Influence Women

Kathleen Cooke

Follow your dreams! The Influence Women podcast will equip and empower you to pursue your dreams in film, entertainment, arts and leadership. Hosted by media executive Kathleen Cooke, each episode features influential industry voices to help release your creative talent, advance your career, and build the kind of faith that will unleash God's calling on your life. Be mentored by women who are making a difference as Hollywood and independent female filmmakers, actors, directors, screenwriters, authors, entrepreneurs and more! https://influencewomen.org

  1. AI for Filmmakers: How Producers Use AI to Make Movies Faster | Anna Zielinski

    APR 9

    AI for Filmmakers: How Producers Use AI to Make Movies Faster | Anna Zielinski

    AI is transforming filmmaking—but what does that actually mean for producers? Join Influence Women global director Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org in this conversation with producer Anna Zielinski (Pinnacle Peak Pictures / The Producer's Desk) to break down how AI is reshaping film production—from script breakdowns and pre-production to budgeting and workflow efficiency. If you're a filmmaker, producer, or creative leader, this conversation will help you understand how to use AI as a powerful assistant—not a replacement—so you can move faster, work smarter, and focus on the creative work that matters most. 👉 "AI is here to stay and we either need to align or we'll be left behind." —Anna Zielinski, Producer 🎬 In this episode, you'll learn: How AI tools like ChatGPT can support film production Using AI for script breakdowns and pre-production planning Why AI won't replace producers—but will empower them Practical ways to build AI workflows and "producer playbooks" How independent filmmakers can leverage AI on low budgets The balance between human creativity and machine efficiency ·       Plus, find out the steps to becoming a SAG-AFTRA signatory production! 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media. Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** AI for Filmmakers: How Producers Use AI to Make Movies Faster | Anna Zielinski Anna Zielinski has over 15 years of experience producing faith-based and family films, spending her entire career at Pinnacle Peak Pictures. Anna began her producing career in 2010, partnering with David A.R. White and Pure Flix Entertainment to produce multiple films, including Marriage Retreat, Apostle Peter and The Last Supper, and Brotha White, and made her directorial debut with The Book of Daniel (2013). In 2014, Anna served as a producer on the faith-based hit God's Not Dead, which became the highest-grossing indie feature of that year. Anna continued her momentum in 2014 with Dancer and the Dame and the sitcom Hitting The Breaks, and in 2021, Anna produced and directed Courting Mom & Dad. She went on to expand her portfolio as executive producer on The Encounter and Sons of Thunder: Redemption, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, Nothing's Impossible, Revelation Road: The Series, and God's Not Dead: In God We Trust (2024). Throughout her career, she has successfully led the production of both original films and series, solidifying her reputation as a leader in faith-based entertainment. Now solid with wisdom and knowledge and wanting to see others excel in the industry, Anna launched The Producers Desk, a YouTube channel providing aspiring producers with practical tips and strategies to bring their creative visions to life. 👉Find out more and get the AI Producer's Playbook at  https://theproducersdesk.com ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Kathleen Cooke and How AI is Changing Filmmaking 01:57 Producer Anna Zielinski and Why Producers Need AI Now 05:55 AI Tools for filmmakers, ChatGPT, Claude and (Script Breakdowns, budget top sheets) 10:30 Building an AI Workflow with the AI Producer's Playbook 15:30 Becoming a SAG-AFTRA Signatory Production 22:08 What AI Can't Replace 26:42 The Future of Film Production #AIFilmmaking #FilmProduction #WomenInFilm #Filmmakers #AItools #IndependentFilm

    30 min
  2. Why Your Story Matters | Tamara Battaglia, Author "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives"

    MAR 12

    Why Your Story Matters | Tamara Battaglia, Author "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives"

    Your story matters! If you've ever wondered, you'll be inspired as you join Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org in this conversation with Tamara Battaglia, author of the new devotional book, "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives." Showcasing powerful stories of unwavering faith and triumph from today's leading female voices in Christian music, ministry, film and literature, this forty-day devotional will warm your heart and reassure you of God's plan for your life. Find out how to apply godly wisdom from lived experiences of women like Lisa Roberts, Roma Downey, and Jennifer O'Neal; recognize God's guiding hand in your life, and trust God with your future. Let God write your story. 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  👉 Subscribe to the Influence Women Podcast Available on all your favorite podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/influence-women/id1715718111?i=1000634169188  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media. Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com **More About this Episode** Why Your Story Matters | Tamara Battaglia, Author "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives"  Tamara Hester Battaglia, with nearly two decades of experience as a flight attendant, has traveled the globe, sharing the love of Jesus and seeing the world thru his eyes. Tamara hails from Pasadena, Texas, and currently resides in a quaint little town in Tennessee, with her husband, Joe. Her life revolves around traveling, gardening, bird watching, and spending precious moments with her husband, children, and four grandchildren.  Get the book, "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives" Available at Barnes & Nobles: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/written-in-heaven-tamara-hester-battaglia/1146736198 Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Written-Heaven-Devotional-Stories-Healing/dp/1424569893  ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Meet Influence Women global director, Kathleen Cooke. 00:43 Tamara Battaglia, author "Written in Heaven—His Story, Our Lives" 01:57 Written in Heaven contributors: women in Christian media 04:37 Trusting God with the story of our lives. 05:56 Contributors to the devotional: Lisa Roberts, Jennifer O'Neal, Roma Downey, Kathleen Cooke 10:25 Kathleen Cooke's devotional entry "Enough Love" inspires childlike faith 15:05 How to share your story 19:05 Become a member of Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org #storytelling #devotionals #femalefilmmakers #Christianmedia #TamaraBattaglia

    20 min
  3. Behind the Scenes of "I Can Only Imagine 2" | Producer Cindy Bond on Faith, Film & Calling

    FEB 12

    Behind the Scenes of "I Can Only Imagine 2" | Producer Cindy Bond on Faith, Film & Calling

    What does it take to produce a faith-based film that's a box office success? Join Influence Women global director Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org as we go behind the scenes with Cindy Bond, producer of "I Can Only Imagine" and the sequel "I Can Only Imagine 2"— one of the most anticipated Christian movies of 2026. Cindy shares how God planted the vision for both films as a mustard seed, why this sequel stands on its own, and how faith, music, and purpose shape powerful storytelling. From balancing gratitude and grief to creating films that inspire hope, she reflects on her calling as a media missionary and why showing up for Christian films opening weekend truly matters. 🎥 I Can Only Imagine 2 releases nationwide February 20, 2026. 📣 Share this episode, spread the word, and show up opening weekend to support faith-driven storytelling. 👉 Learn more: https://icanonlyimagine.com/ 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 👉 Prefer audio? Listen to the Influence Women Podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/influence-women/id1715718111?i=1000634169188 Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** Behind the Scenes of I Can Only Imagine 2 | Producer Cindy Bond on Faith, Film & Calling  Cindy Bond is a film producer and CEO of Mission Pictures International (est. 2008), specializing in faith-based entertainment. She has produced, distributed or served as sales agent on over 200 films, most notably I Can Only Imagine (2018), which grossed $83 million domestically and ranks among the top ten music biopics of all time. Other credits include Redeeming Love (2022, Universal Pictures) starring Abigail Cowen and Famke Janssen, The King's Daughter (2022) with Pierce Brosnan, and Emmy-winning documentary Miracle on 42nd Street (2018).  An early pioneer in identifying the faith-based film market to Hollywood, she co-founded Providence Entertainment (1998), which released The Omega Code (1999), the year's #1 limited release. As President/COO of Promenade Pictures with former Paramount President Frank Yablans, she produced the CGI-animated The Ten Commandments (2007). Driven by a passion for storytelling that blends artistry with messages of hope, transformation and redemption, Bond's work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, creating uplifting content that inspires and entertains.  A Producers Guild and SAG member, Bond was named to Variety's "50 Up and Coming Creatives" and the 2024 Variety Faith in Media Impact list. She has served on advisory boards for Women in Film, Movieguide, Biola University, and The Heartland Film Festival, and co-founded The Redeeming Love Sanctuary Foundation and The Backyard National Children's Film Festival. Bond is currently producing the I Can Only Imagine 2 with Kingdom Story Company, scheduled for wide release through Lionsgate on February 20, 2026. Find out more at https://icanonlyimagine.com/  ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Meet Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director and guest Cindy Bond, producer "I Can Only Imagine" and "I Can Only Imagine 2" 03:44 Cindy's faith background and how it influences her filmmaking journey 05:14 God seeding the calling on her life to be a media missionary 13:33 Behind the scenes with "I Can Only Imagine 2" with Bart Millard and Tim Timmons 16:15 God's timing is always perfect 20:39 Cindy's dream of basing films on iconic Christian music 26:20 Working with Kingdom Story Company 29:55 The collaborative medium of film 31:40 🎥 I Can Only Imagine 2 releases nationwide February 20, 2026.

    35 min
  4. The World is Waiting for You | Award Winning Actress Edwina Findley

    JAN 8

    The World is Waiting for You | Award Winning Actress Edwina Findley

    Manifest the God dream over your life! Especially if you're pursuing a career in film, television, media or the arts, this interview with award-winning actress Edwina Findley will inspire and empower you to tap into the future God has planned for you. https://influencewomen.org Known for her unforgettable roles in The Residence (Netflix), The Wire (HBO), If Loving You Is Wrong (OWN), Fear the Walking Dead, and Get Hard with Kevin Hart, Edwina shares how obedience, surrender, and a servant's heart can lead you through doors beyond what you can even imagine!  Hosted by Influence Women Global Director Kathleen Cooke, Edwina's story will help you truly believe – the world is waiting for you! 👉 Watch now and be encouraged to step boldly into the future God has prepared for you.  👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  👉 Subscribe to the Influence Women Podcast Available on all your favorite podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/influence-women/id1715718111?i=1000634169188  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media.  Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  More About this Episode — The World is Waiting for You | Award Winning Actress Edwina Findley Edwina Findley is an award-winning film, television, and theatre actress, praised by critics as "a marvel to watch." Known to global audiences as 'Sheila' in Shonda Rhimes' hit Netflix series "The Residence," Edwina first captured hearts as 'Tosha' on HBO's groundbreaking series "The Wire," before being handpicked by industry titans Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey to star as 'Kelly' in the drama series "If Loving You Is Wrong" for five seasons.  A vibrant and versatile performer, Edwina has starred in "Fear the Walking Dead," Amazon's global thriller "The Power," "Veep," "Chicago Med," "Black Lightning," HBO's "Treme," Ava DuVernay's Sundance-winning "Middle of Nowhere," Warner Brothers comedy "Get Hard" alongside Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart, and she earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her "skin-prickling performance" as Melva in "Free In Deed."  Proclaimed in the New York Times as a "life force," Edwina is passionate about helping others to discover and manifest the God Dream over their lives. She is the CEO of Abundant Life University, and travels the world inspiring audiences to bravely press past their fears, unleash their highest vision, and manifest the life they've been praying for. Edwina has been featured in Oprah, People Magazine, Time Magazine, The New York Times, The Washington Post, In Style, Essence, Hollywood Reporter, and more. Edwina's most cherished blessings in life are her loving husband Kelvin Dickerson and their bright and beautiful little girls, Victoria and London. Connect with Edwina at theworldiswaiting.org ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 00:00 Meet Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director 00:32 Meet Edwina Findley, award winning actress, "If Loving You is Wrong" "The Resident" 03:26 Tap into God's calling on your life with Edwina's book, "The World is Waiting for You – Manifest the God-Dream in Your Life" 06:00 Edwina's role as Sheila in "The Resident" 07:12 Acting tips on being fully engaged on set 10:25 How faith in God has helped Edwina step into her God-dream 10:57 Prophetic words and a surrender to God's will 16:15 How God speaks in dreams and words 20:04 Keeping faith in the waiting season 25:40 Edwina's story of Oprah Winfrey and how to change the world 31:12 Learning to serve others 33:45 How to contact Edwina and get her book: "The World is Waiting for You"  #edwinafindley #acting #godscalling #heargodsvoice #filmcareers

    37 min
  5. How to Stimulate Creativity in Children | Mom Support with Kelli Smith, MomCo

    2025-12-11

    How to Stimulate Creativity in Children | Mom Support with Kelli Smith, MomCo

    Boost creativity in your kids! In this conversation, Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org welcomes Kelli Smith, VP of Marketing with MomCo (formerly MOPS) to discuss practical ways for moms to stimulate creativity in their children, while strategically navigating technology and AI in the home.  If you're feeling the isolation of mom life or questioning your worth as a mom, Kelli offers inspiration and parenting tips to help you be present in your children's lives and raise them as strong disciples of Christ. Not just for moms! If you're a content creator or a film or TV producer wanting to create quality Christian content for kids, this episode offers an inside view of what moms want for their families. 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media.  Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** How to Stimulate Creativity in Children | Mom Support with Kelli Smith, MomCo Meet Kelli Jo Smith, the energetic Vice President of Church Engagement and Marketing at The MomCo. For 17 years, Kelli has been a passionate advocate for growing Christian non-profits and empowering moms, driving initiatives that make a global impact. Alongside her husband, Ellery, she's earned the nickname "Chip and Joanna Gaines of the Rockies," thanks to their love of home renovation projects and frequent Lowe's adventures in Denver.  When she's not masterminding her next remodel, Kelli is hitting the open road with her family or immersing herself in new learning pursuits. At home, she's navigating the exciting journey of raising her teenage duo, Madelyn (17) and Liam (15), with the playful antics of their beloved Bernedoodle, Ashton O'Malley, adding to the family fun. Find out more about Momco at https://www.themom.co/home  Are you a film or television producer? Contact Kelli for more ideas on content for kids at ksmith@themom.co  Timecodes: 00:00 Welcome by Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Founder and Global Director 00:43 Meet Kelli Smith, VP Marketing, MomCo (formerly MOPS) 02:00 Kelli's move from the corporate workplace to a stay-at-home mom 04:06 God's calling for Kelli as a mom and later at MOPS to offer mom support 06:14 Creative content for kids and families - ideas for producers 08:41 AI and the window of time we have to produce Christian content 12:53 Isolation challenges mom's face and how to counteract it 14:45 The meaningful work of being a mom 19:40 Stimulating creativity in children 21:31 Practical ways to nurture creativity in children 24:04 Tips for parents with children in the film and television industry 28:37 Find out more about MomCo (formerly MOPS) 30:25 How to contact Kelli Smith for creative content ideas for children

    33 min
  6. Producing Faith Based Films | Anna Zielinski, Pinnacle Peak Pictures

    2025-11-13

    Producing Faith Based Films | Anna Zielinski, Pinnacle Peak Pictures

    Do you want to become a film producer? Discover the keys to producing successful faith based films with Anna Zielinski, producer at Pinnacle Peak Pictures and founder of The Producers Desk. In this conversation with Kathleen Cooke, global director of Influence Women, https://influencewomen.org Anna shares her career journey from actor to producer, and from indie films to box-office hits working alongside David A.R. White with Pure Flix Entertainment (God's Not Dead, Marriage Retreat, Sons of Thunder: Redemption). Anna speaks to the challenges of female filmmakers and will inspire you to walk in faith towards the dream God has placed in your heart to produce Christian film and television content. 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/  🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media.  Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** Producing Faith Based Films | Anna Zielinski, Pinnacle Peak Pictures Anna Zielinski has over 15 years of experience producing faith-based and family films, spending her entire career at Pinnacle Peak Pictures. Anna began her producing career in 2010, partnering with David A.R. White and Pure Flix Entertainment to produce multiple films, including Marriage Retreat, Apostle Peter and The Last Supper, and Brotha White, and made her directorial debut with The Book of Daniel (2013). In 2014, Anna served as a producer on the faith-based hit God's Not Dead, which became the highest-grossing indie feature of that year. Anna continued her momentum in 2014 with Dancer and the Dame and the sitcom Hitting The Breaks, and in 2021, Anna produced and directed Courting Mom & Dad. She went on to expand her portfolio as executive producer on The Encounter and Sons of Thunder: Redemption, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, Nothing's Impossible, Revelation Road: The Series, and God's Not Dead: In God We Trust (2024).  Throughout her career, Anna has successfully led the production of both original films and series, solidifying her reputation as a leader in faith-based entertainment. Now solid with wisdom and knowledge and wanting to see others excel in the industry, Anna launched The Producers Desk, a YouTube channel providing aspiring producers with practical tips and strategies to bring their creative visions to life.   Find out more about The Producers Desk here: https://www.theproducersdesk.com/   "Own your authority. Don't wait for permission to lead." – Anna Zielinski, Producer – Pinnacle Peak Pictures  00:00 Meet Anna Zielinski, Producer, Pinnacle Peak Pictures 07:32 Anna's career journey from actress to producer, from indie films to box office hits 10:30 Serve the story first as a producer 11:32 How to produce successful faith based films for Christian audiences 14:37 Meeting audience expectations with faith based films 17:45 How female filmmakers can bring your strengths to the project as a producer 21:31 Anna Zielinkski's The Producers Desk – sharing real world knowledge with independent producers https://theproducersdesk.com 24:30 The vision of Influence Women for female filmmakers to Connect, Collaborate, Create for Christ!

    28 min
  7. Stand for Truth: Courage, Faith, and the Legacy of Charlie Kirk | Krissy Miles, Exec. Pastor

    2025-10-09

    Stand for Truth: Courage, Faith, and the Legacy of Charlie Kirk | Krissy Miles, Exec. Pastor

    What does it mean to stand for truth in today's culture? In this inspiring conversation, Krissy Miles, Executive Pastor at Nfluence Church and CFO/Co-Founder of Miles Media, joins Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org to unpack the legacy of Charlie Kirk, the future of TPUSA with Erika Kirk at the helm, and how faith, courage, and biblical truth are shaping the next generation. With insights on how to boldly live out biblical truth, you'll be inspired to join a new wave of women in media and leadership who refuse to shrink back from sharing their faith.  ✨ Topics Discussed: • Charlie Kirk's legacy of faith and courage • Cultural worldview vs. Christian worldview • How to speak truth in love • Biblical truth in the age of AI and content creation 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation= Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com  The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Age Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media.  Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** Stand for Truth: Courage, Faith, and the Legacy of Charlie Kirk | Krissy Miles, Exec. Pastor  About Krissy Miles: Renowned for her wisdom and practical solutions, Krissy Miles is a pastor, business strategist, and media executive. She serves as Executive Pastor of Nfluence Network and Nfluence Church and as CFO and co-founder of Miles Media, Inc., leading in faith-driven leadership and media innovation.  With a Master's in Non-Profit Business Administration from Notre Dame, Krissy blends spiritual insight and business expertise, advising ministry leaders, entertainment professionals, and political figures on faith-based leadership, cultural influence, and public policy.  A "Maximum CEO" trainer with the Leadership Institute, she also serves on the Arise Women's Conferences committee, founded by Mary Hudson. Beyond consulting, Krissy is a sought-after Bible teacher and speaker, known for making eternal truths practical for everyday life. Connect with Krissy: https://www.instagram.com/krissymiles/# Learn more at TPUSA Faith: https://tpusafaith.com/ 📘 Featured Resource: Pagan Threat by Lucas Miles (Foreword by Charlie Kirk) → Get it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4pXoUR2 💬 Powerful Quotes from Krissy Miles: "When you love someone, you're willing to actually tell them the truth." "Loving somebody does not mean accepting everything that they do." "As women, we need to say yes to the things of God, to not shrink back." "Do what Charlie did. Let's make heaven crowded and don't shrink back from sharing your faith." 00:00 Kathleen Cooke introduces Krissy Miles and discusses TPUSA Faith 00:40 Working with Charlie Kirk and Erika Kirk 09:35 Krissy shares the importance of biblical truth and Christian worldview 12:08 What love looks like 19:00 Supporting TPUSA and Erika Kirk as she leads 22:28 "Pagan Threat" book by Lucas Miles with foreword by Charlie Kirk 29:20 The Use of AI 35:26 Influence Women online Bible studies 38:10 How to pray for the future of TPUSA

    43 min
  8. Navigate Your Acting Career | Shari Rigby, Director-Producer-Actor "Divine Influencer"

    2025-09-11

    Navigate Your Acting Career | Shari Rigby, Director-Producer-Actor "Divine Influencer"

    Considering an acting career? Join Kathleen Cooke https://influencewomen.org as she interviews female director, actress, writer and producer Shari Rigby. Known for faithbased films including Divine Influencer and October Baby and the television series County Rescue, Season 2, Shari brings an experienced perspective for Christian actors building their acting careers. You'll gain insight on how to prepare for auditions and break down character roles, plus learn how to navigate Hollywood without compromising your faith.  Listen now and find out how to get her free Actors Toolkit with on set tips and tricks to help you excel in the media and entertainment industry! 👉 Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to Influence Women! It's a great place to connect with others of faith and purpose as you pursue your dreams in the industry. Join here: https://influencewomen.org/membership/ 🌟 Subscribe to the Influence Women YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-yLGpj1BJaG47cBZU2Dbuw?Sub_Confirmation=1  👉 Subscribe to the Influence Women Podcast  Available on all your favorite podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/influence-women/id1715718111?i=1000634169188  Influence Women Founded by media executive Kathleen Cooke, IW will help you grow in your faith, your relationships, and your professional career in film, television, the arts, and leadership. You'll find Influence Women in the major film hubs across the nation.  Find out more at Influence Women at https://influencewomen.org Follow Influence Women Global Twitter https://x.com/InfluenceWomenG Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558179922051 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/influencewomenglobal/ Connect with Kathleen Cooke, Influence Women Global Director: https://kathleencooke.com The Influence Lab - Redefining Global Mission Strategy in Today's Digital Ag Founded by media experts Phil and Kathleen Cooke, The Influence Lab mobilizes a powerful strategy to teach the global Church how to use media to share the gospel in today's digital age, with Influence Women creating a pathway for Christian influence in entertainment and media.  Find out more about The Influence Lab at https://influencelab.com  **More About this Episode** Navigate Your Acting Career | Shari Rigby, Director-Producer-Actor "Divine Influencer" Subscribe and get the Actor's Toolkit! https://thewomeninmyworld.org/ Shari Rigby is an award winning director, writer, producer, an accomplished actress and inspirational speaker, known for her impactful contributions to faith-based entertainment. Best recognized for her powerful roles in films like Overcomer, October Baby, Not Today, Wildflower, and The Least of These, Shari has become a leading figure in Christian cinema. Her talent extends beyond acting; she has earned recognition as an actor's director, having worked on a wide range of projects with a strong focus on powerful performances and meaningful storytelling.   Shari recently starred in and directed County Rescue Season Two, streaming on Great American Family and Great American Pure Flix. She also directed and produced the award-winning film Divine Influencer, starring Lara Silva from The Chosen, and Identity Crisis, a teen girl drama. Her work on the Kendrick Brothers' Overcomer, LifeMark and The Forge further solidified her reputation in the industry. Additionally, Shari has contributed to television as an executive producer, director, and writer for 20 episodes of the Dream Center Los Angeles series on Daystar.   As the co-founder of Beautifully Flawed Productions with her creative partner, Claire Yorita Lee, Shari is focused on creating female driven God-honoring content for film and television. She co-wrote the online devotional for the re-release of The Passion of the Christ and her autobiography, Beautifully Flawed, was published in 2015. Her latest devotional, Consider the Lilies: 40-Day Devotional, was released in 2022.   Shari's passion for empowering women led her to establish The Women In My World, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring and discipling women to influence culture through their faith, talents, and gifts in entertainment, media, and business.   Celebrating 27 years of marriage to her husband, Matt, Shari is deeply committed to her family and faith. Find out more: https://www.sharirigby.com/     00:00 Meet host Kathleen Cooke and Shari Rigby 02:58 Shari Rigby shares her journey into a career in the film and television industry 21:14 God is doing a new thing, Isaiah 43:19 22:00 New ways to champion women in the film and television industry 23:15 God is on the move in media, music and the arts 24:28 The vision of The Women in My World vision 25:49 Shari encourages women to step out in faith (Nehemiah) 29:57 Connect with Shari Rigby on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharirigby/

    32 min

About

Follow your dreams! The Influence Women podcast will equip and empower you to pursue your dreams in film, entertainment, arts and leadership. Hosted by media executive Kathleen Cooke, each episode features influential industry voices to help release your creative talent, advance your career, and build the kind of faith that will unleash God's calling on your life. Be mentored by women who are making a difference as Hollywood and independent female filmmakers, actors, directors, screenwriters, authors, entrepreneurs and more! https://influencewomen.org