Episode 185 - Secrets of Success: Flexibility, Trust, and Persistence - with Alexandra Boylan

In part 2 of their interview on the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Jaclyn Whitt welcomes back filmmaker Alexandra Boylan for an insightful conversation. They discuss Alexandra's experiences over the past two years, pivoting to promote her existing films while waiting for new ones to be greenlit. Alexandra highlights the importance of building relationships with platforms and audiences, shares how flexibility and persistence have played pivotal roles in her career, and shares key lessons on practical filmmaking and career growth strategies.

Highlights Include:

• Introduction and Recap
• Marketing Previous Films
• Building an Audience
• Mentorship Insights
• Flexibility in Filmmaking
• Trust Your Team
• The Elijah Project
• Choosing the Right Collaborators
• Pick Your Battles and Trust the Experts
• Navigating Feedback and Opinions
• The Reality of Awards and Film Festivals
• Concluding Thoughts

Alexandra Boylan is a dynamic award-winning filmmaker, writer, producer, and actress who has been trailblazing through Hollywood for nearly two decades. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Boylan is known for her fearless pursuit of meaningful content. In addition to her numerous acting credits, Alexandra co-created The Boylan Sisters Production Company, a successful film studio that focuses on faith-based, family-friendly content. Their first feature-length film, Catching Faith, streamed on Netflix for two years and has spawned a sequel, as well as paved the way for other critically acclaimed movies such as The Greatest Inheritance and Switched. Their latest venture, Identity Crisis, also serves as the basis for a YA novel, which she co-authored with her sister and business partner Andrea. Alexandra has previously published the widely regarded how-to guide entitled “Create Your Own Career in Hollywood: Advice from a Struggling Actress Who Became a Successful Producer” and is an active member of Influence Woman and Women in Film Los Angeles.

https://theboylansisters.com/

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

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

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

Editor: Blake Nowlan

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for the Faith and family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 184 - The Life of a Filmmaker and Mentor - with Alexandra Boylan

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Jaclyn welcomes back Alexandra Boylan, their first-ever guest, to discuss her journey over the past two years. Alexandra shares her experiences and the realities of independent filmmaking, including the importance of perseverance, building relationships, and the necessity of self-marketing. Alexandra also shares updates on her recent projects and the mentorship program she developed to support aspiring filmmakers.

Highlights Include:

• Our Very First Guest Returns
• Update on Alexandra
• Creating a Mentorship Program
• Filmmaking Challenges
• Collaborations
• Do it For the Joy
• Filmmaking is Hard!
• Marketing and Distribution Insights
• Realities of Independent Filmmaking
• The Importance of Flexibility
• Mentorship Opportunities
• Next Episode Preview

Bio:

Alexandra Boylan is a dynamic award-winning filmmaker, writer, producer, and actress who has been trailblazing through Hollywood for nearly two decades. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Boylan is known for her fearless pursuit of meaningful content. In addition to her numerous acting credits, Alexandra co-created The Boylan Sisters Production Company, a successful film studio that focuses on faith-based, family-friendly content. Their first feature-length film, Catching Faith, streamed on Netflix for two years and has spawned a sequel, as well as paved the way for other critically acclaimed movies such as The Greatest Inheritance and Switched. Their latest venture, Identity Crisis, also serves as the basis for a YA novel, which she co-authored with her sister and business partner Andrea. Alexandra has previously published the widely regarded how-to guide entitled “Create Your Own Career in Hollywood: Advice from a Struggling Actress Who Became a Successful Producer” and is an active member of Influence Woman and Women in Film Los Angeles.

https://theboylansisters.com/

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

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

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 Filmmakers Association: https://www.faffassociation.com/

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

Editor: Blake Nowlain

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for the Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 183 - Fast-Tracked: From Concept to Film in 2 Months - with Jason Munden

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, your host Geoffrey Whitt welcomes back Jason Munden to discuss the development of their new project, 'Bible College'. Jason shares how the concept of 'Bible College' emerged,  the development process with Jaclyn Whitt and Nathan Gamble, and the rapid timeline from idea to filming. The discussion covers the personal significance of Bible College in Jason's life and his  family’s, and how relationships played a critical role in the project's development. They also talk about the importance of hearing God's guidance through the process, the support they received, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming premiere in New York City. 

Highlights include:

• Welcome and Introduction
• The Birth of "Bible College," the Series
• Jason's Bible College Experience
• Developing the "Bible College" Script
• Rapid Development
• Casting in Record Time
• God's Timing
• Testimony from Set
• Premiere and Future Plans
• Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

https://www.instagram.com/jasonhmunden/

https://www.facebook.com/jason.munden.3

Bible College - GiveSendGo (View Teaser) https://www.givesendgo.com/BIBECOLLEGETV

Edited by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for the Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 182 - Behind the Camera: From Church Media to Film Production - with Jason Munden

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Your host Geoffrey Whitt welcomes Jason Munden, the owner of Blue Eye Productions. With over two decades of experience in video storytelling, Jason recounts his journey from creating VHS tapes in his youth to working with major companies and Hollywood professionals. The conversation spans Jason's diverse career, from creating church media and working with corporate giants like T-Mobile and Microsoft, to collaborating with NBC Universal on TV shows. Jason also discusses his transition into narrative filmmaking and his partnership with Screenwriter Jaclyn Whitt, leading to award-winning projects like 'Ripple.'  As he recounts his experiences and lessons learned, Jason emphasizes the significance of focusing on one’s calling and the power of storytelling.

Highlights include:

• Early Influences and Beginnings
• High School and Early Video Production
• Journey into Ministry and Media
• Founding Blue Eye Productions
• Corporate Success and Personal Growth
• Transition to Hollywood
• Faith Based Storytelling
• Collaborations and Ripple
• Casting Through Table Reads
• Treasure Coast Talent and Casting Ripple
• Condensing for Clarity

Bio:

Jason Munden, the owner-operator of Blue Eye Productions, is a seasoned professional with two decades of experience in the Film/Video industry. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an exceptional talent for storytelling through video, honed since his high school days. With a portfolio boasting thousands of videos produced for over 250 companies, Jason's expertise spans from startups to Fortune 100 giants.

Notably, Jason has collaborated with NBC Universal, lending his skills to the casting of TV shows. His passion for the people process shines through in his work, as he excels in making individuals feel at ease, confident, and assured of success. Jason's love for production stems from its unparalleled ability to weave narratives and evoke emotions, and his commitment to this craft is evident in every project he undertakes.

https://www.instagram.com/jasonhmunden/

https://www.facebook.com/jason.munden.3

Bible College Series:

https://www.givesendgo.com/BIBECOLLEGETV

Edited by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for the Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 181 - Acting: The Craft and Calling - with Kaylee Keller

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, host Matt Chastain interviews Kaylee Keller, an accomplished actress, recording artist, public speaker, digital marketer, and teacher. They discuss the challenges and blessings of following a calling in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of faith and character. Kaylee shares her approach to acting, including creating detailed backstories for her characters and maintaining her moral and ethical standards in her career choices. They also talk about the significance of representation, community, and balancing professional opportunities with personal convictions. 

Highlights include:

● Following a Calling

● The Craft of Acting

● Creating Authentic Characters

● Balancing Faith and Acting

● The Importance of Representation

● Parental Support and Grounding

● Defining True Success

● Upcoming Projects

● Narrative vs. Commercial Work

Bio:

Award-winning actress, acclaimed recording artist, and compelling singer-songwriter, Kaylee Keller sensed a divine calling towards performing even before starting kindergarten.

Her journey gained significant momentum around age fifteen when a showcase opened doors to industry professionals. What followed was a rapid ascent: graduating high school early, signing an artist development deal, releasing her first song to radio, and opening for national artists such as Josh Wilson, Jerrod Niemann, Craig Campbell, and Joe Diffy. She simultaneously took her music and inspiring messages to festivals, schools, and churches across the US – all before she could legally drive everywhere solo!

Currently, Kaylee is making significant strides in the acting world, starring in new family-friendly and faith-based films that have earned her several awards and nominations. When she's not performing or filming, she channels her passion into leading worship, teaching music lessons, and empowering others through digital marketing. Kaylee isn't just performing; she's living out a profound calling, inspiring others to find and embrace their own, one song and one role at a time.

Website: https://www.kayleekeller.com/

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14178668/

Instagram: @kayleekellermusic

Facebook: Kaylee Keller

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KayleeKeller

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Gyu1ec5SE05nVp0c8azwq?si=cwj_HovNSw2_vfiaxTj_mA

Editing by Blake Nowlain

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 180 - Navigating the Entertainment Industry - with Kaylee Keller

In this episode of Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt welcomes Kaylee Keller, a multifaceted talent who excels as an actress, recording artist, public speaker, and digital marketer. Starting her journey inspired by a divine calling at just five years old, Kaylee has built a career that's seen her open for national artists and perform across the U.S. by the age of 15. Growing up in Garden City, Kansas, she transitioned from local theater programs to wider platforms through significant industry showcases. Despite facing challenges, including a tough experience with a major record label, Kaylee’s faith has guided her to stay independent and follow God’s direction. 

Highlights Include:

• Kaylee's Early Beginning
• Growing Up in Kansas
• Breaking into the Music Industry
• Challenges with record Labels
• Staying Independent and Faith-Driven
• Navigating the Entertainment Industry
• Balancing Multiple Talents
• Recent Acting Projects

Bio:

Award-winning actress, acclaimed recording artist, and compelling singer-songwriter, Kaylee Keller sensed a divine calling towards performing even before starting kindergarten.

Her journey gained significant momentum around age fifteen when a showcase opened doors to industry professionals. What followed was a rapid ascent: graduating high school early, signing an artist development deal, releasing her first song to radio, and opening for national artists such as Josh Wilson, Jerrod Niemann, Craig Campbell, and Joe Diffy. She simultaneously took her music and inspiring messages to festivals, schools, and churches across the US – all before she could legally drive everywhere solo!

Currently, Kaylee is making significant strides in the acting world, starring in new family-friendly and faith-based films that have earned her several awards and nominations. When she's not performing or filming, she channels her passion into leading worship, teaching music lessons, and empowering others through digital marketing. Kaylee isn't just performing; she's living out a profound calling, inspiring others to find and embrace their own, one song and one role at a time.

Website: https://www.kayleekeller.com/

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14178668/

Instagram: @kayleekellermusic

Facebook: Kaylee Keller

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KayleeKeller

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Gyu1ec5SE05nVp0c8azwq?si=cwj_HovNSw2_vfiaxTj_mA

Editing by Blake Nowlain

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 179 - Bonus: Hard Faith Festival New York - with Spencer Folmar

In this special bonus episode, Your host Geoffrey Whitt  welcomes back filmmaker and producer Spencer T. Folmar, founder of Hard Faith Films and the Hard Faith Film Festival. They discuss the upcoming first regional Hard Faith Film Festival in New York City, the festival’s mission, and what attendees can expect from this exciting one-day event.

Topics Covered:

• The growth and vision of the Hard Faith Film Festival, now in its third year in Hollywood and expanding to New York City.
• The mission of Hard Faith Films: telling raw, authentic stories that inspire transformation and faith.

Details about the New York City regional festival:

• Date: Saturday, December 6th
• Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (doors open at 9:30 AM)
• Location: A block from Times Square, New York City
• 30 official selections, including feature films, documentaries, TV episodes, and screenplays
• Two theaters for screenings, including full-length features
• Workshops, pitch fest, and an award show
• After party sponsored by Hollywood Prayer Network

Special Guests & Workshops:

• Jaclyn Whitt: Workshop on podcast guesting
• Joseph Holmes: Workshop on making your first feature film and keeping the film critic in mind
• Nathan Clarkson: Workshop on authenticity in art
• Jennifer Porrata: Workshop on acting and modeling careers
• Chris Covell (Pinnacle Peak): Workshop on rewriting and development
• Spencer  Fulmar: Workshop on “Telling Stories That Liberate”

Festival Theme:

• “In the Bleak Midwinter” – inspired by the Christmas hymn, reflecting the time of year and the spirit of the event. (No requirement for submissions to be Christmas-themed.)

Schedule Highlights:

• Morning: Workshops and screenplay presentations (with interactive elements for screenwriters)
• Afternoon: More workshops, short film blocks, and feature screenings
• Pitch Fest: Opportunity to pitch story ideas to a panel of judges and a live audience
• Awards Show: Top three winners in short film and screenplay categories, plus other awards
• After Party: Networking and celebration at a local restaurant

How to Attend:

• Tickets available exclusively online at hardfaithfest.com or hardfaith.org
• Additional ticket add-on for Pitch Fest participation
• Buy tickets early due to high demand and limited seating

Links & Resources:

Listen to previous episodes with Spencer:

• Episode 133: “Hard Faith, Embracing Real Life in Storytelling”
• Episode 134: “Tackling R Rated Subject Matter”

• hardfaithfest.com / hardfaith.org for tickets and event info

Final Thoughts:

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the Hard Faith Film Festival in the heart of New York City during the magical Christmas season. Whether you’re a filmmaker, screenwriter, or film enthusiast, there’s something for everyone!

Edited By Geoffrey Whitt

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 178 - The Making and Mission of ‘Light of the World’ - with John Schafer

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt welcomes back director John Schafer for a deep dive into the making of "Light of the World." John shares the extraordinary journey behind this ambitious animated feature, from the unique challenges of faith-based filmmaking and the miracle of funding, to the intentional design choices and collaborative spirit that brought the story to life. Together, Matt and John discuss the business realities of Christian filmmaking, the importance of ministry goals, and the lessons learned along the way. 

Highlights Include:

• Welcome and Introduction
• The Fairy Tale Funding Story
• Intentional Design: Colors, Shapes, and Cultural Connection
• Directing Animation vs. Live Action
• The Power of Collaboration in Animation
• Working With Non-Believing Crew Members
• The Business Reality of Christian Filmmaking
• Ministry Goals and Self-Distribution
• Balancing Money and Ministry
• The Challenges of Theatrical Release Timing
• Defining a Christian Filmmaker
• Where to Watch Light of the World

Bio:

John Schafer is a seasoned television producer, VFX artist, and animator with over 33 years of experience in the entertainment industry. A recipient of multiple ADDY and TELLY Awards, he is best known for his three-time EMMY-nominated work on the Christian Broadcasting Network's acclaimed CG series ‘Superbook,’ where he produced 65 episodes that reached audiences in over 123 countries and were translated into more than 60 languages.

Website: https://lightoftheworld.com/ 

Facebook: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Instagram: @LightoftheWorldMovie

X (formerly Twitter): @lotwmovie

TikTok: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/john.schafer

Instagram: instagram.com/jj_schafer

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4094635/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1

LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/grafxboy68

Editing by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 177 - Light of the World: Behind the Animation - with John Schafer

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt Chastain talks with John Schafer, director of the animated film "Light of the World." John shares the inspiration, creative process, and spiritual mission behind this groundbreaking 2D animated retelling of the life of Jesus. From his background in animation and ministry to the unique storybook style of the film, John offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, decisions, and heart that went into bringing this story to life for audiences of all ages.

Highlights Include:

• Introduction to Light of the World
• John's Background and Career
• Why Make This Movie?
• Choosing 2D Animation and Storybook Style
• Crafting the Story Structure
• The Writing Team and Biblical Accuracy
• Audience Reception and Impact
• Why Choose John as the Main Character?
• Bible Engagement and The Bible Project
• Watching Audiences Experience the Film
• Making Jesus Feel Approachable
• Charlie Brown's Influence and Personal Mission

Bio:

John Schafer is a seasoned television producer, VFX artist, and animator with over 33 years of experience in the entertainment industry. A recipient of multiple ADDY and TELLY Awards, he is best known for his three-time EMMY-nominated work on the Christian Broadcasting Network's acclaimed CG series ‘Superbook,’ where he produced 65 episodes that reached audiences in over 123 countries and were translated into more than 60 languages.

Website: https://lightoftheworld.com/ 

Facebook: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Instagram: @LightoftheWorldMovie

X (formerly Twitter): @lotwmovie

TikTok: @LightoftheWorldMovie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/john.schafer

Instagram: instagram.com/jj_schafer

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4094635/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1

LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/grafxboy68

Editing by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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

Produced by Geoffrey Whitt for Faith and Family Filmmakers Association

Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions

Episode 176 - The Legendary Music of Petra and the Movie “Beyond Belief” - with Joe Sanders

In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt welcomes Joe Sanders, executive producer at Intrigue Films. Joe shares the remarkable journey behind "Beyond Belief," a faith-based film set in the 1980s that features the legendary music of Petra. From the film’s divine inspiration and the challenges of independent filmmaking, to the miraculous connections and lessons learned along the way, Joe offers a candid look at the creative process, the power of faith, and the impact of Christian music across generations. 

Highlights Include:

• The Origin Story of "Beyond Belief"
• Connecting with Bob Hartman
• Divine Intervention and Partnership
• Petra's Legacy and Influence
• Touring With Petra
• The Story of "Beyond Belief"
• Faith vs Reality: The Film's Message
• Patience in Post-Production
• Aligning Your Team with the Mission
• Lessons on Trusting God

Bio:

Joe Sanders is an Executive Producer with Intrigue Films, an independent production company dedicated to creating high-quality, faith-based films that inspire and engage audiences. He has worked on One Hit From Home and Grace Wins. He is currently producing the upcoming feature Beyond Belief, an original, faith-based film set in the 1980s and the first to feature the music of Petra, one of the most iconic Christian rock bands in history. Joe is also the owner of Relevant Elephant, a digital marketing agency, and the author of Stop Posting! Start Marketing!. His work combines creativity, strategy, and purpose to reach audiences nationwide.

Facebook – Beyond Belief: https://www.facebook.com/thebeyondbeliefmovie/

Instagram – Beyond Belief: https://www.instagram.com/beyondbelief_themovie/

Intrigue Films Website: https://intriguefilms.com/

IMDb – Beyond Belief: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32331539/

Editing by Geoffrey Whitt

FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetings

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.

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

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

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