Episode 116 - Balancing Business and Acting

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, Jaclyn interviews Ulises Larramendi about his life experiences and how they influence his acting and entrepreneurship. Ulises discusses his diverse background, growing up in Cuba and living in Europe, and his extensive travel, which has given him a unique perspective on culture and faith. Ulises shares insights on managing his time between his restaurant business and acting career, stressing the importance of planning, networking, and continuous learning. He also reflects on the significance of listening to God's guidance in his life and career choices.

Highlights Include:

• Welcome and Introduction
• Travel and Cultural Experiences
• Tracing the Footsteps of Paul
• Entrepreneurship and Acting
• Balancing Restaurant Business and Acting
• Networking and Continuous Learning
• The Importance of Updated Headshots
• Scheduling Your Career
• Balancing Acting and Supporting Jobs
• Hearing God's Voice

Bio:

Born in Cuba in 1963, Ulises moved to the US in 1977 where he settled in Houston and has considered Texas "home" ever since. 

In 2006 Ulises created his own restaurant concept called Eden Café. But while he carries hospitality in his veins and loves what he does, he also has another passion for telling stories and acting. Ulises has been blessed to work in faith-based films and TV series glorifying God with his gifts. Ulises lives in Texas with his wife and children.

Ulises on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/es/name/nm7245884/

Ulises on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UlisesALarramendi

Eden Cafe Magnolia, TX https://edencafe.net/index.php

We Are Stronger: https://www.strongermovie.com/

Breaking Strongholds Series: https://www.breakingstrongholds.com/

FAFF Networking Kickoff Event on January 30: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/3mZ-gAx1S6OoZGonzsE-9A​

FAFF Screenwriting Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/screenwriting-bootcamp

Screenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship 

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 115 - The Intersection of Film and Ministry

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Geoff interviews Ulises Larramendi, a Cuban-born restaurateur and faith-based actor. Ulises shares his journey, from moving to the U.S. in 1977 to opening Eden Cafe in Texas in 2006. They discuss his passion for acting, which started in childhood with church productions and continued through college theater. Ulises talks about his involvement with Reflective Life Ministries, and notable projects like 'We Are Stronger' and 'Breaking Strongholds'. He highlights the impact of these films on addressing issues like PTSD and teen suicide, both domestically and internationally. Ulises also reflects on his recent and upcoming work, including roles such as the Apostle Paul, and his experience as a Pharisee in 'The Chosen'. 

Highlights Include:

• Welcome and Introduction
• Previous Encounters with the Host
• Acting Beginnings
• College and Theater Experience
• Transition to Restaurant Business
• Return to Acting and Film Work
• Reflective Life Ministries and Film Projects
• Impact: We are Stronger and Breaking Strongholds
• Intersection of Film and Ministry
• Current and Future Projects
• Working on The Chosen

Bio:

Born in Cuba in 1963, Ulises moved to the US in 1977 where he settled in Houston and has considered Texas "home" ever since. In 2006 Ulises created his own restaurant concept called Eden Café. But while he carries hospitality in his veins and loves what he does, he also has another passion for telling stories and acting. Ulises has been blessed to work in faith-based films and TV series glorifying God with his gifts. Ulises lives in Texas with his wife and children.

Ulises on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/es/name/nm7245884/

Ulises on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UlisesALarramendi

Eden Cafe Magnolia, TX https://edencafe.net/index.php

We Are Stronger: https://www.strongermovie.com/

Breaking Strongholds Series: https://www.breakingstrongholds.com/

FAFF Screenwriting Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/screenwriting-bootcamp

Screenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship 

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 114 - The Mission of 3 Days Studios and Guild

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, hosts Jaclyn and Geoff are joined by George Escobar and Dr. Joel Bunkowske from 3 Days Studios. They delve into the mission driving the studio, focusing on faith and family-centric storytelling. The conversation also covers the upcoming series 'Prairie Winds', aimed at filling the demand for wholesome, Christian family entertainment, inspired by shows like 'Little House on the Prairie'. They discuss the guild model for community involvement and education, the business strategy of vertical integration, and their innovative approach to crowdfunding and distribution. 

Highlights Include:

• The Heart Behind 3 Days Studios
• Joel's Missionary Background
• Impact of Christianity on Society
• 3 Days Studio's Mission
• Prairie Winds Project
• Creating Compelling Screenplays
• Vertical Integration and Distribution
• Empowerment Guild and Community

Bios:

George Escobar is an award-winning writer, director, and producer of seven faith-based feature films and over a dozen documentaries, including the Oscar-nominated “Alone Yet Not Alone.” His films: “Come What May” and “The World We Make” have been distributed by Sony, Amazon Prime, Netflix, PureFlix, and others. He has won screenwriting awards from: Kairos Pro Award, Content Media, ScreenCraft, and Coverfly’s Red List. He has taught over 3,500 students in filmmaking from a Christian worldview. Escobar is now writing the “Prairie Winds” streaming series for 3 Days Studios, and producing the feature film, “Missileman" with Academy-nominee Terry Rossio as executive producer. Escobar served as Executive Producer for Focus on the Family, VP of Product Development at Discovery, and Executive Director at AOL/TimeWarner. He is a producing graduate at the American Film Institute.

Dr. Joel W. Bunkowske, Esq. is one of the world's most educated, experienced, and successful corporate and entertainment lawyers. He is an award-winning attorney with over 30 years of experience in the music, television, and film industries. He is the recipient of Grammy, Dove, and Gold Record Awards for his legal work in the music and film industries. He has worked with Academy Award-nominated actors, Grammy and Dove award-winning recording artists, and legendary producers. His areas of practice include corporate law; film, television, and music Chief of Legal and Business Affairs; film production, finance, and distribution; contracts, dispute resolution, and University teaching.

Dr. Bunkowske has worked extensively in the film, music, and television industries doing corporate law, finance, distribution, consulting, producing, executive producing, directing, and contracts for hundreds of projects worldwide with Warner Bros., Universal, Disney, Sony, Paramount Pictures, ABC, NBC, FOX, Capitol Records, EMI, Curb Records, Word Records and many more. Dr. Bunkowske has done extensive venture capital deal structuring for film companies, record companies, and a $180 million foundation.

3 Days Studios and Guild: https://3daysstudios.com/

FAFF Screenwriting Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/screenwriting-bootcamp

Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship 

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 113 - The Birth of a New Studio

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, Geoff and Jaclyn interview George Escobar, a filmmaker known for the Oscar-nominated 'Alone Yet Not Alone,'  and Dr. Joel Bunkowske, a Grammy-winning attorney with extensive experience in entertainment law. George and Joel recount their personal and professional journeys, highlighting humbling moments and miraculous turns that led them to create 3 Days Studios. Joel shares his background as a missionary kid-turned attorney involved in successful music and film projects, while George discusses his transition from Hollywood to faith-based filmmaking. The episode emphasizes the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and divine guidance in the film industry, ultimately announcing their new venture, 3 Day Studios, and its accompanying filmmaker guild.

Highlights Include:

• Welcome and Introduction
• The Beginning of a Great Friendship
• Joel Bonkowske's Journey in Entertainment Law
• Overcoming Challenges and God's Guidance
• George Escobar's Path to Filmmaking
• The Birth of 3 Day Studios
• The Role of Technology and Collaboration
• Joel's Involvement with Angel Studios
• Upcoming Projects and Workshops

Bios:

George Escobar is an award-winning writer, director, and producer of seven faith-based feature films and over a dozen documentaries, including the Oscar-nominated “Alone Yet Not Alone.” His films: “Come What May” and “The World We Make” have been distributed by Sony, Amazon Prime, Netflix, PureFlix, and others. He has won screenwriting awards from: Kairos Pro Award, Content Media, ScreenCraft, and Coverfly’s Red List. He has taught over 3,500 students in filmmaking from a Christian worldview. Escobar is now writing the “Prairie Winds” streaming series for 3 Days Studios, and producing the feature film, “Missileman" with Academy-nominee Terry Rossio as executive producer. Escobar served as Executive Producer for Focus on the Family, VP of Product Development at Discovery, and Executive Director at AOL/TimeWarner. He is a producing graduate at the American Film Institute.

Dr. Joel W. Bunkowske, Esq. is one of the world's most educated, experienced, and successful corporate and entertainment lawyers. He is an award-winning attorney with over 30 years of experience in the music, television, and film industries. He is the recipient of Grammy, Dove, and Gold Record Awards for his legal work in the music and film industries. He has worked with Academy Award-nominated actors, Grammy and Dove award-winning recording artists, and legendary producers. His areas of practice include corporate law; film, television, and music Chief of Legal and Business Affairs; film production, finance, and distribution; contracts, dispute resolution, and University teaching.

Dr. Bunkowske has worked extensively in the film, music, and television industries doing corporate law, finance, distribution, consulting, producing, executive producing, directing, and contracts for hundreds of projects worldwide with Warner Bros., Universal, Disney, Sony, Paramount Pictures, ABC, NBC, FOX, Capitol Records, EMI, Curb Records, Word Records and many more. Dr. Bunkowske has done extensive venture capital deal structuring for film companies, record companies, and a $180 million foundation.

3 Days Studios and Guild: https://3daysstudios.com/

FAFF Screenwriting Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/screenwriting-bootcamp

Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe,

Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship



The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 112 - Testimony Series - Collaboration and Divine Guidance

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Christopher Sean Shaw discusses the challenges and divine guidance encountered during the making of his short film 'Skip Listening' for the 168 Film Project. Despite losing key locations including their initial filming location (after they showed up to film on the first day of the shoot), God provided even better options. CSS believes these experiences were guided by divine intervention resulting in a successful film, and lasting professional relationships including continued collaboration with Thor Ramsey, eventually leading to their feature film 'Church People.'

Bio:

Christopher Shawn Shaw is a multi-award-winning filmmaker and owner of Anchor Productions. He helmed the comedy film, CHURCH PEOPLE—which made the Movieguide® top ten faith-based comedies list—starring Thor Ramsey and Erin Cahill, featuring Stephen Baldwin, Donald Faison, William Baldwin, Chynna Phillips, Joey Fatone, and Michael Monks. Christopher also produced, directed, and edited the comedy cooking show, Something Smells Funny™, hosted by Comedian Scott Wood, featuring special guests Victoria Jackson, Mark Christopher Lawrence, Jimmy Brogan, and Bobby Collins. His most recent award-winning project is a faith-based musical comedy... with singing zombies.

Christopher's Website https://christophershawnshaw.com/

Church People Film Website https://churchpeoplefilm.com/

Christopher on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/youarecaredfor

Christopher on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/directorcss/

Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 111 - Testimony Series - Light from Darkness

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Eon De Bruin, founder of Tween Xtream, shares his inspiring journey of launching a successful Christian streaming platform for kids in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. He recounts his long-standing passion for animation, his pivot to music production, and ultimately the creation of Tween Xtream after losing his income due to lockdowns. With Tween Xtream now boasting 18 diverse shows and international recognition, Eon highlights God's faithfulness in turning a dark period into a blessing.

Bio:

Eon de Bruin is a visionary entrepreneur, award-winning creative, and the founder of Tween Xstream, a pioneering Christian streaming platform for preteens. With a professional background as a music producer and video creator, Eon’s passion for storytelling and faith-driven content has guided his remarkable journey.

Inspired by a childhood dream of becoming an animator, Eon transformed this aspiration into reality during the global pandemic in 2020. He launched Tween Xstream to provide an alternative to mainstream children’s entertainment platforms like Disney and Nickelodeon. Rooted in biblical principles, Tween Xstream offers TV shows, animations, devotionals, and music videos that parents can trust and that inspire young audiences.

Eon’s dedication to excellence has earned him notable accolades, including two Afri-Indie Music Awards and top honors at the Reallusion Animation at Work contest. His platform was also named Christian Youth Media Platform of the Year 2023 by Innovation in Business in the United Kingdom.

With a commitment to creating faith-based content that uplifts and educates, Eon continues to redefine children’s entertainment, offering a safe, engaging, and values-driven alternative for families worldwide.

Website: https://www.tweenxstream.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tweenxstream

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tweenxstream/

Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 110 - Testimony Series - Spiritual Resilience in Hollywood

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Deborah Rutherford, an Emmy award-winning makeup artist, shares how she deals with colleagues taking the Lord's name in vain as she works in the film industry. She sees her work in Hollywood as a divine assignment, likening it to a soldier stationed where needed.

Bio:

Deborah Rutherford is a Christian writer, poet, podcaster, Emmy recipient makeup artist. She founded the Behold-Her Beauty Blog and Podcast at www.deborahrutherford.com. Although raised in California, she and her husband, Don, now call Georgia home. She enjoys a good cup of tea while journaling and Bible study, and as a beauty and wonder seeker, she finds her soul rest on nature walks. She has been published online at Gracefully Truthful Ministries, Aletheia Today, guest blogs and has a devotion in the anthology The Lord is My Shepherd, published by Arabelle Publishing and the Calla Press, Literary Journal Spring 2023.

Deborah's IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0665625/

Deborah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahrutherfordwrites/

Deborah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mrs.DeborahRutherford/

Deborah on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3x1zSsbEC9xyfz9hmGVvnJ?si=0ff063e45aeb4f75

Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 109 - Testimony Series - Divine Moments and Conversations

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Tara Massey, producer and lead actress of 'Do Not Grow Weary,' shares her personal story of overcoming anxiety and depression during the pre-production phase of the film. She describes a transformative moment inspired by the Bible verse 1 Peter 5:7, which led her to place her trust in God's provision. Tara recounts how unexpected miracles and timely assistance helped complete the film and highlights a pivotal experience at the film's premiere where she realized the broader, non-believing audience her work reached. Additionally, Tara shares an inspiring discussion from her time on a Netflix set, illustrating divine moments and open conversations about faith with non-believers.

Do Not Grow Weary https://www.dngwmovie.com/

Dove Light Studios: https://www.dovelightphotography.com/

Tara on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=taraelizabethmassey

Tara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taraelizabethmassey/

● Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

● Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

● VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 108 - Testimony Series - Doors Only God Could Open

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Hannah Benson, a writer, actress, and content marketer, shares her journey. Raised in a creative, homeschooling family, Hannah recounts how her passion for faith-based films, like Courageous and Fireproof, stemmed from a young age. She sees her career as a testament to God's guidance and faithfulness, encouraging others to pursue their God-given dreams and remember the prayers God has answered.

Bio:

Hannah Benson is a writer, actress, and content marketer with a passion for telling stories glorifying God through film and the written word. As a writer, her work can be found in publications including The Rebelution, Her View From Home, and Inside Out Worldwide. Under the mentorship and guidance of George Escobar - Co-Producer, Co-Writer, and Co-Director of the feature film, "Alone Yet Not Alone"(Academy-Award nominated for Best Original Song), Hannah has written two novels and is currently pursuing publication. As an actor, she has portrayed a variety of onstage roles (including one which required her to learn an Indian accent). When she was 18 years old, Hannah auditioned for and landed a role in her first short film! "Long Sleeves" by Storm Storytelling went on to receive an award and garnered views on YouTube of 718K and climbing. More recently, she served as a grip and as a background actor on the set of the concept trailer for an upcoming feature film. Hannah also served on the marketing team for the Great American Prayer Event, working alongside former Senator and father of the Erwin Brothers, Hank Erwin; and George Escobar.

Hannah’s Website: https://www.hannahlbenson.com/

Hannah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hannahlbensonwrites

Hannah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahlbensonwrites/

● FAFF Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

● Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

● VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship



The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 107 - Testimony Series - Let Go and Let God

This episode is a part of our December Testimony series. A series of short testimonies of times that God showed up upon set or in ways related to the film-industry.

In this episode, Selah Avery shares about her divine guidance in the film industry. Feeling disheartened by the difficulty finding roles that didn’t require nudity and compromising her values, Selah prayed for meaningful work. She then discovered an opportunity with the Kendrick Brothers and despite lacking an agent, she auditioned, received a callback, and eventually landed the role of Keisha in ‘The Forge’. She recounts the supportive and prayerful environment on set, including a powerful moment when the cast paused filming to pray for her sister in the ER. Selah expresses immense gratitude for this experience, emphasizing God's role in fulfilling her dreams.

Bio:

Selah Avery is known for her debut Supporting Role as Keisha in The Forge; a Kendrick Brothers feature film. 

-Acting since JR high 

- 3x Grammy® Considered Singer and Songwriter and married to 7-time Grammy® Considered & Billboard Charting Producer Sam Peezy.

-Proud Mom of a US MARINE 

-REP: Treasure Coast Talent; LA

Selah Avery website: http://www.selahavery.com

TV and Film Reel: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1534705/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

Actor's Access: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/cherylselahavery

Voiceover Reel: https://youtu.be/hBJKh-IdOdM?si=OBOmog9bFQOPrJ6B

● Writers Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreat

● Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9V

● VIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship

The Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. 

It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association

Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.

Get Email Notifications

Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival

Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/

Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-services

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions