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Rediscovering Humanity Through Storytelling with Filmmaker Ross Boothe. In this episode, we explore the power of storytelling and the arts in fostering empathy, understanding, and reconciliation across divides. Guest Ross Booth shares his journey as a filmmaker and musician dedicated to inspiring hope through authentic, human-centered narratives, especially within immigrant communities. Key Topics: How Ross Booth’s upbringing influenced his passion for storytelling and artsThe role of music and film in creating emotional, rhythmic storytellingThe significance of authentic representation in films about immigrationThe impact of stories in shifting perspectives and fostering empathyThe development and themes of the upcoming musical BrotherhoodHow art and storytelling can bridge divides and promote unity in divided AmericaRoss Booth’s vision for portraying immigrant experiences with authenticityThe importance of rediscovering shared humanity through narrativeTimestamps: 00:17 - Welcome to Peacemaker’s podcast and episode introduction00:43 - Exploring the role of storytelling in healing divisions01:07 - Ross Booth’s background and inspiration for his work02:36 - Growing up in an environment rich in cultural appreciation and community service04:55 - Ross’s journey from musician to filmmaker06:12 - How film editing felt like music, and the merging of film and music worlds08:00 - Ross’s life mission to increase hope, kindness, and empathy through arts08:33 - Birth of the project Brotherhood and its focus on immigration stories12:37 - Why Ross centered the story around a Mexican immigrant family14:16 - Ross’s motivation in telling immigrant stories from personal experience15:13 - The importance of authentic representation with input from cultural advisors17:24 - Reflections on American identity and inclusivity20:03 - The collaborative creative team behind Brotherhood and its cultural significance21:25 - The desired audience takeaway: loving neighbors better22:21 - Closing thoughts on heroism, shared journeys, and peacemaking through storytelling23:33 - How listeners can engage with the Brotherhood project and film release

The turmoil in Minneapolis, and across the nation reminds us that genuine peace begins within. When injustice turns deadly and policies threaten human dignity, where is your heart? This reflection with Yonathan Moya, Executive Director of Border Perspective cuts through the noise to explore a quiet but powerful truth: real peace stems from inward reflection, humility, and honest repentance, not just external solutions.

In this new episode, host Yonathan Moya engages in a compelling dialogue with Rev. Dr. Robert Chao Romero about the church's vital role in addressing immigration and racial issues amid today’s challenges. Dr. Romero, a distinguished scholar in Chicano and Asian American studies, shares insights from his acclaimed book, The Brown Church, exploring five centuries of Latino and Latina social justice theology. Together, they discuss how faith communities can embody hope and solidarity, offering a timely and inspiring perspective on living out the gospel in a divided world.

In this episode of Peacemakers, host Yonathan Moya welcomes Kristel Acevedo, Spiritual Formation Director at Transformation Church. Kristel shares her journey from growing up in a diverse Miami community to embracing her faith and calling in ministry. Together, they explore the themes of identity, spiritual formation, and the transformative power of community. Tune in to discover how Kristel's experiences have shaped her understanding of faith and her mission to help others find God in the wilderness.

In this episode of the Peacemakers podcast, host Yonathan Moya speaks with Munatsi Monyandi, Executive Director of Dash Network, about his journey from Zimbabwe to the United States and his work supporting asylum seekers. Munatsi shares the challenges faced by those seeking asylum, the mission of Dash Network, and the importance of community support and radical hospitality. He emphasizes the need for dignity in the asylum process and the role of the church in providing assistance. The conversation also touches on coping with trauma and burnout in this vital work, as well as practical steps for individuals to engage in peacemaking efforts.

In this conversation, the Border Perspective team discusses the theme of peacemaking, emphasizing its importance in a divided world. They explore the biblical foundations of peacemaking, the challenges faced, and practical steps for individuals to engage in this vital work. The discussion highlights the role of faith, unity, and the call to restore relationships as central to the peacemaking process.

In this episode of Peacemakers, Yonathan Moya sits down with Megan and Roland Gonzalez, directors of Border Missions in Hidalgo, Texas. Megan’s great-grandparents founded Border Missions in 1956 to share the gospel and meet the physical needs of those on the Texas-Mexico border. Megan and Roland share stories of their family’s inspiring legacy, the evolution of the mission, and how partnerships continue to fuel their ministry work today. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about faith, resilience, and the transformative provision of God. Click here to learn more about Border Missions!

In this episode, Yonathan Moya of Border Perspective sits down with César Garduño, Coordinator of the Missions Department at Río Grande Bible College. Originally from Toluca, Mexico, César shares his inspiring journey into missions, fueled by his passion for God’s global purpose. With a unique perspective shaped by his background in International Relations, Biblical Studies, and Migration and Refugee Care, César discusses the transformative work of mobilizing Latin-American students to reach the unreached. This conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities in mission work and the call for Latin America students to rise as a missionary force in today’s world.

In this episode, we sit down with Kitti Murray, a remarkable community-builder who has dedicated her life to transforming neighborhoods through radical hospitality. Kitti shares her inspiring journey, how she and her husband Bob founded Refuge Coffee, and their mission to create a sense of belonging for refugees and immigrants in Clarkston, Georgia, one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. Through her work, Kitti shows us the importance of simple yet powerful acts of welcome in fostering community renewal. Tune in to hear her stories of how compassion and leadership can create spaces where everyone is valued and empowered. If you're passionate about community-building, or the refugee experience, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to make a difference right where you are. Resources: Refuge Coffee Co.

In our latest episode, Yonathan Moya and Julie Mirlicourtois tackle tough questions about immigration, faith, and the role of Christians on the front lines of the border crisis. Julie Mirlicourtois, producer of Maybe God podcast & The Cross documentary series, shares her powerful journey from a secular upbringing to a life transformed by faith. Hear how storytelling across borders opened her heart, and how God is working in unexpected places. Resources: Listen to Maybe God Podcast here. Learn more ACROSS DOCUMENTARY SERIES here.

In our latest episode, Yonathan Moya and Pastor Jeff Reams discuss the significance of cross-cultural partnerships, focusing on border-related ministry. Pastor Jeff highlights the transformative power of firsthand experiences and stresses the importance of intentional partnerships. This conversation emphasizes how the Church, through a gospel-centered approach, is called to bridge differences among divides. Learn more about DBC at dbc.org. Learn more about our service-learning trips.

In our latest episode, we dive deep into migration issues and the importance of advocacy within the evangelical community with special guest Steven Eng, Advocacy Director at the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE). Join host Yonathan Moya in a heartening conversation that provides valuable insights and emphasizes action beyond words for the evangelical community—and Church at large, as we touch on timely topics like immigration, and policy advocacy. Resources: For the Health of the Nation Publication In this Right Now Media series, Dr. Walter Kim, president of the National Association of Evangelicals, gathers Ed Stetzer, Eugene Cho, Nicole Martin, and Gabriel and Jeanette Salguero to explore how we can live out biblical values in tangible, practical ways that honor God and show love to our neighbors.

Our next guest is Bri Stensrud. Bri is a human dignity advocate and the Director of Women of Welcome. Her passion is to equip the Church to engage more consistently and tangibly in holistic human dignity issues. In this episode, we talk about Bri's work in the pro-life ministry space and about her journey to re-discover God’s heart for the sojourner.  You can find more about Bri on Instagram @bri.stenz and learn more about her work on the Women of Welcome Facebook and Instagram. We encourage you to buy a copy of Bri's new book; Start with Welcome: The Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation anywhere books are sold.

Our next guest is Daniel Montañez. Daniel is an adjunct instructor at Pentecostal Theological Seminary and the Latino and Global Ministries Program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He is the founder and director of Mygration Christian Conference and leads the Church of God Migration Crisis Initiative. Daniel is dedicated to serving migrant communities through ministry, scholarship, and social engagement. In this episode, we talk about Daniel's vision for the Mygration Christian Conference and how he's cultivating spaces for healthier conversation around understanding immigration from a biblical perspective. We also highlight Daniel's new book, The Church and Migration: A Theological Vision for the People of God. The book seeks to transform the narrative of immigration by approaching it from the larger lens of human migration by exploring the theme of human migration throughout the grand narrative of Scripture. We encourage you to buy a copy of this book to better understand what the Bible says about God’s heart towards people on the move and how these truths can be applied in our modern world.

Our next guest is Jacob Salguero. Jacob is a gen z advocate, a creative, and an author from Dallas TX. He’s a designer that loves Jesus and uses his computer to change the world. In this episode, we talk about Jacob's love for his generation and the Church. We highlight the importance of discipleship and how we can best understand the "now" generation. You can find more about Jacob on Instagram @jacobsalguero. You can check out his website at Jacobmouse.com and make sure to order a copy of this book “For the love of Gen Z” today!