Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

Michael Foust

Producer John Shepherd on Sarah’s Oil and the Remarkable True Story of Faith and Fortune

November 4, 2025   ●   12 min

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Producer John Shepherd (The Ultimate Gift, Bella, Emmanuel) joins host Michael Foust to discuss Sarah’s Oil — a powerful new faith-based film inspired by the true story of Sarah Rector, one of America’s first Black millionaires. Shepherd shares how faith, perseverance, and divine purpose shaped this remarkable story of a young girl in early 1900s Oklahoma who struck oil and changed history. Discover how Sarah’s Oil reminds us to use our God-given gifts, dig deeper into our purpose, and trust God’s plan even when the world calls it “impossible.”


Highlights

  • Sarah’s Oil tells the true story of Sarah Rector, an 11-year-old girl whose faith led her to one of the most inspiring rags-to-riches stories in American history.

  • John Shepherd shares how faith and determination drive success — both in filmmaking and in life.

  • The film explores themes of perseverance, community, and divine purpose amid racism and greed.

  • How true stories rooted in faith have the power to inspire change and strengthen belief.

  • Behind-the-scenes insight into working with the Rector family and honoring Sarah’s legacy.

  • Why today’s faith-based entertainment renaissance is raising the bar for storytelling and production.

  • Shepherd’s personal reflection on Billy Graham’s influence and how faith continues to shape his filmmaking journey.


Join the Conversation

What’s a true story that strengthened your faith or inspired you to chase your God-given purpose? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CrosswalkTalk and #LifeAudioPodcast — we’d love to hear your story!


Resources & Links

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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