Director, actress, writer, and ministry founder Shari Rigby joins the GOA Speakers Podcast to share her powerful journey from small‑town North Dakota and teenage pregnancy to Hollywood sets, immersive audio dramas, and discipling women in entertainment. Shari dives into redemption after abuse and abortion, meeting her husband Matt, finding her calling in media, launching Women in My World, and creating faith-filled projects like October Baby, Divine Influencer, and the upcoming Defiant Ones and Ultimate Romance. This episode is a rich blend of testimony, creative process, and practical encouragement for anyone navigating calling, creativity, and culture.

Timed Highlights:
0:00:02 – Welcome to the GOA Speakers Podcast and introduction of guest Shari Rigby
0:01:15 – Shari’s 10-year journey with GOA and growth of the speaking industry
0:04:10 – Growing up in Cooperstown, ND, early faith, and love for movies and storytelling
0:08:20 – Teenage years in Phoenix: abusive relationship, rock ’n’ roll, and becoming a mom at 16
0:12:45 – Leaving an abusive marriage, single motherhood, abortion, and crying out to God
0:16:30 – Meeting Matt, encountering grace at Calvary Chapel, and a new life in Christ
0:20:40 – From church coffee shop to first commercial: God opens a door into entertainment
0:24:30 – Mentorship on set, Jim Caviezel/John Kirby connection, and acting class “holy ground”
0:28:00 – Birth and growth of Women in My World and discipling women in the industry
0:31:10 – October Baby, sharing her post-abortive testimony, and saying yes to ministry
0:34:20 – Immersive Dolby Atmos audio dramas, Western project, and Defiant Ones concept
0:37:10 – Ultimate Romance, pregnancy resource centers, and where to connect with Shari online

Links & Socials:

Shari Rigby

Instagram: @ShariRigby

Facebook: @ShariRigby

Websites

The Women in My World: https://thewomeninmyworld.org

Beautifully Flawed Productions: https://beautifullyflawedproductions.com

GOA Speakers: https://goaspeakers.com
Podcast Producers: ItsYourShow.co