Following The Chosen

INTRODUCING UNDISTRACTED with Laura Bennett When the afternoon slump starts to hit, Laura’s fun and quirky personality provide just the lift you need. And getting the kids home has never been more enjoyable – putting the ‘pick me up’ in the afternoon pick up – with this entertaining show that’s safe for young ears to listen to. Our guest today is Australian actor George Xanthis, who plays John on 'The Chosen', the global hit series about the life of Jesus and his disciples. The next season is one the biggest as they face the crucifixion of Christ and in this episode, George not only talks about that, but about how a local Sydney boy got this gig, pressure to be a religious icon and how his spirituality has evolved during filming. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Guest: Brandon Robbins is a dynamic Pastor and YouTuber with a deep passion for exploring and teaching the stories of Jesus and his disciples. He has been an enthusiastic follower of the Chosen series, dedicated to analysing and expanding on its theological and historical themes. Brandon is the author of "The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus," a book that dives deeper into the Chosen's episodes to enrich the understanding of Jesus's teachings. He is known for his insightful and engaging content that resonates with both the religious and mainstream audiences alike. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: Brandon Robbins's Book: The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Guest Shereen Khan is an accomplished actress best known for her role as Miriam in the hit series "The Promised Land." With a background in studio executive positions, Khan has transitioned into acting while maintaining a strong influence in the entertainment industry. Her portrayal of Miriam has been lauded for its depth and nuance, capturing the complexity of a revered biblical figure while bringing a fresh comedic angle to the story. Her career showcases her versatility and innovative approach to storytelling, making her a celebrated figure in both acting and production circles. Key Takeaways: Innovative StorytellingGrowth of Faith-Based ContentMiriam's Leadership JourneyFemale EmpowermentCommunal and Personal Worship Notable Quotes: Shereen KhanShereen KhanShereen KhanShereen KhanShereen Khan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Leadership Challenges:Golden Calf Incident:Law and Order:Real-Life Applications:Balancing Humor and Seriousness: Notable Quotes: Land as Ben and Laura continue to dissect and explore each episode's deeper meanings and real-life applications. Don't miss out on engaging content that bridges ancient wisdom with modern-day lessons. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPECIAL: Following The Chosen explores first season of The Promised Land (watch episodes of the show for FREE on Youtube!) Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPECIAL: Following The Chosen explores first season of The Promised Land (watch episodes of the show for FREE on Youtube!) Ben McEachen and Laura Bennett discuss where biblical stories of the Exodus get The Office treatment. They chat about how director Mitch Hudson created this Moses mockumentary-style series that is part scripture, part workplace comedy. Being "The Chosen adjacent(!!!!!!!!!!!)", The Promised Land delivers leadership dynamics, gender roles, and creative storytelling in faith-based content. But what happens when reverence meets humour? And can Laura or Ben handle all the ads which support online content creators? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: The season five finale of "The Chosen" provides a strong and emotional portrayal of Jesus’ experiences leading to the crucifixion, especially in the Garden of Gethsemane. Laura and Ben highlight the creative liberties taken by the show's creators in illustrating biblical themes, particularly the traumatic events surrounding Jesus' betrayal. The flashbacks and imaginative backstories of the disciples serve to deepen understanding, although not always directly woven from scripture. The inclusion of significant Old Testament imagery and its implications for Jesus' mission are critically analyzed by the hosts. Notable Quotes: "The Chosen team wanted to give us these imagined embellished backstories on the disciples before they met Jesus in black and white." – Ben McEachen "Was his sorrow more anchored in knowing that he was about to be the source of so much pain for what everybody else was about to witness?" – Laura Bennett "This is why I'm not writing for The Chosen." – Ben McEachen "You could have the best, most A-plus Bible knowledge, but if you don't actually understand the person of who Jesus is, that does not matter." – Laura Bennett "The opposites happened for me in this episode with the Chosen… here I am again in another moment of the Chosen, appreciating that you're presenting something to us." – Ben McEachen Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you want to hear us speak of next? Season 1 and 2 of The Chosen, or House of David, or something else??? Thanks so much for dropping by and listening to Following the Chosen! Did you know that we get about 1000 listeners per ep? Thanks so much for your interest in this pod! As always - drop your questions, your thoughts comments and reflections everywhere you can find us! And where might that be, one might ask? Here in one of our episodes on Spotify! Here on Youtube! Or here on our Hope Podcasts Website! Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: "The Chosen" uses flashbacks as a narrative device, but their effectiveness is questioned in this episode. Significant moments, such as Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, underscore themes of servant leadership. The narrative choices in the episode invite viewers to revisit and explore biblical texts in greater depth. We discuss how well the show balances creative storytelling with maintaining theological accuracy. Notable Quotes: "The Chosen is prompting us to dig a little deeper into the assumptions we make about the Bible." — Laura Bennett "We set the table anyway: a reflection on obedience when we don't understand God's plan." — Ben McEachen "I find myself with less moments of deep reflection and more thinking about creative storytelling." — Laura Bennett "Using visions and dreams to guide the Last Supper setting was a fresh insight." — Ben McEachen "This episode is one of the more messy, disjointed, and odd seasons out of all of them." — Laura Bennett Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Reintroducing Nicodemus, whose character grapples with connecting Old Testament prophecies with Jesus's actions, adding a layer of mystery and fulfillment to the narrative. Laura pointedly discusses the discomforting depiction of Mary Magdalene's abduction, expressing concerns over the choice of storyline and its implications. Ben observes that the sympathetic portrayal of Judas Iscariot challenges typical viewers' perceptions and raises questions about his true motivations. The episode is marked by the significant roles of women who influence key biblical figures, hinting at their possible contributions to the narrative outcomes. The episode offers fewer humorous moments than previous ones, reflecting the rising tension and gravity as the series progresses toward critical events in Jesus's life. Notable Quotes: "Nicodemus's scene does have that sort of 'serial killer movie' vibe, yet it's not." – Ben McEachen "To think that she would just trust that that's okay is just… no, you just would not." – Laura Bennett on Mary Magdalene's abduction "Because I've seen too much… because I haven't seen enough." – A line portraying Judas's conflicted struggles. "Jesus can't make the funny little comments that he did before because his emotional state is different." – Laura Bennett "The wives behind all of these figures…it reminds you of the context around these men in leadership." – Laura Bennett Resources: Hope 103.2 Website Tune in to the full episode for an insightful discussion that pushes the boundaries of conventional biblical narratives, providing a fresh perspective through the lens of "The Chosen." Stay connected for more thought-provoking conversations ahead! Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: hope1032.com.au Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Takeaways: The disciples are confused by Jesus' actions and seek understanding. Historical context enriches the narrative of Jesus' time. Understanding is a recurring theme in the episode. Matthew's conversation with Jesus highlights the difference between surprise and shock. The Last Supper serves as a recurring narrative device. The portrayal of Jesus' interactions with Jewish leaders is significant. The emotional turmoil of Jesus is palpable in this episode. The relationship between Jesus and his disciples is central to the narrative. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evoking reflections on character development, scriptural interpretations, and personal faith insights, this episode explores Jesus' narrative within its historical and spiritual context. Ben and Laura discuss the show's imaginative takes on biblical characters and events, particularly focusing on the potent depiction of Jesus overturning tables in the temple. The series illuminates Jesus' righteous anger and controlled intensity, enriching viewers' understanding of his mission. They commend "The Chosen" for its ability to humanize often one-dimensional biblical figures like Thomas, giving them a broader narrative that extends beyond their defining scriptural moments. Their conversation touches on the show's effective portrayal of biblical history, particularly concerning themes like sacrifice and religious customs at the temple. This episode exemplifies how creative storytelling intersects with scriptural truth, producing a compelling drama that resonates with contemporary audiences. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben and Laura share their first impressions and honest critiques, as they set the stage for an engaging discourse on expectations and storytelling in this widely popular series. The episode explores key elements from its cinematic release approach to how it channels the duality of joy and sorrow experienced by Jesus. Highlighting the show's ambitious promotional strategies, the hosts discuss the balance between artistic execution and thematic fidelity. The candid dissection of what works and what doesn't in this episode of The Chosen offers listeners an insightful look into narrative dynamics and spiritual interpretation. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want more of Money: Faith & Finance? Click here Welcome to Money: Faith & Finance where we explore the profound and practical of everyday finances. In every episode, we explore the real-life impact of everything from superannuation to stewardship, the World Bank to your wallet – and what does God have to say about money? Join hosts Ben McEachen and Pete Burrows as they sit with Hope1032's brekky announcer Danniebelle Whippy on the Money: Faith & Finance podcast. Discover how Danniebelle's upbringing in biblical generosity faced challenges from redundancy and mortgage pressures to anxiety. Learn how she turned to Jesus' promises in the Sermon on the Mount and 1 Corinthians 10:13, seeking God through hardship to grow in faithfulness. Key Takeaways: Faith and Generosity: Danniebelle's generous upbringing has shaped her approach to money. Any time she can show generosity, Danniebelle sees that as success. Struggles in Sydney: Living in the second-most unaffordable city in the world, Danniebelle shares how financial strain was compounded by health issues, unemployment and worry. Journey Through Darkness: Danniebelle recommends wise counsel, professional healthcare advice, and spiritual re-engagement to help navigate out of dark periods. Faith, Not Finances: Rather than continue to strive for financial security, Danniebelle came to trust in God’s provision - no matter her circumstances. The Power of God's Word: I Corinthians 10:13 has provided Danniebelle with comfort and resilience, reaffirming that God never pushes us beyond our limits. Notable Quotes: "It's easy to slip into the depths of the depression of it, but actually [I found it was about] not letting yourself go there and turning to God's word..." – Danniebelle Whippy "I'm just going to get my walk right with God... and things started to change in my financial state." – Danniebelle Whippy "It's trusting in him that he will provide for you." – Danniebelle Whippy "He’ll never let you be pushed past your limit. He’ll always be there to help you come through it." – Danniebelle Whippy Join the Money: Faith and Finance Group on Facebook here! We love your questions. Contact the Money: Faith and Finance team and we will aim to get back to you in a future episode. Pete Burrows is an accountant for small business and individuals with Lower Russell and Farr in Penrith, Western Sydney, Australia. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings on Hope 103.2FM in Sydney, Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben McEachen and Laura Bennett as they discuss differing views on the Season Four finale of The Chosen. Ben praises its convergence of storylines and Laura critiques its ending. They delve into significant scenes, including Mary’s profound gesture with expensive perfume and the ongoing debate around Jesus' teachings. The episode highlights contemporary faith dilemmas and the complexities of unity within the disciples and broader community. Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.