In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Tim Buxton sits down with Rod Hopping—founder of Heritage Films (aka 'Movies Change People')—to explore the power of story, film, and community to transform lives.
Rod shares how Braveheart and The Passion of the Christ ignited his journey from business into the world of purpose-driven film distribution. From confronting personal grief and disillusionment to redefining inclusion, leadership, and faith, Rod opens up about the beauty found in brokenness—and why he believes that most of us are like the rest of us.
Plus: an inside look at the powerful social justice film Sound of Freedom and Rod’s reflections on story as a vehicle for healing, justice, and belonging.
Episode Takeaways
How one film (Braveheart) changed Rod’s life and sparked a 20-year mission
Why story—not sermons—can awaken the soul
The messy beauty of rebuilding faith and community after loss
Why Rod believes “if you have deep wells, you don’t need fences”
The power of inclusive storytelling to foster empathy and change
Behind the scenes on Sound of Freedom and its impact on viewers
Keywords/Tags
Braveheart, Passion of the Christ, social impact film, movie distribution, Rod Hopping, Heritage Films, Movies Change People, Sound of Freedom, storytelling, healing, social justice, belonging, faith deconstruction, inclusion, purpose, creative leadership, empathy, entrepreneurship, transformation, trauma, grief, cultural narrative, documentary impact, church & identity
Connect & Learn More: Heritage Films | YouTube
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