Joe Knopp’s journey is one of raw resilience and redemptive purpose. From growing up homeless and in a Philadelphia orphanage, to serving in the military, to becoming a successful Hollywood film producer (I Can Only Imagine, Unplanned, Woodlawn, The Trump I Know), Joe’s story is a testament to the power of storytelling, faith, and perseverance. In this intimate, in-studio conversation with Jeff Bloomfield, Joe opens up about how his past shaped his mission to bring hope through film.
This episode isn’t just about filmmaking—it’s about overcoming deep adversity, finding your identity, and using your story to lift others up. Whether you’re a creator, leader, or someone walking through a tough chapter, Joe’s vulnerability, humor, and faith-filled insight will leave you inspired to live with more intention.
Adversity Can Be a Setup, Not a Setback
Storytelling Is a Superpower
Faith Was the Turning Point
Belonging Matters
Orphan Mentality Is More Common Than We Think
Hollywood Is a Mission Field
The Backstory Gives Power to the Glory
You Can’t Argue with a True Story
God Uses Our Whole Journey
There’s Always a Next Chapter
00:00–03:00: Studio setup & intro banter
03:00–05:00: Jeff introduces Joe’s bio
05:00–10:00: Joe’s origin story—homelessness, orphanage, faith discovery
10:00–15:00: Loneliness, early identity struggles, and spiritual awakening
15:00–20:00: Joining the military & the power of belonging
20:00–27:00: Transition to Finance & the longing for self-sufficiency
27:00–35:00: Entry into film and producing Woodlawn
35:00–40:00: The breakthrough and impact of I Can Only Imagine
40:00–45:00: Producing Unplanned—controversy, courage, and calling
45:00–51:00: The origin of The Trump I Know & White House access
51:00–58:00: Behind-the-scenes stories from the Trump documentary
58:00–01:03:00: Reflections on purpose, calling, and media impact
01:03:00–End: What’s next for Joe & how storytelling brings hope
Why You Should ListenTop 10 TakeawaysChapter MarkingsLinks Mentioned
