiction, but after stepping into an interfaith community, I started questioning what "God" really means—and whether it’s possible to explore meaning, connection, and even spirituality without belief. In this episode, I share my journey of redefining meaning as an atheist. I talk about my visit to an interfaith space, my thoughts on t...

Think you’re entitled to your opinion? Think again. When I was six, my dad made me try eel before I could say I hated it. That lesson stuck with me—because too many people form opinions without doing the work to earn them. In this episode, I break down why confidence without knowledge is dangerous, how social media fuels ignorance, and why being wrong isn’t a failure—it’s a chance to learn. 🎧 Lis...

When people tell you not to ask questions, what they’re really saying is, “I don’t want you to find something that contradicts me.” In this episode, I talk about the freedom that comes with transparency. I’ve spent years putting my past in the open—not to prove anything, but because I have nothing to hide. Living in truth means I don’t waste energy managing perceptions or fearing exposure. I also...

In this episode, I reflect on the person I used to be—someone driven by harmful beliefs and behaviours—and the journey that led to my transformation. I talk about questioning my religious beliefs, taking responsibility for my past mistakes, and how embracing uncertainty and curiosity has helped me grow. It’s a story about breaking free from who I was and becoming the person I want to be.

Uncertainty in relationships is one of the hardest things for me to handle. I can prepare for almost any outcome—except the unknown. In this episode, I talk about how my anxiety drives me to anticipate every possibility, why uncertainty destabilizes me, and how clear communication and boundaries help me cope.

In this episode, I share a story about how life’s challenges can shake us and reveal what’s really inside us. When things get tough, do I respond with kindness and resilience, or do frustration and anger spill out? I reflect on how important it is to intentionally fill my “cup” with positivity, love, and forgiveness so I’m ready for life’s inevitable bumps. What’s in your cup?

In this episode, I reflect on the challenges of navigating relationships with people who seem determined to misunderstand me. I share how I've chosen to let go of the struggle for their approval, embracing forgiveness as an act of self-love—without excusing harmful behaviour or compromising my truth. Join me as I explore the power of staying grounded in authenticity, even in the face of confli...

In this episode, I share a deeply personal experience about navigating false accusations and the challenges of facing abusive individuals, especially when they hold influence. I discuss the emotional toll of feeling isolated, the struggle to defend myself without worsening the situation, and the importance of maintaining community despite the hurt. It’s a candid reflection on vulnerability, resili...

This episode looks at how we’re connected by shared experiences and how we often have more in common than we think. I talk about the importance of finding common ground—like our shared hopes for happiness, health, and protecting loved ones. But I also explore why setting clear boundaries is sometimes the best choice when others aren’t willing to meet us halfway. It’s about balancing kindness with...

In this episode, I share a personal story about a Christmas spent in Paraguay when my family had almost nothing. Through love, creativity, and resourcefulness, my parents turned a difficult time into a cherished memory that taught me the true meaning of giving. I also explore how showing emotions while sharing these stories creates deeper connections with our past and with others.

In this episode, I share my thoughts on reconnecting with someone I love. I explore the risks involved, the potential for both hurt and happiness, and why embracing uncertainty can be essential in the pursuit of love and fulfillment... Dedicated to J

In this episode of Call Me Tony, I look at how remembering past experiences and honouring those we’ve lost can help us build a stronger present and future. Reflecting on where we’ve come from gives us resilience and a clearer sense of identity, grounding us in ways that support who we are today.

In this episode, I share my thoughts on truth and reconciliation in Canada, particularly as it relates to Indigenous First Nations. I explore why the focus seems so heavily on “truth” and how we might balance that with meaningful reconciliation. As a first-generation Canadian of mixed heritage, my unique background and experiences with systemic racism shape my view. With personal connections to In...

In this episode, I explore why I’m openly opposed to political correctness and how it often stifles genuine conversation. I discuss how PC culture can inadvertently promote bigotry, limit honest dialogue, and create fear rather than understanding. Instead of fostering real connections, it encourages silence and resentment. Tune in to hear my thoughts on why honesty matters more than saying the “ri...

In this episode, I reflect on a question my mother asked me 22 years ago, shortly after my father’s death: “Do you think the wrong parent died?” My answer was “yes” then, and it’s still “yes” today. I’ll share why I feel this way by exploring the complicated relationships I had with both of my parents, the impact of my father’s abuse and later attempts to make amends, and my ongoing struggles with...

This week, I share a personal story about pushing past a long-standing insecurity—singing in a small group. By stepping outside my comfort zone, I discovered a new sense of joy in something I once thought was out of reach. Tune in to hear how this experience has not only helped me grow but also opened the door to unexpected fulfillment.

In this episode, I talk about breaking free from toxic relationships and self-destructive habits. I share my journey of exploring new connections, rediscovering joy through hobbies like playing guitar, and finding balance with meditation. Volunteering with my local UU church has also brought a sense of purpose and improved my self-esteem. It’s been a transformative time as I continue to push past...

It's OK to say "ouch" when we're physically hurt so why not when the hurt is emotional?

As I enter uncharted territory, I'm forced to look at how I need to redefine what it means for me to be a man.

Instead of feeling blue about moving on from the previous chapter of my life, I've decided to embrace the beauty of this one... the season of Tony!

The Think Institute has questions for atheists. I have answers. While I don't define myself by my atheism, it is an important part of who I am and how I got here.