Faith & Family Filmmakers

Geoffrey and Jaclyn Whitt

The Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every Monday, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to composers, talent agents, and distributors. Hear inspiring stories from the journeys of successful Christian Filmmakers. Find out what’s currently being written and produced. Learn about distribution and fundraising strategies. Get expert advice that will help you advance in your career. This show is for people involved in all areas of the filmmaking industry, and those who want to be! Produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt, this podcast is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association https://www.faffassociation.com/

  1. Bonus: Hard Faith Festival New York

    3D AGO

    Bonus: Hard Faith Festival New York

    Episode 179 - Bonus: Hard Faith Festival New York 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 6thTime: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (doors open at 9:30 AM)Location: A block from Times Square, New York City30 official selections, including feature films, documentaries, TV episodes, and screenplaysTwo theaters for screenings, including full-length featuresWorkshops, pitch fest, and an award showAfter party sponsored by Hollywood Prayer Network Special Guests & Workshops: Jaclyn Whitt: Workshop on podcast guestingJoseph Holmes: Workshop on making your first feature film and keeping the film critic in mindNathan Clarkson: Workshop on authenticity in artJennifer Porrata: Workshop on acting and modeling careersChris Covell (Pinnacle Peak): Workshop on rewriting and developmentSpencer  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 screeningsPitch Fest: Opportunity to pitch story ideas to a panel of judges and a live audienceAwards Show: Top three winners in short film and screenplay categories, plus other awardsAfter Party: Networking and celebration at a local restaurant How to Attend: Tickets available exclusively online at hardfaithfest.com or hardfaith.orgAdditional ticket add-on for Pitch Fest participationBuy 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...

    17 min
  2. The Making and Mission of ‘Light of the World’ with John Schafer

    OCT 22

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

    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 IntroductionThe Fairy Tale Funding StoryIntentional Design: Colors, Shapes, and Cultural ConnectionDirecting Animation vs. Live ActionThe Power of Collaboration in AnimationWorking With Non-Believing Crew MembersThe Business Reality of Christian FilmmakingMinistry Goals and Self-DistributionBalancing Money and MinistryThe Challenges of Theatrical Release TimingDefining a Christian FilmmakerWhere 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,

    29 min
  3. Light of the World: Behind the Animation with Director John Schafer

    OCT 22

    Light of the World: Behind the Animation with Director John Schafer

    Episode 177 - Light of the World: Behind the Animation with Director 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 WorldJohn's Background and CareerWhy Make This Movie?Choosing 2D Animation and Storybook StyleCrafting the Story StructureThe Writing Team and Biblical AccuracyAudience Reception and ImpactWhy Choose John as the Main Character?Bible Engagement and The Bible ProjectWatching Audiences Experience the FilmMaking Jesus Feel ApproachableCharlie 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,...

    25 min
  4. The Legendary Music of Petra and the Movie “Beyond Belief” with Joe Sanders

    OCT 8

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

    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 HartmanDivine Intervention and PartnershipPetra's Legacy and InfluenceTouring With PetraThe Story of "Beyond Belief"Faith vs Reality: The Film's MessagePatience in Post-ProductionAligning Your Team with the MissionLessons 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

    30 min
  5. Wilson Hickman: The Role of Fantasy in Christian Filmmaking

    SEP 24

    Wilson Hickman: The Role of Fantasy in Christian Filmmaking

    Episode 175 - Wilson Hickman: The Role of Fantasy in Christian Filmmaking In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Your host Geoffrey Whitt welcomes Wilson Hickman, a passionate young Christian filmmaker. Wilson shares his journey from writing stories as a child to creating "The Lost Healer," an award-winning proof of concept for a Christian fantasy TV series. Inspired by the topic of spiritual warfare, Wilson discusses weaving biblical themes into imaginative storytelling, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and the importance of authentic, God-honoring entertainment. He also opens up about his faith, creative process, and the collaborative effort behind bringing his vision to life. Highlights Include: Passion for StorytellingThe Lost Healer ProjectCreative ProcessCreating the Fantasy WorldCasting ProcessExperience as a Young Filmmaker Bio: Wilson Hickman is a follower of Jesus with a strong passion for storytelling. From a young age, he began writing books in a variety of genres, and his creativity soon expanded to screenwriting. Wilson’s latest project is The Lost Healer, an award-winning proof-of-concept episode for a Christian-themed fantasy TV series. Inspired by real-life spiritual warfare, the series transports viewers to an imaginative new world while weaving biblical themes throughout its narrative. Recognizing the power of stories to shape the culture, Wilson seeks to make compelling, God-honoring entertainment that can be enjoyed by a broad audience. Website: thelosthealer.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelosthealerseries/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelosthealerseries/ Editor: 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 a...

    26 min
  6. CAROL: Behind the Scenes with a First-Time Filmmaker

    SEP 18

    CAROL: Behind the Scenes with a First-Time Filmmaker

    Episode 174 - CAROL: Behind the Scenes with a First-Time Filmmaker In part 2 of their interview on the Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast, Matt Chastain continues his conversation with James Tew, executive producer, writer, and investor behind the musical feature "Carol." James shares his journey from concept to release, discussing the challenges and triumphs of independent filmmaking. With insights into financing, production logistics, creative collaboration, and the importance of faith, James offers a candid look at what it takes to bring a faith-based musical to life. He also reflects on audience reactions, the impact of community support, and lessons learned along the way. Highlights Include: Movie Release and DistributionSupporting Independent FilmmakersFinancing the FilmProduction Support and Set ShepherdsProduction Schedule and TimelineDivine Intervention on SetManaging Production CostsCreative CollaborationAudience Reception and ImpactFuture Plans and Distribution Bio: An award-winning journalist and public relations professional for more than 30 years, James Tew followed God’s leading into film with the blessing and support of his wife Shannon. CAROL began as a church Christmas play, designed to deliver a Gospel message through an original story that follows the framework of A Christmas Carol. Through God-ordained connections, the project went on an 11-year journey to become a Christian, feature-length Christmas musical released in 2024. carolmovie.com https://www.facebook.com/carol.musical.movie https://www.instagram.com/carolmovie2024/ https://www.tiktok.com/@carol.movie.2024 https://www.youtube.com/@CAROL-movie-2024 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

    22 min
  7. Adapting Dickens: The Story Behind "Carol"

    SEP 17

    Adapting Dickens: The Story Behind "Carol"

    Episode 173 - Adapting Dickens: The Story Behind "Carol" In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt Chastain welcomes James Tew, an award-winning journalist and executive producer of the new Christmas feature film "Carol." James shares his unique journey from public relations to filmmaking, detailing how a church Christmas play evolved into a full-length musical movie over an 11-year period. He discusses the challenges of independent film production, from financing through creative problem-solving, and the importance of faith, family, and perseverance. They also discuss lessons learned in distribution and marketing, and the role of community and networking in the faith-based film industry. Highlights Include: The origins of "Carol" as a church playNavigating an 11-year journey from script to screenCollaborating with director George JohnsonOvercoming musical and financial challengesAssembling a talented production team on a tight budgetAdapting a classic story for a modern, faith-based audienceThe importance of family support and faith in filmmakingLessons learned in distribution and marketingThe value of networking in the film industry Bio: An award-winning journalist and public relations professional for more than 30 years, James Tew followed God’s leading into film with the blessing and support of his wife Shannon. CAROL began as a church Christmas play, designed to deliver a Gospel message through an original story that follows the framework of A Christmas Carol. Through God-ordained connections, the project went on an 11-year journey to become a Christian, feature-length Christmas musical released in 2024. carolmovie.com https://www.facebook.com/carol.musical.movie https://www.instagram.com/carolmovie2024/ https://www.tiktok.com/@carol.movie.2024 https://www.youtube.com/@CAROL-movie-2024 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 a...

    25 min
  8. Set Culture and Christian Sci-Fi

    SEP 4

    Set Culture and Christian Sci-Fi

    Episode 172 - Set Culture and Christian Sci-Fi In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, host Matt Chastain welcomes back Chris Kiefer, a talented video graphics supervisor with credits on major films and TV shows. Chris shares behind-the-scenes stories from his work on projects like the new Naked Gun movie and Interstellar, reflecting on the unique challenges and rewards of designing graphics for big productions. The conversation explores the importance of set culture, the evolving role of technology and AI in filmmaking, and the need for Christian voices in science fiction. Chris also discusses the balance between writing for faith-based and mainstream audiences, and offers practical advice for networking and building a career in the film industry. Highlights Include: The Naked Gun ProjectFilm Set ExperiencesCrew Dynamics and LeadershipImpact of AI on FilmmakingAI as a Creative ToolChristianity in Science Fiction FilmsTechnology and FaithWriting for Christian and Secular AudiencesNetworking in the Film Industry Bio:  Chris Kieffer is a writer, producer, and Creative Director creating faith-based, story-driven content that shares biblical truth through powerful storytelling. A father of four, Chris also brings 20+ years of film and TV experience, including 12 at Warner Bros., He has led creative teams on projects such as The Mandalorian & Grogu, Westworld, Interstellar, Star Trek: Picard, Fallout, and Godzilla, crafting immersive UI and visual storytelling for screen.  A.K.A - Chris: a guy who makes stuff. https://www.chriskieffer.com/  Editing by Michael Roth  Content Christian Media Conference: https://www.christianmediaconference.com/ 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...

    28 min
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About

The Faith and Family Filmmakers Podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every Monday, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to composers, talent agents, and distributors. Hear inspiring stories from the journeys of successful Christian Filmmakers. Find out what’s currently being written and produced. Learn about distribution and fundraising strategies. Get expert advice that will help you advance in your career. This show is for people involved in all areas of the filmmaking industry, and those who want to be! Produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt, this podcast is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association https://www.faffassociation.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Geoffrey and Jaclyn Whitt
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    180
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions
  • Show Website
    Faith & Family Filmmakers

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