Lightwise

The intersection of entertainment and enlightenment.

2023

Podcast

Episode 1

Episode 1

Sci-Fi and Religion

44 mins

Who are we? Where did we come from? And what is coming? Science fiction and religion both attempt to answer some of life’s big questions, making them strange bedfellows indeed, sometimes at odds and sometimes curiously aligned.

Why Abraham's Trial Still Matters

Why Abraham's Trial Still Matters

Why Abraham's Trial Still Matters

36 mins

According to the scriptural account, God commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son. Why is this startling story of sacrifice still relevant today? The writer/director of the film “His Only Son” reveals this Bible story—and his own, behind-the-scenes.

Episode 3

Episode 3

Capturing Stories of Courage

46 mins

When most Germans were falling for Hitler’s lies, a 16-year old recognized the truth, and began a peaceful resistance to shed light on the atrocities of the Nazi regime. This is the true story behind the upcoming TV series “Truth and Conviction.”

Episode 4

Episode 4

The Underrated Value of Comedy

46 mins

There are many types of comedy and all seem very subjective. Is comedy a second-class art form, unimportant or insignificant compared to dramatic works? And if so, why—when laughter has proven to be such a powerful healer? With special guests, Whitney Call and Stacey Harkey from Angel Studios' Freelancers.

Episode 5

Episode 5

Being a Scientist and a Believer

50 mins

Science and religion are often seen as incompatible, but many scientists believe in God. How do they reconcile their faith with their work? We explore this with Michael Behe, a scientist and believer.

Episode 6

Episode 6

Dying for Laughs with Jeff Allen

45 mins

Laughter is the best medicine... this intangible tonic is often the byproduct of dealing with personal demons. Meet DryBar comedian Jeff Allen as we explore how these hilarious humorists are sometimes, sadly, truly dying for laughs.

Episode 7

Episode 7

The Crises (and Creator) Behind the Time-Traveling Twins

44 mins

The Tuttle Twins are traveling throughout time and space to learn the principles of freedom, economics, and government! Today we explore what inspired these characters and their many adventures, with executive producer Connor Boyack.

Episode 8

Episode 8

Revealing Light in Darkness

37 mins

The story is stories of substance frequently ask us to explore worlds that challenge us and are uncomfortable. Today, we discuss revealing light in a story of darkness with the acclaimed director of Sound of Freedom, Alejandro Monteverde.

Episode 9

Episode 9

Quality of Courage in Film and in Life

45 mins

The story is the film industry supports all matter of causes, yet there are some stories which they seem to steer clear of, including the life of Christ, and on the other end of the spectrum, exposing the evils of human-trafficking. Yet brave people like actor Jim Caviezel have tackled both subjects.

Episode 10

Episode 10

Shining a Light on Human Trafficking

52 mins

The story is human trafficking is a problem for other people in other countries, but the truth is it is a growing problem here in the United States, even as awareness increases. Today we speak with Jessica Mass about what you can do and the hope for survivors.

Episode 11

Episode 11

The Resurrection of Quality Christian Content

48 mins

Christianity has the largest number of followers worldwide, yet for decades Hollywood has had an aversion to explicitly Christian films. Today we explore the recent resurrection of quality Christian content with Jesus Revolution director Jon Erwin.

Episode 12

Episode 12

The Challenges of Portraying Holiness with Nicolas Mouawad

45 mins

Every once in a while a member of the human race achieves another level of Divinity. What about simply trying to capture that righteousness as a story-teller or actor? With Nicolas Mouawad of His Only Son.

Episode 13

Episode 13

The Challenges of Portraying Evil

37 mins

There’s a difference between flawed or imperfect people, and evil people. But how do you tell stories that portray evil convincingly and in a way that doesn’t turn off audiences? Find out with Elijah Alexander.

Episode 14

Episode 14

Making a Movie That Moves

34 mins

Some films possess more than the power to entertain. Some start a movement or change lives. Today, we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of making a movie that moves with Jaime Hernandez from Sound of Freedom.

Episode 15

Episode 15

The Peculiar Super Powers of Animation

42 mins

What are the unique strengths of animated film, as opposed to, say, live action? J. Chris Wall of The Wingfeather Saga joins us to talk about it.

Episode 16

Episode 16

How A.I. is Threatening the Arts

48 mins

Technology is now creating art—imitating the great creative geniuses—even in media as multifaceted as film. Tech Entrepreneur Austin Craig joins us to talk about its impact.

Episode 17

Episode 17

The Possibilities of Cinema as Therapy

42 mins

We know people often intentionally write or CREATE art for therapy, but how often are we CONSUMING art for therapeutic purposes—and is it effective? Find out today with Alan and Jonathan from Cinema Therapy.

Episode 18

Episode 18

Stories that amplify light

31 mins

There are innumerable ways to categorize art and entertainment but on our first season of Lightwise we’ve tried to focus on stories that amplify light. We asked our guests what films amplified light for them. Today we listen to what they had to say.

Show Overview

Lightwise is a podcast celebrating art and storytelling that inspire and uplift. From animation to faith, each episode explores how creativity amplifies light and tackles life’s profound questions with industry experts and artists.

Frequently Asked Questions