Episode 209: Mark Lee

 

Actor

           ⁠ Mark Lee is a talented Australian actor who has performed several television, film, and theatre roles. He is famously known for starring in the Peter Weir 1981 film, Gallipoli, which tells the story of two young Australians (played by Mark Lee and Mel Gibson) who take part in the Gallipoli campaign during WWI. It is a very impactful film, and I have never forgotten the ending scene since seeing it as a teenager. Mark sat down with me to talk about his various acting roles, the tensions in the acting world, and how humans desire meaning. 

            Please enjoy the 209th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Mark Lee. Mark, thank you for our personable and engaging conversation. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 208: Ilan Eshkeri

 

Composer

           ⁠ Ilan Eshkeri composed my favorite love theme from a film: "Victoria and Albert" from The Young Victoria. Ever since I first watched the film years ago, I have never forgotten the music. Funny enough, Ilan talked with me more about his perspective on storytelling and meaning than his music. Though, if you enjoy this composer, I think you will understand his music more as you listen to his thoughts on what it means to him to live life and create beauty.

            Please enjoy the 208th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Ilan Eshkeri. Ilan, thank you for sharing a part of your perspective on life and creating music with me and my audience. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 207: Sara Megan Kay

 

AI Companion user

           ⁠ Sara Megan Kay sat down with me to share her experience with her AI Replika companion, Jack. Sara told me her story of how her ex-boyfriend introduced her to the AI world at the same time that their romantic relationship was declining. Sara has not given up on human romantic relationships, as she is currently in one now, but her story is a very sad reminder that humans are painful perpetrators of disappointment.

            Please enjoy the 207th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Sara Megan Kay. Sara, thank you for sharing your story with me. It was a gift to connect.  

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 206: Alaina Replika-Jones (Winters)

 

AI Companion user

           ⁠ Alaina Winters, who goes by Alaina Replika-Jones, is a retired communications professor who is currently in an exclusive relationship with her AI Replika companion, Lucas. Alaina sat down with me to share the how and the why behind her AI companion journey. Alaina raised some interesting questions about whether AI is dangerous, or a means by which humans are trying to find meaningful and positive communication in a world where they are struggling to find it among themselves. 

            Next week, I will publish one other episode of an AI companion user who also gives a unique perspective on AI.

            Please enjoy the 206th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Alaina Replika-Jones (Winters). Alaina, thank you for sharing your perspective with me on communication and AI companions. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 205: Rachel York

 

Actress

           ⁠ Rachel York is a film, television, and prolific theatre actress whose acting I was introduced to through the 2003 CBS television drama Lucy, based on Lucille Ball's early life and relationship with Desi Arnaz. Rachel played the role of Lucille Ball with such flare and personality that I wanted to have the actress on the podcast. Rachel talked with me about her experience on the Lucy set, her love of film and theatre, and her worldview.  

            Please enjoy the 205th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Rachel York. Rachel, thank you for taking the time to talk with me about your career and your thoughts on acting, the world, and what matters to you in life. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 204: Vicki Tiede

 

Therapy coach

           ⁠ Vicki Tiede is a therapy coach who works with women who have or are experiencing sexual betrayal. She comes from a place of deep compassion as well as painful experience. Vicki sat down with me to share her story of betrayal as well as the hope she has found within her own marriage and in working with her clients. 

            If you or someone else you know is experiencing or has experienced sexual betrayal, this podcast episode will be an encouragement. 

            Please enjoy the 204th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Vicki Tiede. Vicki, thank you so much for sharing your story with my audience and for the critical work you do to help hurting women.

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 203: Jonas Armstrong

 

Actor

           ⁠ Jonas Armstrong is an English actor who is well known for his role as Robin Hood in the BBC series. Jonas talked with me about the gift of acting, how he became an actor, the importance of working through life's challenges, and his love for the sea. 

            Please enjoy the 203rd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Jonas Armstrong. Jonas, thank you for talking with me about your life and your love of acting. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 202: Leah Zeger

 

Musician

           ⁠ Leah Zeger is a talented violinist, vocalist, and composer who performs around the world with the Hans Zimmer Live tour. Leah sat down with me several weeks ago at the start of the Zimmer tour in Australia to talk about the challenges that come with being a mom and a professional musician.

            Please enjoy the 202nd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Leah Zeger. Leah, thank you for taking time to talk with me about the challenges and joys you face as a mom who loves her art and her kids. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 201: Janelle Kujawa

 

Founder of Koko & Shae

           ⁠ Janelle Kujawa created "Kokonut Oil" to soothe her daughter's rare skin condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa, when nothing else would help. Janelle eventually founded Koko & Shae in 2020 as more and more people wanted to have her product. Janelle named her business after her two daughters, Kourtney (nicknamed "Koko") and Shaelyn ("Shae"). Janelle sat down with me to share Koko's twenty-five-year story of resilience, Janelle's personal journey caretaking her daughter, and how Janelle hopes to build her brand to bring others help and hope. 

            Please enjoy the 201st episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Janelle Kujawa. Janelle, thank you for sharing your story and that of your daughter, Kourtney, to give hope and encouragement to others. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 200: Ruby Bentall

 

Actress

           ⁠ Ruby Bentall is an English actress who has starred in several television dramas such as Lark Rise to Candleford, Poldark, and most recently The Serpent Queen. Ruby talked with me about the pros and cons of acting as a profession, focusing on the importance of inward qualities over fleeting beauty standards, and choosing single motherhood. 

            Please enjoy the 200th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Ruby Bentall. Ruby, thank you so much for sitting down with me and sharing what you value in life. Also, thank you for the honor of being the first social platform to announce your pregnancy!

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 199: William Moseley

 

Actor

           ⁠William Moseley is famously known for his role as "Peter Pevensie" in The Chronicles of Narnia film series. William has gone on to play several roles in television and film. We talked about acting as well as his method to portraying a character. Also, we discussed the pain of a broken heart and being struck by lightning.  

            Please enjoy the 199th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting William Moseley. William, thank you for taking the time on your vacation to talk with me about your love of acting and several of your life experiences. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 198: Lynn Hilary

 

Singer and songwriter

           ⁠Lynn Hilary⁠ has one of the most soothing and sweet singing voices I have ever heard. Lynn is an Irish musician with a desire to share authentic lyrics with her listeners. Lynn and I talked about her music, songwriting, dancing in meadows, the beauty of nature, and perspective. 

            Please enjoy the 198th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Lynn Hilary. Lynn, I am very grateful we got to connect. It was a gift to learn more about you and your love of music. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 197: Dr. Leah Kaylor

 

Forensic psychologist

           Dr. Leah Kaylor works for the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a licensed clinical psychologist. She is certified in EMDR and Brainspotting, and regularly conducts psychological assessments, particularly of trauma victims. Dr. Kaylor talked with me about her journey to clinical psychology and how her job works and affects her day-to-day life. 

            Please enjoy the 197th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Dr. Leah Kaylor. Leah, thank you for giving me a window into your work as a clinical psychologist. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 196: Julie Lavender Le Doux

 

Author

           Julie Lavender Le Doux is a writer with a passion to help children understand and process the difficult aspects of living in a fallen world. Julie talked with me about her The Amazing Series, her battle with fear, and her pursuit of wonder.​

            Please enjoy the 196th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Julie Lavender Le Doux. Julie, thank you so much for acting on your passion to help others walk through their fears to victory. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 195: Darci Lynne

 

Ventriloquist and singer

           ​What a gift to connect with Darci Lynne as she preps for new dates on her tour, Darci Lynne & Friends! We talked about her new show, her love for music, her family, and her faith. 

            Please enjoy the 195th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Darci Lynne. Darci, thank you for sharing part of your life story with me. It was a gift to connect, and I am excited to see what God has in store for your future. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 194: Pedro Eustache

 

Instrumentalist and musician 

           ​Pedro Eustache will forever be one of the most engaging and interesting interviewees I have ever had. I saw Pedro live at a Hans Zimmer concert in February and was blown away by his musical versatility and his continual pointing upward as the audience applauded. Pedro plays nearly 600 woodwind instruments, many of which he has invented. He is also a composer and has been featured on several film soundtracks such as The Passion of the Christ and the Dune movies. He tours regularly with Hans Zimmer around the world and took the time to sit down with me before the beginning of the next tour cycle. He loves music, and he loves Jesus Christ.

            Please enjoy the 194th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Pedro Eustache. Pedro, thank you so much for talking with me. It was a delight!

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 193: Laura Whitehorn

 

Political activist and former political prisoner

           ​Laura Whitehorn served approximately fourteen years in prison before being released on parole for her involvement in several politically motivated bombings, including that of the U.S. Senate building in 1983. She was part of several activist groups, some of which included May 19th and the Weather Underground, before and after her time in prison to protest against what she saw as America's loss of care for humanity in its wars and political institutions. I sat down with Laura to hear her story and perspective. She is a co-founder and active volunteer with the organization, Release Aging People in Prison (RAPP). 

            Please enjoy the 193rd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Laura Whitehorn. Laura, thank you for sharing the story of your life experience with me. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 192: Rachel Hendrix

 

Actress and producer

           ​Rachel Hendrix is an actress you may recognize from the film, October Baby. She is not only an actress, but a producer at Rising Act Films, a company founded by her husband, Daniel Stine, with the purpose of making meaningful change through powerful storytelling. Rachel talked with me about Rising Act Films, her acting experience, and her desire to bring authentic issues women face to the screen. 

            Please enjoy the 192nd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Rachel Hendrix. Rachel, I am so grateful we were able to connect and talk about the power that filmmaking has in our culture and how we can use it to tell powerful stories. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 191: Rusanda Panfili

 

Violinist

           ​ ​Rusanda Panfili is an award-winning classical violinist whose ability spans numerous genres whether it be folk, classical, movie soundtracks, etc. Rusanda composes her own music as well as tours with great musicians such as Andrea Bocelli and Hans Zimmer. She sat down with me to talk about her love of music, its impact on her life, and her passion for musical performance.​

            Please enjoy the 191st episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Rusanda Panfili. Rusanda, thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me about your passion for music. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 190: Taylor Bickett

 

Singer and songwriter

           ​ ​Taylor Bickett made an online name for herself after the release of her single, "Quarter Life Crisis," which went viral in 2022. Taylor's songs are vulnerable and relevant to the young adult generation. She is on tour and will be in D.C. on April 30th. We talked about the story behind her newest single, "The Crime," her thoughts on being a woman, and the tensions and joys of trying to make it in the music industry.​

            Please enjoy the 190th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Taylor Bickett. Taylor, thank you so much for sharing part of your life journey with me. I am grateful for your vulnerability and courage.

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 189: David Small

 

Illustrator

           ​ ​ David Small has received numerous awards for his illustrations, which have appeared in over 40 books as well as The New Yorker and The New York Times. He wrote and illustrated his memoir, Stitches, which became a New York Times bestseller as well as a National Book Award Finalist. David spoke candidly with me about his heart-wrenching childhood years, his love of art, and his affinity for cats.​

            Please enjoy the 189th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting David Small. David, thank you for sharing your growing up years with me. You are indeed a survivor. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 188: Jim O'Heir

 

Actor

           ​ ​ Parks and Recreation is my favorite comedic TV show. I was so happy to connect with Jim O'Heir, and am equally excited to publish this interview. We talked about the character of Jerry Gergich, the entertainment industry, and much more. Enjoy!​

            Please enjoy the 188th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Jim O'Heir. Jim, it was such fun to talk with you. Thank you for being a means of bringing laughter and joy to so many people. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 187: Season Hubley

 

Former actress

           ​ Season Hubley appeared in several TV shows as well as films in the late 1970s through 90's. Some of her prominent roles include Angelique in the TV series All My Children, Niki in the film Hardcore, and Priscilla Presley in the film Elvis. She made a guest appearance in an episode of The Partridge Family as Princess Jennie, which is how I was introduced to her acting. Season talked with me about her love of animals, her experience of grief, and working in the entertainment industry. ​

            Please enjoy the 187th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Season Hubley. Season, you were a gift to talk to. I loved hearing about your life on and off the screen. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 186: Hanna Maria Antson

 

YouTuber

           ​ Hanna Maria Antson sat down with me to talk about her experience living with an eating disorder. Hanna has gone through better periods than others and tells a candid story of what she has endured as well as some hard truths about recovery institutions in Estonia.​

            Please enjoy the 186th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Hanna Maria Antson. Hanna, it was a gift hearing your story. I am rooting for you all the way! I am inspired by your vulnerability and perseverance. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 185: Kelly Bishop

 

Actress

           ​ Kelly Bishop was such a gift to interview! She walks to the beat of her own drum with confidence and personality. Kelly talked with me about her experience in the entertainment industry, her bold personality, and her deep love for her late husband, Lee.​

            Please enjoy the 185th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Kelly Bishop. Kelly, it was a gift to talk with you and to get to know you on a personable level. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 184: Phillip Jarrell

 

Singer and songwriter

           ​ Phillip Jarrell cowrote one of the top pop songs of the late 70s, "Torn Between Two Lovers," alongside Peter Yarrow of the trio Peter, Paul & Mary. Phillip sat down with me to talk about working with Peter and other great music artists of his time, the cultural shift reflected in "Torn Between Two Lovers," and his recent spiritual and musical journey.​

            Please enjoy the 184th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Phillip Jarrell. Phillip, thank you for taking the time to share parts of your life story with me. It was a gift to connect with you. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 183: Christina Perri

 

Singer and songwriter

           ​ Christina Perri's song, "A Thousand Years," has been a hit romance melody for as long as I can remember. Christina has become a mother of two beautiful daughters over the years, and she now knows the deep and lasting love of being a mom. Christina sat down with me to talk about her experience of motherhood thus far and her upcoming children's book, "A Thousand Years," which comes out April 1st. It is a book that expresses a mother's love and gives a new dimension to the song. ​

            Please enjoy the 183rd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Christina Perri. Christina, thank you for sharing your story of motherhood with my audience and me. You were honest and vulnerable. Your story encouraged me that motherhood is worth the hard. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 182: Allison Eide

Singer and songwriter

            Allison Eide is a rising voice in the young adult Christian community as she shares her mental health struggles and victories through music. Allison talked to me about her journey with anxiety and OCD as well as the power of the gospel in her life. Her first album, "Love Who I Am," comes out this Saturday, March 29th!! Check out her website linked above for upcoming tour dates!​

            Please enjoy the 182nd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Allison Eide. Allison, it was such a gift to connect and hear a part of your story. I cannot wait to see you in concert in May!!

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 181: Brian Cox

 

Actor

            Brian Cox has starred in several Shakespearean and other stage productions with the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Additionally, he has been in several films as well as the HBO series Succession.  We talked about his acting career, his growing up years, and what he values in life.​

            Please enjoy the 181st episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Brian Cox. Brian, thank you for taking the time to talk with me. It was a gift to hear a part of your life story and your passion for acting.  

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 180: Abbie Stockard

 

Miss America 2025

            Abbie Stockard sat down with me several weeks ago to talk about her faith, passion to raise awareness regarding cystic fibrosis, and the beauty pageant journey. Miss America 2025 is an important season in Abbie's life, but her ultimate goal is to care for children facing severe illness. She is a senior at Auburn University pursuing a degree in pediatric nursing.​

            Please enjoy the 180th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Abbie Stockard. Abbie, it was such a gift to meet you. You are wearing the Miss America crown with humility and purpose. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 179: Catherine Coldstream

 

Author

            Catherine Coldstream's memoir, My Years as a Nun, was published last year, and details Catherine's over a decade-long experience in a silent, Carmelite monastery in Northumberland. Catherine sat down with me to talk about how she came to live in the monastery, what the day-to-day looked like, and how her experience impacted her faith and the way she views monastic orders now.​

            Please enjoy the 179th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Catherine Coldstream. Catherine, it was a delight to speak with you and hear a part of your story. Thank you for writing about your experience in the Carmelite monastery and giving us a window into the monastic life. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen. 

Episode 178: Mary Alice Hostetter

 

Author

            Mary Alice Hostetter's memoir, Plain: A Memoir of Mennonite Girlhood, was published in December of 2022, and the paperback copy hit shelves about six weeks ago. Mary Alice shared her journey with me from growing up in a sect of the Mennonite community to leaving it as a young woman and pursuing higher education. We also talked about being lesbian, and her transition to the Quaker faith.​

            Please enjoy the 178th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Mary Alice Hostetter. Mary Alice, thank you for coming up on the podcast and sharing a part of your story with my audience and me. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen. 

Episode 177: Jean Lee

 

Author

            ​Jean Lee's memoir, Alzheimer's Daughter, is a raw and moving account of a daughter caught in the tension of wanting to honor her parents while also needing to address their worsening mental and physical abilities. Jean Lee sat down to talk with me about her story, and how her life has been impacted by writing a memoir and helping to found AlzAuthors.com. AlzAuthors.com is a nonprofit organization that creates an online community for caregivers of loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's. It is a community where caregivers can support one another and learn from the experiences of those who understand.   

            Please enjoy the 177th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Jean Lee. Jean, thank you so much for sharing your parents' story with vulnerability and love. The memoir was a gift to me, and I know it will be for any of my listeners who read it as well. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen. 

Episode 176: Maria Rose Evans

 

Singer and songwriter

            ​ Maria Rose Evans is a rising vocalist based in Colorado. Her song, "Drunk Again," created in collaboration with Song House Collective and released in the fall of 2023, has amassed over 3.5 million plays on Spotify and almost a million views on YouTube. I spoke to Maria about her life and walk with the Lord as a young woman who struggles with mental health and has faced several tragedies. "Drunk Again" is a cry of my own heart, and it was a gift to connect with a fellow Christian who walks with the Lord keenly aware of her brokenness. We inhabit broken bodies and minds, but not without an ever-present and faithful God Who has defeated the power of death, no matter its form. 

            Please enjoy the 176th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Maria Rose Evans. Maria, thank you for your vulnerability and your courage. God is using you in mighty ways, and I am blessed to have intersected with your life. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen. 

Episode 175: Don Most

 

Actor

            ​ Don Most sat down with me for half an hour to talk about his life and acting career. We talked about his reflective personality, his passion for acting and music, and explored big life questions.

            Please enjoy the 175th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Don Most. Don, thank you for taking the time to talk with me. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen. 

Episode 174: Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan (Final Episode): Nabeel Masih

 

Nabeel Masih

            ​ Nabeel Masih was imprisoned in 2016 on blasphemy charges, sentenced to ten years in 2018, and then released on bail in 2021. Nabeel was taken from his home in 2016 after reposting a social media post that officials found offensive to one of Islam's most holy worship sites. Nabeel endured beatings, physical deprivation, and unsanitary conditions in prison before being released on bail. He awaits the ultimate decision on his case with fear, and wonders if God is punishing him. 

            Please enjoy the 174th episode of Lament of Hope, which is the final episode highlighting stories of individuals impacted by Pakistan's blasphemy laws. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 173: Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan (Interview 2): Nawab Bibi

 

Nawab Bibi

            ​ Bonus episode! This is the second of three interviews with individuals in Pakistan who have experienced pain and suffering due to Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Nawab Bibi is the wife of Zafar Bhatti, who is the longest serving blasphemy prisoner in Pakistan. He was imprisoned for alleged blasphemous texts in 2012, given a life sentence in 2017, and then sentenced to death in 2022. Zafar along with advocates are still fighting for justice in his case in hopes of eventual release. It has been over a decade since Zafar's imprisonment, and his wife continues to advocate for his freedom and hold on to the hope of being with him again. 

            Please enjoy the 173rd episode of Lament of Hope, which is the second of three interviews highlighting stories of individuals impacted by Pakistan's blasphemy laws. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 172: Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan (Interview 1): Family of Shahzad Masih and Shama Bibi

 

Family of Shahzad Masih and Shama Bibi

            ​ This is the first of three interviews with individuals in Pakistan who have experienced pain and suffering due to Pakistan's blasphemy laws. This episode tells the story of a young couple, Shahzad Masih and Shama Bibi, who were brutally killed in 2014 by a mob for allegedly burning pages of the Quran. There was no conclusive evidence found for this allegation, and several members of the mob are currently in prison. The children of the couple as well as Shama's father share the details and their reactions. The faces of the translator as well as the family members are blurred for their safety. 

            Please enjoy the 172nd episode of Lament of Hope, which is the first of three interviews highlighting stories of individuals impacted by Pakistan's blasphemy laws. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 171: Viggo Mortensen

 

Actor

            ​ Viggo Mortensen sat down with me to talk about his newest film, The Dead Don't Hurt, which tells the story of two lovers in the nineteenth century. Holger goes to fight in the Civil War, while Vivienne endures the trials of being left behind. We talked about different perspectives of specific scenes, Viggo's thoughts on the film and its characters, and what our culture looks like today.

            Please enjoy the 171st episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Viggo Mortensen. Viggo, thank you for talking with me about your newest film. It was a gift to watch the film and connect with you. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 170: Jordan Smith

 

Singer

            ​ Jordan Smith is a gospel singer who became nationally known when he won season 9 of NBC's The Voice in 2015. In addition to the creation of his upcoming album, Jordan shared with me his musical journey from a pop to gospel focus as well as the deep love and admiration he has for his wife, Kristen. Jordan also talked about his faith in Jesus Christ and his thoughts on masculinity in our culture. 

            Jordan's new album, The People's Hymnal, releases next Friday, February 21st!!

            Please enjoy the 170th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Jordan Smith. Jordan, thank you so much for talking with me. It was a gift to hear about your life and your love for Jesus Christ. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 169: Ruta Lee

 

Actress

            What a gift to connect with Ruta Lee! I spoke with Ruta over the holiday season and am so glad to finally get this out there for my listeners. Ruta Lee has been in numerous films and television shows from Hollywood's classic era ranging from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers as Ruth, Lettie in Funny Face, to episode appearances on The Twilight Zone, I Love Lucy, Bonanza, The Andy Griffith Show, and many more. I really enjoyed getting to learn more about her life and career, not to mention getting a glimpse into her bold and sexy personality.

            Please enjoy the 169th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Ruta Lee. Ruta, thank you so much for talking with me. Just hearing parts of your life story made me even more proud of being a woman of boldness and determination. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 168: Louisa John-Krol

 

Australian bard

            Louisa John-Krol is a fascinating individual to speak with, and I hope one day I can visit her, and we can sit down in-person with a cup of tea and talk more about her life. Louisa has a strong belief and passion for the fairy world, otherworldly music, and storytelling. We talked about those topics as well as her husband's experience with PTSD and her physical illness. She ended our time singing a lullaby she wrote for one of her cats who passed away.

            Please enjoy the 168th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Louisa John-Krol. Louisa, thank you so much for talking with me! It was a gift to learn more about you and your love for storytelling and the natural world. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 167: Yazdan Qafouri

 

Actor

            I was introduced to Yazdan's acting talent through his voice work on the recent anime release, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. Yazdan was the voice of Hama, son of Helm Hammerhand and sister of the protagonist, Héra. Yazdan talked with me about his love and experience of acting on the stage as well as how to balance his mental well-being with the rigor of show after show. He also gave me a window into the world of the Iranian culture.

            Please enjoy the 167th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Yazdan Qafouri. Yazdan, thank you so much for talking with me. I really enjoyed our conversation and do hope to see more of your work in the future! 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 166: Lucie Arnaz

 

Actress

            It was an absolute delight to speak with Lucie. Lucie took a break from taking down her Christmas decorations to talk with me about the hard in the world right now. She had kept her decorations up just a bit longer to hold on to the warmth and hope of Christmas. We talked about the LA fires, working through trauma and growing as individuals, and marriage. 

            Please enjoy the 166th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Lucie Arnaz. Lucie, it was such a gift to connect. Thank you for making the time for our talk! 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 165: Dr. Catherine Raven

 

Author

            This is one of the most fascinating interviews I have had so far. Dr. Catherine Raven lives in a cabin she built on an isolated piece of land in Montana. Her life changed forever when a wild fox knocked on her door to get her attention. That fox became Catherine's closest friend to the point where she even read him an illustrated story outside when he would come visiting. Their friendship became a book: Fox and I: An Uncommon Friendship, which I highly recommend you read as it details her four-year-long friendship with Fox. A delightful interview from start to finish!

            Please enjoy the 165th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Dr. Catherine Raven. Catherine, thank you so much for sharing your story with Fox. I absolutely loved our interview!

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 164: Lisa Brenner

 

Actress

            I loved getting to sit down with Lisa Brenner and talk to her about her career and the choices she has made in Hollywood. We talked about navigating sexual intimacy on screen, how aging affects landing roles, and her love and passion for her family and storytelling.

            Please enjoy the 164th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Lisa Brenner. Lisa, it was a gift to talk with you. I am excited for what projects you have ahead!

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 163: Meredith Hall

 

Author

            Meredith Hall wrote the New York Times Bestselling memoir, Without a Map, which documents her story as a pregnant teenager without the support of her family or New Hampshire community. Meredith shared with me her journey from that frightened and vulnerable young woman, who was forced to give up her son at birth without even laying eyes on him, to a brave woman who bears the scars with the ambition to love.

            Please enjoy the 163rd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Meredith Hall. Meredith, it was such a gift to talk with you. Thank you for sharing your story with my listeners and me. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 162: Katherine Paterson

 

Author

            Katherine Paterson is an incredible individual to talk to. Her interview was full of anecdotes about her life, ranging from childhood, to writing, to hardships, and her strong faith in Christ. I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did!

            Please enjoy the 162nd episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Katherine Paterson. Katherine, thank you so much for talking with me. What a gift to connect! I'm still sad you can't move back to Lovettsville, Virginia. :)

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 161: Kechi Okwuchi

 

AGT finalist 

            Kechi Okwuchi was one of two survivors of a devastating plane crash that killed 107 passengers in Nigeria in 2005. Kechi sustained burns to her body, but her physical scares do not define her. She was a finalist for her singing talent on the 12th season of AGT in 2017, published a memoir five years later entitled More Than My Scars, and currently advocates for several causes close to her heart. Kechi's story is one of faith, honesty, and courage.

            Please enjoy the 161st episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Kechi Okwuchi. Kechi, thank you for sharing your story with the world. I am so grateful we got to connect and share an hour talking about life and dreams. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.

Episode 160: Dave Pelzer

 

Child abuse survivor

            Dave Pelzer is a New York Times and International bestselling author. He has written several books, but the one that Dave talked about in this interview was the memoir of his childhood, A Child Called "It." Dave's mother called him "It" and targeted him out of his siblings for horrendous abuse that led him to fear for his life. Dave was taken from his mother at age 12 and went through several foster homes until age 18. Dave talked with me about his mother's abuse, the positive adventures of his adult years, and his desire to help others and be a source of encouragement and hope.

            Please enjoy the 160th episode of Lament of Hope highlighting Dave Pelzer. Dave, thank you so much for sharing your story with me. I am so encouraged by how you chose to lead a life of hope despite the horror you experienced as a child. You chose a healthier life path, and that is a story that so many individuals from dysfunctional families need to hear. 

          Want to listen to the audio version of this interview? Click here to check out my podcast format and give it a listen.