Nina Leon: Faith, Art, and the Power of Storytelling (The Chosen) | The Sheckler Spotlight Ep. 33

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison sits down with actress and producer Nina Leon — known for her work in The Chosen (as Mary Salome), Disney+’s National Treasure: Edge of History, Secrets of Sulphur Springs, and Walker.

Born and raised in Venezuela, Nina shares how an unexpected opportunity led her from a degree in economics to discovering her purpose through acting. She opens up about how The Chosen transformed her faith, how she prepares emotionally for deeply spiritual scenes, and the importance of authenticity both on and off screen.

Together, Harrison and Nina explore:

• How she transitioned from commercials to TV and film later in life
• The emotional and spiritual depth of portraying Mary Salome
• Using music to unlock vulnerability in performance
• The power of faith-based storytelling to inspire connection and healing
• Behind-the-scenes moments that make The Chosen cast feel like family

Nina’s warmth, gratitude, and perspective on art and faith make this episode one of the most moving conversations yet.

🎧 The Sheckler Spotlight — Where creativity meets purpose.

🌐 Website: www.harrisonsheckler.com

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Baseball legend Jim Kaat joins host Harrison Sheckler for an inspiring conversation on The Sheckler Spotlight.

A 25-season MLB veteran, 16-time Gold Glove winner, and Hall of Famer (Class of 2022), Jim reflects on a lifetime in the game — from pitching duels with Sandy Koufax to his long-awaited Hall of Fame induction.

In this episode, Jim shares:

• Lessons from playing across four decades of baseball
• Thoughts on how the game — and youth sports — have changed
• The story behind his nickname “Kitty”
• His transition from the mound to the broadcast booth
• Reflections on discipline, humility, and enjoying the game for its own sake

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Ryan Swanson: The Chosen and the Art of Faithful Storytelling

Description:
In this episode, host Dr. Harrison Sheckler sits down with screenwriter and producer Ryan Swanson, co-writer and executive producer of the global hit series The Chosen. From his Midwestern roots and early love of movies to collaborating with Dallas Jenkins on a project that has inspired millions, Ryan shares the journey that shaped his creative voice and spiritual outlook.

Together, Harrison and Ryan explore:

• How The Chosen humanizes biblical stories with authenticity and reverence
• The origins of The Chosen Adventures, the upcoming animated spinoff bringing faith to a new generation
• The craft of screenwriting — from structure and character to emotional truth
• Ryan’s personal faith journey, sobriety, and discovering divine purpose in storytelling

🎧 Listen now and be inspired by how creativity, discipline, and faith intertwine in Ryan’s life and work.

🔗 Connect & Subscribe:
🌐 Website: www.harrisonsheckler.com

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▶️ YouTube: Watch the full episode

📸 Instagram: @harrisonsheckler
| @shecklerspotlight

In this episode of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison sits down with Shane Pruitt — pastor, church planter, author, and National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board. With over 20 years of ministry experience, Shane shares his powerful testimony of encountering Christ at 21, his journey into ministry, and his passion for equipping the next generation to live boldly for Jesus.

Shane opens up about the struggles young people face today—identity, acceptance, and cultural confusion—and how the hope of Christ speaks directly to those challenges. He explains his heart for “calling out the called,” balancing truth and love in ministry, and raising the bar of expectation for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Harrison and Shane also discuss his latest Bible study Not My Jesus, his upcoming book on Generation Alpha, and the importance of finishing well in life and ministry.

If you want to be inspired about the future of the church and learn practical ways to impact the next generation, this episode is for you.

Follow & Listen to The Sheckler Spotlight:
🌐 Website: www.harrisonsheckler.com

🎧 Spotify: Listen here

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| @shecklerspotlight

Connect with Shane Pruitt:
🌐 Website: shanepruitt.net

📘 Not My Jesus Bible Study: Order here

📺 YouTube: @shane_pruitt78

📲 Instagram: @shane_pruitt78

In this episode of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison sits down with singer-songwriter Rachael Nemiroff, whose music has touched millions with its message of hope, authenticity, and healing.

Rachael shares her journey from Alabama and Pennsylvania to Nashville, where she signed her first publishing deal with Curb Word Music. She opens up about her viral hit Beautifully and Wonderfully Made, the Dove Award-considered Honest to God, and the personal experiences that shaped her artistry—including struggles with body image, grief, and faith.

From her influences (Peter, Paul & Mary, Norah Jones, Hillsong) to her honest conversations on mental health, Rachael brings raw vulnerability and inspiration. She also gives a glimpse into her upcoming EP On My Way, new performances, and her perspective on dating, gratitude, and living authentically.

If you’ve ever felt unseen or alone, Rachael’s story and music will remind you that you are deeply loved, wonderfully made, and never walking your journey by yourself.

✨ Listen & Subscribe:
Website: www.harrisonsheckler.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75HT4BmOIt7KRUXvQLNM5c
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sheckler-spotlight/id1811799127

YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL5Yo7rmKANG2xm_ptldplma6oMZwI_hW&si=xEJcdhViaq3Gbncu

📲 Connect with Rachael Nemiroff:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelnemiroff/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachaelnemiroff/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7GXlY33czvkfhsFzbbOz9Q

When Harry Met Yas…
It’s not quite the storyline of When Harry Met Sally, but it was just as full of laughs, surprises, and genuine connection.

In this episode of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison welcomes Yasmine Al-Bustami (NCIS Hawai’i, The Chosen, The Originals) for a wide-ranging conversation on her acting journey, storytelling, coffee habits, and the little joys that make life meaningful. Along the way, expect humor, honesty, and a few unexpected tangents.

Photo Credits
Photographers: Joe Magnani & Jared Schlachet
Stylist: Gabriel Lagenbrunner
Make-Up & Hair: Courtney Hart

Links
Website: http://www.harrisonsheckler.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75HT4BmOIt7KRUXvQLNM5c
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sheckler-spotlight/id1811799127
YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL5Yo7rmKANG2xm_ptldplma6oMZwI_hW&si=xEJcdhViaq3Gbncu

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harrisonsheckler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecklerspotlight

Yasmine’s Website: https://yasminealbustami.com

In Episode 27 of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison sits down with powerhouse country-soul artist Karen Waldrup — a top 5 finalist on The Voice Season 25 with over 1 million fans online and more than 400 million video views. Known for her Louisiana roots, signature storytelling, and viral hit “Blue Cowboy Boots”, Karen opens up about her journey from church choir to global stages, the music teachers who shaped her, and how faith fuels her artistry.

They dive deep into the making of “Blue Cowboy Boots”, her experience on The Voice, and her passion for giving back through Mission of Hope Haiti — including her bold goal to build 100 homes for women and children in need. Karen also shares her philosophy on “touching the dream” and putting action behind your goals.

🎶 Watch & Listen for:

Growing up in Mandeville, Louisiana, and embracing authenticity

Behind-the-scenes of The Voice and what it really taught her

The story and Mardi Gras magic behind “Blue Cowboy Boots”

Her Haiti mission work and plans for long-term impact

Why she boldly weaves faith into her career

This is an inspiring, heart-filled conversation that blends music, purpose, and a fearless pursuit of dreams.

🔗 Follow Karen Waldrup:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDpnWEo82R9lpDqead2lMXw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenwaldrupmusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karenwaldrupmusic
Website: https://www.karenwaldrup.com

🌐 Follow Harrison Sheckler & The Sheckler Spotlight:
Website: https://www.harrisonsheckler.com
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/75HT4BmOIt7KRUXvQLNM5c
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sheckler-spotlight/id1811799127
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL5Yo7rmKANG2xm_ptldplma6oMZwI_hW&si=xEJcdhViaq3Gbncu
Instagram: @harrisonsheckler | @shecklerspotlight

In this episode of The Sheckler Spotlight, Harrison Sheckler sits down with rising country music star Colby Acuff—a fifth-generation Idahoan whose storytelling bridges the past and present of working-class America.

From growing up in Coeur d’Alene to working as a fly-fishing guide, Colby shares how his small-town roots, outdoor adventures, and deep love of authentic songwriting shaped his path. They dive into the creation of his latest single, Average American, a project inspired by real conversations with everyday people across the country, revealing surprising common ground in a divided world.

Colby also opens up about his unique place in the country music landscape, the challenges and rewards of touring, and his vision for keeping live music raw, human, and real. From AI’s role in the music industry to predictions for rock’s comeback, this conversation explores both the art and the heart of music today.

🎙 Follow Colby Acuff:
Instagram: @colby_acuff
YouTube: Colby Acuff Official
Website: www.colbyacuff.com

🌐 Connect with Harrison & The Sheckler Spotlight:
Website: www.harrisonsheckler.com
Spotify: Listen on Spotify
Apple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts
YouTube: Watch on YouTube

Instagram: @harrisonsheckler | @shecklerspotlight