Daniel Kooman | Writing and Directing Inspiring Stories

About Daniel Kooman | Writing and Directing Inspiring Stories

What does it take to write or direct an inspiring story? Are there ways I can increase my creative output or engage my imagination in my daily life? I share some of the treasures I've unearthed through storytelling, talk about films I made, films I watched, books or scripts I've written, and share a few stories from my life that will engage your own creativity. I also read excerpts from my latest written works and talk about the films I've directed. danielkooman.substack.com (https://danielkooman.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Secrets to creativity and engaging audience imagination

Category

religion & spirituality · tv & film

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 May 2022

Latest episode

31 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   31 Aug 2026

   WATCH: The Heart of DANIEL

   What do The Kooman Brothers, Michael W. Smith, Disney’s Aladdin, The Chosen’s fan favorite Atticus, TobyMac, and Thousand Foot Krutch all have in common? We are all huge fans of the Bible. And all of the above are part of the upcoming release Daniel and the Fiery Furnace (https://daniel.movie). There are thousands of people buying their tickets in advance to watch Daniel on opening weekend, with sneak previews September 17th and wide opening release exclusively in theaters September 18th. And you can be one of them. It makes all the difference for the number of theaters that this Biblical epic will screen in, if you purchase seats in advance, and you can help ensure maximum reach in just 3 weeks, when the movie opens across North America. US audiences can reserve seats now, and Canadians can reserve seats beginning September 13th. Buy your tickets now (https://www.atomtickets.com/movies/daniel-and-the-fiery-furnace/416866), and use the code DANIEL10 in the promo code field at checkout to get a 10th ticket free when you buy 9. This is a perfect movie for your Bible study, small group or church community. And this ticket promotion helps to make it a little more affordable for everyone, or serves as a gifted ticket for someone in your community. Thanks for being part of this 3 year journey to bring Scripture to Screen with us. And for many of you, I’m excited that when you get in the movie theater you’ll also find your name scrolling in the end credits. You helped to make it possible. I truly appreciate your prayers, as will our entire team, when you lift us up over the next 3 weeks. Crunch time has rarely been crunchier. And the fruit is going to be sweet, when God gets all the glory and many souls are added to the Kingdom. The Word of God is living and active, sharper than a two-edged sword. And the Word of God will not return to Him empty, but it will achieve the purpose for which Yahweh sent it. Let’s band together to ensure the maximum number of moviegoers are in the Theater to watch Daniel, Jeremiah, King Nebuchadnezzar, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego come to life in cinemas. With sincere gratitude for your support. Don’t forget to reserve your tickets. (https://www.atomtickets.com/movies/daniel-and-the-fiery-furnace/416866) Keep Breathing,Daniel Kooman PS Share this post/email with a friend so that they know they can get into a theater to be inspired by Scripture on Screen (https://scripturetoscreen.com). Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

2. 

   5 Jan 2026

   New Year, New Breath!

   The Universe began when God the Creator of everything said, “Let there be light.” As the wonder of the world came to life with all its intricate beauty, the most miraculous moment had yet to become reality. In this must-see clip, Jen Ledger of Skillet explains the glory at work in God’s hands as Sculptor. “I love how God is described as a sculptor, a Creator, He wants us to see how glorious He is but also just how creative He is.” As remarkable as the Universe is, the thing that should bring us the most amazement and wonder, is the idea that God has made us in His image. The Biblical text uses three Hebrew words for God bringing into existence human beings. He made us. He created us. And then the author of Genesis uses the word Yawtsar in the Hebrew which is a combination of make and create, making the point that the physical bodies that we have have are not brand new. Other animals have physical bodies but there’s something about us that is brand new that never existed before. The word Yawtsar literally means, ‘through the squeezing into shape, to mold into a form, especially as a Potter.’ The author is describing how God - the Father of Adam - formed His son and shaped his being by kneading him together with raw materials, literally the dust of the Earth, as a potter or a sculptor works with clay. Yahweh was Adam’s actual father as we see in the genealogy from Luke 3. “The son of Seth, the son of Adam, the Son of God.” God gives him the name Adam which sounds like the Hebrew word Adamah meaning dirt. Inside His garden studio, Yahweh is found at the height of creative expression, sculpting his Masterpiece. “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and the man became a living being.” God created Adam in such an intimate and personal way to show us that He has made each of us in an intimate and personal way. He’s knit us together in our mother’s womb and he knows us intimately. He longs for friendship and relationship with us, as a Father to a son. I hope you enjoy Breath of Life as you start the new year. You can stream the full 4-part series exclusively on UnveilTV. Paid subscribers enjoy it free in the bundle that comes with membership. OR, Free subscribers to this newsletter can gain access with either a paid upgrade to this newsletter (http://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?), or by signing up for UnveilTV here (https://unveiltv.com/join). The inspiring series features Dallas Jenkins, Skillet, Kim Walker-Smith, Thousand Foot Krutch, Rabbi Schneider, Dr. Hugh Ross and many more. Keep Breathing,Daniel Kooman Watch the full Series Today! (https://unveiltv.com/categories/breath-of-life) Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

3. 

   21 Apr 2025

   The Nine Day Journey to Babylon

   In the coming weeks, I will be sharing and unpacking and meditating over new revelations from inspiring women in Scripture. If you missed last weeks post, I had a lot of feedback and personal emails about Sarah, the first chapter entry in the new book, Volume 2 of The God Who Hides. You can read it first by clicking below. In the meantime, you’ll thank me later for this post, because when you invest in DANIEL, you not only get your name in the credits of the must-see Bible movie of 2026. You also support my brothers and I as we forge ahead with our most audacious project yet, with our eyes on millions impacted, and millions in box office. This will be our first movie seen North-America wide, on the BIG SCREEN. And you can be a key reason why it all happened. You will have a huge smile on your face when you watch the film in theaters, or pause the stream on Netflix or Amazon to point out your name in the credits to a relative or friend. But don’t take our word for it. The last 3 Bible releases either trended Top 3 on Amazon Prime, or top three in theaters nationwide…or BOTH! The appetite for Biblical cinema has never been bigger, and we are perfectly timed for the early 2026 release of this epic and timeless story about four young men who stood for the Truth. Did I mention that our conversations with Key Cast for the movie are on fire? You will probably do three backflips when you hear the actors we are negotiating final terms with. The names of the full cast on Daniel are hotter than the fiery furnace. But none of the above means as much as the key point. A faithful adaptation of Holy Scripture does what all the apostles and prophets ultimately admonished us to do as followers of Christ. THE FILM WILL GLORIFY GOD! And on Easter Monday, there are few things more exciting than the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that honors the Lord and leads audiences to God, and into a deeper dive in Holy Scripture. We are privileged to be in the cross-section of faith, Scripture and modern media. Going back to the ancient paths, featuring the timeless true story of Daniel’s faith, is sure to challenge, uplift and inspire. Will you join us? If you are in BC, AB or ON, just respond to this email, or direct your inquiry about investment to productions@unveilstudios.com (because the crowdfund portal doesn’t work online from those 3 locations). For everyone else, you have 9 days left to invest through our Registered Crowdfund here. (https://danielthemovie.com) We just flew passed $727,000 raised, and we can’t reach our stretch goal without YOU. All glory to God, this is one of the most successful faith film crowdfunds of all time. And when we get to $745K on the raise (18K away) we get a HUGE BOOST through a marketing push by the crowdfund site. In other words, your impact will be magnified even further right now, due to the heights we’ve risen during this campaign. It’s a story of faith, and when we add our faith to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah’s, we reach more people with the good news, that a God once hidden is clearly revealed, even tangibly visible, to those who believe. Thank you for praying and partnering with this timeless film. The best is yet to come! (https://danielthemovie.com) HAPPY EASTER. Our Savior has conquered our two greatest foes: sin and death. Keep Breathing,Daniel Kooman PS Share the new teaser trailer on this post with a family member or friend, and help us reach a wider audience! You can also find it and share it from our Youtube channel here (https://www.youtube.com/@Unveilstudios) Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

4. 

   17 Mar 2025

   Overseas and Overjoyed

   In the early hours, we are off, another flight scheduled before sunrise. Why is it always BEFORE sunrise? We are embarking on a long-planned mission, continuing pre-production, planning and film preparations in India for our Biblical Daniel film. Prayers are so valuable as we travel far, experience high temperatures, long travel days, logistical challenges and yes, eat delicious new food. Please keep the Daniel film and every member involved in the movie’s actualization in your prayers as we work with a team of talented individuals from every creative discipline and background, combining hundreds of years of filmmaking experience with a common vision: to make the must-see Biblical epic of our generation, to inspire millions to STAND FOR THE TRUTH. Are we dreaming big enough? If you haven’t joined us yet, and put your name in the credits of this epic new Bible movie, here are two ways you can partner today: * Join the 360+ investors crowdfunding us to $625,000 and counting. (https://danielthemovie.com) Even though we’ve extended it, the campaign closes in 40 days! The time is now. * Make a one-time gift (https://donate.stripe.com/fZeg0c9XygWuh206oq), if you don’t have an interest in the crowdfund investment or prefer to contribute this way (without a tax receipt). We will make sure your name is in the credits, because we can’t do this without you. Both options make our travel and pre-production possible, and help bring a must-see Bible movie to life. We might even be able to grab a mango lassi thanks to you. We sincerely appreciate your partnership, prayers and encouragements. Keep Breathing,Daniel Kooman Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

5. 

   19 Aug 2024

   Stand For the Truth

   Daniel, the hero in the Bible, stood for something. And I am so inspired by his tale of courage and faithfulness, that my brothers and I have decided to stand with him. You might feel like you’ve heard a lot of Daniel chatter lately. But I implore you to read a little further for an important update about the project. This is a critical tipping point for our movie on the beloved Biblical character. Daniel Kooman explains ‘why Daniel’s story needs to be told (in 30 seconds (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/KL46HPu88DY)) Matthew Kooman explains why Daniel's story needs to be told (in 30 seconds (https://youtube.com/shorts/56mgZqsN-Qo?si=LzibqJ3XomlLFI5E)) As we continue to develop the movie, we are seeking partners. We have some big partnerships brewing right now that we plan to announce soon. But there are also significant details that are hanging in the balance, and we are asking for you to join us in the most important way - so that our momentum really carries us forward with strength. Will you Pray for us - and our Film? There’s a line in our movie SHE HAS A NAME (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9DXM3yFihY&t=1605s) where Marta, a lawyer working to rescue real victims of human trafficking asks Jason, working undercover to rescue a young Cambodian, to do ‘the one thing you can do in this line of work.’ “What’s that,” Jason replies, looking defeated. Marta simply replies, “PRAY.” When it seems like there is nothing left to be done, there is but ONE thing we must do. And that is pray. If each one of my weekly readers prayed for 3 minutes after reading this post, we would bank 10,000 minutes of prayer TODAY for the Daniel movie. That is 168.25 hours. Which is SEVEN DAYS OF PRAYER! It’s a great example of how the Body can lift a big load, if we lift together. Daniel prayed like few other followers of Yahweh in Scripture. Today with absolute sincerity, I’m asking for your partnership in prayer as a way of honouring and continuing his legacy of faith. Here are 6 simple but key requests for you to pray with us - please take 3-5 minutes to join with the others reading this right now: * That we would see the key partners we are in talks with about the movie come officially on board - this month! * That we would shatter past our next milestone of $6,000 on the Crowdfund we launched on WeFunder (https://wefunder.com/danielmovie) a couple weeks ago * That we would gain favour with key cast that will take the movie to an even higher level. * That we will see our vision fulfilled to film the movie by or before March 2025, and that the logistics of filming in India will be blessed. * Pray that our core team of The Kooman Brothers and our producer Travis (he produced I Can Only Imagine) will be encouraged, empowered, and have endurance. * Pray that our marketing team Collide Media will feel joy, strength, and energy as they build a following for the film to have maximum impact. I look forward to reporting back in a couple of weeks, to see what 7 days of prayer, by believers AROUND THE WORLD reading this newsletter has done. I do not take prayer lightly, for it is a mighty weapon by which the Bible reveals we can DESTROY STRONGHOLDS. If you believe with me for something beautiful to be filmed by Unveil Studios that honour’s the legacy of a champion in the faith, please pray with us and blow some serious wind of encouragement and grace our way. It means the world. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

6. 

   8 Jul 2024

   Crowd-Funding Launch for DANIEL

   It’s my birthday this week. Just the right time to birth something new. Which is why I’m thrilled to announce the crowdfunding equity campaign for DANIEL. You can own a piece of the must-see movie coming to a theater near you in 2025. Daniel is an epic drama from Unveil Studios (She Has A Name), Cobalt Pictures (I Can Only Imagine) and in association with Collide Media (their team is behind some of the biggest faith-based hits of all time). The film will tell the timeless story of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, from a fresh perspective that you haven’t seen before. So far we’ve filmed the first 10% of the movie, but we need your partnership to make the rest of the film this Winter. With your help, we will inspire, challenge, and reach MILLIONS OF PEOPLE. As a frequent reader and supporter, I’m inviting you to take 5 minutes to peruse our crowdfunding campaign, where you can be the first to see the brand new teaser trailer for the film. And hop on board with any amount ($100 and up) to bring this film to the world. As a bonus, you’ll own a piece of the film’s profits and earn the right to share with friends and family that you were part of bringing a timeless Biblical story to life. Together, we can make this timeless and gripping story of faith a reality on film. Thanks for making this birthday about birthing something brand new that will bring a much-needed breath of life into the world. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman P.S. If you have any film-specific questions or need help with the crowdfunding portal, drop me a line by responding to this email Get full access to Breath of Life by Daniel Kooman at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

7. 

   24 Jun 2024

   Longing for Heaven on Earth

   “Oh how I long for Heaven in a place called Earth.” It’s the opening lyric of Lauren Daigle and Jon Foreman’s song bookending our Tanzania 2024 missions video. It’s been the heart cry of many followers of Christ over the years, as the centrepiece of the Lord’s prayer. “Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.” We saw beautiful glimpses of Heaven on our recent trip with 17 volunteers eager to serve and love the welcoming and kind people of Tanzania. I hope you take 8 minutes to be encouraged by the testimonies captured in this short video. Reach out to me if you’re interested in joining our team in 2025 when we return to share about God’s love and kindness once again. It’s well worth a watch, with stories of healing, salvation and genuine transformation in both the locals and the visitors. When we respond in big and small ways to the call, God’s Kingdom fire burns in every direction. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

8. 

   13 May 2024

   Planting Seeds of Transformation

   In 2006, I was in East Africa for the second time in 9 months. I didn’t know what dreams were about to be borne. I didn’t even know I was in the seedling stage of mine, and others, transformation. We were completing a film called Africa Sing Me Your Song, filming stories of AIDS-impacted children in central Tanzania. We had filmed some amazing footage with Masai warriors, in local schools, and even in hospitals and mud-hut villages. But, as a storyteller I knew we had not yet found a story for our film that really resonated at a deep, heart (or spirit) level. So we prayed. There were four members on that team, and on the final night in a small town called Tabora, two of us hit our knees. We prayed for about half an hour, asking Yahweh to reveal His plans, even if our time clock was winding down to zero. It was a Hail Mary, a last-ditch-effort-kind-of-prayer. We were all in. “God, you made the Earth and made us to inhabit it. If You want, You can even change our circumstances and timeline.” We were supposed to fly at 6am. And then catch an international flight the day after that. But something happened, that we did not expect. A flash flood washed out the runway at the local airport, a red-dirt runway. The only airport within 300 miles. We were grounded indefinitely. I’ll never forget the feeling at breakfast that morning. Two of our team members were discombobulated, grumbling as any of us likely would to have our plans so suddenly changed. But the two members of our team that were praying the night before were grinning ear to ear. We knew that of all the washed-out runways, this flood was from the Lord. Fast forward to 3 hours later. As the cinematographer and director of the film, I suggested that we go downtown to see what we might find. And the split second I hit record on the camera, two young boys, street orphans named Juma and Haruna, walked into the frame. They were 10 and 8 years old. I didn’t speak a word of Swahili back then. I hardly knew how to say, “Jambo.” But when I looked into those boys’ eyes, I knew that we had found our story. Fast forward to 3 years later. Our film had touched the lives of quite a few people when we shared it in Canada. In particular, there were a pair of 10 year old boys from a private school who saw the same look in Juma and Haruna’s eyes, that I had seen through my tiny field monitor on the streets of East Africa. We presented a new vision when screening our short documentary from Tanzania: build a home for Juma’s family, 12 kids under 12, and their grandmother. With the passion of two grade schoolers, $16,000 was raised in an international dinner at the school I had attended as a young boy and teenager, Red Deer (Gateway) Christian. And with those seed funds, we built this precious family a new home, lovingly named the Gateway House. Fast forward another 15 years. Juma is not only healthy, well, wise and of good reputation with his family and peers. He is a bright, whipsmart, talented, baptized, Spirit-filled follower of Jesus, and he changed his name to Moses, a reflection of his pursuit of the promised land he now longs for. This week I land in Tanzania once again. Mark it, trip 15 (or is it 16?!) in the last 18 years! And Juma Moses, as we now call him, is the co-leader of our mission. I will land in his nation, and he will meet our team and provide support and translation as we walk through villages and sit with local Tanzanians, Swahili Bibles in hand. It’s incredible as a witness to the transformation over the last 18 years, to see how far Juma Moses and his siblings have come. Some are (or will soon be) teachers, nurses, doctors and business owners. But it would have never come to pass, had it not been for that washed out runway in 2006. A disastrous interruption was a miraculous answer to prayer. What prayers are you praying? I pray they are answered, planting seedlings that one day grow into stories of divine transformation. For God’s glory. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman P.S. take 2 minutes to watch the video on this post to learn about Juma Moses and Milka’s stories! Look into their eyes, and please say a prayer for our team on the ground, as the Spirit leads. Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

9. 

   6 May 2024

   Creating World Changers

   As a filmmaker, I’m excited to share some of the work we produce at Unveil Studios. Writing and uncovering Biblical truth is a passion of mine which I share weekly about on this newsletter, and filmmaking is my other passion as well as my day job! We started our studio (and named it Unveil) in 2006, inspired by 2 Corinthians 3:18, And we all, with UNVEIL-ed face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. Our work has taken us (The Kooman Brothers Matthew, Andrew and Daniel) to pipe villages in India, impoverished villages in East and West Africa, and on pilgrimage for inspiring stories in over 35 other countries. And sometimes, inspiring stories are found in our own backyard. Robb Nash is a Canadian musician who has overcome personal tragedy, and in my opinion, is clearly being transformed into God’s image, while helping others to discover their identity for the first time. When he was in high school he was in a major car accident that changed the course of his life. He now uses music to tell a story of hope to people who feel like they’re hopeless, worthless, alone or unloved. The results will surprise you. I sincerely hope you’ll take 15 minutes (put on the coffee!) to gather inspiration from Robb’s story. This, and dozens of other inspiring short and feature films can be found on our UnveilTV iOS app, android app and streaming site. Last of all, we’ve had an increase in requests recently about how to support the award-winning film work that we are producing week after week on UnveilTV. It’s a passion, a burden and a gift to be able to work on such inspiring, and often heart wrenching, material. And we can’t do it without you! Thanks for chipping in. I can tell you the truth, any amount is an encouragement. About Dream series Everyone has dreams. In Dream, the award-winning Kooman Brothers from Unveil Studios explore nine stories of individuals who are living their dreams, as well as those whose dreams turned into nightmares. The series challenges the viewer with the life question: If anything were possible, what dream would you build your life upon? Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

10. 

    20 Feb 2024

    The One Person Daniel Feared

    In the last post about Daniel we concluded that one of the great themes of the book (and the entire Bible by extension) is that we must face our many fears, like the fear of man, fear of death, and more, and exchange them all for the one fear that we are called to have: The Fear of Yahweh. This ‘Fear of the Lord’ is the beginning of wisdom, and is the only fear that overcomes all others. If your fear is in God, then you are on the path. But if you are afraid of anything or anyone else, you have not been made perfect yet in God’s supernatural love! 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. Not yet perfect. God is testing, judging, trying our hearts as we breathe our way through life. And the many precious stories in God’s Word test our hearts as well. Saints like Daniel and his three friends who survived the fiery furnace are examples of Fear of the Lord, and how it overcomes the Fear of man. Daniel had every right to fear man. At least we might think so, humanly speaking. But the truth is we have no right whatsoever to fear men more than we fear God. Daniel was in exile. But spiritually, he was more free than almost anyone in the world has ever been! And I want you to hear this today as a true spiritual encouragement, if you can receive it, because it’s actually very good news: we are in exile too. The world is not our home. Hebrews 13:14-16 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. In other translations it literally says: the world is not our home. Daniel and his three friends believed it. That is what empowered them to say so boldly, that even if Yahweh did not deliver in the flesh…it would ultimately make no difference. In fact, in some ways, all the better (for them, not us) if He did not deliver. Because their eternal home, their actual place of residence, was the eternal Kingdom, a Heavenly home that Jesus himself revealed was already being prepared for whosoever believes. Daniel was threatened with death for seven decades, just for adhering to his unshakeable faith. Praying three times a day, turning away from idols and not worshiping the images of men or false gods even when death was the judgment. But God’s better judgment delivered him time and time again. Likewise, when we enter the fire, God is able to save and deliver us if we are fixed with our eyes on Christ alone. And the great news is that even if the fires of hell on this earth do burn us, there is a final judgment coming, and if you remain true to Christ, you will get a better judgment in the end that is incomparable to the short term trial or tribulation that you face. Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. Do you think the scroll of Isaiah might have encouraged Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego when they entered the fiery furnace of hell in Babylon? The fiery flames did not even singe a hair on their holy heads. They were well aware of Isaiah’s prophecy. Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of YAHWEH and their vindication from me, declares YAHWEH.” If you are feeling judged or like you are in exile right now, take courage. The Father God’s judgment is the one that matters. But in the fiery furnace of worldly judgment, Yahweh in His mercy and compassion showed them His Fathers’ heart and love. He revealed that He is the Great Deliverer. Our Savior. The Great I Am. We all deserved the furnace. But Christ entered as a more powerful flame beside us, delivering us and setting us free from torment and punishment. If we are in Christ, we are more free than any who walk this Earth. Become a whosoever and believe. It shall be done for you as it was done for Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman P.S. Enjoy the new behind-the-scenes video on this message, as we continue to reveal the first scenes from Daniel (https://unveiltv.com/pages/daniel), the epic Biblical drama (https://unveiltv.com/pages/daniel) from The Kooman Brothers Take 3 seconds to share this post if you know someone else will enjoy it! Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

11. 

    13 Feb 2024

    Take a Deep Breath

    Right now I’m working on some exciting new content for Breath of Life, including the new release video included on this email. And I implore you to take a five minute break right now, or sometime today, to breathe some refreshing new life into your spirit! This content hits home for me every time I take it in. That is because it’s a literal breath of life for the body, mind and spirit! In Hebrew the word for breath is “Ruach,” and it literally means Spirit as well as Breath. So long as you breathe, your spirit remains alive INSIDE your physical body. But the kicker is this…when you breathe your last breath one day, your spirit will NOT DIE! It will merely leave your physical body, your present jar of clay, enduring in a spiritual place forever. As Dr. Hugh Ross puts it in this clip, “There is something about us that is brand new, that never existed before, and that is the spirit within us. It’s the spirit part of us that is eternal. When God creates a spirit being, whether an angel or a human being, that being will live eternally afterwards. Our spirits are eternal.” I know you’ve heard about this before if you’ve followed my newsletter for any amount of time, but the benefits of reading/watching and believing what is presented in BREATH OF LIFE actually WILL change your life. I’ve heard it dozens, maybe hundreds of times now from viewers of the series, and readers of the book. Breath of Life is transformative, because it reveals YAHWEH, our Heavenly Father, like many have never seen Him before. Instead of a Being far off, Yahweh becomes closer than the breath you are breathing right now. And His presence changes everything. So take a breath, and let me know with an email or through the comments, how you feel when you are consciously aware of Yahweh, your Heavenly Father, as your daily Breath, your Life Source, and your Father. And enjoy the 5 minute clip. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman P.S. $11 for a limited time. Enjoy the inspiring book on the Three Breaths of God that Shaped Humanity (on Amazon with Prime Shipping). Breath of Life is a reader-supported publication. Paid subscribers help it reach thousands of readers every week, receive special gifts & my eternal gratitude. Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

12. 

    5 Feb 2024

    DANIEL - God is My Judge

    Daniel, from the Hebrew, literally translates to English as “God is my Judge.” This is where my first big takeaway came from, while working in India to capture the first scenes of our new film. My brothers and I at Unveil (https://unveil.substack.com) have been 600BC deep into a meditation on this righteous saint for the last eight months, so it’s kind of surprising it hadn’t hit me quite so hard a little sooner. Daniel, and his three beloved friends Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego all had a special gift from God. Not only were they Daniel’s equal in wisdom and good looks according to Daniel 1:4, but they all came to know something that we would do well to take note of, too. Men judge others. Human beings are naturally wired for it. After all, we bear our Creator’s image. And man’s judgment counts for something in the physical realm, because the judgments of human beings can land their fellow souls in good or bad places. Thrones or prisons, mountaintops or caves. Homeland or exile. But it’s God’s judgments that matter more. Because after this world ends, and it will end one day, as surely as the Lord lives. God’s judgment is the final judgment. Thank God, because He judges all things rightly. He’s the Alpha and Omega. He spoke it all INTO existence, and He will also get the last word. After months of scripting Daniel, that plainly obvious hinge point of Daniel’s story in the Book of Daniel finally hit home. The twelve chapters, and not surprisingly even the extended 2 from the Vulgate, tell a story that you should actually consider a full reread of the text just to feel for yourself in this context! Test it to see if it’s true. My take is this: The writer (almost surely Daniel himself) lays out story after story, and chapter after chapter from the standpoint of man making primary judgments. And the twist you can almost start to see coming is that in the end, each story climaxes with GOD bringing a second judgment. A righteous judgment. In reality, the judgment of God brings JUSTICE. True and righteous judgment gets the last word. Even if you have not seen it yet. Here is a powerful example of the pattern: The men will not bow to the false god of King Nebuchadnezzar. The edict of the king passes first judgment, which carries a crushing penalty: death by fiery furnace. Second judgment: God sends a Fourth Man into the fire to pronounce a better judgment, which results in Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego being miraculously delivered from the staggering flames. Somehow, all three come out of the fire unharmed! You find the same pattern of first judgment, second judgment, and deliverance in Chapter 1 with the diet, Chapter 2 with the King’s dream, Chapter 3 with the fiery furnace, and even in Chapter 4 with the declaration of the King to the nations of the free world! The pattern, shockingly, can be found in all 12 chapters according to my reading. But why wouldn’t it? Maybe I’ve just revealed the entire Easter egg of the film and the book and the Biblical narrative all at once, but I believe it’s so powerful you should know it! There are no secrets in the Kingdom, just mysteries to be uncovered and rejoiced over. Daniel means, “God is my Judge.” He wrote a book of 12 chapters, plus 2 bonus ones for the curious, which reveal this in miraculous and consistent, nearly unthinkable ways. To help summarize the theology, Daniel even gives us this in Chapter 3, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” It could be the thesis of the book. God is able. He will. And even if He doesn’t…we choose to trust His judgments more than man’s. It’s why the book is about the Fear of Yahweh, and how that FEAR alone can overcome the Fear of Man. Take this to heart if you’re either feeling judged in some way in your life right now, or if like the faithful before you, are properly aware that you’re in need of Yahweh’s timeless hand of deliverance. In the coming weeks, months, and maybe years, I plan to share updates on DANIEL alongside my other posts, with you here, along with insights I’ve learned from the study of Daniel and the associated characters from his miraculous life. Not every post will be about him, but I hope to share meaningful insights from this adventure in faith and film with you all. The accompanying video of our behind-the-scenes journey shares a first look behind the scenes of production on the scaled up movie. Bringing a film to the big screen is no small undertaking. And my brothers and I sincerely ask for your partnership in faith, and in finance if you are in a position to contribute. Know that this request comes with gratitude and from a place of genuine need to take the film project on the right path… forward. A first point of need is prayer. Even a 3 minute prayer when you get to this part of the post could be the tipping point in our films success. We already have a lot of the pieces together. Please pray specifically for favour with investors, key actor commitments, and the best possible path for distribution. Secondly, you can chip in. For $100 in your local currency you can add your name to the credits of the film. This is cash that literally goes directly into the daily production work we are doing right now to prep this film for principal photography in September. The first 10% of the movie has already been filmed. “A good ways to go yet,” he said, as Frodo looked up towards the mountain peaking beyond a distant, shadow-cast valley. Thirdly, if you feel led to learn more about investment in Daniel, simply reply to this email and I will send you the investment memorandum and some of our projections for the successful global release we are creating alongside a talented international team, and some big pieces I’m not ‘allowed’ to put out on the newsletter just yet. In all of it, I sincerely add my faith to Daniel’s of old, and say, “God is our Judge.” He will make a way, break a way through the fire and carry us home if we put our faith and fear in Him, rather than men. I believe in Him, and I believe this film will rock the foundations of many people’s lives so that the King of Glory will come in. God will deliver us too….And even if He does not :) Thanks for being part of the adventure. Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman If you know people who like to watch faith and family content, spread the word. And, if you know people with resources to invest in projects like this, please tap them on the shoulder. We need both audiences and investors to bring this film to life! Thank you for reading Breath of Life. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

13. 

    8 Aug 2022

    Writing & Directing Inspiring Stories Ep. 4

    Don’t you love character-driven stories? They’re my favourite. Liam Neeson in Taken. Mel Gibson in Signs. The slum dog in Slumdog Millionaire. We get sucked into good character stories, because we relate to at least one key element of the character in a story. We may not have Liam Neeson’s ability to eviscerate bad guys, but we relate to his will to fight for his daughter. We may not be an ex-priest struggling with a crisis of faith like Mel Gibson’s character in Signs, but we have had our own questions and faith battles too. And we almost surely didn't get on Who Wants to be a Millionaire as an impoverished slum dog in Mumbai, but we know that our story has destiny in it too. Daniel Kooman is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, become a free or paid subscriber. Character is also more nuanced…it speaks about the traits of a person and their mental or moral qualities. The protagonist, or lead character in the story, more often than not has character traits that align with a positive moral worldview. If they do not, more often than not, the storyteller is unpacking the character’s journey to becoming more moral in character by overcoming a key obstacle in the story. I hope you enjoy my character episode in this new podcast episode. Drop a comment or a like. Consider upgrading to a paid subscriber (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=web&utm_source=subscribe-widget)to receive an UnveilTV subscription and access to the films and stories we are telling. This not only helps us cover our costs, but will bring inspiring content into your home / living room. It might even build your ‘character.’ Thanks for listening! Keep breathing, Daniel Kooman Keep Breathing, Daniel Kooman My new book is slated for 2023 release Donate to support the completion of my new book titled: Sons of the Father I will also send you the first edition if you donate $50 or more to help me get this book completed. Every bit of support is a HUGE encouragement. Own my first book today to dig into the themes and nuances about Breath from Scripture in a much deeper way. Watch our original films including Breath of Life on UnveilTV Founding members get the book and Full Breath of Life Series as part of their subscription. Thanks for your support! Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

14. 

    4 Jul 2022

    Writing & Directing Inspiring Stories EP. 3

    The guitar they played on their new album was built from the floor boards of Jimi Hendrix childhood home. We pull inspiration from the things that impact us in our daily life. And then we share our inspiration, if we are willing to, with the world. Why are we drawn to the music and the stories that come from a place of inspiration? Where does inspiration itself originate from? And is it possible that the impactful pieces of art throughout history all came from the same place…the same Source, breathed by the Spirit? In this inspired 3rd Episode of my podcast I’m joined by professional musicians Desmond Day and Lonny Eagleton as we enter into their visionary and imaginative experiences in storytelling through writing music and lyrics. We learn about what makes them tick, as Daniel unpacks his views about the Source of inspiration, and challenges listeners to become Indiana Jones on their own great adventure. And mic drop: Daniel explains why he believes King David, the Psalmist is still the most famous writer who ever lived. Lonny shares that, “You play music from what inspired you today.” So take in the moments throughout your day. Accumulate the experiences of your life, and write every day down. Take a moment to turn something, possibly even something that is minimal or unimportant, into a panning for the gold in that experience. What can you bring to your audience, based on what you’ve received from others? We also talk about the reciprocal elements of creation. How sharing your creativity will serve you as well. We also talk about ‘leit motifs’, the path to light and the path to darkness, standout themes from our individual stories, and uncovering what musical theme we are walking out in the soundtrack of our life. It’s time to write new lyrics and walk into the sunset. If you can find the secret sauce of the motivation of your own life, then you’ll know that even in the mundane moments you’re walking the walk. If you are inspired, and you write it down, OTHER PEOPLE will get life and inspiration from your passion as you tell your story. Search “Desmond Day” or visit desmondday.com to find Black Gold and Purple Sun, two new songs by my guests Des Larson and Lonny Eagleton. Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

15. 

    9 Jun 2022

    Writing & Directing Inspiring Stories EP. 2

    In this episode of my podcast I ask the question: What is the heart of the story you are telling in your daily life? Did you know that no matter what your career is, or what stage of life you find yourself in, you are writing a story? And if you want to get cinematic and apply the directing piece, you are also directing a movie at the workplace, in your home, and even at your church. My second secret to great storytelling, is to find the HEART of your story. This will not only grab your audience more effectively, but it will impact every part of your narrative, and evoke a more powerful response from your viewer, listener, friend or even a perfect stranger. But before you can find the heart of your story, you need to understand what your passion for the story is. Why do you want to tell this story to begin with? Therein lies your ‘why.’ If your own heart was gripped in some way, you probably focused on that part of the narrative when you tried to explain your point of view to a family member or co-worker. If you truly believed in it, they probably started believing in it too. In this episode you will hear one simple exercise for finding your own ‘why’, and also hear a reading from my latest book Breath of Life that makes the application practical. If you haven’t read BREATH OF LIFE yet, or listened to the audiobook, you can grab it here with Amazon prime shipping. If you haven’t watched the series based on it, take hold of this exclusive coupon code to grab the DVD for 20% off. Just input ‘friend20’ at checkout to save for a limited time. Thanks for listening, and please drop me some comments or share this if you enjoy it. In Creativity, Daniel Kooman | Author and Director of Breath of Life Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

16. 

    30 May 2022

    Writing & Directing Inspiring Stories EP. 1

    What story are you writing and directing in your daily life? Have you ever thought of yourself as a storyteller? I don’t mean just for that 5 minutes when you put your kids or grandkids to bed. I mean in your everyday life. Because we are all writing a story. And one of the secrets to great storytelling, is to engage the imagination of your audience. We are all hooked if someone tells a good story. I have found the best way to tell a good story, whether in conversation or in a book or movie, is to engage your OWN imagination. If you are gripped by something, then you can engage your audiences’ imaginations with it too. Don’t try to think about what your audience will think…try to think about what YOU would think. What engages you? What makes your heart beat faster? In this episode you will learn about my view on Creativity, how I define it and how I try to engage my own creativity for the stories and films I tell. But the story you are writing or directing doesn’t only apply to filmmaking. It applies to the story you are writing or directing in the home, in your marriage, in your school or church or workplace. It applies to pretty much every part of your life. I have a, dare I say, gold nugget in this episode about how to bring people into your interests or passions too. It’s not by throttling them with every piece of knowledge you have on a subject. It’s more subtle but far more effective. But you’ll have to listen to catch that gem. I also read an excerpt from Breath of Life. You can find the whole book in paperpack, ebook and audiobook versions here with prime shipping on Amazon. Thanks for listening, and please drop me some comments or share this if you enjoy it. In Creativity, Daniel Kooman | Author and Director of Breath of Life Get full access to Breath of Life at danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe (https://danielkooman.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

Contact Daniel Kooman | Writing and Directing Inspiring Stories

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.