Song Revolution with John Chisum

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**Song Revolution with John Chisum**

The Song Revolution Podcast exists to empower you through valuable songwriting insights, inspiration, and interviews with some of the greatest songwriters, producers, arrangers, artists, and creatives in the industry and beyond. Find out more at nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

Latest Episodes:

SHAYLEE SIMEONE: Honest Jesus Music Mar 16, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: SHAYLEE SIMEONE: Honest Jesus Music

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Song Revolution, John welcomes singer, songwriter, and storyteller Shaylee Simeone for an honest and heartfelt conversation about identity, calling, and the long road of obedience in a creative life. Shaylee shares her journey from early musical influences and family harmony to stepping out on her own as an artist and songwriter.

The conversation explores the tension between ambition and surrender, the process of refining your voice over time, and the importance of writing songs that reflect real life rather than performance. Shaylee opens up about seasons of waiting, redefining success, and learning to trust God with both the platform and the process. This episode is a powerful reminder that longevity in songwriting is built on faithfulness, authenticity, and the courage to tell the truth.

EPISODE TOPICS

Growing up in a musical family and early creative development
Discovering personal identity apart from performance
The tension between ambition and obedience
Navigating seasons of waiting and transition
Moving to Nashville and stepping into the songwriting community
Writing from real life rather than image
Redefining success as faithfulness
The importance of vulnerability in songwriting
Trusting God with timing, platform, and opportunity

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Shaylee reflects on how her early experiences in music shaped both her confidence and her insecurities.
A thoughtful discussion on separating identity from achievement.
Insight into the discipline of continuing to write even when outcomes feel uncertain.
Honest moments about comparison and the pressure to measure up.
Encouragement to write songs that are rooted in lived experience rather than trend.
A clear reminder that calling is often confirmed through quiet obedience rather than immediate visibility.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Sustainable songwriting is not built on hype or momentum—it is built on faithfulness. Shaylee Simeone's story reminds us that when we anchor our identity in who we are rather than what we achieve, we gain the freedom to create from a place of honesty and peace. The songs that endure are the ones shaped by patience, trust, and a willingness to let God define the outcome.

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Check out Shaylee Simeone

https://www.shayleesimeone.com/

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge

Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!

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

Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective

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

AMANDA JANSON: Sinner To Saint Mar 09, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: AMANDA JANSON: Sinner To Saint

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this powerful episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with worship artist and songwriter Amanda Janson for an honest and deeply vulnerable conversation about faith, calling, trauma, and songwriting as testimony. Amanda shares her journey from a Broadway-bound upbringing and a complicated spiritual background to encountering Christ in adulthood and eventually stepping into a life of worship and songwriting.

The conversation traces Amanda's move to Nashville, her growth as a co-writer, and the intense personal battles that shaped her latest album, Sinner To Saint. With courage and clarity, Amanda opens up about depression, shame, suicidal thoughts, and the turning points that led her to deeper surrender and healing. This episode is a profound reminder that songwriting can become a sacred place where pain, honesty, and faith meet—and where God brings redemption.

EPISODE TOPICS

Growing up with mixed religious backgrounds and no church foundation
Encountering Christ later in life and the early days of faith
Walking away from a Broadway career and discovering new purpose
Moving to Nashville by faith and trusting God's timing
Learning to co-write and build genuine community in songwriting rooms
Navigating ambition, industry pressure, and comparison
Trauma, depression, and confronting shame as a believer
Suicidal thoughts and the journey toward healing and surrender
Writing songs rooted in testimony and vulnerability
The heart and message behind the album Sinner To Saint
Songwriting as a tool for honesty, healing, and worship

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Amanda shares her unexpected salvation story and the early curiosity that led her to faith.
A candid discussion about chasing success versus pursuing God's presence.
Insight into the emotional toll of industry pressure and unmet expectations.
Amanda's description of a profound moment of surrender that marked a turning point in her life and faith.
The story behind the song "Where the Warfare Ends" and how it was born from a moment of deep despair and divine truth.
Reflections on the freedom that comes from releasing shame and embracing identity as a child of God.
Encouragement for artists to tell the truth in their songs and create space for others to heal through honesty.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

True songwriting begins when we stop hiding. Amanda Janson's story reminds us that faith does not remove struggle, but it does invite healing, redemption, and hope into our darkest moments. When songwriters choose honesty over image and surrender over striving, their songs become more than music—they become ministry. God meets us in our broken places, and when we write from there, our stories can help others find light in their own darkness.

Resources & Links:

Check out Amanda Janson

https://www.amandajansonmusic.com/

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge

Be a part of NCS Community! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out the songwriters and artists in our collective!

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

JOHN CHISUM: Can AI Write Christian Music? Mar 02, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: JOHN CHISUM: Can AI Write Christian Music?

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this thought-provoking episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum tackles one of the most pressing issues facing today's music creators: artificial intelligence in songwriting.

Fresh off multiple interviews at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) convention, where AI was the dominant topic of conversation, John unpacks the realities, risks, and responsibilities surrounding AI-generated music. From deep fakes and copyright confusion to spiritual discernment and creative integrity, this episode dives deep into what AI means for Christian songwriters.

John makes a clear and passionate case: AI may be a powerful tool, but it can never replace the calling, humanity, and spiritual formation of a real songwriter. This conversation challenges creators not to take the easy way out, but to steward their gifts faithfully in a rapidly shifting technological landscape.

EPISODE TOPICS

The rise of AI-generated music
Experiences at NRB and industry-wide AI discussions
Rights, revenue, and reputation concerns in publishing
AI "scraping" artist catalogs and copyright implications
Spotify removing millions of AI-generated tracks
Deep fakes and reputational harm
Theological and spiritual questions about AI worship songs
When AI can be a helpful tool versus a creative shortcut
Why real songwriters still matter
Growing as a communicator instead of outsourcing creativity

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

AI Is Here to Stay John acknowledges that AI technology will only improve. Like the digital shift of the late 20th century, we are in a major cultural and creative transition. The key question is not whether AI exists—but how we respond to it.
Rights, Revenue, and Reputation AI-generated songs often "scrape" existing catalogs to mimic an artist's style, raising serious concerns about intellectual property and theft. Who owns these songs? Who gets paid? And what happens when an artist's name or likeness is misused through deep fakes?
Humanity Cannot Be Scraped While AI can generate polished production and flawless vocals, John argues that it lacks pathos, testimony, and authentic spiritual experience. A great song carries one clear idea rooted in real human emotion. Production may impress, but stripped down to piano or guitar, the song must stand on its own.
Prompt Writing vs. Songwriting If a creator inputs only a prompt and receives a finished song, John draws a firm line: that is not songwriting. True songwriting involves crafting lyrics, shaping melody, wrestling with structure, and allowing personal testimony to flow into the work.
Appropriate Use of AI John is not anti-technology. Using AI to generate a demo of a fully written lyric and melody can be a legitimate tool. The issue is not assistance—it is substitution.
Spiritual Discernment in the AI Era Can God use AI-generated lyrics if they contain truth? Possibly. Truth is truth. But Christian communicators are called to more than efficiency—they are called to communion with God. Songwriting is not just output; it is formation.
Don't Shortchange the Process The labor of crafting lyrics and melodies over time shapes the songwriter. Taking creative shortcuts may produce sound, but it does not produce growth.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Technology may accelerate production, but it cannot replace calling.

AI can be a tool—but it must never become a substitute for the Spirit-led, deeply human process of writing songs. God called you to be a songwriter not simply to produce music, but to spend time with Him, to grow, and to communicate truth from your own heart.

Do not shortchange yourself. Do not surrender your voice. Steward your gift, embrace the discipline, and create as a real human being empowered by the Spirit of God.

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Link to the John Piper ChatGPT clip John mentioned in the episode.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIMZH7DEPPQ

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge

Be a part of our community of songwriters from across the globe. Join NCS Community!

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

Real people writing real songs - check out NCS Collective

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

JACKSON DREYER: Letting Life Shape The Song Feb 23, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: JACKSON DREYER: Letting Life Shape The Song

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with singer-songwriter Jackson Dreyer for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about creativity, discipline, and finding your voice as a songwriter. From growing up outside Chicago to planting roots in East Nashville, Jackson shares how movement, architecture, relationships, and everyday life experiences shape his songwriting process. The conversation explores how stepping away from constant noise creates space for emotional clarity, lyrical depth, and authentic expression.

This episode is a thoughtful look at how songwriters can stay inspired, grounded, and creatively alive while navigating both personal growth and artistic ambition.

EPISODE TOPICS

The connection between physical movement and creative clarity
How running and solitude spark songwriting ideas
Growing up near Chicago and the influence of architecture and place
Finding inspiration in cities, communities, and everyday surroundings
Living and writing in East Nashville as a songwriter
Turning real emotions into honest lyrics
Avoiding creative overload and reclaiming mental space
Letting life experiences shape better songs

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Jackson shares how running helps him reconnect with his thoughts and emotions, often leading to new song ideas.
A discussion on how silence and mental margin are essential for meaningful songwriting.
Reflections on how cities like Chicago and Nashville influence creativity, identity, and artistic perspective.
Insight into how architecture and visual beauty can fuel musical inspiration.
Honest thoughts on balancing productivity with presence as a modern songwriter.
Encouragement to embrace real life—relationships, movement, environment—as songwriting fuel.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Great songs don't come from constant noise—they come from paying attention. By creating space to think, feel, and live fully, songwriters can tap into deeper honesty and write from a more authentic place. Creativity thrives when we slow down, observe our surroundings, and allow life itself to shape the songs we write.

Resources & Links:

Check out Jackson Dreyer

https://www.jacksondreyer.com/

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge

Be a part of NCS Community! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out the songwriters and artists in our collective!

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

LAURA OSNES: Faith, Art, and Starting Over Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: LAURA OSNES: Faith, Art, and Starting Over

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode of Song Revolution, John welcomes Broadway star, film actress, and singer-songwriter Laura Osnes for a deeply personal conversation about calling, identity, and creativity. Laura shares her journey from early musical theater roots to starring on Broadway, navigating career success, public controversy, and a major life pivot that led her to Nashville. The conversation explores how a season of loss and uncertainty opened the door to songwriting, personal expression, and new purpose beyond the stage. Laura also introduces her latest venture, Stagecraft, an online training platform designed to equip and mentor the next generation of stage performers with both excellence and integrity.

EPISODE TOPICS:

Laura Osnes' early beginnings and Broadway career
Winning a Broadway role through reality television
Identity and faith in high-pressure creative environments
Navigating career disruption and public controversy
Moving from performance to songwriting as personal expression
Finding your voice outside of roles and expectations
Comparison, authenticity, and creative confidence
Differences between stage performance and film acting
Launching Stagecraft to mentor young performers
Encouragement for artists walking unconventional paths

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

Laura's reflection on discovering her identity beyond performance and public success.
Insight into how songwriting became a new creative outlet after a season of loss and silence.
A powerful discussion on authenticity and resisting comparison in artistic careers.
Lessons learned from navigating rejection, cancellation, and rebuilding with integrity.
Practical wisdom on preparation, patience, and being ready when opportunity appears.
The heart behind Stagecraft and its mission to equip young artists with skill and character.

FINAL TAKEAWAY: Creative calling is not limited to a single platform or season. This episode reminds songwriters and artists that identity must be rooted deeper than success, roles, or recognition. When doors close, new expressions of purpose can emerge. By staying faithful, authentic, and open to unexpected paths, artists can discover new ways to share their voice and make meaningful impact.

Resources & Links:

Check out Laura Osnes

https://lauraosnes.com/

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Join the NCS ONE SONG CHALLENGE!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/one-song-challenge

Be a part of NCS Community! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out the songwriters and artists in our collective!

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

MICAH CHRISTOPHER: Writing From Where You Are Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: MICAH CHRISTOPHER: Writing From Where You Are

HOSTS: John Chisum

EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode of Song Revolution, John sits down with artist and songwriter Micah Christopher to explore the journey from local church leadership to signing with Integrity Music. Micah shares his story of faith, obedience, and gradual growth, emphasizing how songwriting developed alongside spiritual maturity rather than overnight success. The conversation highlights the tension between calling and platform, the importance of community, and the often unseen seasons that prepare songwriters for wider opportunities. Together, John and Micah unpack what it really means to pursue songwriting with humility, patience, and purpose in a rapidly changing music landscape.

EPISODE TOPICS:

Micah Christopher's faith and songwriting journey
Transitioning from local worship leader to recording artist
Signing with Integrity Music
Writing songs for the church versus writing for personal expression
The role of obedience and faithfulness in creative growth
Balancing ambition, calling, and character
Community, mentorship, and long-term development
Navigating expectations in the modern Christian music industry

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

Micah's honest reflection on slow, steady growth rather than sudden success.
Insight into how songwriting evolved naturally out of worship leadership and spiritual formation.
A discussion on the dangers of chasing platform before being rooted in purpose.
Encouragement for songwriters who feel overlooked or stuck in hidden seasons.
Practical wisdom on staying grounded while stepping into new opportunities.
A reminder that label deals and recognition are outcomes, not destinations.

FINAL TAKEAWAY: Faithful songwriting is built over time through obedience, humility, and community. Rather than striving for quick success, this episode challenges songwriters to trust the process, steward their current season well, and allow their craft and character to grow together. When the foundation is solid, the opportunities that come will have lasting impact.

Resources & Links:

Check out Micah Christopher

https://www.micahchristopher.com/

https://www.instagram.com/micahchristopher_/?hl=en

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Be a part of NCS Community! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out the songwriters and artists in our collective!

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

JOHN CHISUM: Stop Waiting, Start Writing Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 4

TITLE: JOHN CHISUM: Stop Waiting, Start Writing

HOSTS: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

EPISODE SUMMARY In this opening episode of Season Four of Song Revolution, John and co-host Bryant Urich reflect on the highlights of the past year while casting vision for 2026. They discuss the growth of the NCS community, the return of in-person songwriting retreats, the launch of NCS Records, and meaningful conversations from recent podcast guests. The episode then shifts into a practical and encouraging discussion about one of the biggest challenges songwriters face: making the most of their time. Through honest conversation and real-life examples, John and Bryant challenge listeners to move past discouragement, establish sustainable writing rhythms, and take intentional action toward their calling as songwriters.

EPISODE TOPICS

Highlights from 2025 and vision for 2026
Growth of the NCS community and songwriting retreats
Launch and expansion of NCS Records
Lessons learned from recent podcast guests
Overcoming discouragement and writer's block
Time management and creative rhythms for songwriters
Discipline versus legalism in the creative process
The importance of consistency, accountability, and action

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

A reflection on how in-person writing retreats and community connection reignited creativity and collaboration.
Insight into why many songwriters struggle to write consistently and how exhaustion, discouragement, and unrealistic expectations play a role.
A practical reminder that inspiration often follows action, not the other way around.
A discussion on identifying personal energy rhythms and choosing realistic writing times that fit current seasons of life.
Encouragement to view songwriting as a calling worth intentional investment rather than waiting to feel "good enough."
A reframing of the common question from "Am I good enough?" to "Am I called enough to show up and do the work?"

FINAL TAKEAWAY Songwriting growth doesn't come from waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect idea. It comes from showing up consistently, feeding your creativity, and taking small but intentional steps forward. If you feel called to write songs, the next step is action. Treat your craft with purpose, surround yourself with community, and commit to using your time wisely so the songs inside you don't stay unwritten.

Resources & Links:

Check out Nashville Christian Songwriters!

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

FREE DOWNLOAD - The Complete NCS Songwriting Guide: Proven Principles for writing better songs, stewarding your gifts, and building a lasting life of Christian songwriting.

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/guide

Be a part of NCS Community! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community

NCS Collective: Check out the songwriters and artists in our collective!

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

DAN DEAN: 25 Years of Ministry with Phillips, Craig, and Dean Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum

Guest: Dan Dean

Episode Title: DAN DEAN: 25 Years of Ministry with Phillips, Craig, and Dean

Episode Summary:

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! Thank you for joining us for Song Revolution. As we gear up for season 4 we wanted to share just a few of our favorite episodes from 2025. Enjoy!

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum sits down with Dan Dean—one-third of the legendary trio Phillips, Craig & Dean—to explore a decades-long career marked by timeless songs, deep-rooted ministry, and a newly released solo album, More. From early cassette recordings to leading worship across the globe, Dan opens up about perseverance, songwriting, the power of legacy, and why he's more inspired than ever to keep creating.

What You'll Hear:

Dan's early journey from solo artist to founding member of Phillips, Craig & Dean

Behind-the-scenes stories from their 30+ year career and 14 studio albums

How one heartfelt war-time promise shaped generations of ministry

The spiritual and emotional layers behind Dan's new solo album, More

A father-son duet and the family legacy of faith through music

Why beloved songs like "Crucified with Christ" and "Revelation Song" still resonate

Words of encouragement for aspiring songwriters and worship leaders

Featured Songs from More:

"More" – A song of hope written during the isolation of COVID

"Home" – A heartfelt duet with Dan's son, Devin Dean

"Mother of Boys" – Inspired by a poem written by Dan's mom

"Never Gets Old" – A touching reflection on the unchanging power of Scripture

Notable Quotes:

"God always has more of what you need." "You want to hear the songs that brought some kind of emotional or spiritual impact in your life." "The power of one man's decision can impact generations." "It wasn't always easy, but we were faithful to the call."

Resources & Links:

Connect with Dan Dean: https://www.dandeanofficial.com/

Follow Dan on Instagram: @danpcd

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

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

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

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

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

ANDREW GREER: Songwriting and Storytelling Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Episode Title: ANDREW GREER (part 1): Songwriting and Storytelling

Host: John Chisum

Episode Summary:

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! Thank you for joining us for Song Revolution. As we gear up for season 4 we wanted to share just a few of our favorite episodes from 2025. Enjoy!

In this rich and heartfelt conversation, John welcomes singer-songwriter, producer, author, and documentarian Andrew Greer to Song Revolution. From his early days growing up in Texas with music all around him, to his time at Belmont University, and now as a respected artist and filmmaker, Andrew shares how music has always been more than sound—it has been a divine meeting point and a lifelong connection to God.

Andrew opens up about discovering music as collaboration with the Creator, the spiritual weight of art, and how songwriters and storytellers carry the yearning for belonging and acceptance. He and John dive into the mystery of creativity, the intersection of sacred and "secular" art, and the role of music in healing, connection, and co-creation with God.

This first part of the interview also explores Andrew's reflections on growing up with thoughtful parents, his deep love for liner notes, the importance of songwriting beyond categories, and the spiritual resonance of great artists from Joni Mitchell to Roberta Flack.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Andrew's early encounter with music and its connection to faith
How music serves as collaboration with our Creator
The difference between original sin and original virtue in shaping our lives
Why songwriting is about more than "Christian" or "secular" categories
How great art and music point us toward belonging and acceptance
Andrew's insights on the indie music landscape and why it's a great time for creators

Key Topics & Highlights:

The spiritual role of music as connection and belonging
How Andrew discovered a calling for songwriting and storytelling at an early age
The influence of his parents and church community on shaping his worldview
Why labeling art as sacred vs. secular often misses the deeper point
Stories from Andrew's journey at Belmont University and launching into music
Insights on how artists like Joni Mitchell, Roberta Flack, and others shaped his perspective
Why vulnerability and honesty in songwriting resonate more deeply than formulas

Final Takeaway: At its heart, music is not about categories or success—it is about connection. Whether writing songs, producing stories, or simply listening, music offers us a chance to collaborate with God and remind one another that we belong.

Resources & Links:

Explore Andrew Greer's work:

https://www.andrew-greer.com/

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

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

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

NCS Collective: Check out our artists!

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

SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Episode Title: SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert

Host: John Chisum

Episode Summary:

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! Thank you for joining us for Song Revolution. As we gear up for season 4 we wanted to share just a few of our favorite episodes from 2025. Enjoy!

In this deeply moving episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes recording artist and worship leader Sarah Kroger for an honest conversation about faith, identity, songwriting, and spiritual wilderness. With a contemplative heart and a background shaped by Catholic tradition, Sarah shares how her latest album A New Reality was birthed in a season of silence and questioning.

Together, John and Sarah explore what it means to embrace mystery in the Christian life, the importance of living in the present moment, and how belovedness can become an anchor in seasons of darkness. They also discuss the role of co-writing in Sarah's journey, her musical influences, and the inspiration behind standout tracks like "Galaxies," "Ghost," and the beloved fan-favorite "Belovedness."

Whether you're navigating your own spiritual desert or longing to write from a deeper place, this episode offers a rich well of encouragement, authenticity, and insight.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How Sarah Kroger discovered her identity as a songwriter through co-writing
Why gratitude and presence are key to thriving as an artist
The inspiration and impact of her song "Belovedness"
How contemplative authors like Henri Nouwen shaped her spiritual growth
Why living in mystery may be the most authentic form of faith
Real talk on spiritual silence, deconstruction, and creative perseverance

Key Moments: [01:09] – John welcomes listeners and introduces Sarah Kroger [03:34] – Sarah on gratitude, presence, and the joy of doing what she loves [05:56] – The early passion for music and discovering co-writing [10:24] – Influences from Nouwen, Merton, and Catholic mysticism [13:06] – John and Sarah discuss spiritual darkness and the mystery of God [17:03] – "I am with you always" as a theme through the desert [23:39] – Letting go of old faith feelings and embracing radical immediacy [29:01] – Practicing presence and the discipline of stillness [31:14] – The story behind "Belovedness" and Sarah's devotional book [36:39] – Exploring "Galaxies" and the divine image within us [38:40] – Writing "Ghost" and choosing sacred, traditional language [40:17] – John reflects on Sarah's album and the beauty of authenticity

Resources & Links:

Order Sarah Kroger's devotional Belovedness: Overcoming Your Inner Critic https://sarahkroger.com

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

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

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