JOEL CLARK, TRICIA HALSEY & JEEVA RATNATHICAM / DEEPLY ROOTED STORIES
In this special episode, Jason Clark introduces Deeply Rooted and the creative team behind the stories they have been quietly building for years—films, children’s books, and family-centered adventures designed to reveal the goodness of God, strengthen families, and awaken imagination. From the emotional feature film ALL IN to the wildly imaginative young adult book series I Changed the World, this conversation dives into storytelling, faith, creativity, healing, and why the stories we believe shape the people we become. It’s funny, vulnerable, inspiring, and full of behind-the-scenes insight into a growing movement of redemptive storytelling
For more info on the I Changed the World Books Series Offer, go to:
https://ichangedtheworldoffer.com/
For more information on Deeply Rooted, go to:
https://deeplyrootedstories.com/
Please rate, review, share, and subscribe!
Podcast intro and outro music by Wilde Assembly
DAVID PECK / ON LOVE, WONDER, AND FOOTNOTES
In this engaging conversation, Jason Clark and David Peck explore themes of faith, love, belonging, and the power of storytelling. They discuss the complexities of belief, the importance of curiosity, and the role of community in navigating life’s challenges. David shares insights from his documentary ‘Broken Courage’ and emphasizes the healing power of stories. The conversation highlights the need for radical hope and the significance of love in our relationships and interactions with others.
For more information on David Peck
https://brokencouragethemovie.com/
https://www.davidpecklive.com/podcast
Please rate, review, share, and subscribe!
Podcast intro and outro music by Wilde Assembly
SHAWN RING / THE JOURNEY OF SONSHIP
In this engaging conversation, Shawn Ring and Jason explore themes of faith, identity, and the journey of obedience in their lives. Shawn shares his background as a CEO of Avodah, and his experiences in the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of viewing oneself as a son of God rather than being defined by roles or titles.
The conversation highlights the transformative power of obedience and the relational aspect of faith, encouraging listeners to rethink their perspectives on God and their identities. The guys explore themes of faith, sonship, and the journey of disruption in their lives. They discuss the importance of navigating uncertainty, the paradigm shift brought about by the pandemic, and the challenge of institutional models in the church.
The dialogue emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s identity in Christ and living in the mystery of faith, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God and a more authentic expression of calling. In this engaging conversation, Shawn and Jason explore faith-based leadership and innovation. They share humorous anecdotes about food fails, the importance of community, and the transformative power of generosity. The conversation also delves into the intersection of technology and spirituality, particularly in the context of AI and Bible translation, culminating in a reflection on purpose and calling in life.
For more about Shawn Ring
Website: https://www.avodah.com/shawn-ring
Please rate, review, share, and subscribe!
Podcast intro and outro music by Wilde Assembly
YOU ALSO MIGHT LIKE…
STEPHEN ROACH / THE BREATH AND THE CLAY
In this engaging conversation, Jason and Stephen Roach explore the intersection of art, faith, and creativity. They discuss the importance of embracing failure, the value of dreaming, and the generational impact of their work.
Stephen shares his journey as an artist and instigator, emphasizing the need for honest reflection and the role of community in understanding God. The dialogue highlights the shift in their perspectives on spirituality and the significance of legacy in their creative endeavors.
The guys explore themes of disappointment, identity, and the creative journey, particularly in the aftermath of COVID-19. They discuss the importance of journaling, reflection, and community in navigating challenges and cultivating hope.
The conversation also highlights the upcoming The Breath And The Clay gathering, which aims to bring together creatives to explore the theme of wholeness amidst life’s fragments.
Exploring The Intersections of Art, Faith and Culture: A Creative Arts Gathering in Winston Salem, NC March, 21-23, 2025
For More Information: CLICK HERE
For more on Stephen Roach
Website: www.thebreathandtheclay.com
Podcast: www.makersandmystics.com
Please rate, review, share, and subscribe!
Podcast intro and outro music by Wilde Assembly
YOU ALSO MIGHT LIKE…
A Family Story 2023 / To The Jacks Of All Trades
Dear Friends,
For the last twenty years or so, when people asked me what I do, I would often respond with, “I’m a jack of all trades and a master of none.”
It started as a self-deprecating way to shift the conversation away from the lack of any Western-approved proof of success, as I had very little.
Karen and I have chosen the long game—connection and family—so I can say with great joy, we are rich in love. But that’s not what folks are typically asking about, and it rarely pays the mortgage.
“I am a jack of all trades—singer/songwriter, contractor, filmmaker, pastor, writer, waiter—master of none—house painter, worship leader, salesman, speaker, chimney sweep, podcaster,” I’d say, picking whatever it was that currently paid the bills…
Nearly ten years ago, on another resounding ‘Yes’ from our Father, Karen and I again ‘jumped.’ But at that point, faith wasn’t a blind leap; it was a well-packed parachute.
Faith—
Raised as a pioneer, I once leveraged the word for bold, sexy, independent leaps. Today, faith is a wound, and the patience to heal—the scars and dreams of an old man.
We launched A Family Story almost ten years ago. A non-profit for the Western mind to wrap her arms around. But, as a jack of all trades, I could never master itinerate.
“Follow me,” I’d say, as I reveled in some profoundly beautiful thought, only to lose most while pioneering the switchback. But not all. Some have said, “We’re with you, heart and soul” And, oh, how we’ve felt it. We are eternally grateful. We are rich in love…
Karen grew to dislike when I’d answer, “and master of none.” She knew it was more than a self-deprecating attempt at changing the subject. I could paper my office with rejection letters—my heart, too, when I’m not careful. I’m not allowed to use the word ‘cusp’ in our house, as we’ve lived on the edge of it since our first date.
Faith—
Today, it’s the sneaking suspicion that life has always been the long game of love…
A couple of years ago, while procrastinating on my back deck, where I occasionally write my thoughts down, I came across the whole quote for the first time.
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”
What? I thought as the whole story illuminated my soul. Deep within, I sensed my heavenly Father’s laughter—as though He plays the long game. We are rich in love.
I ran inside to find my wife and read her the whole story. She grinned like she does when she’s right. It’s stunning…
A Family Story This Year
In 2023 we continued to grow in friendship with Derek and Sarah Turner and have been blown away by the beautiful community that is growing around our podcast, Rethinking God with Tacos. By year’s end, we will have released nearly 50 podcasts with some of the most incredible people on the planet.
Karen is still connected with DreamCenter but has recently become one of the children’s pastors at River Church, where Derek and Sarah lead. We love our new church family.
In the last year, I have released Leaving and Finding Jesus, and also a refreshed edition of God Is (Not) In Control; The Whole Story Is Better Than You Think. I also wrote a chapter with new friends for, Free To Give—a book on giving in the revelation of grace.
My brother, Joel, and I have been writing a book series for tweens titled, I Changed The World. David and Miriam were released earlier this year. We hope to release a third, Adam, by year’s end.
Speaking of Joel, we, along with our friend, Tricia Halsey, started a film company a couple of years ago. This company’s vision aligns with our non-profit—we create content that empowers connection within the family. We just signed a production deal with Angel Studios for a television series titled, A Family Story.
As we look back on this year and turn our focus to tomorrow, I am encouraged and thankful.
Faith—
Today it’s a quiet confidence that love is the long game.
To The Jacks Of All Trades
Once upon a time, I would have told you we were on the cusp of an awakening—but I don’t use that word anymore. I believe we are in the midst of a LOVE AWAKENING. We are growing sure in the long game; we are discovering Jesus’ prayer that we would be one, that we would know union, wholeness, Sozo, a reconciling love. We are not on the cusp but amid a 2000-year-old restoration project!
In 2024 I am praying for the Jacks Of All Trades—thankful for the pursuit of mastery, and grateful no one arrives. I am praying for Ofttimes Better —for the breakdowns and breakthroughs.
We are invited to join in The Whole Story—the restoration of all things. I am praying grace and wonder over you wherever you are on your faith journey.
And we want to thank you for your trust.
We want to thank you for believing with us—whether it’s prayers, encouragement, friendship, or finances, we are grateful for your generosity!
How Can You Partner With A Family Story?
If you have been impacted through the ministry of A FAMILY STORY, I ask you to consider partnering with us financially for 2024.
A Family Story Film Project
Dream Big!
Partner with A Family Story Films and we’ll make magic together!
A Family Story pairs classically trained actors with best-selling children’s books. Children’s imaginations will soar to new heights as they watch their favorite characters come to life.
From Mary Poppins to Who Framed Roger Rabbit, the interaction of live actors with animated characters and environments has captured the imagination of audiences young and old.
Our animation team expertly brings to life the characters from the most beloved children’s stories of all time. Characters that are playful and fun, that interact with the reader, the story, and the viewer.
SERIES Trailer & Opportunity
Each Family Story Videobook is a full-scale film production complete with set design, an original script, score, sound design, props, prosthetics, and animation.
This is far more than a simple reading. Each Videobook takes the best-selling and most endearing stories of our time and delivers them in a new medium to an even broader audience.
Pilot EPISODE
Each Family Story Videobook contains a purely magical segment where the actor puts the book down and interacts with the animated characters. In this original song and dance sequence, our actor leaves the real world and enters a purely magical one.
Each original song is written to capture the theme of the book and is infinitely singable. These scenes bring our actors and animated characters together to sing, dance, flip, fly, romp, and roar.
A Family Story Series Breakdown
The Emmy-nominated, children’s literacy program Storyline Online gets an astonishing 10 million views a month. Their online and mobile app offering consists of 50 titles and is available worldwide at no cost. This comprehensive experience is endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers and is a trusted source of TV entertainment for parents of young readers. A Family Story will easily appeal to the Storyline Online audience- while taking the concept to an infinitely higher level.
Invest Into A Family Story Films
Interested in partnering with us?
We are looking for partners at every level. Whether you are interested in investing in season one of the A Family Story series or a broader partnership with A Family Story Films at the company level, we’d love to hear from you! You can contact us at invest@afamilystoryfilms.com
Unreal Engine 5
The technology used to create the sci-fi planetary landscapes in The Mandalorian, and the motion capture used to bring Thanos and The Hulk to life in the Avengers is accessible to projects like ours through Unreal Engine 5 virtual production.
Unreal Engine is a real-time rendering engine that offers a host of tools to enhance and speed up video production. We plan to use it primarily to generate environments on set that would track and respond to camera movement and provide realistic lighting to our actors.
We will use this technology to seamlessly blend practical set-pieces with animated fantastical backgrounds in-camera, creating a more realistic reaction from our actors and a shorter post-production workflow. We can also capture actors in motion capture suits, speeding up animation workflows: even if Giraffes Can’t Dance, we certainly will be able to as we use professional dancers to teach them!
Meet The Team
PRODUCER / DIRECTOR / WRITER
Joel N Clark is the director of A Family Story Films. Joel has written and directed multiple award-winning films, short films, sitcoms, commercials, adventure series, and feature documentaries.
Joel has also written fiction and nonfiction books that have been published widely. The quality of Joel’s work can be seen in the stories he’s chosen to tell. He lives with his wife of fifteen years, Megan, their daughter Juno, and their son Elah, in Washington DC.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Mark Yucha is a seasoned finance and accounting professional who began his career with KPMG and then moved on to management roles at various organizations ranging in size from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining A Family Story he most recently served as the CFO of a national online publisher based in Washington DC.
Mark is currently enjoying a stint in Cape Town, South Africa with his wife and two children.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER / DISTRIBUTION
Esther Fedorkevich is the founder of The Fedd Agency, a literary and entertainment agency. Among her clients are Mark Batterson, Tim Tebow, George Barna, Erwin McManus, Jentezen Franklin, and Eva Shockey. After representing fifty-six New York Times bestselling authors and having represented more than a thousand books, Esther knows that publishing is changing. That’s why she has established The Fedd Agency’s unique, 360-degree model, which comprehensively manages the needs of her clients—from traditional publishing to in-house book production, to building personal platforms, to negotiating for film, television, and other derivative products.
Esther lives in Austin, TX with her husband, Jimmy, and their two kids, Alexi and Paul.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER / WRITER
Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. One church with multiple locations. NCC is focused on reaching emerging generations and meets in theaters throughout the DC metro area. NCC also owns and operates the largest coffeehouse on Capitol Hill. Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the New York Times bestselling author of 19 books…
PRODUCER / WRITER
Jason Clark is a writer, producer, and lead communicator of A Family Story nonprofit. He has written 6 books including, Prone to Love, and Untamed. Jason has written and produced films that span from commercials and documentaries to TV and feature films.
Jason and his wife, Karen, live in North Carolina with their three children Madeleine True, Ethan Wilde, and Eva Blaze.
Educational Value
A Family Story is offering a product that is highly educational and interactive. Often the idea of starting a new book can be daunting to children. But the more they experience reading through our format, the more they will be drawn into reading on their own.
We have purposefully picked five public domain stories and five best-selling children’s books for season one. We are still finalizing our list but as of now, here are several that make the list.
To give you an example of where this series is headed, think about the Three Little Pigs. Not the world’s best story to say the least. Yet what child doesn’t know it off by heart? When we say we are going to create a Videobook of the Three Little Pigs, we don’t mean we will create the story you know.
What we create will be SO MUCH FUN! To see an example of where this series will take the most beloved stories of all time, check out the screenplay for “Pigs,” HERE!
Invest Into A Family Story Films
Interested in partnering with us?
We are looking for partners at every level. Whether you are interested in investing in season one of the A Family Story series or a broader partnership with A Family Story Films at the company level, we’d love to hear from you! You can contact us at invest@afamilystoryfilms.com
SO MUCH MORE!
Each public domain story we tell will allow us to also create an original book to be published along with the series. Along with the book, we will also have the option to create interactive games and other merchandise.
We also plan to create booklets for teachers and parents to use to help teach kids to follow along and learn to read.
A Family Story is an interactive reading series that helps kids learn from stories, get along with others, and develop kindness and values.
When I Am Weak, I Am Strong
When I Am Weak, I Am Strong | Jason Clark
Jess Ray – Did Not Our Hearts Burn
Did Not Our Hearts Burn | Jess Ray
Zach Williams – No Longer Slaves (Live from Harding Prison)
No Longer Slaves (Live from Harding Prison) | Zach Williams
Scott Crowder – Upon Shoulders
Upon Shoulders | Scott Crowder
I have known Scott for 25 years. He and his family are giants in the faith. They live with a wide open yes to all Gods goodness. Scott is one of my favorite people in whole world.
Scott is also one of my favorite musical artists in the whole world and his last full-length album, Upon Shoulders is full of vibe and grace; it’s authentic soul rock with revelation in every beat.