Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Guest: Mary Lou Kayser

Episode Title: The Power of Poetry

Episode Summary

In this episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes poet, author, and creative entrepreneur Mary Lou Kayser for a deeply moving and thought-provoking conversation on art, creativity, and what it means to live—and write—fully in a digital age. Mary Lou shares her journey as a teacher, writer, and poet, exploring how the rapid shift into the digital world impacts human connection and creativity. She opens up about loss, love, and the role poetry plays in healing and transformation, reading two poignant pieces from her poetry collections The Far Unlit Unknown and The River Only Runs One Way.

Through her work and wisdom, Mary Lou challenges listeners to reconnect with their creative selves, embrace authenticity, and make peace with their past while courageously stepping into the unknown.

Key Topics & Highlights

• Life in Transition: How Mary Lou moved from teaching literature to fully embracing life as a writer and creative entrepreneur.
• The Digital Dilemma: Understanding how the algorithm era impacts art, purpose, and human connection.
• The Power of Poetry: Why poetry still matters—and how it can heal, illuminate, and connect us.
• Teaching and Transformation: Lessons from the classroom that shaped her creative voice and worldview.
• Loss and Renewal: How grief, love, and change inspired her collections The Far Unlit Unknown and The River Only Runs One Way.
• The Craft of Writing: The importance of revision, reflection, and returning to one's work with new eyes.
• Poetry vs. Songwriting: Exploring the similarities and differences between written verse and lyrical composition.
• The Courage to Create: Why waiting to share your art is the biggest mistake—and how to release your work fearlessly.

Memorable Quotes

"Loneliness is a compass guiding you toward becoming more of who you've always been." – Mary Lou Kayser

"If you are being called to create—don't wait. Time is always moving, and the river only runs one way." – Mary Lou Kayser

"How can we expect to write beautiful words if we're not filled with them?" – John Chisum

Final Thought

Mary Lou reminds us that art is not just about expression—it's about connection, transformation, and courage. Whether you're a poet, songwriter, or storyteller, your creativity is a bridge between the human and the divine. Don't wait for the "right" time. Create now, share freely, and trust the river to carry your words where they need to go.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Mary Lou Kayser and "Play Your Position" Podcast: maryloukayser.com

Learn more: Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community.

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Episode Title: ED RODE: We Are All Storytellers

Guest: Ed Rode, Iconic Nashville Photographer and Author of "Songwriter: Musician Behind the Curtain with Nashville's Iconic Storytellers and Players"

Host: John Chisum

Episode Summary

In this visually rich and inspiring episode, host John Chisum sits down with celebrated photographer Ed Rode, whose lens has captured some of the most iconic figures in music—from Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson to Taylor Swift and Vince Gill. Through his stunning photography and storytelling, Ed shares how a 35-year journey documenting Nashville's creative legends turned into his new coffee table book, Songwriter: Musician.

Together, John and Ed explore the intersection of photography, songwriting, and storytelling, revealing how every frame—and every lyric—has the power to invite people into a meaningful moment. Ed reflects on the mentorship of Chet Atkins, his experiences photographing legends like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, and the emotional encounters that defined his career, including a powerful moment with Glen Campbell near the end of his life.

This episode is a celebration of creativity in all forms and a reminder that great art—whether a photograph or a song—comes from deep observation, patience, and heart.

Key Topics & Highlights

• The Origins of Ed's Career: How a chance encounter with Chet Atkins led to decades of photographing music legends.
• Storytelling Across Mediums: Why photography and songwriting share the same DNA—inviting others into a moment.
• The Art of Capturing Authenticity: How Ed disarms his subjects to reveal the truest version of themselves.
• Mentorship and Mastery: What Ed learned from icons like Chet Atkins and why mentorship shapes creative excellence.
• The Soul of a Photograph: Behind-the-scenes stories with Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Glen Campbell.
• Work Ethic vs. Talent: The balance between natural ability, discipline, and the willingness to grow.
• Creativity in the Digital Age: Why true storytelling and human perspective can never be replaced by AI.
• Teaching and Giving Back: How Ed now passes on his craft as a photography instructor, continuing the cycle of creativity.

Final Takeaway

Whether through a song or a photograph, creativity is about storytelling that connects hearts. Ed Rode's journey reminds us that art isn't just about talent—it's about persistence, curiosity, and the courage to see beauty in every fleeting moment. As he says, "We're all storytellers," and every story told from the heart has the power to inspire.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Ed Rode edrode.com

Book: Songwriter: Musician Behind the Curtain with Nashville's Iconic Storytellers and Players Available online and at the Country Music Hall of Fame Store.

Learn more: Visit NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com for songwriting resources, coaching, and community.

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title: The Skill of Rewriting

Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with NCS Vice President of A&R and Production, Bryant Urich, to dive deep into the art and discipline of rewriting songs. As part of the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge, they explore why rewriting is essential to crafting powerful, lasting songs—and how humility, skill, and intentionality play key roles in the process.

From Clark Beckham's new songwriting courses to the band Eauclaire's latest release, John and Bryant also share exciting NCS updates and practical encouragement for songwriters at every level. Whether you're polishing your next worship anthem or trying to take your lyric from good to great, this episode offers real-world insights that will elevate your songwriting craft.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• The importance of rewriting month in the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge
• How professional songwriters approach rewriting and editing
• Balancing inspiration with skill and craft
• Why "writing is rewriting" — the mindset that separates hobbyists from pros
• Overcoming false humility and defensiveness about your work
• Pre-writing and research as essential steps toward great songs
• Strengthening your hook and title through rhyme and alliteration
• Keeping focus on the "One Big Idea" (OBI) in every song
• The emotional power of songs—why listeners remember how you made them feel
• Upcoming NCS resources, courses, and community updates

Final Thought: Rewriting isn't about undoing your inspiration—it's about refining it. Every great songwriter knows that inspiration starts the fire, but skill shapes it into something lasting. When you're willing to revisit your work with humility and fresh eyes, you give your songs the chance to truly speak to others.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title:

Steele Crosswhite & Caleb Yetton: From Rock to Redemption

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum sits down with Steele Crosswhite and Caleb Yetton from The Rock Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Once a rock musician sharing stages with artists like the Foo Fighters, Sheryl Crow, and Maroon 5, Steele encountered the grace of Jesus and traded the spotlight for a life of ministry and songwriting rooted in the local church.

Together with Caleb, a fellow pastor and musician, Steele shares how God transformed his music and mission—leading to Captured by Grace, a record originally released twenty years ago and now beautifully reimagined for a new generation. The conversation dives into faith, creativity, and how great songs can grow from obedience and community within the local church.

What You'll Learn:

• How Steele's encounter with Jesus radically changed his life and music
• The story behind Captured by Grace and its 20-year anniversary re-release
• Why The Rock Church's music ministry is thriving in a challenging cultural landscape
• How songwriting can serve as a tool for mission and discipleship
• The importance of local church creativity and community-driven worship
• How music from Utah is impacting lives far beyond the state's borders

Key Topics & Highlights:

• From rock and roll to ministry – Steele's transition from touring with major acts to leading music at The Rock Church.
• Captured by Grace – the inspiration, writing process, and new arrangements for the 20th anniversary project.
• Partnership and vision – how Caleb and Steele co-pastor, co-create, and lead a thriving creative community.
• Local church as a creative hub – empowering artists to make excellent music that reaches their own communities.
• Utah as a mission field – ministering in one of the least evangelical states in the U.S. through authentic worship.
• Timeless songwriting – how songs like "Matters" continue to resonate 20 years later with new life and production.
• Collaboration and legacy – involving new musicians and worship leaders in revisiting classic songs.

Final Takeaway:

Steele Crosswhite and Caleb Yetton remind us that when we give God our gifts, He gives them back refined with purpose. Whether on a stage or in a small church, great music begins with obedience, community, and a heart fully captured by grace.

Resources & Links:

Listen to Steele Crosswhite, Caleb Yetton, and The Rock Music!

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1EqgZg4Y6LDJPlkbi7mWcF?si=cSrldCtmSyy_luV8KxNipw

https://open.spotify.com/artist/27zD09dXJnOpZ3qfeXpzu8?si=KVnMeqm7RGKU3HcQxufi6w

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0c8xYlEYETimOaLlGZcMVk?si=AjZJ1QwzTKiVrzv8jP2zpg

Visit therockmusic.org for updates, music, and church information.

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title: DAWN & STEVE: Faith, Radio, and Soul Care

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum turns the tables and welcomes longtime radio hosts Dawn Ray May and Steve Hiller, formerly of Moody Radio and now co-hosts of the Dawn and Steve Plus podcast. With decades of experience in Christian radio, Dawn and Steve share stories of their broadcasting journeys, memorable interviews with iconic artists, and the lessons they've learned about faith, resilience, and community. The conversation also dives deep into mental health, soul care, and why creating safe spaces for healing is central to their new podcast ministry.

What You'll Learn:

• How Dawn and Steve built careers in Christian radio.
• Memorable stories from interviews with artists like Stephen Curtis Chapman, Jeremy Camp, and Twila Paris.
• The shift from radio to podcasting and the freedom it brings.
• Dawn's personal journey through grief, trauma, and healing after her father's death.
• Why mental health and soul care are at the heart of their podcast.
• The importance of safe community, counseling, and practical soul care for Christians today.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• The power of radio and music ministry – how songs and interviews shaped their years at Moody.
• From radio to podcasting – navigating the challenges and new freedoms of digital media.
• Personal story of loss and healing – Dawn's testimony of finding hope through counseling after trauma.
• Breaking stigma in the church – honest conversations about counseling, mental health, and faith.
• Addiction, connection, and boundaries – insights from their counselor guest, Phil Herndon.
• The mission of Dawn and Steve Plus – encouraging, inspiring, and pointing listeners to Jesus through honest, hope-filled dialogue.

Final Takeaway:

Dawn and Steve's story is one of resilience, faith, and obedience. From years in radio to launching a podcast focused on soul care and the gospel, they remind us that God can use every part of our story—our gifts, our pain, and our healing—to encourage and build up others.

Resources & Links:

Keep up with Dawn & Steve

www.dawnandsteveplus.com

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title: CLARK BECKHAM: American Idol Finalist on Songwriting & Surrender

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum welcomes singer-songwriter, musician, and American Idol finalist Clark Beckham. Known for his soulful voice and authentic artistry, Clark shares his journey from small-town beginnings to national recognition and beyond. The conversation dives deep into the balance between ambition and surrender, the lessons learned from rejection and waiting, and how faith anchors him through every season of the creative process.

Clark opens up about his experiences in the spotlight, the realities of the music industry, and how staying grounded in God's timing has reshaped his approach to songwriting. He also discusses how true artistry comes from honesty, craftsmanship, and humility rather than chasing trends or fame.

What You'll Learn:

• Clark's journey from church musician to American Idol finalist
• How fame and faith intersect in a culture of instant success
• Why patience and humility are essential in the creative process
• The importance of writing songs that come from truth, not pressure
• Lessons learned about identity, calling, and creative stewardship
• How to balance musical ambition with spiritual contentment

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Early beginnings – discovering music in the church and learning multiple instruments
• The American Idol experience – highs, challenges, and how it shaped Clark's character
• Faith through waiting – trusting God's timing when dreams seem delayed
• Songwriting as honesty – why vulnerability and craft outweigh hype and algorithms
• Navigating the industry – what Clark learned about labels, fame, and staying authentic
• Spiritual maturity in art – how surrender leads to stronger songs and deeper peace
• Creating from overflow – writing songs from what God is doing in your life, not for validation

Final Takeaway:

Clark Beckham's story is a reminder that success in music—and in life—isn't about speed or visibility but about faithfulness. God's timing is perfect, and the songs that last are born from honesty, surrender, and a heart that trusts Him fully.

Resources & Links:

Follow Clark Beckham on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/clarkbeckham/

Visit Clark's website: clarkbeckham.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title: MIA FIELDES: Writing From Revelation

Episode Summary

In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum sits down with acclaimed songwriter and worship leader Mia Fieldes, whose songs have been recorded by artists like Lauren Daigle, Zach Williams, Phil Wickham, Kim Walker-Smith, and many more. From growing up in poverty and seasons of homelessness to becoming one of the most prolific voices in modern worship, Mia shares how faith, perseverance, and gratitude have shaped her journey. With honesty and humor, she opens up about her songwriting process, contending for miracles, and the importance of stewarding your gifts with diligence.

What You'll Learn:

• How Mia overcame early hardships and developed unshakable faith.
• Why gratitude is a key to unlocking God's promises.
• The story behind writing Chain Breaker with Zach Williams.
• Why being a specialist is vital for songwriters.
• How to balance inspiration, discipline, and co-writing partnerships.
• Why faith should sometimes feel "offensive" in a culture of self-reliance.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Gratitude as a lifestyle – learning to thank God as an access point to His promises.
• Developing your craft – why excellence and hard work matter more than talent alone.
• Writing from revelation – how songs like Fierce and Tremble were born from real-life moments and prayers.
• Faith as a muscle – how persevering through trials strengthens belief.
• Stewardship in songwriting – becoming a "specialist" rather than a generalist.
• Miracle stories – contending for healing, children, and breakthrough despite impossibility.
• The bigger calling – why your life mission goes beyond music and how to carry faith into every moment.

Final Takeaway:

Mia's story is a testimony of resilience, faith, and the power of stewarding your gifts well. Her journey reminds us that God can, He will, and He wants to—and that our agreement with His promises can change everything.

Resources & Links:

Follow Mia Fieldes on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/miafieldes/reels/?hl=en

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

Episode Title: Does God Really Give You Songs?

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich tackle one of the most frequently asked—and often misunderstood—questions among songwriters: Does God really give you songs?

As Nashville Christian Songwriters celebrates its 10th anniversary, John and Bryant reflect on thousands of conversations with writers over the years who have wrestled with this very idea. Together, they unpack the difference between divine inspiration and developed craft, the tension between personal meaning and commercial viability, and how comparison and expectations can distort the creative process.

With honesty and humor, John and Bryant explore how to honor inspiration while still doing the hard work of rewriting, editing, and learning the skills that make songs accessible, singable, and lasting.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why so many writers say, "God gave me this song"
• The difference between inspiration and craftsmanship
• How comparison with big-name writers can hinder your growth
• Why singability, hooks, and editing matter in songwriting
• The role of influence and platform in a song's success
• Why humility and stewardship are essential for every songwriter

Key Topics & Highlights:

• John's 3,000+ conversations with aspiring songwriters over 10 years
• The sensitive nature of claiming "God gave me this song"
• How inspiration often comes through our own skills, training, and background
• Why accessibility and clarity make songs "sticky" and memorable
• The influence of platforms like Hillsong, Bethel, and Chris Tomlin on worship music
• The difference between good songs and commercial songs
• Why one song can launch a ministry—but many songs may never leave your journal
• The importance of being open to rewriting and receiving feedback
• Why personal transformation through songwriting is as important as public impact

Final Takeaway: Yes, God does inspire songs—but inspiration alone doesn't make you a great songwriter. True growth comes from humility, stewardship, and developing your craft so that the songs God births in you can reach and impact others.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: Claire Bacon, Bryant Urich, Chris Crenshaw, Kyle Kicker, and Jack Landis

Episode Title: STAFF EDITION: NCS Staff Takeover

Episode Summary: In this special episode of Song Revolution, the microphones are turned toward the Nashville Christian Songwriters staffas the team celebrates NCS's upcoming 10-year anniversary. With John Chisum away on vacation, Claire, Bryant, Chris, Kyle, and Jack take over to share their stories, talk about their paths to NCS, and give listeners a glimpse of the unique personalities that make up the heart of the organization.

From music industry journeys and Springfield connections, to rapid-fire fun questions like "Is cereal a soup?"—this episode is equal parts insightful and entertaining. Along the way, the team reflects on their own defining moments in music, the role of community, and why they love serving songwriters through NCS.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How each NCS team member found their way into music and ministry
• The "Springfield theory" and why so many of the team come from a Springfield
• Defining moments that sparked a love for music and creativity
• How NCS serves songwriters through publishing, coaching, community, and production
• The highs and lows of today's music industry and what the future may hold
• Lighthearted team banter, rapid-fire questions, and behind-the-scenes laughs

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Jack's journey from interning at NCS to joining the team full-time
• Chris's background as a youth pastor, event organizer, and touring drummer
• Claire's path from Bethel Music and label work to NCS publishing and project management
• Kyle's experiences as a worship pastor and band member before moving to Nashville
• Bryant's early Nashville days, publishing insights, and role in building the NCS community
• The Springfield, Ohio/Missouri connection and its surprising role in the team's stories
• Honest reflections on the realities of today's streaming-driven music business
• Fun debates: doors vs. wheels, cereal as soup, and musician pet peeves

Final Takeaway: Behind every great song is a community of people who believe in its potential. The NCS team exists to serve, support, and encourage songwriters from all walks of life, proving that creativity thrives best in connection.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Nashville Christian Songwriters: nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Join the NCS Community for coaching, resources, and connection

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Episode Title: ANDREW GREER: Mysticism, Minimalism, and Music

Episode Summary

In this episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes back singer-songwriter, producer, and filmmaker Andrew Greer for another deep and thought-provoking conversation. From literature and scripture to mysticism, minimalism, and music, John and Andrew explore how faith, creativity, and a posture of humility shape our art and our lives.

Andrew shares about his move from Nashville to the small town of Plains, Georgia, and how a slower pace has opened up new margins for community and creativity. Together they wrestle with ideas of certainty, control, and judgment in faith, drawing wisdom from mystics, the Civil Rights Movement, and Andrew's latest record, Songs from the Dark.

If you've ever struggled with doubt, wrestled with control, or wondered how to connect your spiritual life more deeply to your art, this conversation is for you.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Why Andrew believes books and literature fuel creativity and songwriting
• How mystics like Thomas Merton and Meister Eckhart influence faith and art
• The danger of certainty in faith and how doubt actually strengthens belief
• Lessons from the Civil Rights Movement on humility, justice, and love
• Andrew's songwriting process behind Songs from the Dark
• The power of laying down judgment and control to live in freedom

Key Topics & Highlights

Books & Spiritual Reading

• Andrew and John discuss the influence of authors like Thomas Merton, Mother Teresa, NT Wright, and Richard Foster.
• The value of memoirs and literature in opening perspectives beyond scripture alone.
• Scripture itself as mystery and mysticism, especially in the Gospels and books of wisdom.

Mysticism & Faith

• The infinite nature of God and our being—living forever as an endless journey of discovery.
• Faith as uncertainty and openness rather than rigid certainty.
• Letting go of control, judgment, and resistance to embrace communion with God and others.

Justice, Prejudice & Love

• Reflections on the Civil Rights Movement and Andrew Young's example of radical love.
• Loving our enemies as a revolutionary act of following Jesus.
• Challenging cultural and religious biases that distort the Gospel's radical call to love.

Creativity & Inspiration

• How reading literature and scripture fuels songwriting and artistic expression.
• Music as communion with God, often born out of darkness, mystery, and unknowing.
• Andrew's latest album Songs from the Dark, including tracks "Rescue Me" and "Hands," which emerged from conflict, grief, and the pandemic.

Suffering, Presence & Surrender

• John shares his heart attack experience and practicing "being with the pain" instead of resisting it.
• The grace of letting go of resistance and shame, allowing God's presence even in suffering.

Final Thought

This conversation reminds us that faith and creativity both thrive in openness, mystery, and surrender—not certainty or control. Whether through books, music, or life's hardest experiences, God continually invites us into deeper communion, where judgment gives way to love, and darkness can give birth to unexpected light.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Andrew Greer:

andrew-greer.com

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Download the free 31-page guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Sign up for Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

Explore NCS Community and membership options https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/