Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

Singer, songwriter, pastor, and now author — Tauren Wells is doing it all. In this episode of Crosswalk Talk, we catch up with Tauren fresh off the launch of his Texas-based Church of Whitestone, which saw 4,000 people show up on day one. Tauren opens up about how launching a church deeply influenced the writing of his new worship EP, Let the Church Sing, and how his heart for people shaped both his ministry and music. We also dive into his upcoming book, Joy Bomb: Unleash Jesus’ Explosive Joy for an Extraordinary Life, a fresh take on the Beatitudes and a powerful reminder that happiness and holiness are deeply connected in the Christian walk. From youth room setup to national tours to pastoring thousands — Tauren shares how every step was guided by a calling bigger than just talent or platform. Whether you're a worship leader, a pastor, or someone just trying to figure out what joy looks like in real life — this conversation will encourage and challenge you. 🔥 Key Takeaways: 💒 Church of Whitestone launched with 4,000 attendees on Day 1 — here's how they prepared for unexpected growth. 🎶 Behind the songs: How worship songs like The Room is Yours and Making Room came straight from church planting experiences. 📖 A deep dive into Joy Bomb — why Jesus’ first sermon was all about happiness and how the church may need to rethink joy. 🙌 Tauren's transition from entertainer to preacher and why he believes all believers are called to “preach” in their own way. 🏀 That unforgettable moment when Steph Curry endorsed his book and his song. 🗣️ Notable Quotes: “We were not prepared, but we were ready.”“Jesus isn’t describing a good Christian. He’s introducing us to the Person of Joy.”“I don’t want to grow big — I want to grow healthy.”“The goal is not a stage; the goal is proximity to people.” 📚 Resources Mentioned: Tauren's EP: Let the Church Sing New Book: Joy Bomb: Unleash Jesus’ Explosive Joy for an Extraordinary Life (Zondervan, May 2025) Hills and Valleys (Tauren Wells song featured by Coach Tony Bennett post-NCAA Championship) Subscribe & Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and leave a five-star review. It helps other Christian fans find faith-based podcasts like this one. Check out our podcast partners at Lifeaudio.com for dozens of other inspiring, Christian podcasts from prayers, devotionals, Christian interviews for faith builders. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Looking for Christian shows for kids that are safe, inspiring, and fun for the whole family? In today’s episode, actor, author, and family advocate Kirk Cameron joins us to talk about his brand-new faith-based children’s show, Adventures with Iggy and Mr. Kirk, streaming now on the Brave Plus streaming platform. Kirk shares the heart behind the series, created to help parents turn their children’s screen time into opportunities for teaching Biblical values, character, and virtue. In a culture where family-friendly entertainment seems harder to find, this show fills a much-needed space by offering Christian programming for kids you can trust. We also dive into why wholesome media matters more than ever for Christian families, how media shapes our children’s worldview, and what strategies Kirk recommends for Christian parenting in today’s culture. It’s a hopeful, practical conversation packed with encouragement for anyone raising kids in this complicated world. Key Takeaways: Why Adventures with Iggy and Mr. Kirk was created for faith-based families How to use screen time intentionally for discipling your children at home The importance of Christian kids’ shows in shaping hearts and minds Practical advice for Christian parents navigating secular culture Resources for finding safe, family-friendly entertainment alternatives Resources Mentioned: Adventures with Iggy and Mr. Kirk on Brave Plus Brave Books and the Brave Plus streaming platform Other recommended faith-based family programming like The Chosen Recommended Bible Verse: "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."– Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) Subscribe & Leave a Review: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and leave a five-star review. It helps other Christian families find faith-based podcasts like this one. Check out our podcast partners at Lifeaudio.com for dozens of other inspiring, Christian podcasts for parents, families, and faith builders. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this thought-provoking episode of Crosswalk Talk, we welcome Ross Douthat — New York Times columnist and author of the new book Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. Ross sits down to unpack why he believes our increasingly secular, spiritually curious culture is primed for a fresh conversation about faith, purpose, and the supernatural. From the decline of New Atheism to the rise of mysticism and UFO fascination, Ross explains how modern science, cultural trends, and existential questions are driving people back toward religious belief — or at least a deep curiosity about it. He shares how his new book serves both the skeptic and the believer, offering intellectual, philosophical, and spiritual footing for anyone navigating doubt, deconstruction, or cultural confusion. Key Takeaways: Why Ross believes we’ve passed the peak of New Atheism and are entering a new spiritual curiosity. How mysticism, New Age practices, and even UFO obsessions reflect a deeper human longing for the divine. Why Christianity should both acknowledge and wisely engage with supernatural phenomena outside the faith. How modern physics and consciousness studies have strengthened — not weakened — the intellectual case for belief in God. A candid conversation on deconstruction movements, particularly within evangelical and Catholic circles, and how believers can find a solid foundation through uncertainty. Ross’s forecast for the “weird” decades ahead and why grounding yourself in life’s ultimate questions matters now more than ever. Notable Quote:"There’s a God-shaped hole because there’s a God — and filling it with anything else, even other supernatural forces, might not have your good in mind." — Ross Douthat Resources & Links:🎧 Check out more faith-centered podcasts at LifeAudio.com Connect with Us:Enjoyed the episode? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with a friend who could use a thoughtful, faith-filled conversation in their feed. For more Crosswalk content listen to our sister show!: The Crosswalk Devotional Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do miracles still happen today?Journalist and faith commentator Billy Hallowell joins Crosswalk Talk to unpack his powerful new documentary from CBN, Supernatural, which takes an unflinching look at modern miracles that defy scientific explanation. From dramatic healings to near-death experiences, Billy shares how these true accounts are not only faith-affirming, but also challenge skeptics and believers alike. In this episode, he opens up about the incredible stories behind the film, what surprised him most, and how the project reshaped his own theology. 🎙️ In this episode:✨ Why Billy has always been both captivated by and cautious about miracle stories✨ The astonishing case of a clinically dead man brought back to life after 40 minutes✨ A police officer’s 10-year journey to healing after a devastating accident✨ How the film approaches skeptics, theological divides, and difficult questions about unanswered prayers✨ Where you can stream Supernatural right now Spoiler: This conversation might just leave you asking some big questions about your own faith journey. 🔗 Watch the Documentary: 📺 Streaming now at CBN.com/Supernatural or on the CBN Family App. 📲 Listen Now: Find this episode at Lifeaudio.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.🎧 CLICK HERE TO LISTEN 📣 Follow & Share: If this conversation encouraged you, share it with a friend!Tag us @Lifeaudionetwork to keep the conversation going. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is there a spiritual awakening happening right now?Actor Jonathan Roumie—best known for portraying Jesus in The Chosen—joins Crosswalk Talk to unpack what many are calling a fresh movement of the Spirit in our time. With faith-filled entertainment making waves globally, revivals happening on college campuses, and Bible sales on the rise, is God doing something new in our culture? Jonathan weighs in with humility, insight, and the kind of honesty that makes you lean in. In this wide-ranging conversation, we cover: ✨ The rise of faith-based storytelling in mainstream media🌍 Why The Chosen resonates with people across political and cultural lines🎬 Behind the scenes of Season 5💡 How Jonathan stays grounded in the spotlight🛑 Why his mustache is his secret identity🙏 And his personal mission to represent Jesus through media and ministry This is an episode that speaks to the heart of culture, creativity, and calling—and it’s one you won’t want to miss. 🔗 Listen Now: Available at LifeAudio.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 CLICK HERE TO LISTEN 📲 Follow & Share: Love this episode? Share it with a friend and tag us @Lifeaudionetwork Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps others discover hope-filled content! For more Crosswalk content listen to our sister shows!: The Crosswalk Devotional Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this deeply vulnerable and inspiring episode, Michael sits down with legendary gospel singer Russ Taff to talk about his most personal project yet: his new album Cover Story. The album includes powerful covers from artists like Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, U2, Depeche Mode, Prince, and The National, each chosen to reflect a chapter in Russ’s life—particularly his decades-long battle with addiction, relapse, healing, and spiritual redemption. Russ opens up about: The real story behind "Sound of Silence" and his experience with relapse The shame cycle rooted in childhood trauma and abuse Why songs like “Demons” and “Tear This Building Down” hit so close to home How therapy, the 12 Steps, and God’s relentless grace changed everything What it means to truly say “help me” and find freedom The kinds of whispered confessions fans share after hearing his story His message to anyone battling addiction (or loving someone who is) With a blend of honesty, humor, and spiritual insight, Russ doesn’t just tell his story—he invites others to begin telling theirs. 💿 Featured Album: Cover Story – An album of iconic covers that mirror the journey of a life transformed. Available now on all platforms. 🎧 Why You Should Listen: If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, trauma, shame—or love someone who has—this conversation will speak directly to your heart. Russ Taff's story is proof that God meets us even in the darkest hotel rooms, and His grace brings the light. 📝 Resources & Mentions: Documentary & Book: “I Still Believe” by Russ Taff 12-Step Recovery Programs: Alcoholics Anonymous | Celebrate Recovery Russ Taff’s Music & Tour Info: russtaff.com 📱 Connect with Us: Follow Crosswalk Talk for more honest, hope-filled conversations at the intersection of faith, culture, and real life. at lifeaudio.com Check out our other Crosswalk podcasts: The Crosswalk Devotional Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Michael sits down with Dallas Jenkins, the creator of the groundbreaking series The Chosen, to discuss the show's remarkable impact on faith and culture. Dallas shares insights into the spiritual awakening he's observed in society, the significance of Jesus in mainstream media, and how The Chosen aims to spread light in today's world. Key Topics: Introduction to Dallas Jenkins and the significance of The Chosen The mainstream success of The Chosen and its reach beyond church walls Signs of spiritual awakening in popular culture and media The relationship between biblical stories and contemporary issues Dallas's approach to storytelling through a biblical lens The importance of trust and faith amid uncertainty in Season Five The role of media in fostering conversations about faith Featured Resources: The Chosen Official Website: thechosen.tv Dallas Jenkins on IMDb: IMDb Profile Life Audio: lifeaudio.com Quotes: "God is doing something, and it's really cool to watch." – Dallas Jenkins"The evidence of a spiritual awakening is when Jesus is being talked about in popular culture without apology." – Dallas Jenkins"When people feel permission to discuss Jesus stories, that's an extraordinary thing." – Dallas Jenkins If you enjoyed today's interview, please subscribe to Crosswalk Talk and share this episode with a friend! For more faith-centered content, visit Lifeaudio.com. Connect with Dallas Jenkins: Official Website: Dallas Jenkins Social Media: Instagram Thanks for Listening! Join us next time for more inspiring conversations with Christian celebrities. Full Transcript Below: Michael: Hey, Dallas, welcome to Crosswalk Talk. Thanks for joining me. Dallas: It’s a pleasure to be here! Michael: Faith-based projects rarely receive the kind of mainstream attention that The Chosen is getting. What does it say about the show's impact that it is reaching beyond the walls of the church? Dallas: Yeah, what's really beautiful for me to see, just as a consumer and as a believer, as someone who's grown up in the church and has grown up as a consumer of media and lover of the arts, every now and then, I'm able to separate myself from this and go, I'm standing in the middle of Times Square right now, and Annie Leibovitz's photography about a Jesus show is dominating Times Square for an hour. Or I'm sitting at home and I'm watching the Tonight Show, and Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus, is on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon talking about Jesus and talking about the story—that's really cool to be part of. But it's just cool as a human being, and I think that it speaks to God doing something in the hearts and minds of people. And I think The Chosen has had something to do with that, yes, but I think we've also been the recipient and the benefactor of something that God is stirring in people's hearts. Michael: Let me do my next question because it does seem that we're seeing signs of the movement of the Spirit in our culture, whether it be college campuses, sports, entertainment world. Do you sense a spiritual awakening in our society? And if not, how would you interpret that? Dallas: Well, I think that the evidence of a quote, unquote, spiritual awakening is when Jesus and the Bi

Michael engages in a heartfelt conversation with singer-songwriter and children's author Ellie Holcomb. They dive into her new book, "Spring Sings," exploring themes of hope, renewal, and the beauty of nature as a reflection of the Gospel message. Ellie shares her personal journey through grief and the healing power of music and storytelling. Key Topics: Introduction to Ellie Holcomb and her new book, "Spring Sings" The inspiration behind "Spring Sings" and its messages of hope during difficult seasons The relationship between nature and the Gospel, highlighting how creation preaches hope Ellie’s songwriting process, blending melody with scriptural inspiration The impact of music as a bridge builder across diverse audiences Discussion on the categorization of Christian music and its implications The role of music in connecting people and fostering community amid division Featured Resources: Ellie's new book: Spring Sings Upcoming album: Sing Spring Songs Quotes: "Death is never the end of the story because of Jesus." – Ellie Holcomb "Music is a bridge builder, connecting our stories." – Ellie Holcomb "In any given day, there are acts of courage and kindness that remind us of the goodness in the world." – Ellie Holcomb Call to Action: If you enjoyed today's interview, please subscribe to Crosswalk Talk and share this episode with a friend! For more faith-centered content, visit Lifeaudio.com Connect with Ellie Holcomb: Ellie Holcomb Official Website Instagram Thanks for Listening! Join us next time for more inspiring conversations with Christian celebrities. Full Transcript Below: Michael: Hey, Ellie, welcome to Crosswalk Talk. Thanks for joining me. Ellie: It’s a gift and a joy to be here today. Michael: Ellie, you have a new book, Spring Sings, by B&H. This is your fourth children's book. We all know you as a singer and songwriter, but you're becoming a prolific children's author. I'm excited about that. I don't want to steal your thunder here. I loved reading this book, reading about this book. I love the pictures. So what inspired you to write this book, Spring Sings? What's it about, and what do you want parents to know about it? Ellie: Yeah, so Spring Sings is an Easter book, but I've been calling it an all-seasons book because I think if there's any time that we need the message of the hope of Easter, it is in the winter months that feel just gray and cold and long. Seasonal depression sets in, and you know, it just... So I actually remember talking with my editor. She's like, "You can't have too many winter spreads in this children's book, Ellie." And I'm like, "I know, but the whole thing is..." Spring Sings is really a book about the song that creation sings every year that reminds us that death is never the end of the story because of Jesus. It's really fun to work with an illustrator like Laurana to illustra

In this inspiring episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael Foust sits down with actor and filmmaker Neal McDonough to discuss his new film, The Last Rodeo. Directed by John Avnet, this faith-based movie explores themes of personal redemption, family values, and the heart of the American experience. Neal shares his journey of creating this heartfelt film, which features real PBR bull riders and is designed to be family-friendly, appealing to audiences longing for uplifting content in cinema. McDonough discusses the divine spark behind the story, his transition from villain roles to faith-driven filmmaking, and why he believes Hollywood needs more movies focused on God-centered hope. Key Topics Discussed The inspiration behind The Last Rodeo and its personal significance to Neal Family values and the portrayal of the American heartland in film The impact of faith and personal redemption in Neal's life and work The unique crowdfunding model of Angel Studios and its influence on family-friendly films The challenges and joys of making a PG-rated western in today's Hollywood landscape Episode Highlights Personal Connection: Neal reveals how the idea for The Last Rodeo came to him during a challenging time, reflecting his own experiences with family and loss. Themes of Redemption: The film delves into deep personal themes, including family tragedy and overcoming adversity, resonating with many viewers. Cultural Shift: Neal discusses the current renaissance in family and faith programming, emphasizing the need for content that addresses real-life issues. PBR Involvement: The film features real bull riders and bulls, adding authenticity to the rodeo experience showcased on screen. Call to Action: Neal encourages audiences to support films that reflect their values and restore the heartwarming narratives that Hollywood has overlooked. Conclusion Join us for this engaging conversation about resilience, faith, and the power of storytelling through cinema. Whether you're a fan of rodeos, interested in family-centered films, or seeking inspiration from Neal's journey, this episode is a must-listen. Don't forget to follow Crosswalk Talk for more uplifting interviews and insights! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this heartfelt episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael Foust sits down with Scott, author of The Unbreakable Boy, to discuss his powerful journey as a father navigating the complexities of raising a son with autism and a rare brittle bone disease. Scott shares the deeply personal story behind his book and the inspiring film adaptation, highlighting the joy and resilience of his son, Austin. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of their family experience, offering hope and insights to listeners. Key Topics Discussed The inspiration behind The Unbreakable Boy Scott’s journey of parenting a child with autism and brittle bone disease The intersection of faith, addiction, and recovery in Scott’s life How Austin’s outlook on life transforms those around him The impact of the film and the casting of Zachary Levi Lessons for families facing their own challenges Episode Highlights Personal Connection: Scott reveals that writing the book was a therapeutic process to document his family's chaotic yet beautiful journey. Navigating Health Challenges: He shares the early signs of Austin’s health issues and how they affected their family dynamics. The Power of Joy: Scott discusses how Austin’s unique perspective brings joy and insight into their lives, encouraging others to see the beauty in adversity. Faith and Sobriety: A candid reflection on how Scott’s struggles with addiction intertwined with his journey of faith and the role it plays in his life today. Community Response: The overwhelming support and connection they’ve received from audiences after the release of the book and film. Conclusion Join us for this moving conversation about resilience, love, and the power of family. Whether you’re a parent, a friend, or someone seeking to support those facing similar challenges, this episode is a valuable resource filled with inspiration and hope. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.