Layman

Faith, Action Sports & Community: Inside Camp Royal

In this episode of the Layman podcast, host Michael Tolosa sits down with Ed Bugg, Executive Director of Camp Royal, a unique action sports camp in West Virginia. Camp Royal isn’t just about skateboarding, scootering, and biking—it’s about fostering a passionate community centered on faith and personal growth. Ed shares the camp’s mission to merge action sports with the message of Jesus Christ, creating an environment where kids can develop their skills while discovering their identity in faith. He talks about the camp’s origins, the impact it has on campers, and how action sports provide a unique platform for ministry. Tune in to hear about the pros who mentor at the camp, the challenges and rewards of running a faith-based action sports facility, and how you can support their mission. Whether you're an action sports enthusiast, a parent looking for a transformative camp experience for your child, or someone passionate about youth ministry, this episode is for you! 🔗 Learn more and support Camp Royal: weareoyal.com [https://weareroyal.com/] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.onceblind.org [https://www.onceblind.org?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Reaching College Students for Christ at George Mason University

In this episode of the Layman podcast, host Michael Tolosa sits down with Elise Boros, a missionary with Cru serving at George Mason University. Elise shares her personal faith journey, the challenges of evangelizing and discipling students in a multicultural, post-Christian environment, and the impact of COVID-19 on campus ministry. She also discusses her new role in helping staff raise financial support and the ongoing need for more full-time laborers in the field. Tune in to hear how you can support missionaries like Elise as they spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ on college campuses. 🔗 Support Elise's Ministry: https://give.cru.org/0605490 [https://give.cru.org/0605490]📌 Learn more about Cru at George Mason University: http://www.masoncru.org/ [http://www.masoncru.org/] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.onceblind.org [https://www.onceblind.org?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Exploring Christian Horror with Mike Duran: Faith, Fiction, and Fear

In this episode of the Layman podcast, host Michael Tolosa sits down with author and former pastor Mike Duran to dive deep into the intersection of faith and horror. They explore Mike's radical journey from spiritual darkness to Christianity, his writing process, and his thoughts on the role of horror in Christian storytelling. From the challenges of portraying evil and spiritual warfare in fiction to the cultural impact of movies like The Exorcist and Nosferatu, this conversation uncovers why horror is uniquely positioned to address some spiritual truths. Mike also shares personal experiences as a pastor facing real-life horrors, and how they shaped his work in fiction and nonfiction, including his book Christian Horror. If you're intrigued by the balance of light and darkness in faith, or curious about how Christian writers can challenge genre stereotypes, this episode is for you. 💬 Join the conversation in the comments—what are your thoughts on horror in Christian storytelling? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.onceblind.org [https://www.onceblind.org?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

From QVC to ABCs: Kristine Zell’s Journey from Broadcast Journalism to Homeschooling Mom

Join host Michael Tolosa on this episode of the Layman podcast as he sits down with broadcast journalist Kristine Zell. With over 20 years of on-camera experience, Kristine takes us through her remarkable career—from interviewing celebrities and anchoring news to her national stint on QVC. She shares candid moments about the challenges of balancing career, faith, and family, including navigating layoffs and transitioning to homeschooling her children in Texas. Kristine’s story is one of resilience, faith, and trusting God through every season of life. She offers advice for aspiring Christian broadcasters, reflects on lessons learned in the media industry, and shares how she’s using her communication skills for God’s glory in this new chapter. If you’re looking for inspiration to live out your calling and trust God’s plan for your life, this episode is a must-watch! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.onceblind.org [https://www.onceblind.org?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]

Faith, Film & Integrity: Actress Melissa Temme’s Journey in Hollywood & Beyond

Join host Michael Tolosa in this engaging episode of the Layman podcast as he sits down with actress Melissa Temme, known for her work in independent films, commercials and voiceover. Melissa shares her journey from corporate PR to acting, balancing faith with the entertainment industry, and making tough decisions about roles and content. She opens up about the challenges of being a Christian in Hollywood, how networking and relationships have shaped her career, and the importance of integrity in the arts. From The Rise of the Fellowship to her work with Audi and indie projects, Melissa offers insights into the world of filmmaking, faith-based decision-making, and how God has directed her career path. Topics Covered: * How Melissa got her start in acting * The challenges of being a Christian in the entertainment industry * Balancing career, family, and faith * The importance of networking and training as an actor * Her experience on House of Cards & other productions * Why integrity matters in the film industry Follow Melissa Temme & Support Her Work:🌎 MelissaTemme.com [https://www.melissatemme.com/] Join the Conversation!What are your thoughts on Christians working in secular media? Should faith-based artists only create Christian content? Drop a comment below! Subscribe for More!If you enjoyed this episode, hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more discussions on faith, entertainment and creativity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.onceblind.org [https://www.onceblind.org?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]