In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Aliaa Dakroury, Full Professor in the School of Social Communication at Saint Paul University. Together, they explore how communication has evolved—from human rights frameworks and international policies to the fast-changing digital platforms that shape how we speak, listen and connect today.

Professor Dakroury discusses the right to communicate, tracing its philosophical and legal roots, and highlighting Canada’s contributions to shaping this global principle. The conversation also touches on how we navigate today’s complex media environment, the impact of technology on real dialogue, and what effective, responsible communication requires in an era of noise, speed, and constant performance.
They also dive into online teaching, discussing what we gained, what we lost, and how educators can create meaningful connection in virtual spaces.

Questions to reflect on:

• Are we truly communicating—or simply producing content?

• How do the tools we choose shape the messages we send and the relationships we build?

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And for our French-speaking listeners, don’t miss our sister podcast USP en conversation .

In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Rajesh Shukla, Associate Professor in the School of Ethics and Public Affairs at Saint Paul University. His research explores the intersection of moral and political philosophy, with a particular focus on migration, multiculturalism, justice, and the ethics of belonging.

Together, they unpack what multiculturalism really means in the Canadian context—how it has evolved, how it differs across regions such as Quebec, and why it remains both a source of pride and a site of tension. Professor Shukla reflects on the layered identities immigrants carry, the balance between cultural preservation and civic integration, and the challenges newcomers face when navigating expectations, policies, and rapidly shifting social landscapes.

They also explore crucial questions: How do we build genuine intercultural dialogue? When does respect for culture risk slipping into cultural relativism? How can we critique practices while remaining empathetic, informed, and open? And what systemic obstacles—such as outdated credential policies—stand in the way of true equity and inclusion?

Questions to reflect on:

• How can we honour cultural identity while still creating shared values in a diverse society?

• Where is the line between respect, critique, and healthy dialogue in multicultural communities?

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And for our French-speaking listeners, discover our sister show USP en conversation

In this episode of In Context, Rector Louis Patrick Leroux welcomes Professor Catherine Clifford, a leading scholar in systematic and historical theology at Saint Paul University. Her expertise in ecclesiology, humanism, and the development of doctrine has shaped her long-standing interest in how the Church evolves — an interest that led to her historic appointment as a delegate to the Synod of Bishops by Pope Francis.

Together, they explore what synodality really means: a global, multi-year effort to reshape the Church’s governance through listening, discernment, and shared responsibility among all the baptized. Professor Clifford offers a rare inside view of the Synod’s process — the prayerful small-group conversations, the equal participation of clergy and laypeople, and the transformative impact of seeing the global Church gathered around one table.

She reflects on the growing leadership of women in the Church, the challenges of implementing synodal practices at every level of parish and diocesan life, and the hopes tied to the ongoing international study commissions addressing questions such as ministry, governance, and the role of women, including the possibility of a renewed diaconal ministry.

Patrick and Professor Clifford also address essential questions: How do we build authentic communities of listening in a fast-paced world? How can synodality help the Church better reflect the dignity, diversity, and lived experience of its people? And what does shared responsibility look like for all the baptized — in daily life, work, family, and society?

Questions to reflect on:

• What would it look like for every baptized person to see themselves as co-responsible for the Church’s mission?

• How can communities cultivate deeper listening in a culture that moves so quickly?

If this conversation resonates with you, follow the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode.
And for our French-speaking listeners, discover our sister show USP en conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Boo-49XIBs0