Between Takes - 2025 Gatherings

As the year came to a close, Between Takes wrapped up 2025 with meaningful reflection and gratitude. The December meetings offered space for the men to look back on God’s faithfulness throughout the year—both personally and professionally—while setting their hearts on what’s ahead.

It was a month of encouragement, renewal, and deep connection among brothers who understand the unique journey of living out faith in the entertainment world. The group ended the year united in purpose and strengthened in spirit, ready to carry that light into the new year with boldness and hope.

In November, the Between Takes brotherhood continued to bring together Christian men in entertainment for real, unfiltered conversations about faith, film, and life in the industry. Under the leadership of Chad Smathers, each gathering offered a powerful mix of prayer, Scripture, and honest dialogue—rooted in the challenges and hopes that come with working in Hollywood.

The guys shared updates from their projects, lifted one another up in prayer, and encouraged each other to stay grounded in purpose despite the pressures of success and uncertainty. The gatherings were marked by laughter, wisdom, and a strong sense of camaraderie that keeps this community thriving.

October was a powerful month for our Between Takes men’s gatherings, filled with honest reflection, encouragement, and spiritual growth.

On October 4th, the group explored the topic “Why The Worry?”—a deep dive into Matthew 6:25–34, where Jesus reminds us to seek first the Kingdom and trust that our Heavenly Father knows our needs. The conversation invited honest sharing around anxiety, faith, and daily trust. The men reflected on questions like what life would look like if we truly believed God provides, and what practices help combat worry. The discussion opened the door for real vulnerability, and several attendees shared afterward that it was exactly what they needed to hear.

Then on October 18th, we welcomed the legendary Jim Covell as guest host for an unforgettable session on living with purpose in Los Angeles. Jim shared stories and wisdom on mission, prayer, and calling that deeply resonated with the group. It was an inspiring reminder to stay grounded in faith while navigating life and work in the industry.
We’re so grateful for these meaningful moments of connection and growth within our Between Takes community—and a special thank-you to Jim for sharing his time and insight with us!

In September, the group continued our series "Tested Faith: How to Navigate Our Faith in Hollywood." We spent time in Matthew 10, where Jesus instructs His followers to be “wise as serpents and gentle as doves.” This led to a thoughtful discussion about what that looks like day to day—how to walk in both wisdom and gentleness while navigating the often complex and challenging landscape of Hollywood.

We reflected on how Jesus modeled this balance in His ministry: healing the soldier’s ear after Peter cut it off, blessing those who persecuted Him, and saying, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” These moments reminded us that we serve a counter-cultural God who calls us to respond to difficulty and opposition with grace, strength, and compassion.
Later in the month, we continued with Part 3 of Tested Faith, looking at James 1:2–7 and verse 12:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”

Our discussion centered on what it means to let perseverance “finish its work,” how to avoid being “blown and tossed by the wind” as described in verse 6, and how we can recognize examples of tested faith in our own lives. The stories and reflections shared were powerful—some heavy, some full of hope—but all pointing to the truth that God uses trials to shape and strengthen us.

Through both gatherings, we sensed the Lord’s presence deeply. It was a meaningful month of honest conversation, shared encouragement, and renewed trust in a God who brings purpose and beauty even from our hardest seasons

In August, our Men’s Group for Christian professionals in entertainment continued to meet bi-weekly on LA’s Westside for powerful times of conversation, prayer, and connection.

These gatherings have become a steady source of encouragement for men navigating the challenges of faith, film, and fast-paced industry life. The group provides a space for real talk—not a lecture, but a living room vibe where honesty, laughter, and brotherhood flow freely.

Each meeting offered time for Scripture, prayer, and open discussion, creating room for vulnerability and strength to grow side by side. Whether sharing industry insights or walking through personal challenges, the men encouraged one another to keep Christ at the center of their calling.

This month's meetings were powerful and memorable, continuing the ongoing conversation around spiritual warfare. It marked the highest turnout of men to date, sparking a deeply honest and Spirit-led discussion. A devotional reading posed the question: “What are the questions you are wrestling with that are at the epicenter of the war for your soul?”—a prompt that opened the door to vulnerability and meaningful conversation among the group.

As men shared openly about their struggles and emotions, the atmosphere became one of mutual encouragement and support. The evening closed with a reflection on 1 Peter 2:9, reminding everyone of their identity in Christ. Remarkably, that same verse had come up for one participant earlier in the week—an unexpected and encouraging confirmation.

Plans are already in motion for a casual hangout outside the regular meeting time, and it’s been encouraging to see deeper bonds forming. What began as a step of faith is already bearing fruit through honest fellowship, heartfelt prayer, and growing connection.

The very first meeting of the Between Takes Men’s Group took place on May 24th, and it was a great start. A few guys gathered to hear the heart behind the group, get to know one another, and have a real conversation about how they were actually doing. One of the questions that sparked meaningful discussion was, “What’s the number one lie you’re believing right now?” It opened the door for vulnerability, prayer, and encouragement. By the end, everyone said it felt like a breath of fresh air and they couldn’t wait for the next one.

The second meeting on June 7th built on that momentum. Along with returning members, two new guys joined—one who had connected through HPN in the past, and another who discovered the group through the website. After a quick recap of the group's purpose, the evening naturally unfolded into more story-sharing, deep conversation, and prayer. Everyone took time to really listen and show compassion, which led to honest and beautiful moments of connection. It was encouraging to see men being open and going deep right away—even those who had just met.

These first two gatherings set a strong tone for what Between Takes is all about: creating a safe, welcoming space for men in the industry to show up, be real, and walk alongside each other in faith.