Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

In this episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael Foust sits down with Max McLean—acclaimed actor, producer, and founder of Fellowship for Performing Arts—to discuss one of the most anticipated Christian film adaptations in the works: The Screwtape Letters. With decades of experience bringing C.S. Lewis’s works to life on stage and through audio, Max shares what it means to take on the challenge of adapting Lewis's classic for the big screen. They also dive into spiritual warfare, temptation, storytelling, and the lasting impact of Lewis’s theology and Tim Keller’s mentorship. 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Why The Screwtape Letters is so challenging—and exciting—to adapt Themes of temptation and spiritual warfare in Lewis’s writings How Max’s work in Bible narration and theater started The influence of Tim Keller on Max’s faith and love of Lewis Why Lewis’s words still resonate with modern audiences 🎬 Learn More About Max McLean & Fellowship for Performing Arts: Fellowship for Performing Arts – Official Website Instagram – @fpa_theatre YouVersion Audio Bible (Max McLean – NIV, ESV, KJV) 🙏 Enjoyed the episode?Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help others discover these faith-filled conversations. And for more Christ-centered shows, visit LifeAudio.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today’s episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael Foust sits down with actor and storyteller Nick Shakoour, known for his role as Zebedee in The Chosen. But there’s much more to Nick’s journey than what you’ve seen on screen. From his early career in voice acting and animation to discovering a deeper calling in faith-based storytelling, Nick opens up about how God radically transformed his career and heart. This is a conversation about obedience, purpose, and surrender—both in the entertainment world and in daily life. 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Nick’s journey from animation to The Chosen How his faith reshaped his view of success What playing Zebedee taught him about fatherhood and strength The role of surrender in his creative calling A behind-the-scenes look at how The Chosen humanizes the Gospel 🔗 Connect with Nick Shakoour: Instagram – @nickshakoour The Chosen Series 🙏 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!It helps more people find hope-filled conversations like this one. And check out more faith-based content at LifeAudio.com—your home for podcasts that point to Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this inspiring episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael Foust sits down with actress and singer Sierra McClain—best known for her roles in Empire, Greenleaf, and 9-1-1: Lone Star. Sierra opens up about how her faith in God has been the anchor in a fast-paced entertainment world filled with noise, pressure, and distraction. From growing up in a Christian household to finding her own authentic relationship with Jesus, Sierra shares how she’s learned to stay grounded—and why she never separates her faith from her identity or her art. Whether she’s acting or singing, Sierra says, “I want it to come from a real place.” This conversation is full of wisdom, vulnerability, and creative insight from one of today’s rising voices in faith-forward storytelling. 🎧 In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Sierra’s personal faith journey has evolved over the years Why she chooses to bring her faith into every role and project The importance of authenticity and intention in storytelling Encouragement for anyone trying to walk with God in a culture of chaos 🔗 Connect with Sierra McClain: Instagram – @mynameissisi IMDb Profile 🙏 Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!Thanks to our friends at LifeAudio.com, where you can discover dozens of other faith-centered podcasts to enrich your walk with Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Bestselling author Jerry Jenkins joins Michael on Crosswalk Talk to share the heart, challenges, and spiritual depth behind his latest novel, The Chosen: Not My Will—the official book adaptation of Season 5 of The Chosen. In this rich and personal conversation, Jerry talks about the unique experience of writing novels based on his son Dallas Jenkins’ hit TV series, what it’s like to expand on biblical events with fictional elements, and how his own faith shapes every sentence he writes. Also in this episode: Why The Chosen novels aren’t just screen-to-page copies How Jerry balances biblical accuracy with creative license What it's like to work with your son on a global phenomenon The legacy of Left Behind and why success didn’t change him Behind-the-scenes moments from the set of Season 5—including a powerful father-son encounter in Gethsemane What makes The Chosen resonate across every demographic, from Whoopi Goldberg to Tucker Carlson Whether you're a lifelong fan of The Chosen or new to the books, this episode will give you fresh insight into how timeless Scripture can become emotionally moving fiction when done with reverence, imagination, and heart.You can find more from Jerry and The Chosen here: Social Media Handles & Links 📘 Jerry Jenkins Website: https://jerryjenkins.com Facebook: @JerryJenkinsWriter Instagram: @jerry.b.jenkins Twitter/X: @JerryBJenkins 📺 The Chosen Website: https://thechosen.tv Instagram: @thechosentvseries Facebook: @InsideTheChosen Twitter/X: @thechosentv YouTube: The Chosen Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week on Crosswalk Talk, worship leader and singer-songwriter John Reddick joins host Michael to share the deeply personal journey behind his new chart-topping single “No Fear” and his sophomore album of the same name. John opens up about a season of fear, perfectionism, and trust issues that held him back for years—until God began to peel back the layers and invite him into deeper healing. He shares how songs like “No Fear” and “Just That Good” were written in real-time, while walking through his wife’s recent cancer diagnosis and recovery. Also in this episode: The story behind No Fear hitting #1 on Billboard Why perfectionism nearly kept the album from being released How Sheryl Crow’s bold obedience helped John stay in the music industry Painting as a form of worship and how it ties into his music What it really means to trust God’s process, not just His outcomes The role of authenticity and vulnerability in Sunday worship leading Whether you’re walking through your own valley or simply want to be reminded of God’s faithfulness, John’s story will leave you encouraged, challenged, and reminded that God is present in the pain and powerful in the process. 🙏 Want more artist interviews like this one?Visit LifeAudio.com to explore dozens of other faith-based shows and conversations that fuel your walk with Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You’ve sung his songs in church—Oceans, This I Believe, I Surrender—but now Matt Crocker is stepping into new territory with his solo debut, Interlude. Known as a key voice behind Hillsong UNITED and Hillsong Worship, Matt opens up in this episode of Crosswalk Talk about what it’s like to follow God’s leading outside the familiar rhythms of church music. We talk about: 🎶 The journey behind Interlude and what makes it different from his Hillsong work 💡 Writing music outside the worship box—and why it’s still an act of worship 🧠 Creativity, obedience, and making something that “costs you” 🎤 What he’s learned from decades of songwriting—and what made Oceans stand out 🇦🇺 What church life is really like in Australia Matt gets candid about creating during COVID, trusting God in uncertainty, and what it’s like to hear his songs on the radio years later. If you’ve ever wrestled with whether creative risk can still glorify God, this episode will encourage and challenge you. 🔗 More from Matt Crocker 🎧 New album Interlude available everywhere June 2025 | https://www.mattcrockermusic.com/ Follow @mattycrocker Stream “I Wait” and “Two or More” wherever you get your music 🙏 Want more artist interviews like this one?Visit LifeAudio.com to explore dozens of other faith-based shows and conversations that fuel your walk with Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can worship music sound like a rave? For DJ and producer Topher Jones, aka Rave Jesus, the answer is a bold yes. On today’s episode of Crosswalk Talk, we dive into how this former international club DJ went from touring Tomorrowland to launching a global movement that brings the gospel to the dance floor. Topher shares the origin story of Rave Jesus—from a humble weekly prayer call to sold-out shows, millions of streams, and collaborations with artists like Latin pop star Thalía. He also gets candid about the criticism he’s faced from both sides of the faith and music worlds—and why he believes worship isn’t defined by a genre. Highlights: 🎵 The story behind his new single "Two or More" 🙌 Why dance floors can be sacred spaces 🌍 His upcoming international tour and debut album 💬 The viral moment that got Thalía’s attention 🤔 What to say to people who claim “this isn’t Christian music” Whether you love worship, EDM, or just want to see faith expressed outside the box, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 🔗 Explore More: Visit RaveJesus.com Follow @ravejesusmusic on social New single “Two or More” out now Album I Met God on the Dance Floor drops October 2025 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this deeply honest and hope-filled episode of Crosswalk Talk, the members of Sanctus Real join Michael to share the heart behind their latest music and ministry—particularly a recent live concert inside the walls of Grafton Correctional Facility. With nearly 30 years in Christian music, Sanctus Real is still discovering new ways to live out their mission—and their vulnerability about faith, mental health, and what hope really looks like makes this conversation one you don’t want to miss. “Jesus doesn’t bring us hope—He is our hope.” – Dustin Lolli The band reflects on: - What it was like to perform inside a maximum-security prison- How they prepared spiritually and emotionally for a unique audience craving hope- The story behind their new single “The Difference”—a powerful anthem of belief in Jesus- Why sadness and depression may be hitting harder—even in churches—and what the Church can do about it- How social media and cultural noise impact our sense of peace, purpose, and hope 🎧 Listen in to hear how music, worship, and honest conversation are reaching even the darkest corners with light. 👉 Learn more about Sanctus Real’s music at sanctusreal.com👉 For more faith-filled shows, visit LifeAudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if building wealth wasn’t just for personal gain—but a way to advance the Kingdom of God? In this episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael sits down with Shawn Marcell, president of Life Surge, a national movement that brings thousands together for high-energy events focused on faith, finances, and fulfilling God’s calling in the marketplace. Shawn shares why now is the time to: - Rethink your 9–5 as a divine assignment—anointed work that creates impact beyond a paycheck- Reignite bold faith in the business world without falling into the trap of prosperity preaching- Merge revival, business strategy, and practical equipping in one unforgettable event- Empower entrepreneurs and everyday professionals to steward their gifts, generate wealth, and bless others You’ll also hear the heart behind Life Surge’s unique events, which combine worship, powerful speakers like Tim Tebow and Priscilla Shirer, business training, and real Gospel invitation—resulting in over 6,000 salvations in Q1 alone. As Shawn puts it: “We’re not just building companies—we’re building Kingdom impact.” If you’ve ever felt there’s more God wants to do through your work, this conversation will inspire you to step out in faith and rise to the call. 👉 Find an event near you or learn more at lifesurge.com👉 Explore more faith-forward conversations at LifeAudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the Book of Acts unfolded today—in a world that looked eerily like ours, yet with no digital revolution? That’s the bold vision behind Testament, a new drama series from Angel Studios. In this episode of Crosswalk Talk, host Michael sits down with creator, director, and co-writer Paul Syrstad to explore the creative journey behind reimagining Scripture for a new generation. Together, they dive into: 🎥 How Testament brings the story of Acts to life in an alternate modern world—no smartphones, no email, just raw human encounters and analog risk 🕊️ Why the series begins on the Day of Pentecost and centers around Stephen, inviting viewers to rediscover the Spirit’s power through fresh eyes 🌍 The thought process behind changing settings while preserving character names and biblical authenticity—from Peter and Caiaphas to Salem (Jerusalem) 📖 How the creative team balances faithful storytelling with cinematic world-building to engage both believers and skeptics alike 🔥 Themes of courage, boldness, and spiritual transformation that echo through the early church—and how Testament brings them to life for today's viewer Paul shares why the Holy Spirit is the true lead character of the series, how Testament invites re-engagement with familiar stories, and why this modern retelling may be exactly what the church—and the world—needs right now. 👉 Stream the first episode and learn more at angel.com/testament👉 Find more faith-fueled conversations at Lifeaudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.