Heart in Motion Podcast: Celebrating Stories that Move Us

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

Ginna Claire Mason joins me to talk all about her brand-new Hallmark movie A Newport Christmas — premiering Sunday night at 8/7c on Hallmark Channel and W Network in Canada, and Monday on Hallmark Plus!We had the best time diving into the film’s time-travel twist, the charm of 1905 Newport, and what happens when a socialite from the past meets a modern-day sailor (played by Wes Brown). Ginna opens up about her theatre background, her favorite on-set moments, and how working with director Dustin Rikert helped bring this visually stunning story to life.From filming at Bowen’s Wharf to exploring Ella’s emotional choice between love and legacy, this conversation gives fans a real look behind the magic. Whether you’re here for the romance, the costumes, or the deeper message about purpose and connection, this episode is for you.🎄 A Newport Christmas is everything Hallmark fans love — a sweeping love story, a touch of fantasy, and the kind of ending that lingers.And, be sure to check out her new single with Wes Brown "A Timeless Christmas." Released today!!!✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with your favorite Hallmark stars, writers, and directors.📺 Watch A Newport Christmas:Hallmark Channel (U.S.) — Sunday, 8/7cW Network (Canada) — Sunday, 8/7cHallmark Plus — Monday#GinnaClaireMason #ANewportChristmas #HallmarkChannel #WesBrown #HallmarkMovies #ChristmasMovies #HallmarkPodcastInstagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm

I had a blast talking with Director and Writer of "A Newport Christmas" Dustin Rikert. We dig into what makes this movie so unexpected — from its non-traditional story flow to the emotional love triangle that feels straight out of The Notebook. And, we talk about what it’s like collaborating again with Ginna Claire Mason and Wes Brown.Dustin takes us behind the scenes of filming in Newport and Buffalo, recreating grand mansions, and even building a boat on a sound stage. With breathtaking costumes, detailed production design, and a timeless theme of choosing between past and present love, A Newport Christmas promises to stand apart from the typical holiday formula. 🎧 Watch or listen now to hear why Dustin calls this one “a love story worth remembering.”#hallmark #podcast #christmas

Actress Meghan Heffern joins me to talk about her role as Kate Cooper in the upcoming Hallmark movie Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper! From sibling chaos to Christmas comedy, Meghan shares behind-the-scenes stories, working with Robert Buckley, Kimberley Sustad, and director Jason Bourque, and what makes this holiday film so unpredictable.We also look back at some of Meghan’s fan-favorite roles — including her time on Wynonna Earp and Winter Castle. Plus, an amazing project coming to Netflix where she plays a young Sally Field.If you love Hallmark Christmas movies filled with family, laughter, and a touch of mayhem, or enjoyed seeing Meghan in previous projects this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.📺 Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper premieres Saturday, October 25th on Hallmark Channel and W Network. October 26th on Hallmark Plus.00:00:50 - Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper and Cameos; Who is Kate Cooper? 00:02:10 - Joining the Cast and working with a former producer 00:03:27 - Landing the role and meeting the cast 00:04:30 - Kate and Ted (the sibling relationship) 00:05:50 - Those fist bump moments with Robert 00:06:42 - The Elf costume and the Christmas party 00:07:48 - Is the movie unpredicatble? 00:08:36 - What surprised you most about the story? 00:09:34 - Working with Director Jason Bourque00:10:08 - Working with Robert Buckley as a lead and producer 00:11:30 - The comedic beats; what were those conversations like?00:13:01 - Ted Cooper and the mishaps 00:14:00 - Balancing the heart and the humor 00:15:11 - Playing the family and the fun 00:16:40 - Favorite part of working with this team 00:17:52 - Memorable day on set 00:20:25 - Other standout moments in the movie 00:21:45 - Craziest thing Meghan did in the movie 00:22:37 - Most excited for this moment 00:24:07 - How this role stretched her 00:25:09 - Winter Castle moments 00:28:00 - Reuniting with Kevin McGarry 00:29:00 - Working with Emilie Ullerup 00:29:50 - Past projects she's proud of 00:31:30 - The dramedy she enjoys 00:32:00 - The role she hasn't done 00:35:22- Three words to describe Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper00:35:50 - Upcoming movie where she plays Sally Field 00:36:40 - Getting to know Meghan game 🎙️ Subscribe for more interviews with Hallmark stars, directors, and writers — celebrating the stories that move us.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #christmasmovies #podcast

What really goes into making a Christmas movie that feels both timeless and fresh? Director Jason Bourque (Our Holiday Story, A World Record Christmas) joins me to talk about his latest film Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper, starring Robert Buckley and Kimberley Sustad — a mix of slapstick, sincerity, and small-town heart.From hospital hijinks and escape rooms to the moments that made everyone laugh out loud on set, Jason opens up about:✨ What drew him to Ted Cooper🎬 How Robert Buckley balanced acting and producing💫 Creating that on-screen magic between Robert and Kimberley🏥 The challenge of filming emotional and comedic scenes🎨 The stunning production design 🎁 Why one small detail in the movie will make you look twice🎥 And what he’s learned after directing 12 Christmas movies and counting🎧 Watch next: Interviews with other Hallmark directors, writers, and stars — only on Heart in Motion Media.📺 Subscribe for more conversations that celebrate the people behind the movies we love.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #christmasmovies #podcastTimestamps:00:03:02 – Excitement for directing Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper00:05:06 – Robert Buckley as lead & executive producer00:06:43 – Balancing tradition and new boundaries00:09:43 – Filming the hospital scenes00:13:33 – Buckley & Sustad’s chemistry00:15:43 – Their characters in high school00:17:00 – Working with veteran actors00:21:39 – Balancing slapstick & grounding the story00:22:33 – Why he loves directing these films00:25:19 – Production design with Heather00:27:24 – Designing A Reason for the Season00:29:37 – Favorite moment to watch come together00:31:16 – Funniest on-set moment00:33:30 – Shoutout to Nelson & Graham, the DPs00:34:32 – Most heartwarming scene00:35:20 – Small detail to look for00:36:27 – The escape room sequence00:40:00 – Advice for new directors00:41:30 – Reflections on 12 Christmas films & working with Andrew Walker00:44:30 – Projects to check out (Our Holiday Story, A World Record Christmas w/ Nikki DeLoach, A Reason for the Season w/ Taylor Cole & Kevin McGarry)00:47:40 – Christmas Game: Getting to know Jason

I sat down with actress Shae Robins to dig into her journey—from making Christmas films on Great American Family, to stepping into the role of Natalie in A Christmas Prayer alongside Christopher Russell.In this conversation:- How Shae found her way into holiday-movies and what drew her to this particular project.- Who Natalie really is, how Shae brought pieces of herself into the character, and the emotional arc that carries through the story.- The dynamic with co-star Christopher Russell, playing a widower seeking new beginnings, and how that balances with Natalie’s path of healing and hope.- A behind-the-scenes glimpse: the moment that stretched Shae emotionally, the scene that inspired her, and the creative process of—yes—portraying a book illustrator with real slumps and breakthroughs.- What it’s like to film a holiday movie compared to other projects, and what Shae hopes viewers walk away feeling.- Plus: what’s next for her, and how you can stay tuned.Whether you’re a fan of Christmas stories, interested in faith-and-hope themes, or curious about the creative journey of an actor in this genre—this interview brings real talk, vulnerability, and inspiration.👉 Watch ‘A Christmas Prayer’ streaming on Pure Flix now. Tune in Saturday, October 18 at 8/7 c on Great American Family & GFam+.Don’t forget to subscribe, hit the bell, and share if you’re into meaningful storytelling.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#podcast #faithandfamily #christmasmovies

Actress and producer Masey McLain (I’m Not Ashamed, The Baxters) joins me to talk about her newest film Soul on Fire, opening in theaters Friday, October 10th. Masey shares what it was like portraying Beth O’Leary—the real-life wife of burn survivor and motivational speaker John O’Leary—in this moving story of faith, love, and redemption.We also talk about her creative partnership with Taylor Kalupa, her upcoming holiday project Timeless Tidings of Joy with Candace Cameron Bure, Natasha Bure Perry, and Paul Greene, and an exciting collaboration with Roma Downey.From The Baxters to Soul on Fire, Masey continues to bring authenticity, faith, and emotional truth to every role. Hear how these experiences have deepened her walk with God and shaped her approach to storytelling.🎬 Soul on Fire opens nationwide Friday, October 10th.Get tickets to the Soul on Fire movie here: https://soulonfiremovie.com/tickets/Follow Soul on Fire on instagram: @soulonfiremovieFollow Masey Mclain : ‪@maseymclain9138‬ 🎄Timeless Tidings of Joy premiers on Great American Family on November 15th.💬 Watch now for an inspiring conversation on faith, resilience, and creating stories that move people.Follow Masey on Instagram: @maseymclainTikTok: @themaseymclainSubscribe for more interviews celebrating the people and stories that move us.#SoulOnFire #MaseyMcLain #JohnOLeary #FaithFilm #CandaceCameronBure #PaulGreene #RomaDowney #TheBaxters #ChristianMovies #WomenOfFaith #FaithInFilm #TimelessTidingsOfJoyInstagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm

I had such a fun time chatting with Emmanuella and Ruby Spencer, the talented twins behind Lyndy on Heartland and “Little Alice” in Lifetime’s The Little Girl Who Lived.In this interview, they share what it was like working with Brittany Bristow, how this movie differed from their years on Heartland, and what they loved most about stepping into a brand-new role.We also talk about their Nova Star Award win, their favorite on-set memories, and even a few funny behind-the-scenes stories (including who makes them laugh the most on set!).These two have grown up right in front of the camera — and their joy for storytelling is contagious.If you love Heartland, Lifetime movies, or just seeing young actors shine, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.📺 Watch The Little Girl Who Lived now on Lifetime and the Lifetime App, and catch Heartland Season 19 on CBC Gem.00:01:10 - The Girl Who Lived - Lifetime00:06:35 - Nova Star Award 00:07:18 - Heartland📸 Follow the twins: @spencer_twins on Instagram and TikTok.🎙️ More interviews like this on my Heart in Motion Podcast and YouTube channel.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#heartland #lifetime #podcast

I had the chance to sit down with Katie Stevens to talk about her journey from American Idol to The Bold Type and now stepping into the role of Cora in Hallmark’s Providence Falls.We dive into: What life looked like after American IdolHer favorite memories from The Bold TypeWhy she said “yes” to Providence FallsBehind-the-scenes stories from the lake, zipper, and chair scenesWorking with Lachlan Quarmby, Lucie Guest, and Siobhan Devine on romance and directionFilming in Ireland and what those real locations gave her performanceWhat she learned from Joanna García SwisherThe biggest gift Providence Falls gave her as an actor and a personAnd, so much more!!!Plus, Katie plays a round of rapid fire where she reveals the song she’d sing if she returned to American Idol, who she’d duet with, and which past project she’d bring back for a reunion.If you loved Katie in The Bold Type, Faking It, or now in Providence Falls, this conversation goes deeper into her artistry, her choices, and the stories that have shaped her.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that celebrate the people who bring our favorite stories to life.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#providencefalls #katiestevens #theboldtype #americanidol #hallmark

I sat down with Jon McLaren to cover four very different projects that highlight just how versatile he is as an actor.We talk about his new role as Lewis Hedges in Crossroad Springs — including working again with Erin Agostino, filming that pivotal baptism scene, and what’s ahead for Season 1.Jon also takes us behind the scenes of A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story, his first true-crime role. He shares how he prepared for the intensity of playing Darren, what it was like to film the attack scene, and why this story will shock viewers.From there, we shift to Brookfield. Jon reflects on playing Sam Tremblay in When Hope Calls — from eating way too many cookies to that fireworks finale with Maggie — and what he hopes for Sam’s future.And of course, we couldn’t miss Christmas. Jon talks about Christmas in Midnight Clear, the magic of holiday movies, his chemistry with Alicia Josopovic, and the big moment fans will be talking about.It’s a wide-ranging conversation that shows why Jon is a talent worth following.#crossroadsprings #ahusbandtodiefor #whenhopecalls #achristmasinmidnightclear #greatamericanfamily #pureflix #lifetime #lifetimemovies #truecrime #romcom #christmasmovies

In this conversation, I sit down with Kate Drummond to talk about her new role as Aunt Amy Hamilton in Crossroad Springs on Great American Family. We dive into what first drew her to the project, how she brought Aunt Amy’s faith and resilience to life, and why certain scenes at the ranch hit so hard.Kate also reflects on her time on Heartland, shares how living on a ranch in Alberta shaped her, and opens up about some of the special moments in Crossroad Springs that mean so much to her. She even talks about singing on screen, behind-the-scenes laughs with Jonathan Stoddard, and what she wants to know about her character.We also look ahead — Kate teases upcoming projects!If you love stories about family, faith, and resilience, you won’t want to miss this interview.#crossroadsprings #faithandfamily #tvseries

Ashley Williams joins me for one of the most moving conversations I’ve had on the podcast. We cover her acting journey, her natural gift for comedy, and the Barcelona movies she both starred in and helped shape. Ashley opens up about working with Allison Sweeney and the friendships that fuel her projects, plus the latest with Hallmark’s Make Her Mark program.We also dig into advocacy — from her dance party updates for ALZ, to supporting caregivers. Plus, a look at what’s ahead for her this Christmas season.Ashley brings heart, humor, and honesty into every part of this interview. You’ll laugh, reflect, and come away inspired--I know I did! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes conversations!!Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#hallmark #romcom #alzheimer #makehermark

Jaeda Lily Miller is unstoppable in 2025! 🔥In this interview, she opens up about her latest film Before Your Father Finds Us—working with Alexa PenaVega and Tahmoh Penikett, collaborating again with director Jason Bourque, and the moments on set that reminded her why she loves acting. 🎬We also dive deep into her When Calls the Heart journey. From Allie’s evolving relationship with Nathan (Kevin McGarry) and Elizabeth (Erin Krakow), to her friendship with Oliver (Jacob Shoemay), to some of her funniest behind-the-scenes memories, Jaeda shares it all.After 8 seasons in Hope Valley, Jaeda reflects on the moments that shaped her character and what she’ll carry with her in the years ahead—plus, she teases a project fans can look forward to in 2025.She’s hilarious, she’s real, and she’s full of energy fans already love. Don’t miss this one!💛 Watch now and get an exclusive look into the making of When Calls the Heart! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more WCTH interviews and content that are coming soon!

Jonathan Stoddard joins me for a deep dive into his brand-new series, Crossroad Springs — the very first original series from Great American Family. Stoddard steps into the role of Pastor James Hamilton, a Chicago pastor who returns home to his family’s struggling ranch and finds himself at the center of faith, family legacy, and a generational feud.In this conversation, Jonathan shares:* What drew him to this series and why it’s so different from his past projects* How he approached playing Pastor James and the heart of his journey* Behind-the-scenes moments with his co-stars — including working alongside Heartland’s Shaun Johnston* The unique settings that give Crossroad Springs its emotional atmosphere* Reflections on faith, family dynamics, and personal discoveries while filming* What’s next for him after this premiere📺 *Crossroad Springs* premieres August 28 on Pure Flix and August 30 on Great American Family.

Lachlan Quarmby joins me to dive deep into Providence Falls—the romance, mystery, fantasy, and history-packed Hallmark trilogy that fans can’t stop talking about. From the Irish accent and filming in Ireland, to the infamous spaghetti and zipper scenes, Lachlan shares the challenges, the fun, and what Liam’s journey taught him about love, sacrifice, and second chances. Lachlan takes us beyond the love story, sharing how stepping into Liam’s shoes reshaped his understanding of fate, sacrifice, and second chances. This isn't a fluffy chat—it's raw, revealing, and delivers a fresh emotional lens on a character we love. Includes fan-favorite scenes, behind-the-scenes insights, and what he’ll carry forward as an actor and as a person.Instagram: / stephanie_heartnmotion Website: heartnmotion.comX: https://x.com/StephHeartnm#providencefalls #hallmark #perioddrama

Taylor Cole and Ryan McPartlin join me to chat all things Double Scoop! From Nora and James’ hilarious meet-cute to the sweet rivals-to-romance chemistry, they share what fans can expect, behind-the-scenes surprises, and all the fun they had with their co-stars making this rom-com. Plus, we dive into their favorite moments on set and what to expect on social media over the next few days!📺 Don’t miss this fun interview with the stars of Hallmark’s newest romantic comedy--Double Scoop! 🍦🍨🍦🍨#hallmark #doublescoop #taylorcole #ryanmcpartlin