Hard Faith Podcast

S3 - Ep8: Allen Smith "The Real Saint Nick"


Listen Later

In this powerful in-person episode, Spencer sits down with longtime friend and real-life Saint Nick, Allen Smith—the man whose remarkable true story inspired Saint Nick of Bethlehem and the upcoming documentary Sad Santa and the Healing Power of Giving.

Allen shares how a simple act of lifting his grieving family’s spirits one Christmas launched him into twelve years of portraying Santa Claus across Central Pennsylvania. But the heart of this conversation is Allen’s extraordinary courage and faith after the unimaginable loss of his only son, Garrett. Just seven weeks after Garrett’s passing, Allen stepped back into the red suit—choosing to bring joy to others even while walking through his deepest valley.

Spencer and Allen reflect on the making of Saint Nick, the long nights on set, and the friendships that carried this story from real life to the screen. Allen opens up about joy, service, resilience, and how giving can become a lifeline in seasons of heartbreak.

This episode is a raw, hopeful exploration of faith, healing, and the power of showing up for others.

Stay tuned at the end for details on upcoming red-carpet events and the home-video release of Saint Nick of Bethlehem.

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Hard Faith PodcastBy Hard Faith