Crossmap Podcast

In a world not too far removed from our past, a young pastor and author named Dietrich Bonhoeffer and a small group of dissidents worked tirelessly to dismantle the Third Reich as Adolf Hitler and the Nazis attempted to exterminate the Jews of Europe and beyond.

Rather than flee to the safer haven of America, Bonhoeffer instead chose to uphold his moral convictions and risk it all to save millions of Jews from genocide. His decision ultimately proved to be fatal, yet his lifelong dedication to sharing the tenets of his faith will always be remembered for his moral courage to save millions of Jews from genocide. 

Filmmaker Todd Komarnicki has directed a new movie on the life of Bonhoeffer called “Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin.” Set to release on November 22nd, the movie explores the theologian’s decision to shift from preaching peace to plotting murder, an honorable crime that could alter the course of history.

The movie features a notable cast that includes Jonas Dassler, August Diehl, and Moritz Breibtreu.
It’s amazing to think that one voice can become the loudest rebellion. But that is exactly what Dietrich Bonhoeffer did.

Komarnicki joins us to talk about what fueled this hero to take a stand that subsequently led to his execution in 1945. Listen as he shares about the role that Faith played in Bonhoeffer's life and decision making process.

As we inch ever closer to our next presidential election just a few days away, more than a few have pondered the notion that we as a nation are edging ever closer to the Apocalypse.

For centuries, the term apocalypse has been used to characterize a great disaster, a prophetic revelation, or the end of the world. Vivid imagery of communist takeovers, the rise of artificial intelligence in the form of intelligence-powered death robots, or even real-life zombies walking the face of the earth have often taken over our imagination with scenarios involving the “what-if’s".

For the Babylon Bee’s Kyle Mann and Joel Berry, those scenarios have become an exercise in answering those “what ifs” but in a satirical way. Titled “The Babylon Bee Guide to the Apocalypse”, the writers of the trusted fake news website teach you how to survive every potential end-times situation. In the book’s 248 free-flowing pages, they share valuable resources such as:

- Interior decorating tips that will wow any guests into your 50-story underground nuclear silo,
- Helpful financial tips for what kind of currency and precious metals to hoard for the end of the world,
- Easy bunker construction guides so you can get started building your own apocalypse safe space today.
 
Simply put, the Babylon Bee’s latest literary offering is certainly presented tongue in cheek, but then again it does give you the tools you need to survive the apocalypse. Hmm …
 
Berry joins us to talk about how satire and humor can go a long way in helping people to successfully navigate our unforgiving world. Listen as he shares the deeper reason behind why they write the things they do.

The human imagination coupled with ingenuity can be an amazing thing. Through the creative process, what often begins as a spark of an idea can quickly germinate into a full-blown living, breathing entity.

One need to look no further than the overwhelming success of 'The Chosen' streaming video season. As the program approaches its fifth season, we must not forget that this global phenomenon began as a simple idea for a Christmas video at a local, midwestern church. Today, nearly 800 million people have watched at least one episode.

Peter & Jennifer Emerson hope to have a similar experience with their creative spark of an idea. Several years ago, they took their daughter to a Christmas performance by the theatrically-infused Trans Siberian Orchestra.  Not only did they witness a spectacular performance filled with hard-charging music, dynamic performances, and cutting-edge lighting wizardry, they also came away with an inspirational idea that has consumed the last five years of their lives.

While the Trans Siberian Orchestra certainly produces a sometimes mind-bending show, it lacks the most important element of the Christmas story …. Jesus. The idea seemed simple enough. Why not create an immersive live concert experience that blends song, narration, and spectacular imagery to tell the Nativity in its entirety? 

This seed of inspiration is about to become a reality. Making its debut December 11-14 at the Hippodrome Theater in Waco, Texas, “He Rules the World” is intent on creating a family-friendly, contemporary live concert experience that explores the characters of the Nativity story of God’s plan being fulfilled.

Narrated by actor Kevin Sorbo, the production also features vocalist David Gaschen, he of 'The Phantom of the Opera' fame.

The Emersons join us to talk about what fueled their desire to launch such a complex visual spectacle to honor the true Christmas story. Listen as they share what people can expect to see at this event and a few things they learned about Jesus that they never knew before.

Whether you love him or hate him, former President Donald Trump has certainly been someone that “moves the needle” when it comes to political discourse.
 
From public policy to contentious political debates to failed assassination attempts, the former Commander in Chief has been a non-stop presence in our daily news cycle in his quest to return to the White House for four more years.
 
Troy Anderson is a Pulitzer Prize-nominated investigative journalist who believes he may have uncovered a startling historical connection that reveals how a late 19th Century novelist eerily anticipated the rise of Donald Trump and the treacherous political climate unfolding today.
 
Anderson’s latest book, “The Trump Code”, explores the striking parallels between modern day politics and the writings of 19th Century novelist Ingersoll Lockwood.  He makes the case that Lockwood not only predicted Trump’s presidency but also the virulent response to the eight years that have taken place since.

Anderson joins us to talk about why these aforementioned parallels between modern day politics and this novel from long ago is more than mere coincidence. Listen as he shares evidence that time travel isn't just the stuff of science fiction but scientific fact. But how does this relate to Donald Trump? Listen now for more details.
 
Link to book: https://books.crossmap.com/book/the-trump-code-exploring-time-travel-nikola-tesla-the-trump-lineage-and-america-39s-future/

It is quite evident that the most successful crowdfunded series of all time, The Chosen has had a tremendous ministry impact through the 770 million episodes to date that have been streamed worldwide.

In what has become a global phenomenon, the multi-episode television drama based on the life of Jesus, is gearing up to release Season 5 early next year.

Through the first four seasons, hearts have been pierced, lives have been saved, and all types of ministry has taken place.

One interesting outcome of the series that does not get discussed much though is what happens behind the scenes to generate and heighten interest in the series.

Derral Eves is the marketing genius behind 'The Chosen'. Known as “the godfather of search engine optimization, a tag given him by Search Engine Journal. He joins us to chat about his thoughts on why this series, which began as a short film for a local church, is now closing in on one billion views and provides a slight snapshot into what Season 5 will bring.

For people from more mature generations such as Generation X or the Baby Boomers, it has become increasingly more difficult to understand what motivates people under the age of 30.
 
While these older people groups view the workplace with an eye toward rigidity, security, and ever changing objectives, Generation Z and Millennials are more interested in flexibility, fluidity, and clear goals. Their shopping behaviors are quite distinct too, as they are frugal, and looking for immediacy and impact, whereas people over the age of 50 are more content in making a financial splash with the long range benefits in mind.
 
Thus, it is easy to see that there is a rather significant social disconnect between these younger and older generations. So much so, that today’s young adults are seemingly more prone to float along in life, taking far more time to find their life’s path.
 
Fortunately, a solid way to bridge the gap, and create better understanding between these people groups is through a strong sense of mentorship and discipleship. What a better way to unite the old and the young than by allowing someone to teach and give help and advice to a less experienced and often a younger person.
 
A new movie in theaters now called “The Forge”, tells the story of a young man who has no concept of how to be a man. Drifting through life with little direction, he is eventually hired by a Fitness Center. He has no idea how the owner will personally impact his life. With the prayers of his mother and the unexpected guidance from his new mentor, the young man is forced to deal with his past, sacrifice his selfishness and discover how God has a greater purpose for his life.
 
Aspen Kennedy is a young actor who portrayed this young man in “The Forge.” He truly has a fresh perspective on what it means to be young, lacking guidance, and mistaking motivation for laziness.
 
Kennedy joins us to talk about the many societal challenges facing Generation Z and Millennials today. Listen as he shares about the value of faith-based mentorship in someone's life and how it can chart the course for an inspired adulthood.

From “Courageous” to “War Room” to their last theatrical release “Overcomer”, Alex and Stephen Kendrick have always found themes that address a critical topic at just the right time.
 
Their latest movie, “The Forge” coming to theaters nationwide on August 23rd is no different. 

The movie tells the story of a young man who has no idea on how to be a man. Drifting through life with little direction, he is eventually hired by a Fitness Center. He has no idea how the owner will personally impact his life. With the prayers of his mother and the unexpected guidance from his new mentor, the young man is forced to deal with his past, sacrifice his selfishness and discover how God has a greater purpose for his life.
 
With total box office earnings in excess of $190 million dollars to date, the Kendrick Brothers' ninth movie stars Cameron Arnett, Priscilla Shirer, Karen Abercrombie, and also features rising actor Aspen Kennedy.
 
The Kendrick Brothers join us on the Crossmap Podcast to talk about the importance and high value of discipleship. Listen as they share how to instill Godly values in the younger generation, and practical ways to live out your faith in daily life.

Have you ever been personally discipled? Do you desire to walk closer to Jesus but wish someone would show you how? How can your faith become a thriving relationship instead of a religious duty? What are the keys to assurance of salvation, abiding in Christ, praying effectively, overcoming trials, and deeply loving others?
 
All of these questions have reasonable answers. In fact, each and every one of the aforementioned queries are addressed in a new movie being released in just a few days called ‘The Forge’.
 
Directed by the Kendrick Brothers, best known for their faith-provoking films “War Room” and “Overcomer”, the movie tells the story of a young man who has no idea how to be a man. Drifting through life with little direction, he is eventually hired by a fitness center. He doesn't realize how the owner will personally impact his life. With the prayers of his mother and the unexpected guidance from his new mentor, the young man is forced to deal with his past, sacrifice his selfishness and discover how God has a greater purpose for his life.
 
Actors Cameron and BJ Arnett not only star in the movie but both believe wholeheartedly in the power of spiritual accountability and faith-fueled mentorship. And in an interesting twist, they not only portray husband and wife onscreen, but they are also married in real life.
 
The Arnetts join us on the Crossmap Podcast to talk about what compelled them to want to work together on this faith-inspiring movie. Listen as they share why it is so critically important to stand in the gap and provide nurturing guidance to the next generation of young adults.

With more than400M streams and a combined social media following of almost two million, Kim Walker-Smith was on top of the highly instrumental praise and worship music movement here in America and across the world.
 
Having spent more than 20 years in worship leadership, Walker-Smith is known for her spirit-led worship anthems that have touched the hearts of so many near and far.

But then in 2020, as COVID-19 began to rage, Walker-Smith, her husband, and two children made the bold decision to leave California for the more simple vibes of Montana. She put her music career on hold as she and her family adapted to this new paradigm.

Now, more than three years later, Walker-Smith has released an original new album. Titled “Trample”, the project includes 12 tracks including the already released songs, “Boxes”, “Let Revival In”, and “Mama".

While many of Walker-Smith’s previous offerings came from a place of dryness and difficulty in her life, “Trample” is a compilation of songs written from a place of victory. Victory is not expressed purely and only with joy, but is also expressed with humility and understanding of what is needed to continue moving forward.

Walker-Smith joins us on the Crossmap Podcast to talk about why she decided to take a break from music several years ago and how God inspired her to return. Listen as she shares why it is so vitally important to introduce worship to children at a young age and the foundational roots of what became “Trample”.

As people of faith, we have all been there. You find yourself in a situation that begs for you to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but for whatever reason you stop short. The timing isn’t right, the logistics are bad, or you just feel awkward and out of place doing it.

The problem is that it just doesn’t feel natural. Perhaps you fear the other person won’t be receptive or they will become hostile about hearing the Good News. Or, you just don’t know where to start.

Whatever the reason might be, sharing your story of faith and what it means to you is one of the hardest activities a Christian will ever face. But sharing your faith is not complicated. In fact, the more you share Jesus with others the easier it gets.

Duck Dynasty's Willie Robertson found salvation in Christ in large part because a stranger went outside his comfort zone to have a spiritual conversation with his father. Phil Robertson accepted Christ and then shared the Gospel with his own family. If that conversation never took place, Willie may never have found his salvation. Thus, his life would have taken a completely different path, one that may have been filled with misery and doubt.

In his latest book, “The Gospeler: Turning Darkness into Light One Conversation at a Time”, Willie tells readers how they can talk comfortably about Jesus with their family, friends, neighbors, and even complete strangers they meet in everyday life. In the book’s 224 pages, he stresses that sharing the Gospel is not preaching but simply having a conversation. The key is to focus on what’s truly important (Jesus) instead of what’s not (religion).

Willie joins us on the Crossmap Podcast to talk about why well-meaning Christians often shy away from sharing the Gospel with people. Listen as he shares why it is so important to understand that sharing the Gospel is not preaching but simply having a conversation.