What does it look like to live with compassion and hope in the midst of suffering? In this episode, actor and producer DeVon Franklin joins us to discuss his role in the upcoming film Soul on Fire, which tells the incredible true story of John O’Leary—a boy who survived burns on 100% of his body and went on to become a bestselling author and motivational speaker.

Franklin shares why he was drawn to this project, how he prepared to portray the real-life hero Nurse Roy, and what audiences can take away from John’s story of resilience, faith, and community. He also opens up about his filmmaking journey, the importance of hope-driven content, and his upcoming Netflix project Ruth and Boaz.

Highlights from this episode:

• Why DeVon Franklin said “yes” to Soul on Fire

• The real-life inspiration behind Nurse Roy

• Lessons of compassion, care, and community from John O’Leary’s story

• Franklin’s passion for creating films that inspire hope

• A sneak peek at his Netflix project Ruth and Boaz

• Reflections on how faith-based filmmaking has grown in quality and impact

Guest: DeVon Franklin is a bestselling author, producer, and actor whose work includes Breakthrough, Miracles from Heaven, Jesus Revolution, Woodlawn, and more.

Resources & Links:

• Soul on Fire (Film Info)

• DeVon Franklin’s Instagram

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review. That’s how we help more people discover the show. For more faith-centered podcasts, visit LifeAudio.com.

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Actor Giovanni Cairo—who plays Thaddeus in The Chosen—joins Michael to talk about Season 5 (dropping September 28 on The Chosen app), filming the crucifixion in Season 6, and how playing Thaddeus has reshaped his own faith and life.

Episode Highlights

• Why Giovanni originally thought Thaddeus wasn’t a real disciple

• How volunteering and surrendering to God led him to land The Chosen

• Portraying Thaddeus as the “peacemaker” of the disciples

• Behind-the-scenes of filming Season 6’s emotional crucifixion scenes in Italy

• What it was like being part of the early days of The Chosen when it was uncertain if the show would continue

• Why the global impact of The Chosen is unlike anything else Giovanni has experienced in acting

• Giovanni’s engagement story—and how his fiancée’s faith was reignited by the show

Guest Details

• Giovanni Cairo – Actor best known as Thaddeus in The Chosen (Seasons 1–6).

Resources & Links

• Watch The Chosen

• Follow Giovanni Cairo on Instagram

• Explore more faith-based shows at LifeAudio.com

If you enjoyed today’s interview, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend. Your support helps more people discover faith-filled conversations like this one.

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Christian pop duo for KING & COUNTRY is back with new music—and a powerful message for today’s world. Joel Smallbone joins Michael Foust to preview the band’s upcoming single, World on Fire (out October 3), and share how God has used a year off touring to bring renewal, creativity, and deeper faith.

This conversation goes beyond the music. Joel reflects on releasing songs during turbulent times, the hope of Christ in the midst of chaos, the creative process behind World on Fire, and even his growing film career—including his role in the upcoming movie Young Washington.

🔑 Key Highlights

• Preview of World on Fire and its message of peace and light

• The importance of formation and rest during a season off the road

• How social and political division shaped the writing process

• Behind the scenes of their Dominican Republic music video

• Sneak peeks at the new album, film projects, and upcoming Christmas tour

• Joel’s reflections on acting in Young Washington and past film roles

📀 About for KING & COUNTRY
Grammy-winning brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone have built one of the most impactful acts in Christian music with high-energy anthems, powerful storytelling, and a theatrical stage presence. With new music on the horizon and creative projects spanning film and live shows, they continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

🌐 Resources & Links

• 🎶 Stream for KING & COUNTRY

• 📺 Follow Joel & Luke on Instagram @forkingandcountry

• 🎧 More faith-filled interviews at LifeAudio.com

🙌 Support the Show

✅ Subscribe to Crosswalk Talk for weekly interviews with Christian leaders, artists, and culture-makers.
🎙️ Share this episode with a fan of Christian music.
⭐ Leave a review to help others discover gospel-centered conversations.

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