Heart in Motion Podcast: Celebrating Stories that Move Us

Nikki DeLoach joins the podcast to talk about A Grand Ole Opry Christmas and the emotional journey of Gentry Wade—a woman living in the shadow of her father’s legacy while trying to find her own voice.In this conversation, Nikki shares what drew her to Gentry’s story, her favorite moments in Gentry’s reconnection with her past, and why the theme of unfinished dreams hit close to home. She also opens up about working alongside Kristoffer Polaha, what she hoped viewers would take away from the film, and why this Hallmark project stands out in a career spanning more than 20 movies.We also talk about Nikki’s life beyond acting—her recent experiences on the Hallmark Christmas Cruise, the Hallmark Christmas Experience and Christmas Con, her work as co-chair of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ historic $1.25 billion fundraising campaign inspired by her son’s care, and the meaning behind the bracelet she wears. Plus, Nikki discusses her Mind What Matters podcast and her advocacy with the Alzheimer’s Association.This episode goes beyond the movie to explore purpose, creativity, legacy, and using your platform to make a real impact.Be sure to check out the Benny Bracelet at: https://www.rainejewelry.com/collections/fine/products/the-bennett-braceletAnd, catch A Grand Ole Opry Christmas on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Plus.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#agrandoleoprychristmas #hallmark #nikkideloach #podcast

Jen Lilley joins me for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about choosing meaningful work—on screen, behind the scenes, and beyond it.We begin with A Chrismystery, now streaming, where Jen plays Annie Willows. She shares how the project came to her and why this story mattered now.The conversation also covers her brand new devotional Wake Up Your Faith and the non-negotiables Jen set before agreeing to create it. She opens up about the moment it shifted from optional to necessary, what encountering Jesus daily looks like in real life, and what it means to “love God, love people.” Fans of Winter Love Story and Kevin McGarry will enjoy a reflective look at why the film continues to resonate, what made it feel different from typical holiday movies, and how story and chemistry played a role in its lasting impact.We also talk about Jimmy, the upcoming James Stewart biopic (coming November 2026), where Jen portrays Stewart’s wife. She shares about his amazing story, the amazing cast she worked with, and what she hopes audiences will love about the movie.We close with what’s next—her college campus ministry, where she feels her career is naturally leaning, and the creative risks she’s open to taking.Her devotional: https://www.amazon.com/Wake-Up-Your-Faith-Encounters/dp/1424570654This is a conversation about faith, craft, and choosing stories with intention.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#WhenCallsTheHeart #Hearties #WCTH

Jake Epstein joins me to talk all about his new Hallmark holiday film Oy to the World, premiering Sunday, December 14 at 8/7c on Hallmark Channel and streaming the next day on Hallmark+.We get into the creative decisions behind bringing Jake Cohen to life, the old high-school rivalry at the core of the story, and what it was like navigating a holiday celebration that pulls two communities into the same space. He digs into the collaboration with Brooke D’Orsay, the tone of the film, the message of the movie, and the scenes he can’t wait for viewers to see.But we didn’t stop there. We also talked through the projects he’s been building outside the Hallmark world, including:• Ripple• DocAnna PigeonAn Indie movie that is really personal for him• His episodes of Mistletoe Murders• And what he’s developing nextJake reflects on how these projects have stretched him, what it’s meant to step into different genres, and how each experience informs the next.Whether you're here for Hallmark, the craft, or the behind-the-scenes look at his creative life, there’s a lot to dive into.#hallmark #Chrismukkah #jakeepstein #podcast

Evan Roderick joins the show to dig into A Make or Break Holiday, premiering December 20th on Hallmark Channel. We get into what drew him to Daniel, how he and Hunter King built the rhythm of a couple on the brink, and the moments he thinks fans will really enjoy! Plus, there's a surprise in the story!We also break down his work on Providence Falls—from filming in Ireland to the fight scene, the pool table showdown, and whether a spin-off could actually happen.Then we pivot to If I Run with Kat Graham, his approach to layered characters, and how he balances acting and music. He even teases what’s next—on screen and in the studio.If you're deciding what to watch this holiday season, this conversation will give you a deeper look at the stories behind the roles and why these projects matter to him.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#evanroderick #hallmark #romcom

I absolutely loved getting to chat a couple of weeks ago with Sarah Drew and Peter Mooney about Season 2 of Mistletoe Murders. During a podcaster junket we talked about the chemistry and boundary pushing, how their characters are so relatable to the audience and how Sarah's role as a producer is such an asset to the series. We also chatted about the lovestory between Emily and Sam. If you haven't watched Mistletoe Murders check it out now on Hallmark Plus! Six episodes of season 1 and season 2. As of this airing, Hallmark has not announced that it is renewing the series, but fans are very hopeful! Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #mistletoemurders #podcast

Daniel Lissing joined me, and several other podcasters, to talk about Single on the 25th, Hallmark’s upcoming Christmas film where two neighbors strike up an unexpected “friendly singles” pact that turns into something neither of them could have predicted.We dig into how he approached Cooper’s mix of charm and avoidance, the moments he thinks fans will replay, and what this film might mean for anyone spending Christmas on their own this year. Daniel also opens up about what Single on the 25th let him explore that past Christmas roles didn’t.Single on the 25th premieres December 7th at 8/7c on Hallmark.If you’re curious about how this story came together—or you just love seeing Daniel stretch into new territory—then check out this conversation! I'll also post the full chat with all of the podcasters SOON!

Join me as I sit down with Marcus Rosner—actor, writer, and producer—to talk about his new Lifetime movie Christmas in Alaska, premiering December 12 at 10/9c. We get into everything from stepping into a dual role as actor and producer, to Oliver and Megan’s rival-energy meet-cute, to the scenes he thinks fans will replay once the credits roll.Marcus also opens up about his short film Emergency, why the story matters to him, and where he is in bringing it to an audience.We also dive into Sullivan’s Crossing, how it feels to reunite with Morgan Kohan, if we'll see Liam in Season 4. Plus, what he’s anticipating heading into his first Christmas Con.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#christmasmovies #podast #sullivanscrossing

Join me for a conversation with Kerry James, who has played Caleb Odell on Heartland since Season 2. We dive into Season 19, including Episode 4’s intense plane sequence, Caleb’s evolving journey on the show, and what it’s like stepping back into key moments from his long history on the show.We talk about:What’s kept Heartland thriving for nearly two decadesKerry’s early years on the show and the gifts this job has given himThe return of Ashley, played by Cindy Busby, and how that reunion played outCaleb’s tensions with Nathan, especially after the plane crisisKerry’s story pitches that actually shaped Caleb’s arcHis thoughts on Amy’s journey, the new cast additions, and the rest of Season 19His friendship with Graham Wardle and what they’re dreaming upHis work on The Way Home and other upcoming projectsSeason 19 is streaming exclusively on UP Faith & Family in the U.S. with bonus extras you won’t find anywhere else.Kerry's passion project in Mexico: Koko Instagram: @kokomls.mx📌 Subscribe for more conversations with the actors, directors, and creatives behind the shows we love.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#heartland #kerryjames #familydrama

Heather Hemmens joins me to talk about her new Hallmark Christmas movie The Snow Must Go On, premiering Friday, November 28 at 6/5c and streaming the next day on Hallmark+. She plays Lilly-Anne Brigente, a guidance counselor determined to save a high school Christmas musical—and maybe spark a little romance along the way.Heather shares what drew her to the story, how she built chemistry with Corey Cott, and what it was like navigating a set full of students, music, and holiday energy. She gives insight into the Broadway-influenced direction from Jeff Beasley, who brings a distinct musical flair to the film.We also get into the moments Heather thinks fans will be talking about and what makes this movie stand out in this year’s Hallmark lineup!Heather also discusses:• Her favorite moments from the Hallmark Christmas Cruise• What she’s looking forward to at the Hallmark Christmas Experience• Her entrepreneurial journey with Galifornia UndiesFollow Heather: https://www.instagram.com/heatherhemmens/Galifornia Undies: https://www.instagram.com/galiforniaundies/https://www.galiforniaundies.com/Find the podcast:YouTube | Instagram | Spotify | Apple | Amazon MusicHeartinmotionmedia.com

The amazing Erin Cahill joins me to dive into Christmas at the Catnip Café—a story full of community, connection, and a few unpredictable cats. She walks through Olivia’s journey and why she absolutely said "yes" to working with Paul Campbell and the phenomenal director, Lucie Guest.We get into the chaos of working with real cats, the dynamics between Olivia and Ben, and the “big moment” Erin thinks fans will still be talking about after the movie airs. Erin touches on the Hallmark Christmas Cruise and Hallmark Christmas Experience, and even throws in a little nod to Kevin McGarryChristmas at the Catnip Cafe premieres November 30th on the Hallmark Channel, next day on Hallmark Plus

I'm thrilled that Ben Rosenbaum could join me to talk about The Christmas Cup, premiering November 30th on Hallmark Channel. We get into everything—Quinn’s journey, his collaboration with Rhiannon Fish, stellar performances from his When Calls the Heart buddies and how they all ended up in Kelowna plus he shares what moments he's really excited for everyone to see.If you love Hallmark, WCTH, or following Ben’s work, then you don't want to miss our chat! Plus, Ben's headed to Weekend 3 of the Hallmark Christmas Experience and the new season of When Calls the Heart is just around th corner, January 4th, 2026.🎬 Watch, comment, and tell me what part of the interview stood out to you!#thechristmascup #whencallstheheart #hallmark

I laughed so much with Jennifer Wigmore! She joins me to talk about Melt My Heart This Christmas—her role as Bianca Bonhomme, what drew her to the script, and how she approached playing a legendary glassblower facing burnout and reinvention. We dig into her dynamic with Laura Vandervoort, the emotional layers behind Bianca’s journey, and the moment she thinks viewers will be talking about after the movie airs.Melt My Heart This Christmas premieres on Hallmark Channel November 23rd 8/7 pm. Streaming the next day on Hallmark Plus.We also pivot to Malory Towers, where Jennifer played Miss Grayling for four of the six seasons. She reflects on the cast, the moments that stayed with her, and what made the series special. Malory Towers can be watched on BYUTV in the States and on CBC Gem and River TV in Canada. Plus check it out on streaming platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Prime. She's also in Cross (Season 2 - airs Feb. 2026 on Amazon Prime)--she plays Chief Anderson!She also shares a fun surprise for fans: she actually knows Kevin McGarry, and we get into how their paths crossed. She may actually be the first member of the #mcgarries.Plus: upcoming projects, her work across the arts, and where fans can follow what’s next.If you enjoy conversations that give you something extra behind the scenes, this one’s worth the listen.#hallmark #podcast #feelgood

Niall Matter joins me to talk about his new Hallmark Christmas movie We Met in December, premiering Thanksgiving night. We dig into what drew him to the script, how he and Autumn Reeser created that instant spark, the emotional honesty behind Dave and Annie’s story, and the scenes he thinks will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.We also get into his role as Bael in Providence Falls—from what first hooked him to the challenges of playing a supernatural disruptor without leaning on clichés. And of course, Niall shares what fans can rewatch while waiting for We Met in December (Rip in Time), what’s next for him, and how you can follow his projects.#hallmark #christmasmovies #nialmatter #autumnreeser #podcast

The amazing Rhiannon Fish joins me to talk all about her new Hallmark movie A Christmas Cup, where she stars as Staff Sergeant Kelly Brandt—returning home after a knee injury throws her military future into doubt. What starts as a difficult homecoming turns into an unexpected challenge: leading her hometown team in the annual Christmas Cup.With the help of Fire Captain Quinn Stokley (Ben Rosenbaum), Kelly finds herself rediscovering purpose, leadership, and maybe something more. But when a call from the Marines forces her to choose between two futures, the stakes get real.We dig into:• What drew Rhiannon to Kelly’s story• Kelly’s internal tug-of-war between identity, injury, and purpose• Working with Ben Rosenbaum on his first lead• Quinn & Kelly’s meet cute and their dynamic• The vibe on set with all the When Calls the Heart cameos• The moments fans should watch for — including the “big moment”• Her favorite moments in the movie and what she hopes fans feel when the credits roll• What she’s looking forward to at the Hallmark Christmas Experience in Kansas City#thechristmascup #hallmark #podcast

Rachel Boston joins me to talk all about her new Hallmark Christmas movie The More the Merrier, where she stars as Alice, an ER doctor who always signs up for the Christmas Eve overnight shift. This year, a snowstorm shuts down the hospital, three births hit the ER at once, and Alice teams up with Brian, the new cardiologist played by Brendan Penny.We get into:• Who Alice is beyond the scrubs• The dynamic between Alice and Brian• Balancing triage-level chaos with an unexpected romantic spark• How Rachel approached the three simultaneous births• The surprising heart and peace in the middle of the mayhem• • What she hopes viewers remember most about Alice’s Christmas EvePlus: We chat Hallmark Christmas Cruise & her appearance this year at the Hallmark Christmas Experience – Week 4.#hallmark #christmasmovies #podcast

Director Dustin Rikert joins me again to unpack the stories behind Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story. The movie centers on two next-door families who proudly carry the Bills Mafia spirit, but there’s a lot more brewing beneath the snow, the rivalry, and the romance.Dustin walks me through filming in Buffalo, how the weather shaped the shoot, and what it’s really like to make a movie inside Highmark Stadium. We also dig into the differences between this film and the Chiefs love story he directed earlier.One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation is the cast: Joe Pantoliano, Tony Danza, Tracy Pollan, Chris Brown, Caroline Aaron, Steve Schirripa, and Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott. Dustin explains how this eclectic mix came together and why it elevated the entire project. Plus, there are a lot of cameos coming our way!!!We also explore the biggest creative challenges, the scenes that tested the team, the surprises along the way, and the moments he hopes fans feel most deeply. Dustin's take on making this movie does not disappoint. There are so many goodies!If you love behind-the-scenes insight, comedy, a good love story or anything involving the Bills Mafia, this one’s worth watching.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #christmasmovies #buffalobills

Erik Gow joins me to talk Christmas in the Clouds and his unforgettable turn as Pip—the jolly flight attendant. We dig into how he got the role, the improv that made it into the final cut, what really happened during that moment when he was inches from Erin’s face, and how director Peter Benson guided his performance.We also look beyond the airplane aisle and into Hope Valley. Erik breaks down his three seasons as Edwin Mitchel on When Calls the Heart: stepping into a long-running cast, finding Edwin’s voice, navigating the political tension of Season 12, and the challenge of returning to a character over multiple seasons. He shares favorite on-set memories and behind-the-scenes stories.We talk about the future too—Air Bud Returns, other projects he’s been building, and the work he’s most proud of. If you love the craft of acting, the heart of Hope Valley, or simply want a great behind-the-scenes look at how memorable characters come to life, this one’s worth watching.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#WhenCallsTheHeart #Hearties #WCTH

Writer Russell Hainline joins me to talk about Three Wisest Men and Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! He shares what fans can expect from the Brenner brothers’ next chapter — from chaos, comedy, and family surprises to the big Christmas moments that make Hallmark movies unforgettable. Russell also dives into working with Paul Campbell, Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker, Kimberley Sustad, and Robert Buckley, plus how he keeps his scripts fresh, funny, and full of heart.🎄 Three Wisest Men 3 premieres this Saturday night on Hallmark Channel!🎁 Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper stars Robert Buckley and Kimberley Sustad and is now airing on Hallmark Plus.Jason Bourque - Director of Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper    • Director Jason Bourque on Hallmark's Merry...  Meghan Heffern - Actor in Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper    • Meghan Heffern on Merry Christmas, Ted Coo...  #Hallmark #ThreeWisestMen #MerryChristmasTedCooper #RussellHainline #HallmarkMovies #HallmarkChannel #PaulCampbell #TylerHynes #AndrewWalker #KimberleySustad #RobertBuckley #HallmarkChristmasInstagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm

In this episode, I sit down with actress-producer Fiona Gubelmann to unpack her dual role in the new A Royal Montana Christmas (watch on Hallmark + or check your Hallmark Channel listings). We dive into:How the story came together and what it meant to launch Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas.Her journey joining the film in both actor & producer capacities — and the big creative ideas she championed.The behind-the-scenes of transforming a movie set into a snow-covered Montana vibe — the ranch, the mountains, the authentic feel.The inner world of Princess Victoria — her transition from Zelarnia royalty to ranch newcomer, the chemistry with Huntley, the lassoing bull scene, wardrobe choices, the Holly-Day Dance.Surprises on set (weather, animals, time constraints), and what makes this one unique for Fiona — her eighth Hallmark film but first as producer.Whether you’re a die-hard Hallmark fan or fascinated by the actor-producer mindset, you’ll want to hear this.👇 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE, hit the 🔔, and join me in the comments with your favourite Hallmark Christmas moment!Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #hallmarkchristmasmovies #fionagubelmann

Under that sweeping Montana sky, Where the Wind Blows (2025) reminds you that sometimes the one you’re rescuing ends up rescuing you right back.Based on Caroline Fyffe’s bestselling novel, the 2025 film stars Ashley Elaine as Jessie Strong — a widow determined to survive on her own terms — and Trevor Donovan as Chase Logan, a drifter who never expected to find a home again. Their story unfolds against breathtaking landscapes, a stirring score, and a tone that blends classic Western grit with modern emotional depth and romance.In this conversation, Ashley Elaine — who not only stars in the film but also produced it — shares how Where the Wind Blows came to life, what it meant to take on both roles, and why Jessie’s journey of loss, resilience, and trust resonates so deeply. We talk about adapting the book, working with Trevor Donovan and an amazing supporting cast, and some amazing behind-the-scenes insights you're going to want to hear. 🎥 Watch Where the Wind Blows now on Apple TV and Amazon Prime.⏱ Chapters:00:01:20 - How Where the Wind Blows made it to film 00:04:00 - Goal of making this movie 00:05:18 - The journey viewers are in for with this movie 00:06:02 - Challenges or opportunities turning the book into a movie 00:07:30 - Who is Jessie Strong (Ashley’s character)?00:08:07 - Opening scene with C. Thomas Howell and Trevor Donovan 00:09:48 - The meet cute between Jessie and Chase 00:11:05 - Trevor Donovan as Chase Logan 00:12:35 - What do Jessie and Chase need in each other? 00:13:45 - Supporting Cast 00:16:50 - Similarities and differences from the book and movie 00:17:50 - Producing and Acting - doing those roles simultaneously 00:19:10 - Family film with boundary pushing00:21:02 - The tone of the movie - goals 00:22:22 - The cinematography 00:23:37 - The score 🎵00:25:32 - The wrap party 00:26:37 - A moment that turned out better than she thought it would00:28:30 - Challenging moments 00:29:57 - The rain scene in one take00:30:57 - The scene in the barn00:31:58 - Award nominations 00:33:56 - What we can take away from Jessie Strong’s journey🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.#WhereTheWindBlows #AshleyElaine #TrevorDonovan #WesternRomance #BehindTheScenes #MontanaSky #FilmPodcastInstagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#wherethewindblow