Jeff Baxter
Executive Producer
In films, this role is often the person with the money—not true here! Here the role is defined as supporting our production team in reaching its content and communication goals.
My first connection with Day of Discovery was in the mid to late 70's as one of the Discovery Singers. I became more interested in what was going on behind the camera and the power of the medium. Now as a production team we work hard to bring content and images together to encourage viewers to consider the reasonableness and goodness of following Jesus and his teaching.
Interests: Archeology, wilderness areas, marathons, connecting with family and friends, helping women and children that are abused, following the spiritual trends and needs around the world.
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Background:
- BFA Biola University
- ThM Dallas Theological Seminary
- Volunteered in TV production at a station in Kansas City
- Worked in video production at Dallas Theological Seminary
- Freelance producer before joining Day of Discovery in 1987
Favorite Verse:
"Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God" —2 Corinthians 3:5
DOD Favorites:
Africa and the Bible — Producing this series took me on a journey that revealed myths and misinterpretations that have had a terrible impact on African Americans for more than 200 years.
When Love Hurts —This series on domestic abuse brought to light the misuse of Scripture to justify abuse, gave insight into understanding when abuse is worse than divorce, presented steps to healing for the abused and the abuser, and gave churches practical ways to address this crisis issue.
Fred Hollis
RBC Ministries Radio and Television Division Manager, Producer/Director
Father of 9—over one million diaper changes served…
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Background:
- Graduate of Indiana University School of Telecommunications
- Director/Camera WHMB TV 40, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Production Manager / Producer WHME TV 46, South Bend, Indiana
- Production Manager / Producer KYFC TV 50, Kansas City, Missouri
- Manager / Producer Masterwork Productions Video and Film, a division of Campus Crusade for Christ
Favorite Verse:
"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea."
—Habakkuk 2:14
DOD Favorites:
Quest for the Aucas—Invited by the Waodani Indians in the time of the ministry of Rachel Saint, our production in the jungles of Ecuador reintroduced a story that was legend, but fading, in Christian circles. Through the tribe, we told this amazing story of God's grace, along with our guests Marge Vander Puy, widow of missionary Nate Saint, and her son, a young businessman named Steve Saint, who would carry on for Rachel after her passing.
Barry Felten
Producer/Director, Manager of TV Operations, Narration
I began working with Day of Discovery in the early 80s as a props person and set builder while still in college. I had the unique opportunity to work with a Hollywood crew on a music segment production for DOD in Cypress Gardens, Florida, and got hooked on video production! After finishing college and gaining additional experience in scripting, audio editing, and a broad range of video production, I began working full-time with DOD more than 2 decades ago. There is so much to love about being a part of DOD for the past 25 years. But being "the voice" of Day of Discovery, I have the privilege of reading the Scripture segments in most programs—an awesome responsibility! I am also the tallest member of the team (6'4")!
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Background:
- BS/BA Aquinas College
- RBC Ministries: Associate Producer, Producer, Manager, 1982–Present
Favorite Verse:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." —Proverbs 3:5-6
DOD Favorites:
It is hard to choose a favorite (it's like calling one of your children a "favorite")! In recent years, however, I would have to choose:
When Love Hurts—Domestic abuse is such an issue within society and within the church. I love the way in which this series brings biblical clarity to often misinterpreted Scripture texts used by abusers to perpetuate abuse. It also offers hope for healing to lives shattered by abuse and a call to the church to step up to the challenge of confronting abuse.
David McCasland
Researcher/ Writer and Co-producer
Research motto: You'll never know if anyone is home unless you ring the bell.
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Favorite Verse:
"Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God."
—Psalm 90:2
DOD Favorites:
I love every biography we've done because of the unique expression of faith in each person's life.
Wayne Ott
Graphics Producer/Director
As a member of the post-production staff, I do much of the graphic design for the programs. I also have the pleasure of getting out in the field and doing a lot of the camera work that is seen each week on the program. If you enjoy the sweeping "boom" moves that you see from time to time—that is one of my specialties! (The Boom Master)
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Favorite Verse:
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."—John 3:16
DOD Favorites:
Any of the music specials would be my favorites. I enjoy working with the artists, and sometimes we find ourselves in some very unusual locations. I also enjoy the Bible lands programs.
Sharon Willis
Marketing Brand Manager
I love to analyze the pieces of the puzzle that connect the program to our viewers— On which stations can viewers find the program? Which programs receive the most comments? Which ministry resources are the most popular? Is the number of viewers going up or going down? Are viewers receiving their resources on a timely basis?....etc. I LOVE FEEDBACK FROM VIEWERS!
My hobbies are my job, my husband and my two beautiful children, and my church. I don't have time for much else!
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Favorite Verse:
"This is what the LORD says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is good for you and leads you along the paths you should follow." —Isaiah 48:17
DOD Favorites:
When Love Hurts—This series takes a sensitive topic and presents it from a sensitive and biblically-balanced point of view—without glossing over the harsh realities of women living in violent situations.
Julie Richardson
Production Assistant
I am intrigued by every person I meet. Each person has a story to tell, and I love to catch a glimpse into another's life and enjoy learning from his or her past experiences. I consider it a privilege to be part of the Day of Discovery crew, and I find great fulfillment in seeing God glorified behind-the-scenes as well as on the programs that are produced.
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Responsibilities:
- Pre-production: Acquire film and location permits; coordinate travel and accommodations for video shoots; work with project expenses & budget.
- Video production support: wardrobe, make-up, hospitality, and site coordination
- Post-production support: secure music, photograph, and footage licenses
Favorite Verse:
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." —Joshua 1:9
DOD Favorites:
Worship in the Wilderness and Faithful God—The locations and songs on both of these programs hold deep personal significance for me. Shannon Wexelberg's music is very worshipful and healing.
The Story of Drs. Paul and Margaret Brand—The Brands' story has deeply inspired me. This couple served God by fully submitting to His will, loving people unconditionally, and living for God's glory rather than their own. It is an example that I want to follow.
Gary Brook
Video Editor
One day, when my son was about 5, he asked me: "Dad, are you going to work to watch TV again?" As an editor, I basically watch TV. (It is a little more complicated than that.) Working on Day of Discovery is great, because I get to do something I love to do and I get to learn SO much every day about God and His incredible love for us.
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Favorite Verse:
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." —Philippians 4:8
DOD Favorites:
Faithful God—During a recent difficult season in my life, I found that Faithful God really spoke to my heart. The music of Shannon Wexelberg helped remind me that God is faithful and He is good. This show was shot in Hawaii near the ocean. I love big waves, and Hawaii is a great place to see some. (I hope to get there in person some day).
Leah Buchanan
Assistant Video Editor
I love old movies. Gone with the Wind is my favorite. I love working with the crew here at Day of Discovery. We are all unique, yet we bring some amazing talent to the table for God's glory. I like how we all want to serve the Lord with everything we have inside of us. It has always been my dream to work for RBC Ministries on their television program, and it is hard to believe that this dream has actually come true!
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Favorite Verse:
"Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." —Hebrews 12:1-2. I also love reading through the Psalms.
DOD Favorites:
Celtic Cry—I love the music, and the stories are amazing. Plus visually it is beautiful!
From Vengeance to Forgiveness: Jake DeShazer's Extraordinary Journey—When I volunteered here, I begged to be able to do the transcripts for this. I had never heard the story, and to hear about how forgiving this man was to his captors—when we often can't even forgive those around us about a little issue in the past—was very inspiring for me.
John Daniels
Composer: original score
I write and produce most of the background music on the programme (and that spelling, as well as that of some other words here, should point to another fact—I'm British!). I particularly enjoy the challenge of adding a different kind of "colour" to things, which hopefully adds to the programme's visuals, and consequently its message and truths. I love being part of a team and contributing something unique to what others (each in their unique way) have put together. Hey, doesn't that sound something like how the church should be?
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Favorite Verse:
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
—Matthew 6:33
DOD Favorites:
Shikarpur Diary and The Story of Drs. Paul and Margaret Brand—I have many favourites, but I think I would probably pick the Shikarpur Diary series, with the missionary nurses who returned to Pakistan, and the series on Dr. Paul Brand and his wife, set mainly in India. They were so encouraging and challenging in terms of looking back on a life dedicated to serving God and others. I hope and pray that one day I can look back on a life that has been equally, though differently, fruitful. My favourites for the musical challenges and how they turned out, would be the series on the life of C. S. Lewis, the Nkiliji series set in Africa, and the Xavanti Chronicles set in South America.
Kevin Burgess
Broadcast Media Services
I am blessed to be a part of a ministry that allows me to use my abilities for the Lord. Specifically for Day of Discovery, this has meant being able to travel to many parts of the world to provide lighting and audio support, as well as the opportunity to create the final audio mix for the broadcast.
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Favorite Verse:
"He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted." —Job 5:9
DOD Favorites:
Africa and the Bible—full of rich imagery and content that revealed facts about biblical history that have generally been lost over the ages. It was extremely educational and enlightening to me.
From Vengeance to Forgiveness: Jake DeShazer's Extraordinary Journey—a great story of God's love shining through in spite of what appeared to be an insurmountable hatred for another culture.
Anne Stevens
Closed Captioning Specialist, BMS Technician
I actually see every word that's said on every program. I learn quite a bit when I have to look up place names, foreign words, etc. to make sure they're spelled correctly in the captioning.
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Favorite Verse:
"Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." —Psalm150:3-6
DOD Favorites:
The Life of C. S. Lewis—I like his books, and his life story is very interesting.
Faithful God and David: Ordinary Man, Extraordinary God—Good music, meaningful lyrics.
Diana Roush
Quality Control & Duplication, BMS Technician
I love my job because it never stays the same. Technology changes dictate new ways to do our jobs, a variance from routine.
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Favorite Verse:
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." —Ephesians 2:8-9
DOD Favorites:
From Vengeance to Forgiveness: Jake DeShazer's Extraordinary Journey—My favorite, most recently, would be the Jacob DeShazer series. I was impressed with his transformation from hate to love for the Japanese people. It's once again the testimony of the work of the Holy Spirit when you give your life to the Lord. This series also interests me because I was born on the day the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima!
Bob Kornstadt
Manager of Engineering and Media Distribution
I enjoy researching ways to use technology to reach people with the gospel and teachings.
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Favorite Verse:
"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." —James 1:5
DOD Favorites:
Romans: The Letter That Changed The World series—It really put that time period and culture in perspective for me—it was such an important part of Bible history.
Greg Praniewicz
Chief Engineer Radio/TV
One of my greatest joys is being part of a highly creative team of individuals whose mission is to see the life-changing power of the gospel shared through electronic media. I love interacting with our staff, understanding their needs, helping to design processes, facilities, and training that will enable them to produce DOD programming that will impact millions of lives.
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Favorite Verse:
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."—Romans 8:1-2
DOD Favorites:
From Vengeance to Forgiveness: Jake DeShazer's Extraordinary Journey—This series powerfully illustrates the transforming power of Christ's love in action in an individual's life.
Jeanine Strock
Sr. Video Editor/Associate Producer
I love the creative freedom I'm given by the producers to help bring a DOD script to life visually.
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Favorite Verse:
"Consider what God has done:
Who can straighten what He has made crooked?
When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad,
consider God has made the one
as well as the other.
–Ecclesiastes 7:13-14
DOD Favorites:
Usually each program I work on has something that draws me to it. You can't work on something for 2-3 weeks and not be impacted by it's message. My "favorite" would be whatever I'm working on at the time.
Don Kooima
Project Manager
As Project Manager, my responsibilities include managing the process of getting the DVDs to your mailbox. This includes coordinating the design and printing of the DVD wraps and direct mail pieces as well as managing the inventory to ensure we always have product in stock to meet our viewers' needs.
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Favorite Verse:
"What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" –Micah 6:8
DOD Favorites:
Wonder of Creation: Wilderness – I love to visit National Parks to see the beauty and majesty of God's creation. From forests and rivers to mountains, this DVD shows His creative power and majesty in many different places across the United States—especially in Alaska.
Jessica Staples
Assistant Producer
I consider it such a privilege and gift from God to be able to serve on the Day of Discovery team. I enjoy being a part of a team that loves the Lord and seeks to communicate His truth through our programs.
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Favorite Verse:
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles us. Let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."–Hebrews 12:1-2
DOD Favorites:
Wisdom from Ephesis - The Gospel of John. I love how Michael Card explores the person of Jesus through the eyes of His youngest disciple John. It makes me marvel at Jesus and His love for us.
Mary Hauschild
Production Assistant
I enjoy reading the comments from viewers and how Day of Discovery has touched their lives; provided them with help and hope, and given them a deeper understanding of Christ, the Christian life, and the Bible.
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Favorite Verse:
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." —Isaiah 26:3
DOD Favorites:
"My Search for Messiah," "The Life of Paul and Margaret Brand," "The Life of C.S. Lewis," and "The Jewish Roots of Christianity." I love seeing the Bible lands and enjoy the biographies; hearing how Christ uses people to minister for His glory.
Bobby Palosaari
BMS Technician/Administrator
I enjoy taking a final look at each DOD program for quality assurance and then shipping programs around the world in support of our mission to make the life-changing wisdom of the Bible understandable and accessible to all.
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Favorite Verse:
"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you." —John 15:7
DOD Favorites:
Jesus: Man, Messiah or More?—This 8 part series gives so much historical perspective to the ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. I really enjoy the in-depth discussions by many Bible scholars who explain with such passion and knowledge the motivations of everyone surrounding the Gospel. And as this series was shot in Israel, it also sets the scene where so many events in the life of Jesus took place.