Hallmark Heartbeats

This week, I got to chat with star Benjamin Ayres, star of Hallmark's newest movie Color My World with Love. This was the first Hallmark movie to feature actors with Down Syndrome. Ben plays Nick, Brad's friend and real estate developer. We talk about working with his costars Erica Durance, Lily Moore and David DeSanctis. We talk about the lessons he's learned from his costars and some behind the scenes secrets. This was a fun interview. It was very personal for me. I am disabled and have always advocated for movies that tell stories of the disabled community. I am planning on taking an indefinite break from podcasting. Thanks for your support.

This week I get to interview Natalie Hall, star of the newest Hallmark film "A Road Trip Romance." I am a huge fan of Natalie. I have been watching her since her All My Children days as Colby Chandler. But during this interview we concentrated on her Hallmark career. We talked about Winter Princess, her co-star Chris McNally, the ball gowns and tiaras, of course the wave. We also talked about my personal favorite Hallmark movie "You're Bacon Me Crazy". What it was like working with Michael Rady, cooking skills and more. And last but certainly not least we talked about A Road Trip Romance. Some behind the scenes adventures, what it was like working as a new mom and her costar Corey Sevier and more. May is AAPI month. On Instagram I have made collages highlighting actors of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. Check it out on Hallmarkheartbeats. I will also be posting videos on Tiktok that goes more in depth of each actor's heritage and their hallmark roles. Again the screenname there is hallmarkheartbeats. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats

This week, I review Hallmark Channel's newest movie Warming up to You starring Cindy Busby, Christopher Russell, Devon Alexander, Caitlyn Stryker and LaTonya Williams. Directed by Christie Will Wolf. I had very low expectations with this movie. Between the fat shaming in the promos and the fat suit on Chris, I had a feeling I wasn't going to like it. But I gave it a try anyway. Movie was ok. It was not the worst Hallmark movie of 2022. Still belongs to another Chris Russell movie "Where Your Heart Belongs". I liked the chemistry between Chris and Cindy. This is their third movie together, so it has to be there. Lol. The scenery was beautiful. and I can't believe they inserted a Bridgerton reference on a Hallmark movie. Like WHat?!?! But I didn't like the ableism, fat shaming, "exercise cures everything even depression" which it doesn't. So much eek. There were some awkwardness too in plenty of scenes. Like the play fighting and stuff. I would like to see Cindy and Chris in other movies with costars they've never worked with before. I feel like between the scenery and the same cast, this felt like Chasing Waterfalls 2. I would like to see Cindy work with Nathan Witte next. And Chris with Nikki DeLoach. I think giving both actors a different scene partner would be nice. Gave it 2/5 stars. May is AAPI month. On Instagram I have made collages highlighting actors of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. Check it out on Hallmarkheartbeats. I will also be posting videos on Tiktok that goes more in depth of each actor's heritage and their hallmark roles. Again the screenname there is hallmarkheartbeats. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I review Hallmark Channel movie, Love Classified starring Melora Hardin, Katherine McNamara, Arienne Mendi and Max Lloyd Jones. I believe this is the first Hallmark film to ever have the lead love storyline be a same sex couple and I love it.  It is unique in that it showed sexuality is fluid. There is no need for labels. Love is also complicated. It is flawed. It's not always romantic or perfect or just for you.  Is it like a typical Hallmark movie? No. But does it make it bad? No. It makes it different. I gave it 3.5 out of five stars. May is AAPI month. On Instagram I have made collages highlighting actors of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. Check it out on Hallmarkheartbeats. I will also be posting videos on Tiktok that goes more in depth of each actor's heritage and their hallmark roles. Again the screenname there is hallmarkheartbeats. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I get to chat with actress Stephanie Moore who played the sneaky businesswoman Rachel in "A Tail of Love'. We get to talk about her character's conniving traits, working with Brittany Bristow and Chris McNally and an almost car accident that happened on set. Lol This was a fun interview. I honestly felt Rachel stole the movie. She was a fun villain for sure. lol. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats   

This week, I reviewed the newest Hallmark Channel film titled "A Tail of Love" starring Brittany Bristow and Chris McNally. I loved this movie. It was a simple plot with simple storylines with a great villain. And sometimes that's all you need (dogs help also lol.) Brittany and Chris had great chemistry, the dogs were cute, grandma had her own romance brewing, but the person who stole the show for me was Rachel, the villain. I loved her. She's my favorite character in the movie. And seems to be the topic of many conversations after the airing of the movie. (The interview with Stephanie Moore will be out on Thursday) That's the end of Spring Into Love Movies, tell me which one was your favorite and why. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I had the privilege to chat with Brittany Bristow, star of the newest Hallmark film, A Tail of Love. We talk about her previous roles in Hallmark movies like Love, Romance and Chocolate and Love on the Safari. We talk about her co-stars Chris McNally, Humberly Gonzalez, Moxie and more. We also talk about dogs, dogs, dogs. Lol. She also shared some behind the scenes secrets with all the co-stars Brittany is newly engaged and also shared her wedding planning experience Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault, Rape At the 18 minute mark is when we discuss Station 19, so you don't have to listen after that if you're just listening for Hallmark. This week I had the privilege of interviewing Daniel DiTomasso, star of Hallmark's movie Welcome to Mama's and recent guest star of ABC hit Station 19. We talked about his Italian heritage, his family history and how that influenced his taking the role of Frank in Welcome to Mama's. We also talk about what it was like working with Oscar and Emmy nominated actress Lorraine Bracco and Melanie Scrofano. Daniel also guest starred on Station 19 as Jeremy. His character attempted to assault Andy, one of the firefighters. Daniel opened up about his struggle with understanding Jeremy's reasons for the actions, working with Jaina Lee Ortiz and what he would like viewers to take from this episode arc. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats  

This week, I had the privilege of interviewing the writer of Hallmark Channel's newest movie Love, Classified, Lynn Sternberger. This is her first feature film she ever wrote, a project that was conceptualized in 2020, right before the pandemic hit. Lol. We talk about her thought process behind the film, how involved she was in the casting, and her response to the hate so far this movie has garnered due to its queer representation from Hallmark fans. We also talk about our hopes for more representation and how it will affect future generations. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I reviewed the newest Hallmark Channel movie titled "A Royal Runaway Romance" starring Brant Daugherty and Philippa Northeast. This is a royal Hallmark movie, a tried and true trope that has been done hundreds of times by Hallmark. But this is the best one because it brought something fresh and brand new. Most Hallmark royal movies have a prince or princess in hiding, trying to blend in America, falls in love with a commoner who has no clue of their true identity while planning some big event, a party or dinner of some sort. Most royal Hallmark royal movies are stagnant, no one is really moving, no real adventure. But with A Royal Runaway Romance, Hallmark has turned the tried and true trope on its head. Changed everything we expect from a royal film and turned on its head. I LOVED IT. Need more of this. Hallmark has been hitting homeruns the last two weeks with their movies. I can't wait to see more Spring into Love movies 4/14 Interview with Lynn Sternberger, writer of Love Classified 4/18 Love, Classified Review 4/25 A Tail of Love Review Every Thursday I will also be releasing When Calls the Heart episode reviews. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I am joined by Hallmark Publisher author Stacey Agdern as we review Hallmark Channel's newest movie "Just One Kiss" starring Broadway stars Santino Fontana and Krysta Rodriguez. I don't think I have ever said this before, but this movie was mere perfection. Every part of this movie told a story. From the clothes to the makeup, the dialogue, the city. Everything was a perfect meld to tell the story of two people who have been unlucky in love.  The singing, the black and white effect, the ghostly moms and the horrible exes all worked perfectly together to get the misfits Tony and Mia falling in love. From classic songs to classic literature, we watched the progression of their love story. There were laughter, tears and silent thoughtfulness. Chemistry was to the roof and Diversity was on point. Gave this movie 5/5 stars. Spring into Love movies 4/11 A Royal Romance Review 4/18 Love, Classified Review 4/25 A Tail of Love Review Every Thursday I will also be releasing When Calls the Heart episode reviews. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I get to review the newest release on Hallmark Movies and Mysteries titled Always Amore starring my dream cast Tyler Hynes and Autumn Reeser. I LOVE Tyler and Autumn. I have wanted those two to work together for so long. It was always my dream. And because of this, I was terrified that Always Amore won't match my expectations. But this movie did. The chemistry between Tyler and Autumn made a very popular Hallmark trope feel unique and magical. It was great thing to watch. Only thing I found negative about the movie was that this is the third movie Hallmark has done in two months that involve Italian restaurants. Like can we get away from that for a bit. Choose another cuisine. I suggest Chinese. Lol. Gave it 4/5 stars Spring into Love movies 4/11 A Royal Romance Review 4/18 Love, Classified Review 4/25 A Tail of Love Review Every Thursday I will also be releasing When Calls the Heart episode reviews. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I get to interview two juggernauts of Hallmark movies, Andrew Walker and Nikki DeLoach as we chat about their newest Hallmark mystery series, Curious Caterer: Death for Chocolate. We talk all about the secret to their chemistry, behind the scenes shenanigans, their co-stars and who they would like to work with next. This was a fun interview. Lots of laughs and joy. It was my first time chatting with Andrew and my third time talking with Nikki. I hope to talk to them again in the future.

This week I review the newest Hallmark film called A Second Chance at Love starring Eriq Lasalle, Gloria Reuben, Alvina August and Jarod Joseph. I have to say it was great to see Eriq and Gloria on my screen together again. It had been almost 30 years since their ER days. And they look good.  Let's start a petition for them to be on more Hallmark movies. Lol. This movie was in my opinion about cutting the umbilical cord. Children, when you're married and have your own family, I think it's time to start letting your parents make their own decisions and live their own lives while you concentrate on yours. Lol. It is also about well as the title claims it to be a second chance at love. I liked this movie. It had me laughing. The chemistry between Eriq and Gloria was smoking. And I honestly think, as irritating Alicia was at certain points in the movie, Alvina carried this movie well. She held her own with such TV legends. Lol. I give it 3/5 stars Spring into Love movies 4/4 Just One Kiss Review 4/11 A Royal Romance Review 4/18 Love, Classified Review 4/25 A Tail of Love Review Every Thursday I will also be releasing When Calls the Heart episode reviews. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week, I review last week's Hallmark movies and Mysteries release The Presence of Love starring Eloise Mumford and Julian Morris. This movie was filmed in England. I praise it for tackling the subjects of Dyslexia and Anxiety but I found the movie boring. I didn't find much chemistry between Julian and Eloise, grandma was just the typical woman stuck in her ways. The scenery was beautiful but the rest of the movie was lacking I gave the movie 1.5 out of 5 stars Next week starts the Spring into Love series on Hallmark Channel. Here's the lineup for the movie reviews. Subject to change. Spring into Love movies 3/28 A Second Chance At Love Review 4/4 Just One Kiss Review 4/11 A Royal Romance Review 4/18 Love, Classified Review 4/25 A Tail of Love Review Every Thursday I will also be releasing When Calls the Heart episode reviews. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I reviewed Season 9 Episode 2 episode of When Calls the Heart titled "Out Like a Lamb". The mayoral race results are in. Who was surprised to learn the winner is Mike Hickam? We see the progress in Luke and Nathan's friendship, talk about Lucabeth's love language, Mei Sou's background and the topic of religion. Coop's questioning his faith. And Henry's character development. Subscribe to the channel to hear more of my thoughts on When Calls the Heart this season. Future Podcasts: 3/21/22 Presence of Love Review 3/24/22 When Calls the Heart Season 9 Episode 3 Review  

This is my 100th podcast episode so thank you all for being on this journey with me. Wow. It's been crazy. This week I reviewed newest Hallmark movie titled "Feeling Butterflies" starring When Calls the Heart costars and real life couple Kevin McGarry and Kayla Wallace.  Not going to lie, I found this movie a little slow. Kevin and Kayla had the chemistry you would expect from a real life couple being onscreen together. The outfits were amazing, brought alot of humor. But the movie dragged in many parts. I did wish Emily and Mandy duked it out more. Lol. I was disappointed to not see more scenes of them out butterflying each other. Randy Thomas was a great dad. Lol. But yes. Movie was SLLLLLOOOOOOOOWWWWWW. Lol Gave it 2.5 out of five stars. Future Podcasts: 3/17/22 When Calls the Heart Season 9 Episode 2 Review 3/21/22 Presence of Love Review

For the next 12 weeks I will be reviewing the new episodes of Hallmark Channel's original series "When Calls the Heart". This week, Hallmark didn't release any new movies. It concentrated on the Season 9 Premiere of WCTH. We are back in Hope Valley, welcoming new characters, revisiting old story arcs and riding an air balloon to sunset. I talk about Lucabeth love story, how the couple has progressed since their declaration of love, Nathan navigating being the mountie and having to learn how to drive. New character Mei Sou rides into town giving viewers and Hope Valley residents a new mystery of who is she? what's her back story? And catch up to the other residents of Hope Valley. See y'all next week for review of Feeling Butterflies, The Presence of Love and Episode 2 of WCTH

This week I had the privilege to interview actors Viv Leacock and Natasha Burnett, stars of Hallmark's original series When Calls the Heart. They play Joseph and Minnie Canfield. It was such an honor to talk to Viv and Natasha. We got to chat about Filipino culture, disability advocacy, representation and their similarities/differences from their characters. We also chatted about racism, Hearties' original reaction to their casting, what to expect in season 9 and so much more. February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I get to review the last movie in The Wedding Veil Trilogy titled The Wedding Veil Legacy starring Alison Sweeney and Victor Webster. This movie was a fan favorite but I have to say this wasn't my favorite at all. I think this was my least. The main storyline had nothing to do with the veil, which was disappointing. It is a good movie as a standalone, but because the veil became an afterthought in this movie, it didn't feel like part of the trilogy.  I loved the chemistry between Alison and Victor. I found Tracy hilarious with her redecorating the apartment and collecting 20 rugs. I did like the teamwork Tracy and Nick did in finding a donor to buy the first draft of Emma Lazarus' poem, but again this is supposed to be about the veil, not about a poem. So that was disappointing. Also I didn't like the microaggression in the script with the whole Italian-Asian fusion restaurant. More on that in the podcast. I gave the movie 2.5 out of 5 stars. February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/24/22 Interview with Viv Leacock and Natasha Burnett 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I have the privilege of interviewing actor Clayton James, star of recent Hallmark movie Don't Forget I love You, alongside co-star Emilie Ullerup. During this interview, we talk about his experience filming Don't Forget I Love You, his co-star Emilie Ullerup, growing up with a single mom, how we both bonded over Fibromyalgia and medical mysteries and so much more. Hope y'all enjoyed the interview. February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/21/22 The Wedding Veil Legacy Review 2/24/22 Interview with Viv Leacock and Natasha Burnett, stars of When Calls the Heart 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Buongiorno. This week we are reviewing the second movie of The Wedding Veil Trilogy starring Autumn Reeser and Paolo Bernardino. Loved this movie. The chemistry was hot and sizzling. Italy was just the most awesome place in the world. We follow Emma as she not only finds out the story behind the veil, the woman in the painting and how it got to USA but also we watch as she slowly falls in love with an Italian man who has ties to the veil. Genetic ties. Lol. Autumn is my favorite Hallmark actress. She never disappoints. Love her chemistry with Paolo. Italy is beautiful. And I definitely want more Paolo Bernardino in Hallmark.  I gave this movie 4 out of 5 stars. I felt that the lead in to the third movie was weak. The storyline of the family trying to buy the veil from Emma was 100% unnecessary because the audience is smart. We knew there was a third movie in the trilogy. The veil wasn't going anywhere. February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/17/22 Interview with Clayton James, star of Don't Forget I Love you 2/21/22 The Wedding Veil Legacy Review 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I have the privilege of talking with actor, Brendon Zub, star of many Hallmark movies including Hearts of Christmas, Never Kiss a Man with a Christmas Sweater, Time for them to Come Home for Christmas and most recent work, Cut, Color, Murder. We talk about his family's history, previous works, what it was like working with Ryan McPartlin and Julie Gonzalo, our thoughts on his character Sterling and his hopes of maybe playing the murderer next time. Lol. Also we talk about the future of Cut, Color Murder. And so much more February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/14/22 Wedding Veil Unveiled Review 2/17/22 Interview with Clayton James, star of Don't Forget I Love you 2/21/22 The Wedding Veil Legacy Review 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

I am back after recovering from throat surgery. Thank everyone for the well wishes. I am grateful for the support. This week, there were no new movies from Hallmark, but they did start a new murder mystery this week titled Cut, Color, Murder starring Ryan McPartin and Julie Gonzalo. I have to say I am a rookie to Hallmark Mysteries. I never watched Aurora Teagarden, Picture Perfect Mysteries or Mystery 101. Lol. They just never caught my attention. But this was pretty good. I talk about the numerous times I found myself yelling at the screen "Don't do that? Are you crazy?" I dole out some medical advice that should be apparent, lol. and I talk about the cliffhanger in the end. Maybe Hallmark is giving this series an open ending in hopes that it continues. I give this 3 out of 5 stars. I like that the suspect wasn't who I was expecting, I like the twists and turns during the investigation, all of the actors were great in the series. I am also a huge fan of Julie. I am happy to see her on Hallmark again. It's been awhile. February 2022 Podcasts (Planned) Loveuary Continues 2/10/22 Interview with Clayton James, star of Don't Forget I Love you 2/14/22 Wedding Veil Unveiled Review 2/21/22 The Wedding Veil Legacy Review 2/28/22 Welcome to Mama's Review Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Another week of me releasing pre-recorded podcasts while recovering from surgery. Luckily my voice is back and I am excited to do more movie reviews in February. This week I reviewed One Winter Proposal, the second of the One Winter Trilogy movies starring Taylor Cole, Jax Turner, Rukiya Bernard and Dewshane Williams. I talk about how each character has changed since the first movie, the value of telling the truth, no secrets, and also talk about the proposal, Hallmark's disdain for long distance relationships and how Cara ruined the surprise. Lol. This podcast is now one year old. I am so happy for the progress this podcast has made. I am happy to have a voice and thankful for those who have listened in. Here's to another year to come. Season 2 of Hallmark Heartbeats Podcast will start in February

I am still recovering from throat surgery, but luckily I had prerecorded podcasts just for this occasion.  This week, I am releasing the podcast of me reviewing One Winter Weekend starring Taylor Cole, Jax Turner, Rukiyah Bernard and Dewshayne Williams. I liked this movie. I talked about the beautiful setting, the outfits that Taylor was wearing that in my opinion was not appropriate for the cold, how Cara is reminiscent of Kate Hudson's character in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Cara's journey to self worth and how Megan (Rukiyah's character) is again fit into the supportive best friend which is reminiscent to real life struggles of BIPOC characters in Hollywood. January 2022 podcasts 1/31 One Winter Proposal Review. I will be back to reviewing new releases in February. Taking rest of January off to heal from surgery. Thanks for listening  

This week, my first interview of 2022, I get to sit down and chat with my favorite Hallmark Brit, Matthew James Dowden. Y'all might remember him as the British tv host in Hallmark's Don't Go Breaking My Heart or Zane, the stepdad no one expected in Christmas House 2: Deck the Halls. Or his most recent role as Adam in the hit Hallmark movie, North to Home. During this interview we talk about his previous roles in Christmas House 2, North to Home, Raise a Glass to Love and more. Also his past as a magician. It was also just recently announced he joins the cast of When Calls the Heart season 9. Oh and his link to the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week I review newest movie on Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Channel titled "North to Home" starring Barbara Niven, Lyndsy Fonseca, Kimberley Sustad and Erica Durance. Directed by Ali Liebert. This movie was all about the women. It touched upon subjects of forgiveness, communication, familial love and survivors' guilt. The actresses performances were powerful. It left an emotional impact on me. I was left curled up on my bed crying, watching the last two minutes of this movie. It was just perfect in my opinion. January 2022 podcasts 1/20 Interview with Matthew James Dowden 1/24 Winter Weekend Review 1/31 Winter Proposal Review. I will be back to reviewing new releases in February. Taking rest of January off to heal from surgery. Thanks for listening

This is the week of my surgery. This is the first of three podcasts I prerecorded for the month of January. This week I review the first of the long awaited Wedding Veil Trilogy starring Lacey Chabert, Alison Sweeney and Autumn Reeser. Oh and they also threw in Kevin McGarry for good measure. I talk about my frustration with Peter for just assuming Avery is engaged, running hot and cold for her. Loving the fact that he waited to make a move on her til he found out she was single, but WHY DID IT TAKE HALF THE MOVIE TO FIND OUT? No one knows. Lol. The wardrobe for this movie was on point. And I am definitely happy with how they did a lead in to the second movie which releases on February 12. Can't wait. 3 out of Five stars. It was slow. Chemistry was good, but slow New Year New Movies Lineup 1/1: Where Your Heart Belongs 1/8: The Wedding Veil 1/9 North to Home 1/15 The Perfect Pairing 1/22 Don't Forget I love You 1/29 Butlers in Love (Note: I will only be reviewing the first three movies. I have throat surgery on the 12th which require at least two weeks of healing) Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Happy New Year Everyone!!! And it seems like Hallmark is having a hard time shedding its old skin again with this new movie Where Your Heart Belongs starring Jen Lilley and Christopher Russell. I am not going to lie. I didn't like this movie. It felt like the hope that Christmas movies brought with it that there will be new tropes, new actors, POC as leads not just supporting, is false. Here we are again with the same old trope of big city girl coming home to meet her childhood crush, falls in love and stays in her small town. Oh and did I forget to add everyone is white except maybe three people in the movie. Yeah. I think this is Jen's last movie with Hallmark. She's definitely feeling very gungho about GAC. More power to you. But yeah, this movie was disappointing. 1.5 stars New Year New Movies Lineup 1/1: Where Your Heart Belongs 1/8: The Wedding Veil 1/9 North to Home 1/15 The Perfect Pairing 1/22 Don't Forget I love You 1/29 Butlers in Love (Note: I will only be reviewing the first three movies. I have throat surgery on the 12th which require at least two weeks of healing) Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Kayla and I wrap 2021 and list our favorite Christmas movies this year. We have listed our top three, honorable mentions and our least favorite movies of this year's lineup. Listen to see if your favorites make our list. Tell us if you agree or not New Year New Movies Lineup 1/1: Where Your Heart Belongs 1/8: The Wedding Veil 1/9 North to Home 1/15 The Perfect Pairing 1/22 Don't Forget I love You 1/29 Butlers in Love (Note: I will only be reviewing the first three movies. I have throat surgery on the 12th which require at least two weeks of healing) Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

It's our second to the last podcast for 2021. The last movie review of the year and it's a good one. We are reviewing the two ensemble cast movies that closed out the Christmas movie line up of the year, Christmas for Keeps and Christmas House 2. We had the chance to chat with writers Megan McNulty and Nikki DeLoach a couple of weeks ago, but in this episode we delve more deeply in the storyline. We rant about the controlling, borderline abusive mother, Ben's white male privilege showing, WHY DID NOAH HAVE TO APOLOGIZE?!?!?! and so much more. Lol. Also between the two ensemble movies, we find this one to have a weaker central storyline to hold all of the individual storylines together. Christmas House 2 was definitely one of our favorite Christmas movies this year. From the comedy to the heart, it was a perfect meld of both genres. We talk about Brandon's pressure of perfection, Zane, the engagement and more. We have one last podcast to do this year and that is our top 3 Christmas movies of 2021. It will be released New Year's Eve. Then I will start with the New Years New Movies 2022 lineup. New Year New Movies Lineup 1/1: Where Your Heart Belongs 1/8: The Wedding Veil 1/9 North to Home 1/15 The Perfect Pairing 1/22 Don't Forget I love You 1/29 Butlers in Love (Note: I will only be reviewing the first three movies. I have throat surgery on the 12th which require at least two weeks of healing) Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

For our special Christmas podcast episode, we got to talk to the mega Hallmark star Paul Campbell, star of 2021 Christmas movies Santa Stakeout, writer of An Unexpected Christmas and Christmas at Castle Hart, also star of many other movies such as Godwink Christmas, Christmas at Starlight, Wedding Every Weekend and more. We talked about working with his co-stars like Chyler Leigh, Kimberly Sustad and Tamera Mowry. We talked about his writing process how it felt having words he said by other actors, etc. We also chat about Hallmark's steps in telling more inclusive storylines. Whether or not he will see a gay lead storyline in a Hallmark movie, what about a disabled lead falling in love, and so much more. We also take the time to chat about some of the backlash he has received because he's been so outspoken about his advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Merry Christmas to our listeners and supporters. Hope everyone enjoy their time with the family. There will be two more podcasts released for 2021. One reviewing Christmas House 2 and also a NYE podcast listing our favorite Christmas movies of the year. If you want to support our podcast, buy me a coffee. For as little as $1 a month, you get access to unedited interviews including this one with Paul, Nikki DeLoach, Nik Sanchez and more. Here's the link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats

Second of three podcast interviews are out for 2021. And guess who gets to come back on the podcast? lol Nikki Deloach and Megan McNulty are back on the podcast, but this time in the capacity as actors. Both women were on the podcast separately before, Megan to talk about Taking the Reins and Nikki to talk about Five More Minutes. This time they're here together to talk about Hallmark newest Christmas movie, Christmas for Keeps. We talk about our teachers, different storylines, future work and so much more. To see the unedited version of the interview, go to our Buy Me A Coffee Page and become an Americano member for $1 a month. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats

First of three interviews for the rest of the year. Lol This week, we got to interview actress Lisa Durupt. She starred in Hallmark's Time for them to Come for Christmas with Jessy Schram and Brendan Penny, as well as Christmas with the Crown starring Marcus Rosner. She also has a long list of movies for both Hallmark and Lifetime. We take the time to talk about her career. We talked all about working with actors like Nikki Deloach, Jessy Schram, Tricia Helfer, Ashley Williams and more. She shares a story about Star Trek legend Leonard Nimoy. And even crazier yet, how her cousin won 5 million dollars with the lottery. How cool is that. lol

This week, I got to chat with David Kaye, star of FIVE Hallmark movies this year. lol, the latest being Eight Gifts of Hanukkah. We talk about all things Hanukkah, curling, a future as a sports announcer, working with Inbar Levi and Jake Epstein and so much more.

Newest podcast is out reviewing the newest Hallmark Movies and Mysteries releases titled Our Christmas Journey starring Holly Robinson Peete, Lyriq Bent and Nik Sanchez as well as Every Time the Bell Rings starring Erin Cahill, Brittany Ishibashi, Ali Liebert and Wes Brown. We both liked the movies. Both movies made history. Our Christmas Journey stars Nik Sanchez, the first autistic actor to play an autistic character. We just wish that we saw more of Marcus' POV throughout the movie, like a look inside of the program. Even though he is non-verbal, it doesn't mean communication is impossible. For a movie that totes about representation for the disabled community, the disabled character was silenced (I don't just mean by making Marcus non-verbal) and not really seen through his eyes. Every Time a Bell Rings was a great movie about three sisters. It made Hallmark Christmas movie featuring the first interracial lesbian kiss with Nora and Maizy. We enjoyed each sisters' storylines, also them looking for the bell, but the storyline with Charlotte and Liam was a weak point. It was definitely not needed. oin our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week we are back to releasing 2 episodes a week (Thank god). For this podcast we are reviewing "Eight Gifts of Hanukkah" starring Inbar Levi and Jake Epstein, as well as "A Very Merry Bridesmaid" starring Emily Osment and Casey Diedrick. We both love these movies though both leading men give us women high expectations for our men. Like who wouldn't want personal gifts that are special for ourselves, or a man who will not only remember your birthday make a personal mission to celebrate it. Hallmark giving women expectations for men of our lives. Lol Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week we got to interview actor Nik Sanchez, the first autistic actor to play an autistic character in a Hallmark movie. He played Marcus in Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Christmas movie titled "Our Christmas Journey" starring Holly Robinson Peete and Lyriq Bent. We talked about how he got the role, behind the scenes secrets, struggles he has had because of autism and so much more. It was an honor chatting with Nik. I hope people are inspired by him and teach others of compassion and more. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats   

Third podcast review for the #merrythanksgivingweekend on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. (I am glad we are almost done.) This podcast we are reviewing Christmas at Castle Hart starring Lacey Chabert and Stuart Townsend, as well as Time for Them to Come home for Christmas starring Jessy Schram and Brendan Elliot. We liked Christmas at Castle Hart. It was very reminiscent of Hallmark's 2016 movie "My Summer Prince" starring Jax Turner and Taylor Cole. Loved the sister relationship between Margot and Brooke. Definitely loved the comedy and the river dancing. A few things we want to point out though is that we feel Hallmark is perpetuating a stereotype about the Irish people when Margot and Brooke go to the pub to find their family members, like they expect them to be in the bar all day or something. Why not go to the library. Also this was written by Paul Campbell. We are thinking of renaming this weekend "The Weekend of Paul Campbell" lol. Since he had a hand in 3 of the 8 movies that aired. Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas was nice. It wasn't memorable. The drinking game of how many times can you hear that song was a missed opportunity. Allison Sweeney made a cameo appearance. And we are left wondering "Can two people fall in love in two days?" Also IT DOESN'T SNOW IN THE CAROLINAS!!!! lol Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Another podcast reviewing two more movies that aired during the #MerryThanksgivingWeekend. Lol. The two movies we are reviewing this episode is An Unexpected Christmas starring Bethany Joy Lenz and Tyler Hynes, as well as Making Spirits Bright starring Taylor Cole and Carlo Marks. An Unexpected Christmas was pure comedy. It was nothing but laughs galore. I mean 20 years from now, if someone were to ask me about this movie, all I will have to say is Tyler Hynes in a unicorn suit lol. That's all. Kayla gave it the highest praise comparing it to Elf with Will Farrell. Paul is seriously a comedic genius. Hallmark should make him write more movies. Making Spirits Bright gave Romeo and Juliet vibes without the poison or the suicide. We share our laughs about the dads ready to throw punches and fight. Lol. We also give warning about the lights near the end of the movie. Strobe lights can cause seizures and wish Hallmark would take precautions to give warning in case a scene like that happens again. Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week, Kayla and I are back reviewing 8 movies. Pray for us as we deal with this #MerryThanksgiving weekend extravaganza. Let's just say we will be breezing through these reviews. In this episode we review Nine Kittens of Christmas starring Kimberley Sustad and Brandon Routh, as well as Christmas CEO starring Paul Greene and Marisol Nichols. Nine Kittens is the long awaited sequel to the 2014 classic Nine Lives of Christmas. We lament about how none of the actors age, laugh at the Superman references, and squeal at the cuteness of the kittens. As animal advocates, we do throw in the cautionary tale of please don't give kittens or puppies as Christmas presents. It should be something everyone involved is certain of. Also love the ending and throw out ideas of what the title of the next sequel could be. Shout out to our main man Paul Campbell for his cameo. (This is literally the weekend of Paul Campbell lol.) Christmas CEO was an ok movie. We talk about Marisol's character's name, the Reindeer Games, how adorable his niece was, and how we feel about the rushed ending.  To be honest, neither of these movies really stood out for us especially after eight movies in a three day weekend. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This is the first of five podcasts we are releasing this week. Pray for us. In this episode, we reviewed "A Kiss Before Christmas" starring James Denton and Teri Hatcher, as well as "Five More Minutes" starring Nikki DeLoach and David Haydn Jones. A Kiss before Christmas is the second Christmas movie this year where a main character goes back into an alternate reality and is tasked to find out why they were sent back to get back to their reality. Both of us liked this movie more than Next Stop Christmas. Better chemistry between the actors, and the reason why he had to go back was very clear from the beginning. There were some points of contention though, such as poor shaming. I mean Ethan had a loving wife, kids, and a big house and car, yet it still wasn't enough for him. I mean I get it that it's to keep appearances with the company, but his life was good. No one really needs a chauffeur or a Ferrari. Five More Minutes was a tear jerker, and a perfect movie. We talked to Nikki in depth about this movie. It is beautiful story and great premise. We gave A Kiss Before Christmas 3.5 stars and gave Five More Minutes 5 stars. Giving a shoutout to Lisa, our first buymeacoffee supporter. She is Americano level, $1 a month. For $1 a month, you get access to unedited interviews. If you want a shoutout on the podcast and get access to unedited interviews, it's only $1 a month. Click on the buymeacoffee link. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

Happy Thanksgiving to our American Listeners. Hope you enjoy your time with your family today. This week we are reviewing Nantucket Noel starring Trevor Donovan and Sarah Powers as well as A Christmas Together with You starring Niall Matter, Laura Vandervoort and Harry Linux. Not going to lie, both movies were duds for us this week. Nantucket Noel was boring. It is the same story trope Hallmark has done a million times of evil developer comes to tear down a landmark, and local business owner fights them. I do have to say the ending was different. Unlike the other movies with the same trope, the developer still had to tear down the wharf. There were some points that had us cracking up though, like a topless mermaid on the mural of a children's toy store and grandpa was a Grinch. lol. A Christmas Together with You was only slightly better. The storyline of the older couple was much better and in our opinion, Steve and Megan was an afterthought. Come on Hallmark, just tell the love story of an older couple without the younger one as a lead. It's a surprise. I give Nantucket Noel 1 star, Kayla gives it 2.5 stars. A Christmas Together with you got 2 stars from me. 3 from Kayla November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week we have the honor and the privilege to chat with the talented and beautiful queen of breaking our hearts but also giving us hope, Nikki DeLoach, star of many Hallmark classics such as Love Takes Flight, Reunited at Christmas and Two Turtle Doves. Her most recent Christmas movie is called Five More Minutes, also starring David Haydn Jones. Oh man, like there is no words to describe this honor. Several times throughout this podcast, there were tears and laughter.  We had the honor to chat about the movie Five More Minutes, to talk about her dad, who recently passed from Pick's Disease, and working with David Haydn Jones. Also we briefly talked about her other movie of 2021 Taking the Reins and how both movies have helped Nikki with her grief. We also shared our own struggles with our faith, our link to alzheimers and so much more. This was nothing but an honor. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week Kayla and I are back reviewing the last two movie premieres of the week: A Holiday in Harlem starring Olivia Washington, Will Adams and Tiffany Lifford, as well as One December Night starring Eloise Mumford, Brett Dalton, Bruce Campbell and Peter Gallagher. We praise the representation in A Holiday in Harlem. From an all black cast to a curvy beautiful lead. We also loved the neighborhood feel of this movie. The block party was the bomb and the fashion show was very much like a black fashion show. (That's how it was in my neighborhood growing up anyway. lol.) Also we are very critical of Hallmark's lack of advertising this movie, which in our opinion was a big contribution to its ratings. Kayla and I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars One December Night was heavy, touching upon subjects of alzheimer's, alcoholism, abandonment and cancer. But it was beautifully done. You cried and you laughed. The actors all had chemistry and was believable. Also this had the right amount of singing, which was a critic we had with Christmas in Harmony. We wanted more singing in the movie since it centered around a choir. This storyline, singing only in the end made sense since both men were reluctant to work together Kayla gives this one 5 stars. I give it 4.8. *My favorite is still Christmas in My Heart. Sunday, November 21, we will be releasing our interview with Nikki DeLoach about her newest movie, Five More Minutes. It was an honor to interview her.  November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

In this podcast episode, Kayla and I review two of the newest releases from Hallmark Channel titled Open by Christmas starring Allison Sweeney, Brennan Elliot and Erica Durance. As well as My Family Christmas Tree starring Aimee Teagarden, Andrew Walker and James Tupper. Neither of us like Open by Christmas. We both feel that the storyline with the supporting characters was much better and should have been the lead storyline. I personally feel that Brennan and Allison were used in this movie for their "names". That's it. Their storyline was boring. My Family Christmas Tree was good. We both liked the movie. We just didn't like the DNA snafu and couldn't understand how that was solved. We both think it would have been better off if Vanessa wasn't a daughter and the family said "who cares. You're part of the family anyway." Or that the DNA snafu had never occurred in the first place. Kayla gives Open by Christmas 1.5/5 stars. I give it 2 stars. Kayla gives My Family Christmas Tree 3.5 stars. I give it 3. Podcast reviewing One December Night and A Holiday in Harlem will be out on Friday. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Support the podcast and buy me a coffee. For $1 a month, you get early access to interviews and podcasts. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hmarkheartbeats 

This week, we are joined by Keith Powell, director of newest Hallmark Christmas movie A Holiday in Harlem. We talk about the making of the film, turning Connecticut to Harlem, his passion for telling important black stories, and Denzel Washington's name was also dropped. We also talked a little bit about This is Us and the IATSE strikes, how crew of A Holiday in Harlem spoke up in support of how Mr. Powell ran his set and kept everyone safe. Don't forget to tune in on Sunday night at 8 PM ET on Hallmark Channel to watch A Holiday in Harlem. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433

Kayla is back and in this episode we review two more movies this week. Next Stop Christmas and A Christmas Treasure. We both appreciated the throwbacks to Polar Express, Back to the Future, The Terminator, Star Wars and The Lake House in Next Stop Christmas. In Camille's opinion though, the movie was just lacking. The chemistry between the leads were missing, the ending was rushed and Camille wasn't cheering for Ben and Angie by the end of the movie. We both loved Jordin singing, but again, in Camille's opinion, this movie wasn't memorable. Camille gives Next Stop Christmas 2.5 stars Kayla gives it 3 stars Camille gives A Christmas Treasure 2.5 stars Kayla gives it 4 stars. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433 Next week's movies: Friday 11/15 Open By Christmas Saturday 11/16 My Christmas Family Tree 11/16 One December Night Sunday 11/17 A Holiday in Harlem Next podcast out will be an interview with Keith Powell, director of A Holiday in Harlem

This week I am joined by Cally Younger, writer for the Hallmarks the Spot Blog and we talk about two of this week's newest Hallmark movies Gingerbread Miracle and Debbie MacComber's A Mrs. Miracle Christmas. We fall in love with Jon Ecker, lament over where he has been hiding. We also discuss pressures of first and second generation immigrants, expectations and wishes. We praise Hallmark for the steps it's taken towards inclusion and diversity, in particular presenting and explaining the symbolism behind the Las Posadas. As a former foster child, and Cally being a foster parent, we discuss A Mrs. Miracle Christmas from both perspectives. We share stories of being part of the system, the difficulties of finding homes for older children and more. We praise Hallmark for discussing this subject matter in the movie, also touching upon infertility and how it might affect marriages. Also we praise the comedic moments between Nana and Mrs. Merkel. Cally gives Gingerbread Miracle 3 stars. Camille gives it 3.5 stars.  Cally and I both give Mrs. Miracle Christmas 5 stars. November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433

This week we also get to interview actor Azriel Dalman, star of Hallmark movie "Coyote Creek Christmas" Can you believe he is almost seven years old and been acting more than half his life? We talk about what it was like working with Janel Parrish and Ryan Paevey, audition process and cookies. Lots of cookies. Lol November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Kayla has epilepsy. To donate to support the cause, click on the link https://www.epilepsy.com Join our newly minted Facebook group whose purpose is to highlight diversity and inclusion Hallmark Channel has taken. https://www.facebook.com/groups/421837762791433