Best Joshua Kok Podcasts (2025)

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11.9.25 - CAUSE / EFFECT : GRACE / JOY (Luke 19:1-10) 21:56

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5h ago21:56

21:56

King David once said that guilt makes you feel like your very bones are rotting. Guilt makes you feel weak . . . sick. Guilt can make it hard to focus on anything else . . . hard to function. And guilt is an inescapable fact of life. Everyone carries guilt about something. Worse, our efforts to deal with guilt—minimizing our mistakes, making excuse…

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11.2.25 - CAUSE / EFFECT; SAINTHOOD / STAMINA (Hebrews 11:32-40) 21:31

24h ago21:31

21:31

God grants the status of “saint” (which means “holy one”) to every believer. It might appear that status is of little practical value. If you achieve the status “billionaire” or “celebrity” or “senator” your life is going to be vastly different than most other people, most likely better. But if God calls you a saint, just like everyone else, you wi…

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EP 51 Part 3: Patience and Faith in The Pale Blue Eye 20:52

3h ago20:52

20:52

In this final part of our discussion on The Pale Blue Eye, we dive into the theological dimension of the film and connect its themes to Scripture. We explore how verses like Psalm 51:10, Luke 6:45, and Numbers 22 challenge us to examine the heart and avoid the arrogance of thinking we can manipulate God. We reflect on how characters like Landoor an…

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Ep 51 Part 2: What The Pale Blue Eye Sees in Us 27:32

3h ago27:32

27:32

In this part of our episode on The Pale Blue Eye, we explore who the film is really for and challenge ourselves to rethink its deeper messages. We talk about why it's not a movie for kids and the caution needed around its heavy themes like ritual imagery, sexual assault, suicide, and grief. In our Rethink section, we wrestle with the movie's "Jesus…

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Ep 51 Part 1: Misapplied Love in The Pale Blue Eye 23:45

3h ago23:45

23:45

We kick off our spooky season discussion with The Pale Blue Eye by diving into its dark mystery and emotional core. We follow retired detective Augustus Landoor as he investigates a cadet's gruesome death at West Point alongside the eccentric E.A. Poe. As the plot unfolds, we uncover the Marquise family's desperate black magic rituals and Landoor's…

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10.26.25 - Christ WITH Us (Joshua 4:1-9) 18:18

11d ago18:18

18:18

Over 500 years ago, Lutheran Christians were under tremendous pressure. They were forced to defend themselves on battlefields both metaphorical and literal. But they took comfort that Christ himself was by their side upon the plain with his good gifts and Spirit.Just 175 years ago, the Lutheran Christians who founded WELS were also under tremendous…

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10.19.25 - Christ Through Us (Luke 19:11-26) 23:25

23d ago23:25

23:25

From one seminary in 1865, one world mission in 1893, and 800 congregations mostly in the Midwest as of 1965, we can now easily see how Christ has worked through his good news of salvation in Word and sacraments to move this body of believers to establish a Scripture-based ministerial education system, world missions in 45 countries, and more than …

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10-12-25 - Christ For Us (Romans 5:8-10) 21:32

22d ago21:32

21:32

Christ through us can only be understood properly if we first establish the concept of “Christ For Us” (Christus pro nobis in Latin). Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection were not for his own benefit but specifically for humanity’s salvation. He lived a perfect life, fulfilling God’s law on behalf of sinners, and his death was a substitutio…

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10.5.25 - WOUNDS THAT HEAL: INCREASED FAITH INCREASES DUTY (Luke 17:1-10) 20:08

22d ago20:08

20:08

As someone rises through the ranks at work, there are typically benefits: higher salary, more authority,better benefits. However, there is often a corresponding increase in responsibility: longer hours, more meetings, raised expectations. So, if someone is offered a promotion, they might ask, “Is this worth it?”It is similar in God’s kingdom. As ou…

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Ep 50 Part 3: Being Fully Known in K-Pop Demon Hunters 14:20

1M ago14:20

14:20

In this episode, we wrap up our discussion of K-Pop Demon Hunters by reflecting on the film's themes through the lens of Scripture. We explore Romans 3, Psalm 139, John 15, and 2 Corinthians 12, seeing how each passage speaks to hiding, weakness, and the longing to be truly known. We talk about the tension between seeking human approval and receivi…

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Ep 50 Part 2: Engaging Faith in K-Pop Demon Hunters 18:48

1M ago18:48

18:48

In this episode, we dive into the audience and deeper themes of K-Pop Demon Hunters. We reflect on how the film seems tailor-made for younger adult viewers, with vibrant animation and approachable ideas that make it a great "training wheels analyzer" for media engagement. We also wrestle with who this movie might not be for, especially some Christi…

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Ep 50 Part 1: When K-Pop Meets the Powers of Darkness 14:10

1M ago14:10

14:10

In this episode, we break down the story of K-Pop Demon Hunters, where the girl group Huntr/x fights to save the world from demonic forces hidden behind the glitz of the music industry. We explore how their rivalry with the darkly hypnotic Saja Boys escalates into a battle against temptation, deception, and spiritual decay. As we unpack the film's …

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9.28.25 - WOUNDS THAT HEAL: WHAT HELPS IN LIFE FAILS IN DEATH (Luke 16:19-31) 24:32

1M ago24:32

24:32

What do John D Rockefeller, King Solomon, Henry Ford, and Joseph Stalin all have in common? Two things. First, they are all in the list of the twenty wealthiest individuals who ever lived. Second, they are all rotting in the ground. The reality is that while money may help you achieve some objectives, it fails to prevent death. So Jesus speaks some…

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9.14.25 - WOUNDS THAT HEAL: THE FOUND ARE LEFT; THE LOST ARE FOUND (Luke 15:1-10) 20:48

2M ago20:48

20:48

“He’s lost.” We use that term not only to refer to someone who is bewildered about where they are but also to refer to someone who is in a helpless, hopeless state. Mankind’s natural state is one of complete spiritual helplessness, a profound lostness. It manifests itself in countless ways. The one who simply wants God to leave him alone: lost. The…

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9.21.25 - WOUNDS THAT HEAL: NO ONE CAN SERVE TWO MASTERS (Luke 16:1-13) 20:49

2M ago20:49

20:49

There are more than 2,300 Bible passages that speak about money. Why? Money is a master Satan frequently tempts us to serve. In fact, out of all the masters competing for our service besides God, money is probably at the top of the list. Money provides us with a false comfort and sense of security. Money serves as a source of pride. This week, Jesu…

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Ep 49: Spiritual Discernment and Sinners 35:45

2M ago35:45

35:45

In this bonus episode, we revisit our original SMART analysis of Sinners after hearing an alternate experience with the film. We reflect on how media impacts our hearts and minds, sharing our own wrestlings with conviction, entertainment, and spiritual discernment. Our conversation explores the church's complicated relationship with art, especially…

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Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Therapy: Melanoma Care with Associate Professor Rachel Roberts-Thomson 29:32

2M ago29:32

29:32

In this episode of the Spot On Podcast, host Peter Birch speaks with Associate Professor Rachel Roberts-Thomson who is a Medical Oncologist from Adelaide, about adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies in melanoma care. Discussing what each therapy involves, adjuvant therapy given after surgery to lower the risk of recurrence, and neoadjuvant therapy giv…

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Ep 48 Part 3: Beyond the Arena, The True Legacy 11:04

2M ago11:04

11:04

In the final episode of our Gladiator 2 series, we bring "A Touch of The Word" by connecting the film's themes to scripture. Our discussion centers on how biblical passages like Daniel 1–2, Matthew 10, Romans 13, Galatians 5, and Revelation 20 resonate with the movie's questions of power, obedience, and eternal consequence. We explore how Christian…

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Ep 48 Part 2: Freedom in Gladiator 2 42:39

2M ago42:39

42:39

In Part 2 of our SMART analysis of Gladiator 2, we turn our focus to the Audience and offer a Rethink of the film's central themes. We talk about who might struggle with the movie's emphasis on manipulation, bitterness, and vengeance, and why others could actually find it to be a healthy challenge. We highlight Lucius's journey as a cautionary tale…

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Ep 48 Part 1: Vengeance and Victory in Gladiator 2 18:01

2M ago18:01

18:01

In this episode, we begin our SMART analysis of Gladiator 2 with a focus on its Summary and Message. The story follows Lucius Verus Aurelius—secretly Maximus's son—whose life of peace is destroyed when Rome invades Numidia, killing his wife and enslaving him. Driven by vengeance, Lucius rises as a gladiator, discovers his true identity, and ultimat…

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8.31.25 - WOUNDS THAT HEAL: THOSE WHO EXALT THEMSELVES WILL BE HUMBLED (Luke 14:1,7-14) 21:58

2M ago21:58

21:58

Everyone knows that humility is a positive trait and pride is a negative one. So, why bother talking about what we already know? Because in spite of that knowledge, we still helplessly fall into the trap of pride. We all desire acclaim, recognition, and praise. Jesus’ sharp words this week teach us that seeking exaltation in futile and fleeing ways…

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Ep 47 Part 3: Biblical Themes in Sinners 15:23

4M ago15:23

15:23

In Part 3 of our SMART analysis of Sinners, we explore the film's theology through the lens of scripture in our Touch of The Word segment. We draw on Bible passages—from Saul and the medium of Endor to the temptations of Jesus—to unpack the spiritual themes woven throughout the movie. Our discussion highlights how the Bible treats witchcraft, artis…

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Ep 47 Part 2: Unity vs. Uniformity in Sinners 38:31

4M ago38:31

38:31

In Part 2 of our SMART Analysis of Sinners, we dive into the film's intended audience and challenge listeners to rethink its deeper messages. This powerful episode explores how the film speaks directly to viewers, particularly those from marginalized communities, with its bold historical, spiritual, and artistic themes. We unpack the complex portra…

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Ep 47 Part 1: Is Art Dangerous? What Sinners Really Shows Us 30:47

4M ago30:47

30:47

In Part 1 of our three-part SMART Analysis of Sinners, we explore the film's gripping story and the powerful message at its core. Centered on Sammy, a gifted musician navigating a world that both reveres and exploits his talent, we discuss how the film challenges us to think about the purpose and risks of using our gifts. We dive into how music con…

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Ep 46 Part 3: Biblical Reflections in Mufasa: The Lion King 18:37

4M ago18:37

18:37

In the final episode of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we close with (T) A Touch of The Word—drawing rich theological connections between the film and Scripture. We explore how Mufasa's growth and Taka's downfall reflect biblical patterns of wisdom, temptation, and redemption. Proverbs 13:20 sheds light on the influence of community, as Mufasa l…

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Ep 46 Part 2: Welcoming and Wisdom in Mufasa: The Lion King 27:51

4M ago27:51

27:51

In Part 2 of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we explore the film through (A) Audience and (R) Rethink. We affirm that this story is well-suited for families, friends, and even as a bridge for evangelistic conversations—but this episode doesn't stop at surface-level insights. Our Rethink dives deeper into the film's more provocative themes. We als…

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Ep 46 Part 1: Courage and Calling in Mufasa: The Lion King 16:34

4M ago16:34

16:34

In this first episode of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we explore the film through the lens of (S) Summary and (M) Message. Told by Rafiki to Kiara, the film recounts Mufasa's unlikely rise from orphaned cub to courageous king. Along the way, we meet key figures like Taka, Sarabi, and Zazu, and witness the choices that shape their destinies. We…

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Ep 45 Part 3: Biblical Wisdom in The Lion King 15:32

5M ago15:32

15:32

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In the final install…

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Ep 45 Part 2: Guilt and Restoration in The Lion King 34:03

5M ago34:03

34:03

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In part two of our e…

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Ep 45 Part 1: Embracing Responsibility in The Lion King 20:29

5M ago20:29

20:29

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In this episode, we …

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Ep 44: Truth and Manipulation in Wicked Part 1 54:59

9M ago54:59

54:59

In this episode we dive into Wicked: Part 1 and the deeper themes behind its story. Beyond the spectacle and music, we explore what it truly means to be "wicked" and how narratives shape our self-perception. The conversation unpacks the dangers of always seeing ourselves as the hero, the power of institutions to control truth, and the ways fear and…

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Ep 43: Fighting for Reconciliation 58:06

9M ago58:06

58:06

This episode about fighting for reconciliation is a continuation on the discussion about Ender's Game. In this conversation we discuss how fear and ego can stifle curiosity, particularly in religious spaces where certainty is prized over open exploration. We also touch on the importance of self-reflection in fighting for what's right, highlighting …

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Ep 42: Ethics and Leadership in Ender's Game 1:03:34

12M ago1:03:34

1:03:34

In this episode, we explore Ender's Game, the cinematic adaptation of Orson Scott Card's novel. Following Ender's rise as a brilliant strategist, we unpack the moral weight of his decisions, the manipulation of truth, and the devastating consequences of war. Using our SMART framework, we examine the ethics of leadership, the role of fear in shaping…

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Ep 41: Sequel Fatigue and Parallels to the Church's Journey 45:44

1y ago45:44

45:44

This episode was sparked by the number of recent movies and sequels that just ended up being disappointing. We dive into the factors that may contribute to the production of bad movies (quality and content wise) and the challenges the audience may face in navigating them. At the end we turn the conversation to an unexpected comparison—the church's …

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Ep 40: Power and Control in Rollerball 1:01:27

1y ago1:01:27

1:01:27

In this episode, we explore the 1975 sci-fi film Rollerball through our SMART framework, focusing on its portrayal of a dystopian future where corporations control everything, including the brutal sport at the center of the story. We discuss the journey of Jonathan E., a superstar athlete caught in the deadly corporate-controlled sport, who struggl…

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Ep 39: Family Bonds in The Mitchells vs. The Machines 1:00:08

1+ y ago1:00:08

1:00:08

In this episode, we dive into The Mitchells vs. The Machines, exploring how this animated film cleverly critiques our reliance on technology while also reflecting on family dynamics. Katie Mitchell, an aspiring filmmaker, has her relationship with her family tested when their road trip collides with a tech apocalypse. Through Katie and her father R…

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Ep 38: Balancing Whimsy and Responsibility with Hook 56:39

1+ y ago56:39

56:39

In this Father's Day episode, we discuss the beloved film "Hook." Peter Banning, a work-absorbed lawyer, rediscovers his true identity as Peter Pan after his children are kidnapped by Captain Hook. In Neverland, Peter confronts his past, battles Hook, and ultimately chooses family over career, finding joy in fatherhood. The film emphasizes the impo…

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Ep 37: Generational Humility and Brave (Mother's Day Episode) 56:02

1+ y ago56:02

56:02

To celebrate Mother's Day, in this podcast episode, we discuss Disney's Brave and explore its depiction of parent-child relationships. We follow Merida, a skilled archer navigating her mother Elinor's expectations for her future as a queen, which leads to conflict and a magical mishap turning Elinor into a bear. As they strive to undo the spell and…

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Ep 36: Surviving Tragedy and A Good Person 57:14

1+ y ago57:14

57:14

Help guide our mission! Offer your feedback and ideas on the Google Form below: Survey: What would you like to see from Parable Arrows? In this episode, Josh and Femi discuss the real life drama film A Good Person. Josh and Femi discuss how to balance accountability with loving support, the cost of living a new life, and why meditating on the world…

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Ep 35: Facing the Awkward and Turning Red 1:06:53

1+ y ago1:06:53

1:06:53

Upcoming FREE Events! Signal in the Noise - Join the Parable Arrows team for a presentation, panel, and round table discussion on using the media you consume to deepen relationships. April 13th, 2024 - 10-12PM @ Eastbrook Church in Milwaukee 5353 N Green Bay Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53209 May 18th, 2024 - 10-12PM @ High Point Church in Madison 7702 Old S…

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Ep 34: They Cloned Tyrone and Finding True Freedom 1:02:08

1+ y ago1:02:08

1:02:08

They Cloned Tyrone is a modern sci-fi thriller that explores the lasting impacts of racism by following Fontain, a drug dealer in a neighborhood called the Glen and his terrifying discovery of who is pulling the strings behind some of the strange occurances he has witnessed. Josh and Femi are joined this week by Jac'Quon, Josh's friend from his chu…

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Melanoma & Family Ties: Pauline & Carl's Skin Cancer Journey 40:42

2y ago40:42

40:42

In this episode of the Spot On Podcast, host Peter Birch welcomes guests Pauline Ryan and Carl Morehouse to share their experience with melanoma, and the challenges they faced as a family with young children. Pauline, discovered a concerning lesion/spot on her neck while pregnant with her second child. After being diagnosed with stage three melanom…

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Ep 33: Discussing Media Literacy with a Missionary 1:07:06

2y ago1:07:06

1:07:06

Zach is Josh's younger brother and a current full time missionary with the organization YWAM. (Youth with a Mission). When he's not doing the Lord's work (literally), he enjoys anime, manga, and fighting games. In this episode, Josh and Zach talk about their observations about media literacy in our current audience culture and why it is an importan…

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Ep 32: Why the Small Things Matter in It's a Wonderful Life 55:51

2y ago55:51

55:51

A holiday classic, It's a Wonderful Life follows George Bailey: family man and community pillar as he wrestles with the deep fear that he has wasted his life. In this episode of the podcast, Josh and Femi discuss why doing the little things in life well matters, the importance of encouraging loved ones sooner than later, and embracing the value God…

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Ep 31: Loving Community and Lars and the Real Girl 49:22

2y ago49:22

49:22

On the surface, Lars and the Real Girl may seem like a film treading a fine line between real and raunchy. But, below the odd premise is a heart wrenching story about family and community sacrificing to radically love a deeply hurting Lars. In this episode, Josh and Femi discuss the role of the church, how we can love people going through uncomfort…

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Ep 30: Identity, Christianity, and Barbie 49:28

2y ago49:28

49:28

Before it was even released, Barbie was considered a contentious movie, especially among Christian circles. Now with it's digital release, the Parable Arrows team wanted to put this film to the test: Was Barbie really an anti-men film and feminist propaganda? Or was it a movie posing thought provoking questions about identity that are Biblically ac…

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Cutaneous Lymphoma: a less common type of skin cancer 1:00:40

2y ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Cutaneous Lymphoma (CL) or lymphoma of the skin, is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that can appear as a rash or bumps on the skin. In this episode we speak to four distinguished guests about cutaneous lymphoma, its signs and symptoms, how it is different from other skin cancers, how it can progress if not discovered early and treatment options…

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Ep 29: Seeing Potential in Others and Gifted 53:41

2y ago53:41

53:41

God is the giver of all talents and gifts. When we see the gifts in others, it is logical and easy for us to want to encourage a certain life path. However, what if that is not the way the person wants their life to go? In this episode, Josh and Femi discuss the 2017 film Gifted with Chris Evans. They discuss the question above and more as they ana…

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Being diagnosed with Merkel Cell Carcinoma - the story of John Mason 24:43

2y ago24:43

24:43

In this episode we look at the patient story. John Mason, who has spent much of his life outdoors around rural Australia and currently living off-grid in Qld. John was diagnosed with Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), which is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that can easily spread to other parts of the body if it is not diagnosed early. Austral…

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Ep 28: Interview with Byron of B-Rut Productions 58:48

2y ago58:48

58:48

Over the summer, Josh and Parable Arrows first ever intern Aidan recorded video versions of our podcast. Our first discussion was with multimedia talent Byron, aka B-Rut. We covered the power of film, what it means to be shrewd in business as a Christian, the importance of faith AND action together, and the way God calls us to be about his mission.…