Episode 14 - Rick Schirmer: When God Orchestrates a Career

Rick Schirmer’s journey is a masterclass in faith-led risk, bold obedience, and divine alignment. Raised on an Arabian horse farm in Louisville, Kentucky, Rick never planned on Hollywood. Yet after being repeatedly called “Hollywood” by a college acquaintance—and feeling spiritually led to take a leap of faith—he moved to California with just $2,000 and a Discover card.
Initially pursuing pre-med and political science, Rick pivoted after realizing law school wasn’t his path. While attending Pepperdine’s MBA program at night and selling health insurance by day, he prayed for direction—and received it in the most unexpected way. A “spirit-led” visit to Kinko’s research sparked a cold call to the Motion Picture Association of America, which led to a life-changing meeting and eventually a role at The Walt Disney Company in government affairs.
From Disney collaborations with Fortune 500 brands like McDonald’s and American Express to launching viral influencer campaigns and helping shape the playbook for faith-based films such as The Passion of the Christ, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Chosen, House of David, and I Can Only Imagine, Rick has helped bridge politics, faith, and entertainment in powerful ways.
In this inspiring conversation, Rick shares how keeping awareness of God’s guidance, honoring relationships, and boldly taking the next step can turn the impossible into possible. His story is proof that when God calls you, He equips you.