Exploration Films Podcast
A deep dive into films from around the world. Featuring conversations with producers, directors, and actors. Here they discuss the sublime to the ridiculous of film making and even give you the never heard before backstories with worldview. Hosted by Renaissance man and thinker Carl Moeller.
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The Hong Konger - The Story Of Jimmy Lai S3 - Ep #2
01/30/2026
The Hong Konger - The Story Of Jimmy Lai S3 - Ep #2
In this episode of Exploration Film, we take you inside "The Hong Konger"—a riveting look at the life and sacrifice of Jimmy Lai. Host Steve Reiter speaks with Mary Kissel, a former State Department advisor and Wall Street Journal editor, and Bill McGurn, journalist and Lai’s close friend, to unravel how Hong Kong, once a beacon of freedom, fell under the shadow of authoritarian rule. Together, they share the story of Jimmy Lai—a self-made billionaire who gave up comfort and safety to become a powerful voice for democracy, courageously facing imprisonment under the Chinese regime. Listen as they discuss what Jimmy’s stand means for press freedom, the lessons for the West, and the personal and collective costs of fighting for liberty. If you want to understand what true courage looks like in our time, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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S3 - Ep #1 Mary Life After Jesus S3 - Ep #1
08/27/2024
S3 - Ep #1 Mary Life After Jesus S3 - Ep #1
Welcome to a new season of Exploration Films Podcast. In today's episode, we delve into the captivating story behind the film "Mary Life After Jesus, the Road to Ephesus," with special guests Bill Quatman and Shannon Knopke. This thought-provoking documentary explores the life of Mary after Jesus' crucifixion, shedding light on a narrative often shrouded in mystery. Join host Steve Reiter as we unravel the motivations behind the film, the arduous 10-year journey of creation, and the challenges faced in piecing together Mary's story. With insights from the producers, we explore the profound impact of Mary's house in Ephesus, a place that serves as a meeting point for different cultures and faiths, promoting unity between Muslims and Christians through prayer. The episode also delves into the individual experiences and revelations of the guests, showcasing the personal impact of working on this extraordinary project. From the historical and religious significance of Mary's life after Jesus to the potential future projects hinted at by the guests, this episode promises to be a captivating exploration of faith, history, and the power of storytelling. So, get ready to embark on a fascinating journey through the making of "Mary Life After Jesus" and its broader impact on both filmmakers and audiences alike.
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The Savior S2E12
04/12/2022
The Savior S2E12
That's The Savior, a 2014 Bulgarian-Jordanian film about the life of Jesus by an Arabic cast. To know how they made this film, we talked with John Dorr, The Savior producer. Dorr shares how they bring to life the story in a way to address Muslims to share what Christians believe and not to impose an idea that created the audience to feel identified as Dorr explains through different stories. Dorr reflected on his childhood living in the middle east and how his mother's profession, author of novels and biblical historical books, changed and marked his approach to historical characters. About another filmography, Dorr tells us how they structure their films and for what and the importance of the decision to stick to chronological order. In addition, some stories during filming and a great date about the dub in English audio and future plans. Savior movie clips: https://www.youtube.com/c/thesaviorinfo Official page http://thesavior.net/
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Poverty Cure S2E11
04/05/2022
Poverty Cure S2E11
What causes poverty? It's a question that persists through time, but to have a real and meaningful response that changes this, we need to shift our idea of poverty and charity and start asking the right questions: What causes wealth? To understand the implications of poverty and its solution, we talk with Michael Matheson Miller, host and producer of the six-part series Poverty Cure and the documentary Poverty Inc. This project, a series of 200 interviews and a documentary, was intended to create a resource with answers from different voices and perspectives, including philosophical and theological thinking about the problems of aids and the dominant humanitarianism that prevents prosperity, creating dependency instead. Michael Matheson Miller shares the consequences of the current humanitarian work related to the delayed development of business and the problem of what has been institutionalized as humanitarianism and reflects on the last through the Scriptures. In addition, it explains the importance of the difference between having a heart for the poor vs. having a mind for the poor related to crucial things. Finally, it also explains the importance of the rule of law, having a solid institution of law, and private property as the base of sustainability development. “When we give charity or foreign aid, we disempower local producers and harm economy and create dependency.” Acton Institute: https://www.acton.org/ The moral podcast imagination: https://www.themoralimagination.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-moral-imagination/id1468915450
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Children of Shanghai S2E10
03/22/2022
Children of Shanghai S2E10
“Every child deserves the opportunity to live in a family”; this is the message from Robert Glover, a former footballer, who moved to Shanghai with his wife and six young children in 1998 to introduce the first foster care system in China. Glover fostered five out of over a million children that were placed in foster families, and shares their experiences in Children of Shanghai. This documentary is narrated by Bear Grylls and follows through their life experiences while teaching about this new concept that challenges social convention in a country with a one-child policy. Glover shares his story and how he had to face the decision to change his life and move to another country and culture. With plenty of professional and cultural challenges that he and his family had to overcome, food gave them the chance to have a cultural exchange and the opportunity to build a trusting relationship with the Chinese government. On his way to empower and encourage himself to make a better life for children, many obstacles needed to be overcome - including an element of resistance from older generations while interest was being shown by younger generations when playing football. This changed the impression about him and his goals in China with those around him.
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Before The Wrath S2E9
03/04/2022
Before The Wrath S2E9
Is Jesus really coming? This is a question that most people ask in desire for proof of this second coming. Researchers and theologists discover, through investigations in Israel and Turkey, proof that the prophesied Rapture is true. The film Before The Wrath was conceived to share an important discovery about the ancient Galilean wedding. Director Brent Miller Jr. shares his journey of curiosity in the desire for more evidence of the truth that leads him into the faith and known the bible “as a genuine source of history and spiritually true” and shares what event shook him profoundly to start this path. Also talks about the damage of removing prophecy, of taking eschatology out of the context. Before The Wrath had to deal with some obstacles through pre-production and even delay the premiere to the first weeks of the pandemic. Brent Miller Jr. shares the way of these events and the technical decisions as to the mood of aesthetic to match the topic in the film. Don´t miss his final thoughts and advice for filmmakers. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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Master Designer - The Song S2E8
02/22/2022
Master Designer - The Song S2E8
Every life has an intention in this vast world, and animals have a purpose that sometimes we take for granted. To enlighten us and change our perspective about the animal world around us, we talk with Steve Greisen, writer and director of The Master Designer - The Song, an inspiring documentary about the incredible and brilliant design of animals resulting from the Master Designer. Steve Greisen, founder and president of Exploration films, talks about why the film is animal-based and how the film idea came through the experience of the series Incredible Creatures That Defy Evolution and notions as punctuality equilibrium and the reflect on evolution and science. In this documentary, you discover the force behind nature through history and fascinating facts about six animals as the bees and their importance, the American bison and their history with native Americans, and crickets and their song; that name this documentary. Discover the documentary segment Science vs. God and reflect on God´s creation as Steve Greisen described: “The animal world is a beautiful reflection of God´s heart.” Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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Dangerous Diplomacy: The Story of Carl Lutz S2E7
02/15/2022
Dangerous Diplomacy: The Story of Carl Lutz S2E7
The occupation of Hungary by the Third Reich changed the life of its citizens, especially Jews, forever, to prove that even in the darkest times, there are people who want to do the right thing and are willing to put themselves in grave danger to help others. One of them was Carl Lutz, a Swiss diplomat who saved over 62,000 Jews in the most extensive rescue operations of Jews of the Second World War. His Christian upbringing and the things he saw during the Conflict Arab-Jewish in 1936 set his future path to help as many Jews he could. With the interventions of Carl Lutz, stepdaughter Agnes Hirschi-Grausz we can understand his personality and the frustration he had to handle for not being recognized by his country when he was still alive. The final thoughts about a man who was a hidden and unlikely hero and what we can learn to put into action in the present. Bryan Boorujy, director of the documentary Carl Lutz: Dangerous Diplomacy, shares his life and the repercussion of his actions as well the way he found this story and the idea of the film, besides all the difficulties to get funding and the post-production issues. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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First Love: A Historic Gathering of Jesus Music Pioneers: Part 2 - S2E6
02/01/2022
First Love: A Historic Gathering of Jesus Music Pioneers: Part 2 - S2E6
We conclude our feature of First Love: A Historic Gathering of Jesus Music Pioneers with part 2 of the audio special created for the film, then Steve chatted with the co-producer of this film and veteran music producer, Dan Collins to talk about how this project came about and some of the challenges in its production. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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Miracles In Action - S2E5
01/25/2022
Miracles In Action - S2E5
Imagine your young husband almost dying from an aneurysm, then your mentally ill brother murdering your sister, then a freak car accident killing your two sons ... how would you cope? Angela Alexander experienced all of that and found hope and peace in the midst of those storms. She now speaks around the world telling those stories and what's at the foundation of her peace. Miracles In Action summary: Miracles in Action is a compelling story of triumph in the face of unspeakable tragedy. It will restore your faith. It will show you how God compassionately cares for Angela, who loves Him so tenderly. Above all, Miracles in Action will reveal to you and your loved ones how you, too, can recognize the miracles in action in your lives and turn pain into power and grief into peace. Check out this film here: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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From Poor to CEO: The Herman Cain Story - S2E4
12/21/2021
From Poor to CEO: The Herman Cain Story - S2E4
Herman Cain was as unique as they came. He grew up poor, but through hard work and determination, he rose to become the CEO of Godfathers Pizza and later was one of the leading Republican candidates for the 2012 presidential campaign. Director Barry Tolli had the pleasure of spending a number of weeks with Herman to document this amazing American success story. From Poor to CEO: The Herman Cain Story Summary This is the true story of Herman Cain. A man who comes from a poor and under-educated family and reaches the highest levels of corporate, social, and political America. Check out this film here: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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Celtic Pilgrimage & Thin Places-Stories of Celtic Community and Extraordinary Faith - S2E3
12/14/2021
Celtic Pilgrimage & Thin Places-Stories of Celtic Community and Extraordinary Faith - S2E3
Rebecca Friedlander created two documentaries about the historic Celtic and UK saints going all the way back to the famous fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland, Saint Patrick. Host, Steve Reiter had a chance to chat with Rebecca about the films, some of those features saints, where that passion came from, and how she got into filmmaking. Celtic Pilgrimage summary: A journey through Ireland, Scotland, and England to discover how Celtic nations received the gospel of Christ during the Dark Ages, and how the momentum of this revival propelled Christianity through Europe. Witness powerful stories of six saints, including St. Patrick, St. Columba, St. Hilda, and others who moved in supernatural signs and wonders, turning the hearts of nations. Producer Rebecca Friedlander takes you on an epic pilgrimage in the footsteps of these saints! Discover valuable life lessons and meet modern-day believers, artists, and leaders in Celtic nations who are unique warriors for Christ. Visit Iona, Lindisfarne, Bangor, and more! Thin Places-Stories of Celtic Community and Extraordinary Faith summary: Take a journey full of Celtic adventures, stories that inspire, and deep spiritual truths from ancient times captured in this epic film! Shot on location in Ireland, Scotland, and England, follow the thread of revival history from the 5th century to the 1900s. Producer Rebecca Friedlander takes you through Celtic lands to discover a rich heritage of courageous faith. Learn practices of faith held by the early saints and hear from modern leaders on how to apply these truths today. Featuring Heidi Baker, John and Carol Arnott, Ray Hughes, Emma Stark, Kevin and Rose Sambrook, Andy Raine, Charity Bowman Webb, Mary Hamilton, and more. Check out these films here: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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A Christmas Snow - S2E2
12/07/2021
A Christmas Snow - S2E2
Last season, we talked with Tracy about his film The Lamp. The conversation was so good and he teased something else to talk about (the neuroscience of changing your mind). Since another of Tracy's films, A Christmas Snow is one of Exploration Films' most successful movies on Amazon Prime, we brought him back to talk about it, as well as dig into that neuroscience subject he teased last season. A Christmas Snow summary: For the past 30 years, Kathleen (Catherine Mary Stewart) has carried around the haunting memory of her father abandoning her and her mother on Christmas Eve. She blames her mother for that night and now refuses to celebrate Christmas at all. She has to choose between letting go and grabbing hold of life-changing forgiveness, or continuing to carry her pain and bitterness. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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First Love: A Historic Gathering of Jesus Music Pioneers: Part 1 - S2E1
11/30/2021
First Love: A Historic Gathering of Jesus Music Pioneers: Part 1 - S2E1
The late '60s and early '70s were a time of tremendous upheaval in American culture as the hippie generation abandoned the values of their parents, turned to drugs and away from materialism, and went on a search for love and peace. For these young people, "the establishment" which included the church, seemed irrelevant. At times it felt like the very fabric of our nation might tear apart. Producer and new-host, Steve Reiter, presents Part 1 of the audio special created for this film and then sits down with the director & producer of this film Exploration Films founder, Steve Greisen to talk about how this project came about and some of the challenges in its production. Be sure to click "subscribe" on your podcast app, so you don't miss an episode. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: OR subscribe to our new streaming service and get your first 7 days free when you register!
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The Furnace - S1E8
01/21/2020
The Furnace - S1E8
Oscar-nominated director Darrell Roodt and star Jamie Bernadette both sit down with host, Carl Moeller to talk about The Furnace. Darrell recalls his career, the state of filmmaking in South Africa, and both chat about the film. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: Film Storyline: Newlyweds Mary and Matt celebrate Christmas - and their passion for running - with two honeymoon tickets to Africa’s ultimate footrace, The Furnace. Their excitement to race together across the biggest animal reserve in the world has them inspired.
Then in a horrific flash, everything’s gone including Mary’s purpose for living. A year later, Mary is grieving. Struggling to breathe with an oxygen tank, she cries out her anger at God. Standing nearby, a man sees her suffering, and shares his own story of loss. Once a doctor in Africa, he fled to America when civil war annihilated his town. Now known by the nickname, ‘Coffin,’ he digs graves after losing his practice. Coffin urges Mary to keep on believing, push through and recover, offering his help as a doctor and friend. Over time Coffin’s dedicated support and intense training helps Mary grow strong, and live to run again. But what will it take to let go of her pain and loss when she finally enters The Furnace?
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The Gentle Bear Man of Emo - S1E7
01/07/2020
The Gentle Bear Man of Emo - S1E7
Through an unexpected encounter with wild bears, Michael Scheibler found a light that shines in his darkness and led him on a path to love and redemption. Host Carl Moeller sat down with Michael to talk about the film, stories behind the film, and what's been going on in the years since the film came out. Also, this podcast's producer, Steve Reiter sat down with director Steve Greisen and cinematographer Simon Scionka about the back story for the film and funny behind the scenes stories. Check out this film: See the full library of Exploration Films movies: Film Storyline: You are about to experience something rare - Something controversial - Something dangerous. In northwestern Ontario, lies the little town of Emo. Michael Scheibler and his wife, Betty, bought 320 acres of land here. Little did they know there was something unusual about this place. Animals started appearing, finding sanctuary here. Deer, raccoon's, a wolf and then...out of the wild they came. Bears. Soon, Michael and the bears would develop mutual trust in each other and he began to do the remarkable....maybe unthinkable. He began to feed the bears...by hand. But this story is not what you expect - Bruised by tragedy Michael's soul would be plunged into a darkness that stole his humanity and clawed away at his dreams. But through this unexpected encounter with the bears, Michael would see a light that would lead him on a path to love and redemption. Experience a rare film that will take you on an unpredictable journey...and a surprise encounter with the power of redemption. The Gentle Bear Man of Emo is an inspiring story of how wild animals taught a broken man to be human ... again.
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Film In Culture - S1E6
10/29/2019
Film In Culture - S1E6
How has the film industry shaped culture? What films come to mind? Host Carl Moeller discusses Film and Culture with Steve Greisen, the founder of Exploration Films and John Stonestreet of Colson Center. Steve shares his journey of being a missionary kid in Hong Kong, to become a musician that ended up in the film space. Then John & Steve talk about their opinion on culture, the big trends right now, and the films that have been fundamental in shaping the culture in general. Check out the Breakpoint Podcast: See the full library of Exploration Films movies:
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In The House Of Islam w/ David Garrison - S1E5
10/22/2019
In The House Of Islam w/ David Garrison - S1E5
If we are to believe the news, the Middle East is a cauldron of violence, but Dr. David Garrison (who lived there for many years) says that it's actually one of the most peaceful times in the history of the Middle East. Dr. Garrison joins Carl Moeller to talk about his documentary "," which is a companion to his acclaimed book "." In this episode, David & Carl talk about the history of the Middle East history, the culture, the people, and how since the colonial powers have stepped out, how unadulterated Sharia law has opened up Muslims to the gospel of Jesus, and a higher percentage of Muslims have converted to Christianity than any time in history. Check out "In The House Of Islam" here: Buy "A Wind In The House Of Islam" book: Check out the whole Exploration Films library:
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Incredible Creatures That Defy Evolution - S1E4
10/15/2019
Incredible Creatures That Defy Evolution - S1E4
Did you know there are species of animals and insects that evolutionary biologists can't explain? Like the Bombardier Beetle, which is about half an inch long, but has the ability to aim and shoot at 360 degrees ... or the Gecko Lizard famous for their ability to walk on walls and ceilings without falling. This special will bring to you many more of these types of creatures with unique features that evolutionists are unable to find the reason behind. Dr. Joe Martin shares his story of starting his career as a music and biology major, went to become a Dentist, and eventually ended up being an evolutionist. Check out Incredibles Creatures That Defy Evolution: Check out the entire Exploration Films library here:
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Portraits of Colorado: The Making of a Modern Symphony - S1E3
10/08/2019
Portraits of Colorado: The Making of a Modern Symphony - S1E3
Charles Denler was commissioned by the Colorado Symphony to write music for them about the state of Colorado. With beautiful shots of Colorado nature from all 4 seasons and stunning musical performances, Steve Greisen and Exploration Films crafted this award-winning film. In this edition of the Exploration Films Podcast, host Carl Moeller sits down with Steve & Emmy award winner Charles about their first meeting, love for music and the making of this movie. Check out Portraits of Colorado: Check out the entire Exploration Films library here: Know more about Emmy award winner Charles Denler here:
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The Lamp - S1E2
10/01/2019
The Lamp - S1E2
"Faith is the essence of life." Award-winning director Tracy Trost joins host Carl Moeller to talk about "The Lamp." This timeless heartwarming story of loss and rebuilding stars Academy Award winner Louis Gosset Jr and takes you on a journey with Stan and Lisa. Their marriage is failing after the death of their son when a mysterious stranger presents them with a magical lamp and a chance to put things right. It's a story adapted from a short Jim Stovall's book that's turned into a beautiful real-life cinematic experience of belief, focus, faith, the pain of loss, and the power of rebuilding. Check out the entire movie here: Check out the entire library of Exploration films here:
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The Search For The Real Mt. Sinai - S1E1
09/24/2019
The Search For The Real Mt. Sinai - S1E1
Imagine a story of a multi-millionaire & a retired cop sneaking into a closed country because they are searching for the 'real' Mt. Sinai ... a trip fraught with peril, heat, police capture, & escape. That would make a great Indiana Jones film, right? Well, Bob Cornuke and Larry Williams did embark on that very adventure and Exploration Films' CEO Steve Greisen was the one to direct the documentary about that film. On this edition of the Exploration Films Podcast, host Carl Moeller sits down with Steve & Bob to talk about the behind the scenes stories of the Exploration Films classic, "The Search For The Real Mt. Sinai." Check out that film here: Check out the entire Exploration Films library here:
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What is the Exploration Films Podcast?
09/12/2019
What is the Exploration Films Podcast?
Podcast co-host, Carl Moeller interviews Steve Greisen (the founder of Exploration Films) about what to expect from this podcast. Get the inside scoop on your favorite Exploration Films flicks ... behind the scenes stories, obstacles in the filmmaking, funny anecdotes, and more. Be sure to 'Subscribe' on your favorite podcast app to get all the latest episodes. Exploration Films is a leading distributor of faith and family movies and documentaries. Their focus is to deliver inspiring content that elevates the culture and evokes the best in the human soul. This is a place where curious truths and uncommon minds meet. Check out Exploration Films at:
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