Official Adventures in Odyssey Podcast: Recent Episodes
Focus on the Family
Go behind the scenes of the world’s No. 1 Christian family audio dramas from Focus on the Family. Tune in to hear fascinating stories — straight from the show's actors — about your favorite characters and the latest episodes. Listen as Adventures in Odyssey producers answer fan questions submitted at WhitsEnd.org/Podcast. This 10-minute family podcast drops every other Wednesday and is the ultimate fan experience. Subscribe now so your kids can listen to new episodes right when they are released!
Showrunner Marshal Younger, co-creator Phil Lollar, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, and line producer Nathan Hoobler return to answer your questions. Why were the names of the early albums changed? Will marshmallow and pear ice cream ever be available? Is Kandy becoming a regular character? Will we hear from Marla, Chase, Lexi, or Micah again? Will Jason and Jillian appear in the next album? These answers and more—straight from the writing team.
Showrunner Marshal Younger unpacks the five-episode journey that transformed the Perkins family. How did real-life experiences shape Ron’s path? And why is Bridget’s story still unfinished? Plus: a preview of “The Picture Day Plot”!
Before voicing Ron, Eric Martsolf was singing at theme parks, performing on cruise ships, and even touring with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Eric shares how his eclectic career prepared him to play a Marine returning home — and what he’s learned from Ron’s emotional journey.
Fans submitted thousands of off-the-wall, anything-goes questions, and Chris is ready to answer. From her favorite childhood book to the one food she’d eat forever, get to know the voice of Adventures in Odyssey like never before.
Writer/director Kathy Buchanan and sound designers Luke Guenot and Zach Schneider dive into the making of “Better Buck Next Time.” Hear how Buck’s story evolved after his breakup with Jules, how football and faith collide in this three-parter, and why the team recorded at a real-life batting cage to get just the right sound.
Morrie Rydell is changing from manipulative villain to surprising hero. Actor Atticus Shaffer and writer/director Phil Lollar take us inside “Kris-Crossed,” discussing Morrie’s changes, behind-the-scenes stories, and insight into the Christian underpinnings of the character. Plus, hear a preview of “Better Buck Next Time, Part 2!”
Marine Josh Hosler shares how his real-life experiences shaped the Adventures in Odyssey episode “Ambush” and more. From military communication to a surprising sheep encounter, hear how he brought authenticity to the story of Ron Perkins—and even landed multiple speaking roles.
We’re saying goodbye to CDs in the spring of 2026 and going fully digital. That means longer storylines for your favorite characters. Less waiting between multi-part stories. More flexibility for fun, one-off episodes. But what about downloads? Will there still be 24 new episodes a year? Executive producer Dave Arnold and showrunner Marshal Younger join producer Bob Smithouser to answer questions about the transition.
It’s Opposite Day as hosts become guests and Bob and Jesse tackle more than a dozen TRQs from our listeners!
Writer Evan David and sound designer Zach Schneider reveal how they brought “School of Hard Knocks” to life. Evan shares the challenge of transforming Clubhouse Magazine’s Tori Mori into an Odyssey character and weaving her into Olivia and Zoe’s storylines. Meanwhile, Zach pulls back the curtain on crafting the polished, dynamic sound of Mapleton Prep.
Showrunner Marshal Younger, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, writer/director Phil Lollar, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Adventures in Odyssey past, present and future! From Bridget’s job changes and Wyatt’s new voice to hints about Album 78 and beyond, the team answers your most curious inquiries about Odyssey’s past, present, and future. Plus: Learn the titles of Album 78 and 79.
Sound designer Nathan Jones and composer John Campbell reveal how they turned “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” into a rock anthem, balanced professionalism with a touch of amateur fun, and tackled the challenges of bringing a fictional band to life.
Dive into the making of the latest story arc with showrunner Marshal Younger and actor Dawson Griffin, the new voice of Wyatt Perkins. Why has this story been five years in the making? How did Dawson’s journey to Odyssey begin? What’s coming up for the Perkins family in the days ahead? Find out!
Writer Charlie Richards returns to Adventures in Odyssey after 24 years. Discover how his journey from Focus on the Family to a Hollywood sitcom to “The Pond” led to the latest Club adventure, “You Dirty Rat.” Plus hear a preview of the final episodes of Album 77!
Bob and Jesse celebrate Richard Moore, this year’s Whit Award winner, with his son Chris and grandson Campbell, who nominated him! Hear how Richard’s mentorship was impacted by Whit himself and how his own mentorship has impacted others. Plus, get the latest on new Adventures in Odyssey merch and a preview of the next episode from Album 77!
All the ideas for the Avery Awards have been done until Bob and Jesse employ their new digital assistant AI-Oh. From daring escapes to singing in spooky mansions, our hosts reveal the fan-voted winners from Album 75: “The Best is Yet to Come” and Album 76: “Keep it Together.”
Caitlin Thorburn, the voice of Renee D. Carter, shares her journey from old England to New England (and back again!), mastering Renee's Scottish accent, and what fans can expect from “The Heavens Declare.”
Andre Stojka had to miss One Grand Party and had a lot of people praying for him. He gives us an in-depth update on what happened and how he’s feeling now.
Relive the milestone that is halfway to 1000 as you join the folks in Odyssey for a fun behind-the-scenes look. Exclusive interviews, bloopers, a fun-filled tour of our first 500 episodes, and much more!
Odyssey co-creators Phil Lollar and Steve Harris talk about the creation of Odyssey in 1986 and God’s hand on the show (Plus: We reveal the name of episode #1000!)
Focus on the Family President Jim Daly travels the halls of the United States Congress, university campuses, and the State Department and finds Adventures in Odyssey fans everywhere he goes.
Composer Martie Echito worked on the very first Adventures in Odyssey theme song in 1987 and created the background music for dozens of episodes.
Showrunner Marshal Younger, co-creator Phil Lollar, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Album 76: Keep it Together, future books and episodes, and look forward to Album 77.
In the Eric Liddell three-parter, Greg Jbara plays a Headmaster at a school in England, a Scottish track coach, a Manchester reporter, a Japanese officer, an elderly man at a concentration camp…and of course Pastor Wilson! Plus, he’ll be joining us for One Grand Party in Colorado Springs. Greg talks about all of this and more.
Writer/director Kathy Buchanan and sound designer Zach Schneider discuss Buck’s first (but not last!) adventure in Baltimore – “Making an Honest Buck.”
“The Rydell Realizations” is a turning point for Emily and especially for Morrie. Get into the spoiler-y details of the story and production with writer/director Phil Lollar and sound designer Luke Guento … but only after you’ve heard all three parts!
Executive producer Dave Arnold starting outlining a story about Eric Liddell in 2019 — but the episode wasn’t written and directed by Phil Lollar until 2023 and not released until 2024. Follow the marathon production of the three-part epic. (Plus: A preview of “The Rydell Realizations, Part 3”)
Sound designer Nathan Jones looks back on all the jogging and Olympic sprints in the first two parts of “Running the Race,” previews the final episode in a prison camp…and tells us the one thing he would save from his home.
Brian Cummings has played dozens of Odyssey characters from Christopher Columbus to the local soccer coach to Emperor Nero to even Jesus Christ.
Actress Keely Marshal looks back at (spoiler!) singing in “Right Notes, Wrong Key” and ahead to the three-part “Running the Race.”
In our final podcast looking back at the life of Will Ryan and the creation of “The Best is Yet to Come,” Will’s wife Nancy Niparko Ryan shares stories from their time together, Will’s similarity to Eugene, and the reach of Adventures in Odyssey.
Dana Powers, voice of Molly’s curiously unnamed mom, remembers auditioning, talks about voicing KitKat commercials, and shares why “One Last Treasure Hunt” is her favorite episode.
Vitalii Knya, Head of Delivery at Respeecher, tells us how they created Eugene’s line for “The Best is Yet to Come,” the technology behind their company, and what’s going on in Ukraine.
Calling all Odyssey fans! The 1,000th episode airs this year! We’re inviting fans from all over the country to join us at One Grand Party on August 2-3, 2024, in Colorado Springs. Tickets go on sale on Thursday, January 11. Get more details on today's podcast.
As a special gift, hear an entire Imagination Station audiobook! More are available in the Adventures in Odyssey Club. In this adventure, Cousins Patrick and Beth go to the Holy Land in the tenth century BC. Troubles await them as soon as they step out of the Imagination Station. First they meet an angry bear and later an angry giant. Set against the backdrop of the David and Goliath story, the cousins learn that having a giant faith is more important than having a giant on your side.
Why not let Eugene stay in Odyssey? Are you going to use the same technology to bring back old characters? Where did you get Bernard’s lines? Why did the whole family Meltsner family move? Why didn’t we hear Wooton in Eugene’s goodbye party?Are we going to get any episodes with the Meltsners in Baltimore? And most importantly, how old are all of the kids in Odyssey?! Executive producer Dave Arnold, showrunner Marshal Younger, writer/director Phil Lollar, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer the biggest questions about Eugene’s departure.
Sound designers Luke Guenot and Zach Schneider talk about working on such a significant series of episodes and how it was the most collaborative production in Odyssey history
Katie Leigh, voice of Connie, remembers the recording sessions for the Meltsner four-parter and working with Townsend Coleman as Eugene
Writing discipline, bringing back Dr. Trask, and choosing characters who scare her are all topics on writer Abigail Geiger’s mind.
In "As Far As It Depends on Me," both Penny Bassett and actress Kimmy Robertson dealt with emotions and memories from their pasts. Kimmy shares how she conveyed the range of feelings in the story, how she practiced her comedic timing, and the lessons she took from the episode.
In “A Day in the Life,” Hollywood came to Odyssey to make a movie about the town. Writer Evan David tells why this episode from 1991 gets a sequel in the October Club adventure “Extended Cut.” Plus: Hear a deleted scene with Connie and Eugene on the phone.
Buckle up - in more ways than one! It's time for the Album 73 and 74 Avery Award, where the winners of Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Sound Design, Best Script, Best Scene, and Best Episode will be finally and dramatically revealed. Journey through the many rooms of Jesse’s new house as Bob announces all of the Avery Awards, with cameos from many Odyssey cast and crew members. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.
Multiple generations of Odyssey listeners connect as this year’s Whit Award Winner Alaina and her nominator Emma share how mentors affect kids - and how kids affect mentors!
God took the real Thomas Dorsey on quite the journey to the composition of “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” For sound designer Nathan Jones and singer Jamal Sarikoki, the production of the audio dramas felt almost as epic.
With the release of “Young Whit and the Phantasmic Confabulator” and “Young Whit and the Cloth of Contention,” the series is complete. Hear from authors Dave Arnold and Phil Lollar about the story of what shaped John Avery Whittaker as a boy.
Thomas Dorsey wrote more than 3000 gospel songs including "Precious Lord." Actor Leilani Barrett, voice of Thomas in this month's Club adventure, said more than 3,000 words while creating the character for "Precious Lord." He shares the joys and challenges of creating a historical figure.
Thomas Dorsey wrote more than 3000 gospel songs including "Precious Lord." Actor Leilani Barrett, voice of Thomas in this month's Club adventure, said more than 3,000 words while creating the character for "Precious Lord." He shares the joys and challenges of creating a historical figure.
Executive producer Dave Arnold, showrunner Marshal Younger, and actor Townsend Coleman share about the way forward with Eugene Meltsner after Will Ryan passed away in 2021. Plus, hear from the girls who ran a 5k in Will’s honor.
Chris Anthony Lansdowne does more than host Adventures in Odyssey. She’s also Mrs. Randolph, who gets a backstory (and some songs!) in "Mile 151."
Chris Anthony does more than host Adventures in Odyssey. She’s also Mrs. Randolph, who gets a backstory (and some songs!) in "Mile 151."
Odyssey artist Gary Locke tells an incredible story about beginning to draw, digital art, death, life, and heaven - in that order.
Showrunner Marshal Younger, co-creator Phil Lollar, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Album 73: 28 Hours, Album 74: Buckle Up, and the upcoming Album 75: The Best is Yet to Come.
Robby Bruce (voice of Buck) and Shona Rodman (voice of Jules) react to the bombshell that ended Album 74: Buckle Up!
Writer/director Jesse Kellum IV and sound designer Zach Schneider reveal how dog bags, hoopties, air compressors, wrist twist steering, and a fear of staplers figured into the creation of "The Fast and the Ridiculous"
The voice behind Andy Rome in "Value in the Process" shares his experience working as an actor, singer, model, and beatboxer. Plus: hear his original audition
Hear the story of the hilarious episode "Game Night" from writer/director Marshal Younger, sound designer Luke Guenot, and a surprise guest
Actor Earl Boen passed away January 5, 2023. In this vintage interview from 2002, Earl remembers the creation of Odyssey supervillain - the nefarious Dr. Regis Blackgaard - and his twin brother - Shakespearean actor Edwin Blackgaard. Plus, never-before-heard recordings of classic Blackgaard scenes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The latest Imagination Station book "Sled Run for Survival" features all sorts of animal action in the snow, including sled dogs, wolves, walruses, and even a polar bear! But the greatest enemy is one so tiny that no one can see it. Author Marianne Hering and editor Vance Fry unpack this and other exciting historical adventures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Follow the links in the chain, plot the path on the map, and meet the unsung heroes of Odyssey as we follow an episode from a sound designer's computer to your ears. Along the way we'll meet mastering engineer Rudy Haerr, satellite operator Ray Morgan, media syndication manager Brian Krause, digital support specialist Steve Christakis, and senior marketing director Debbie Smith. Join us!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jesse Kellum IV grew up listening to Odyssey and now he's writing (and directing!) for the show. Hear the story of how he got to Odyssey, his first show "Legally Wooton," and traveling to California to record.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Content creator Evan David and showrunner Marshal Younger unpack the mysterious concept of "canon" and why the comics are considered canon, but the video series is not.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Writer/director Kathy Buchanan, executive producer Dave Arnold, showrunner Marshal Younger, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Album 73, Eugene, Katrina’s brothers, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussion about "28 Hours" continues with sound designers Luke Guenot and Zach Schneider (and a few more comments from writer/director Kathy Buchanan), including creating a squishy brain sound (yes), how sometimes "more is more" and the whole team's influence on this series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The spoiler train continues with an in-depth discussion with "28 Hours" writer/director Kathy Buchanan and sound designers Luke Guenot and Zach Schneider.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s time to talk about the spoilers of “28 Hours” with Townsend Coleman (voice of Jason) and Monica Padilla (voice of Jillian). Get ready for some juicy revelations about this exciting six-parter, but make sure you’ve listened before you hear the podcast!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Actor Clint Howard voices Nick Smouse, Jay's dad, for the second time in this month’s Club adventure: "A Friend in Need." Clint has a lengthy Hollywood résumé that spans nearly sixty years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark Jent, direct of MAGI at Healing Hands International, shares the true stories that inspired "Showdown in San Poco." Plus: A preview of "Dead of Night"!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Writer/director Phil Lollar shares how "Showdown in San Poco" started as a completely different episode in a completely different part of the world. Then sound designer Nathan Jones tells how the sound of motorcycles was created without... motorcycles. (Plus: Emerson Collins talks about this year's Bring Your Bible to School Day!)
It's time for the "Slippery Slope" and "The Long Way Home" Avery Awards! We’ll reveal the Actor, Actress, Sound Design, Script, Scene, Episode, and more that you, the listeners, voted as winners! Also this year, you’ll get a look behind the curtain of the REAL Adventures in Odyssey Headquarters that has long been kept secret from the public. Our hosts Bob and Jesse will be your tour guides. However an accident may just change the course of this episode - and the very names of hosts - forever!
Ivan Chambers has coached football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, track, and more. He tells us about the emotions, the drama, and the lessons behind the scenes of sports stories like "The 18-Yard Line."
Lexie nominated her coach and teacher Andrew Nedimyer for the Whit Award, sharing how he cares for his students, faithfully teaches God's word, and takes the extra time to help any kids who are stuck. Mr. Nedimyer also grew up listening to Odyssey and even dreamed of opening his own version of Whit's End. Hear their stories and learn how to find Godly mentors of your own.
Executive producer Dave Arnold plucks an obscure character from 2 Samuel 6 to star in a "Book of Speculations" adventure.
The voices behind best friends Molly and Allison talk about Odyssey, singing on The Voice, healthy social media, and connecting with others.
Robert Smithouser shows young Jesse many swell features of the new Club experience, including Playlists, Characters, Badges, enhanced audio quality, and Whit's latest invention: the Randomizer!
The Adventures in Odyssey cast and crew remembers Will Ryan (the actor behind Eugene Meltsner, Harlow Doyle, and others) who passed away on November 19, 2021. Voices include executive producer Dave Arnold, executive producer Chuck Bolte, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, actor Robby Bruce (voice of Buck), actor Townsend Coleman (voice of Jason), Focus on the Family president Jim Daly, sound designer Mark Drury, actor Jess Harnell (voice of Wooton), Focus on the Family Guest Relations director Diane Ingolia, co-creator Steve Harris, writer/director Nathan Hoobler, sound designer Rob Jorgensen, host Chris Anthony Lansdowne, actor Katie Leigh (voice of Connie), co-creator Phil Lollar, sound designer Bob Luttrell, executive producer Paul McCusker, actor Phil Proctor (voice of Detective Polehaus), actor Shona Rodman (voice of Jules), actor Andre Stojka (voice of Whit), and actor Audrey Wasilewski (voice of Katrina).
Trey finds that he has something not just to teach but to learn on this month's Club adventure: "Results May Vary." It's not just medical professionals like Dr. Joseph who make connections with Global Health Outreach. Find out more from Trish Burgess and Alicia Trivett.
Showrunner Marshal Younger, writer/director Phil Lollar, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about recent episodes (including the Olivia arc and "As Buck Would Have It") and look ahead to stories in Album 73 and 74.
Andre Stojka recently set a record -- he's played the role of John Avery Whittaker longer than either of his predecessors. Andre looks back on his time as Whit -- and forward to more adventures.
Robby Bruce (voice of Buck) and Shona Rodman (voice of Jules) share the latest developments in their characters and their own lives. Plus, what they think of the idea of Jules and Buck getting together.
If you haven’t heard “As Buck Would Have It,” don't listen to this podcast and go hear Album 72. If you have listened, join writer/director Kathy Buchanan and sound designer Luke Guenot to hear how this adventure was created. Note: This podcast includes both touching moments and morgue freezers.
Spoiler warning! Showrunner Marshal Younger looks back at the beginnings - and the ending - of the Olivia faith story arc.
Writer Bob Hoose and sound designer apprentice Zach Schneider (a newcomer to the podcast and team!) discover Drake’s softer side in this month’s Club adventure: "Drake and the Aberrant Automaton."
Tour the town of Odyssey and get to know its people and businesses through this unique video feature, soon to be a new feature on the fully revamped Club website.
Writer/director Phil Lollar and executive producer Dave Arnold share how Dr. Seuss, the math problem 2+2, and the author of "A Christmas Carol" all connect to this month’s Club adventure.
Before Adventures in Odyssey, there was "Family Portraits," a short series that introduced the world to what was soon to be everyone’s favorite small town. In the episode "The Letter," a teen named Stacey gets into an argument with her father and eventually finds a way to forgive him. This was the first Focus drama featuring Katie Leigh, who would soon play Connie Kendall. Hear "The Letter" and Katie’s memories of the recording.
Showrunner Marshal Younger, writer/director Kathy Buchanan, executive producer Dave Arnold, writer/director Phil Lollar, and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions, like: Will Eugene and Katrina ever adopt Buck? When is the next time we’ll see Emily, Morrie, and Suzu? How often are the writers' meetings and how many albums do you plan ahead? What are the plans for the Blackgaard books? And the question for the ages: Why did Mitch’s voice change in that scene in "Green Eyes and Yellow Tulips"?
Showrunner Marshal Younger and head of orthodoxy Ron Reno discuss the Olivia story arc, give a preview of the future, and explain the word "orthodoxy."
Paul-Mikel Williams grew up listening to Odyssey and dreamed of acting on the show. Now he plays a main character: Trey Calhoun.
Kelly Stables is Olivia Parker and Natalie Lander is Zoe Grant. They’ve been buddies on the show since 2015’s "Take it on Trust." But they’ve been friends in real life longer than their Odyssey characters have been alive.
Schantelle Cason plays Odyssey meteorologist and mom Kayla Calhoun. Schantelle shares how she got to choose the name of her character and what’s ahead for the Calhouns.
For the first time in over a decade, a new Last Chance Detectives story is available. And there are more coming! Focus editor Thomas Jeffries tells us where this story came from, the Last Chance connection to Odyssey, and why every writer needs an editor.
Writer/director Kathy Buchanan takes us to a snowy writer’s meeting - complete with giant Post-It notes and a knitting club - that led to a new series of Club stories.
Reliving the glory of Avery Awards past, Bob and Jesse present the awards for Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Surprise, Best Sound Design, Best Script, and more... all while diving under the ocean and meeting a underwater scuba set on launching Jesse into the Scub-all of Fame. You have to hear it to believe it!
Writer/director Marshal Younger and sound designers Christopher Diehl and Nathan Jones talk about the challenges of recording out of order, creating crowds, and the absence of nature sounds in "Voice of Freedom."
Writer/director Marshal Younger and sound designers Christopher Diehl and Nathan Jones talk about the creation of "Voice of Freedom," from the seed of the idea to fully-grown two-part episode. (Stay tuned to our next podcast to hear more!)
The incredible story of "Voice of Freedom" is matched by the true story of the ministry of TransWorld Radio (TWR). David McCreary and Scott Hollinger tells us all about TWR and their ministry around the world. (Plus: A preview of Part 2!)
Andrew Kishino plays Ji-Ho in this month and next month's Club adventure. He tells us all about his experience auditioning for Odyssey, acting in Odyssey, and the crazy world of motion capture. (Plus: A preview of "Voice of Freedom, Part 1")
Writer Abigail Geiger and sound designer Luke Guenot tell us the creation of “The Revenge of Bigfoot.” (Spoiler warning! It involves a howling space cat.)
Will Richard Maxwell or Jack Allen ever return to Odyssey? Why did Suzu sound so suspicious? What did “One of three will fall” mean? Executive producer Dave Arnold, writer/director Phil Lollar, writer/director/showrunner Marshal Younger, writer/director Kathy Buchanan and line producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Album 70: "Finding a Way" and more.
Stuart has played Buddy Norman for more than six years now. And as the character has grown, so has Stuart. In fact, he joined us for the latest podcast just after finals week at college.
Katie Leigh (voice of Connie) and Will Ryan (voice of Eugene) have been on Adventures in Odyssey from the beginning. And they’ve known each other in real life even longer. Hear stories from the studio and what they are up to now.
Having a parent stationed overseas in the military can be a huge challenge. That’s just part of what Cadence International - this month’s alliance organization - is all about. Hear all about their ministry and how it led to a unique adventure featuring leprosy, rat milk and the dreaded Arabian Death Scorpion.
There is plenty of story ahead for Morrie and Suzu Rydell. Atticus Shaffer (voice of Morrie) and April Hong (voice of Suzu) share their journey together from the beginning to the climactic "The Rydell Revelations" to last album’s "Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off" to the upcoming adventure "The Team."
SPOILER WARNING! Writer/director Phil Lollar, composer John Campbell, and sound designer Nathan Jones discuss the creation of "The Christmas Bells" in spoiler-ific detail.
Rebecca Davis voices Carla Perkins, the latest in the line of notable moms on Adventures in Odyssey. There's more to both Rebecca and Carla than you might imagine.
We’ve been hearing a lot about the Perkins family lately in Odyssey. Carla and Wyatt first appeared in “The Sandwich Initiative” and the rest of the family joined soon after. Who are these characters? Why did they come to Odyssey? And are they based on real people? Perkins creator Marshal Younger answers these questions and more.
Luke Guenot recently joined the Odyssey team as a new sound designer. He got his start listening to Odyssey while growing up, creating his own radio dramas, connecting with various Odyssey team members, and finally becoming the first sound designer apprentice.
Executive producer Dave Arnold shares about the creation and inspiration of this month’s Club adventure - and how he cast writer/director Phil Lollar in a main role.
Aaron Fullan scored the recent “Always Home” and the upcoming story “The Protector.” Aaron shares how music from Odyssey’s early days inspired him and how his career led him from listening to Odyssey as a child back to becoming a part of the team as an adult.
Kyle's wife Anni nominated him for the Whit Award with this entry: "At school the person students turn to is Headmaster Kyle. He seeks Jesus in all he does and says. Students and alumni seek Kyle for encouragement, prayer, wisdom and advice." Hear the story (and the person) behind this year's winning entry.
Merry Christmas! "House Guest," one of the early dramas Focus produced, was a sequel to the first drama ever ("Spare Tire") It was also the first to feature Hal Smith who would, of course, became the first voice of John Avery Whittaker. Hear this drama that helped lay the foundation for Adventures in Odyssey.
Executive producer Dave Arnold, writer/director Phil Lollar, writer/director/showrunner Marshal Younger, and producer Nathan Hoobler answer your questions about Album 69: "Best Kept Secrets" and more.
Learn how a legacy of faith inspired this month's Club adventure. Plus: a preview of "Teach a Man"
Composer and lyricist Warren Sellers tells us about giving Jules her voice for a whole new adventure when he wrote the song "I’m Just Me."
Abigail Geiger was a writer for years before she joined the Adventures in Odyssey team. But she had no idea what it took to write an Odyssey script. Now she's written four - including an episode in album 69 titled "For a Song."
Writer/director Phil Lollar separates literal truth from literary truth in the latest Club adventure based on a story from Voice of the Martyrs. Plus: a preview of "The Martyr and the Rooster"
Emily Jones’s latest investigation uncovers the truth about Morrie Rydell. Cristina Pucelli tells us about playing a mystery-solver for over a decade and gives clues about upcoming adventures.
Bob and Jesse are trapped in the podcast studio and forced to reveal the winners of Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Scene, Best Sound Design, and the ultimate prize - Best Episode! Don't miss this exciting podcast!
In May 2020, Andre Stojka (voice of Whit), Katie Leigh (voice of Connie), Townsend Coleman (voice of Jason) and Greg Jbara (voice of Wilson) recorded a new Adventures in Odyssey episode - from their own homes. Hear how they did it exactly - and how the experience compares to working in the studio.
American Heritage Girls executive director Patti Garibay talks about how AHG connects to Adventures in Odyssey. Plus, a preview of this month’s Club adventure: "Badges of Honor"
The Odyssey team shares their favorite lines from the history of the show. Plus: The official cover reveal for "Album 70: Finding a Way"
This month’s Club adventure features the character of Connie’s friend Pamela, last heard in 1990 in "Pamela Has a Problem." Writer/director Paul McCusker (with the help of a surprise guest) explains why Adventures in Odyssey decided to address the sensitive topic of abortion in that early episode. (Plus: Hear a preview of "The Rydell Revelations, Part 1.")
Erik Passoja has played three different bad guys on Adventures in Odyssey, but he’s actually a really nice guy. Erik talks about his background and surprising talents. (Plus: Hear a preview of “Millstones” and vote in the Averys!)
Dozens of Focus on the Family employees have voiced roles in Adventures in Odyssey over the year. It’s time to hear a few of their stories!
Until now, most Perkins episodes have focused on Wyatt. But this month in the Club, the spotlight turned to his older sister, Bridget as she starred in “Bridget, Redefined.” Hear from actress Keely Marshall about Odyssey, music, and more. Plus: A preview of “Cars, Trains, and Motorcycles”
Can Connie’s dad and Wooton’s father become believers? At the end of “Always Home,” Connie gets a call from an old friend. Who was it? What is the name of Album 70? Can you give us any hints on what’s going to happen in “The Rydell Revelations”? Executive producer Dave Arnold, producer Nathan Hoobler, and writers/directors Phil Lollar and Marshal Younger answer these questions and more in the latest Team Q and A.
The Odyssey team gives their favorite moments that happened in the studio between takes.
The Odyssey team gives their favorite moments that happened in the studio between takes.
It’s another round of the Avery Awards, but this time, the Odyssey team gives their favorite scenes from the history of the show. (Length: 13 minutes).
It’s another round of the Avery Awards, but this time, the Odyssey team gives their favorite scenes from the history of the show. (Length: 13 minutes).
Composer Jared Depasquale takes us into his music studio to show us how he created the music for the epic adventure “Unsinkable.” Plus, announcing "Focus @Home," a free trial for the Adventures in Odyssey Club, and Family Time.
Composer Jared Depasquale takes us into his music studio to show us how he created the music for the epic adventure “Unsinkable.” Plus, announcing "Focus @Home," a free trial for the Adventures in Odyssey Club, and Family Time.
We know that a lot of you are going through a trying time right now and we’re here to help! We’re launching a series of special events during the month of April when you might have a little more time at home than usual. It’s called Adventures in Odyssey Family Time. The first event is this Wednesday, April 1 (no fooling!) where we’ll be listening to the episodes of the Morrie Rydell saga together. And there could be a few surprises along the way. Check out WhitsEnd.org with your parents for more information!
We know that a lot of you are going through a trying time right now and we’re here to help! We’re launching a series of special events during the month of April when you might have a little more time at home than usual. It’s called Adventures in Odyssey Family Time. The first event is this Wednesday, April 1 (no fooling!) where we’ll be listening to the episodes of the Morrie Rydell saga together. And there could be a few surprises along the way. Check out WhitsEnd.org with your parents for more information!
This month on the Adventures in Odyssey, Renee Carter is desperate to improve her chemistry grade and so she lets Horus help her prepare for the final exam. But the "chemistry" between them may be problematic. Hear from Adam, the voice behind Horus, and from Bob Smithouser, writer of the episode.
Host Bob has appeared in a number of Adventures in Odyssey. But Jesse has never had a speaking part on the show…until now! Jesse’s grand debut is featured in Album 68. We had to document such a monumental event. Plus: A lightning round Q and A about the upcoming Album 69!
Host Bob Smithouser has appeared in a number of Adventures in Odyssey episodes. But Jesse has never had a speaking part on the show…until now! Jesse’s grand debut is featured in Album 68. We had to document such a monumental event. Plus: A lightning round Q and A about the upcoming Album 69!
We have Club members in 83 countries and territories - all over the globe! Last time, Bob and Jesse visited a few countries with only one member. After the Imagination Station is fixed, they set off to visit even more (and hopefully, find their way back home!).
We have Adventures in Odyssey Club members in 83 countries and territories. Today Bob and Jesse set off to visit a few of those places - countries with only one club member!
The Club adventures "Unsinkable, Parts 1 and 2" pretty much defined the word "epic." Hear from the post-production team - sound designer Nathan Jones and composer Jared Depasquale - about how they met the challenge.
Joy wrote that her dad was "not only the kindest father ever but he’s also a pastor and basketball coach! He’s taught me how to love others more than myself and he introduced me to my Father in Heaven, God." Hear from Joy and her dad about the qualities that Lawrence and Mr. Whittaker share. (Plus: The announcement of ANOTHER special award!)
Executive producer Dave Arnold, producer Nathan Hoobler, and writers/directors Phil Lollar, and Marshal Younger look back at Album 67: More than Meets the Eye and look ahead to Album 68. Bonus: hear an audio preview of 68!
Merry Christmas! The team behind Adventures in Odyssey produced "The Sounds of Life" in 1992. Writer Paul McCusker and sound designer Dave Arnold produced this drama between their responsibilities for Odyssey. Originally released on the Focus on the Family broadcast, this touching drama illustrates some of life's most precious moments.
It's hard to believe, but Kimmy Robertson (voice of Penny Bassett) has been on the show for going on ten years now. Listen to Kimmy's insights about Penny (and hear her answer to whether Wooton and Penny should have kids!)
Katie Leigh has been in Odyssey since the fourth episode (and appeared way back in "Family Portraits"). It’s time to talk to Katie about recent developments.
Preston Butler III more than lives up to his name as he shares about how his faith affects his craft (and vice-versa), working with Robby Bruce, and what Philippians 4:13 means to him. (Plus a preview of season finale: “Nightmares by Constance, Part 2”!)
Preston Butler III more than lives up to his name as he shares about how his faith affects his craft (and vice-versa), working with Robby Bruce, and what Philippians 4:13 means to him. (Plus a preview of season finale: “Nightmares by Constance, Part 2”!)
The creator of Wyatt described the character as speaking with utmost authority...on subjects he knows nothing about. But Tucker Chandler, voice of Wyatt, isn't like that at all. He knows a lot about auditions, voice acting, and - yes - even useless facts.
"Rightly Dividing" was based on the true life story of Sarah Keimig. Born blind, she's gone through a variety of eye procedures in her lifetime. Find out why her story inspired an adventure and what it was like being in the studio while her story was recorded.
Actor/singer Gregory Jbara and writer/director/composer talk about Adventures in Odyssey's adaptation of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: "Icky and Kat and Balty and Bones"
Welcome the new and improved, super hip, super relatable, ultra rad, lit, on fleek, Dab, EPIIIIIIIC Avery Awards! We’ve got mail! And it’s the results from your votes on the Avery Awards for Odyssey Album 65: "Expect the Unexpected" and Album 66: "Trial by Fire!!!" And this year, we’ve taken it to a WHOLE NEW LEVEL! We’ve ditched the old style Avery Awards, and we’re doing this one like the kids do it!
Welcome the new and improved, super hip, super relatable, ultra rad, lit, on fleek, Dab, EPIIIIIIIC Avery Awards! We’ve got mail! And it’s the results from your votes on the Avery Awards for Odyssey Album 65: "Expect the Unexpected" and Album 66: "Trial by Fire!!!" And this year, we’ve taken it to a WHOLE NEW LEVEL! We’ve ditched the old style Avery Awards, and we’re doing this one like the kids do it!
Jamieson Price first appeared on Adventures in Odyssey playing several characters in "B-TV: Trinity." He’s back playing a slightly more sinister role in next month’s Club adventure. Jamieson tells us about playing a baddie, replacing dialog, and his greatest fears.
The title cast members for "Gifts for Madge and Guy" (Will Ryan, voice of Eugene and Guy, and Chris Anthony Lansdowne, our host and the voice of Madge) stop by for a hold-onto-your-hats chat. The original episode aired in 1987, and more than thirty years later, “Part 2” is available in the Club now. Plus, Dave Arnold gives the inside scoop on the Odyssey Character Survey.
Robby Bruce has acted on Adventures in Odyssey for a decade now. He’s sung on the show, he’s appeared on a Clubhouse Magazine Cover, and he’s gone from a villain to a beloved member of the Meltsner family. Hear from Robby about the latest developments.
There’s never been an Adventures in Odyssey episode quite like “Take Every Thought Captive,” where mean girl Valerie Swanson visits a strange city inside her own mind. Sound designer Jonathan Crowe talks about the creation of this unusual adventure.
Executive producer Dave Arnold, producer Nathan Hoobler, writers/directors Kathy Buchanan, Phil Lollar, and Paul McCusker answer fan questions about recent albums and preview upcoming adventures. Plus, hear an audio preview of Album 67!
Jim Custer - the voice of young John Avery Whittaker among others - passed away on May 5, 2019. Former executive producer Chuck Bolte, writer/director Bob Hoose, and actor Gary Reed (voice of Jeff Lewis) knew Jim for a collective period of over one hundred years. The three of them share memories and stories from Jim’s life - and his time on Adventures in Odyssey.
"The Long End" introduced the somewhat violent Two-Bits Luker, a guy who liked to carry a baseball bat around to get his point across. Two-Bits was played by Zach Callison, the original voice of Matthew Parker from 2010 to 2014. Zach tells us what he’s been up in recent years and how he created a character who was very different.
If you haven’t heard “The Long End” three-parter, don't listen to this podcast and go hear Album 66. If you have listened, join writer/director Paul McCusker to get into the details of this adventure. Get ready for a few surprises on the way!
Though Dan Hagen is probably best known as Jacques Henri, Penny’s boss at the Art Gallery, this month he stars as a brand new character: Wilhelm Holstein. Plus: Hear a preview of "Rumpelstiltskin: A Wee Little Tale"
Many years ago, Marshal Younger’s three-year-old daughter decided she wasn’t going to eat her breakfast. This set off a multi-hour standoff between father and daughter that later inspired the Odyssey episode “The Sandwich Initiative.” Witness the battle of wills as well as an incredible story from one of our listeners.