Song Revolution with John Chisum

Nashville Christian Songwriters
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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

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    JOHN CHISUM: How Music Works Now

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich   Episode Title: How Music Works Now   Episode Summary: In this kickoff episode for July, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich reflect on the first half of 2025 and introduce the month’s focus: understanding how the music industry works today. They explore the challenges and changes facing songwriters and artists, especially those operating outside traditional industry systems. From redefining what “making it” means to embracing the calling of songwriting at every level, this episode delivers both practical insight and encouragement for Christian creatives.   John and Bryant share lessons from their own journeys, reflect on standout moments from past guests, and unpack why success looks different for everyone—from indie artists like Jason Lovins and Justin Gambino to songwriters working quietly at home. The conversation highlights the importance of obedience, daily faithfulness, and allowing God to shape your creative path—one step at a time.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How the definition of “success” in music has evolved - Why comparison is one of the biggest creativity killers - What it takes to build a career in today’s indie music economy - Why obedience and consistency are more valuable than overnight success - How NCS is helping songwriters at every stage of their journey - Practical resources to understand the business side of music   Key Moments: - Reflecting on standout episodes and guests from 2025 so far - Why the indie artist model is more relevant than ever - Breaking down the myth of “overnight fame” - How John rebuilt his music career at age 58 - The power of obedience in creative and career decisions  -Why your journey is valid—no matter what stage you're in  -Resources and book recommendations for navigating the music business - A preview of upcoming episodes on building a business and mapping your next steps   Recommended Resources: - How to Make It in the New Music Business by Ari Herstand - How to Make a Living in the Music Business by Vince Wilcox - NCS Free Monthly Training – First Monday of each month - NCS Community for coaching, connection, and weekly support - Upcoming NCS Songwriting Retreat: October 16–18, 2025   Take the Next Step: Whether you're a hobbyist, a worship leader, or a developing artist, NCS has tools to help you grow. From free resources to deep-dive coaching, you’re invited to take one step forward on your songwriting journey. Visit nashvillechristiansongwriters.com to learn more, explore our library of past podcast episodes, and access everything from blogs to artist development programs.   Get Involved: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective - Check out the artists we’re working with! https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: Website: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    30 min

  2. 30 JUN

    MANDY MORRIS: Overcoming Writers Block with EMDR

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Host: John Chisum   Guest: Mandy Morris (Executive Coach, Therapist, EMDR Specialist)   Episode Title: MANDY MORRIS: Overcoming Writers Block with EMDR   Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum welcomes Mandy Morris, a licensed therapist, executive psychological coach, and EMDR specialist. Together, they explore how trauma, subconscious belief systems, and emotional blocks can interfere with creativity—and how tools like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help artists, songwriters, and leaders break through creative roadblocks and limiting mindsets.   Mandy shares powerful insights into the connection between childhood wiring and adult patterns, how subconscious beliefs shape behavior, and why understanding your emotional makeup is key to unlocking lasting creative freedom. The episode even includes a brief, live EMDR demo where Mandy guides John through a real-time experience of clearing emotional tension.   Whether you're feeling stuck creatively, battling imposter syndrome, or just looking for new ways to access your most authentic work, this episode will offer hope, clarity, and practical tools for healing and breakthrough.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How subconscious beliefs formed in childhood influence adult creativity and behavior The difference between conscious and subconscious thinking How trauma—even small moments—can impact long-term performance and identity Why “writer’s block” is often a symptom of unresolved emotional patterns What EMDR is and how it can help you rewire your brain for breakthrough How to begin healing from the past to access greater peace and productivity   Key Topics Covered: What executive psychological coaching is and how it can help creatives and leaders How EMDR works and why it’s effective for emotional healing The false messages we carry from childhood and how to rewrite them Why not all creative blocks are craft-related—many are emotional How bilateral stimulation helps calm the nervous system and open new pathways Practical advice for songwriters and creatives to process anxiety, fear of failure, and shame   Try It Yourself: Mandy walks John through a live mini-EMDR session focused on the fear of failure. The brief but effective tapping sequence provides a glimpse into how physical and neurological techniques can bring emotional relief and mental clarity—even in just a few minutes.   Closing Thought: You don’t have to stay stuck. Creativity can be restored, and healing is possible. When you clear the emotional clutter, your best work—and your truest self—can finally come through.   Resources & Links: Learn more about Mandy Morris and her work https://mandyemorris.com/    Try the So Free app (currently in beta), designed to reset your nervous system in two minutes https://www.getsofree.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/

    34 min

  3. 23 JUN

    SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Episode Title: SARAH KROGER: Invitation to the Desert   Host: John Chisum   Episode Summary: 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   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

    42 min

  4. 16 JUN

    JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and the Unforgettable Titles (Part 2)

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3 Episode Title: JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and the Power of Journaling (Part 2)   Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich   Episode Summary: In this follow-up to their previous conversation on song concepts, John Chisum and Bryant Urich dive deeper into the craft of generating unforgettable song ideas and titles. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, they explore how journaling, active listening, and intentional creativity can transform your songwriting from empty to inspired.   John shares lessons learned from his mentors, including Bill and Gloria Gaither, and offers a candid story about missing a major publishing opportunity—proving the importance of doing your homework and understanding your audience. Bryant weighs in with examples from his work in Eauclaire and producing artists through NCS Collective, offering real-world insight on refining ideas and developing a unique artistic voice.   If you’ve ever struggled to turn inspiration into impact, this episode will help you understand why writing regularly, listening broadly, and collaborating openly are key to leveling up as a Christian songwriter.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why journaling is essential for developing your lyric writing voice How to find original titles through fragments and lyrical observation The value of co-writing and rewriting to create unique songs Why great songs start with specificity and universality How to listen eclectically and study modern songwriting Real examples from NCS Collective, Eauclaire, and more   Key Moments: [02:14] – Heaven on Earth Festival preview (Moab, Utah, July 16) [05:03] – Why unforgettable titles are the core of every great song [06:48] – Lessons from Bill Gaither on writing timeless lyrics [10:23] – How journaling sharpens your creative vocabulary [12:15] – John’s missed opportunity with Chicken Soup for the Soul [14:20] – The cost of not knowing your creative context [16:57] – How melody and rhyme stick with us from childhood [17:57] – Discovering your personal writing voice through journaling [21:34] – Getting inspired by song fragments and rhythmic feel [25:26] – How “Hold On Me” evolved from a beat to a finished track [27:13] – Why spiritual inspiration must still be crafted and refined [30:17] – Balancing nostalgia with modern sound in production [31:40] – The Spotify sweep: a tool to stay current with your genre [33:53] – Creativity is fueled by what you’re consuming [35:12] – How NCS Collective artists are succeeding with strong foundations   Resources & Links: Register for Heaven on Earth Festival (July 16–19, Moab, UT) https://heavenonearthfestival.com   Listen to Eauclaire’s single “You Me the Kids” https://lnk.to/e-YouMetheKids   Check out “Hold On Me” by John Chisum feat. Phoebe Scott https://open.spotify.com/track/6KAJV2RHqfVcVcBN7heJIF?si=7bcc3352eb2e4064   Join the NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get your free guide https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Start your 14-day free trial with NCS Community https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-community   Explore Pro Song Mastery – Next group opens July 7 https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/psm   Have questions? Contact: info@nashvillechristiansongwriters.com

    37 min

  5. 9 JUN

    EMILY HOSTETLER: Heaven On Earth

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Host: John Chisum   Guest: Emily Hostetler (Founder of Heaven on Earth Festival)   Episode Title: EMILY HOSTETLER: Heaven On Earth   Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum is joined by special guest Emily Hostetler, founder of the Heaven on Earth music festival—a unique and immersive Christian music and wellness event held in stunning locations like Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Moab, Utah.   Emily shares her journey of discovering God's love throughout her life—from a childhood of spiritual curiosity in Boulder, Colorado to shaping a boutique worship experience that bridges the gap between churchgoers and seekers alike. Through storytelling, music, wellness, and natural beauty, Heaven on Earth offers a deeply personal space for rest, connection, and inspiration.   John and Emily also talk about the power of music in spiritual formation, the artists and vision behind the festival, and why gathering in community can be so transformative for both creatives and attendees.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Emily’s unconventional spiritual journey led to founding Heaven on Earth Why the festival focuses on soulful connection over religious programming The unique role of nature, music, and storytelling in personal transformation How Christian and mainstream artists create a welcoming, restorative experience What to expect at this summer’s event in Moab, including glamping, hikes, cold plunges, and stargazing Why authenticity and vulnerability are essential for deeper faith conversations   Featured Festival Artists (2024): JOHNNYSWIM Amanda Cook Dave Barnes John McLaughlin Ashley Hess Eauclaire Madeline Rose The King Will Come   Key Moments: [02:00] Emily’s spiritual foundation and discovering God's love in everyday moments [06:30] The slow revelation of faith and growing in understanding over time [08:45] Music’s emotional impact and favorite worship influences [14:00] The thinkers, pastors, and voices who shaped Emily’s spiritual formation [19:45] The origin of Heaven on Earth and its unique vision [24:00] Creating a festival experience that refreshes the soul without being preachy [27:00] Keeping the festival small and intimate to foster deep community [28:00] A look at the daily schedule: morning workouts, live music, storytelling, and stargazing [31:00] Recording a communal festival song and exploring creativity on-site     Resources & Links:   Learn more and register for the Heaven on Earth festival: https://www.heavenonearthfestival.com   Get Involved with NCS: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    34 min

  6. 2 JUN

    JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and Unforgettable Titles

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Episode Title: JOHN CHISUM: Killer Ideas and Unforgettable Titles   Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich   Episode Summary: This week on Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich kick off June with an essential topic for every songwriter: how to develop killer ideas and unforgettable titles. Great songs start with strong hooks, but how do you find them? Where do the best ideas come from? And how do you know when a title is fresh, original, and worth writing?   John and Bryant share personal stories, songwriting insights, and even a few laughs as they explore how to capture inspiration, refine your ideas, and move beyond cliché Christian titles. Plus, they dive into the importance of pre-writing, journaling, and getting real feedback on your work.   If you’ve ever stared at a blank page wondering where to start—or felt stuck using the same tired phrases—this episode will equip you with practical tools to level up your songwriting from the very first line.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why titles and hooks are the foundation of great songs The power of keeping a title list and collecting song seeds How to avoid overused Christian phrases and write with originality The importance of pre-writing and journaling to develop your ideas Why rewriting and coaching are essential to growth Real-world tips from Bryant’s band Eauclaire and NCS artists   Key Moments: [02:00] – Launching June’s focus: killer ideas and unforgettable titles [02:30] – How Bryant’s new single You Me the Kids (YMtK) got its hook [06:00] – The challenge of writing original Christian lyrics [07:00] – Pat Barrett’s “Happily Hidden” and why unique hooks matter [09:30] – How to collect titles & why great writers are always listening [12:50] – What to do when your hook already exists in another song [15:00] – The myth of the fully formed download: why pre-writing matters [20:30] – Capturing your best ideas in moments of clarity and stillness [25:00] – Why writing 1,000 songs won’t help—unless you learn to write well [29:00] – Coaching, feedback, and why your favorite lyric may need work [31:30] – Journaling your ideas and identifying the emotional takeaway   Resources & Links: Listen to Eauclaire’s new single “You Me the Kids”  https://lnk.to/e-YouMetheKids   Get Involved with NCS: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    35 min

  7. 26 MAY

    CLARK BECKHAM: Micro Moments of Flow State

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Episode Title: CLARK BECKHAM: Micro Moments of Flow State   Hosts: John Chisum   Guest: Clark Beckham - American Idol Season 14 Runner-Up, Soul/R&B Artist, Educator, Host of Idol Breakdown   Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, John sits down with acclaimed vocalist and musician Clark Beckham to unpack his journey from street performer to American Idol fame. Clark opens up about the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, how his faith shapes his artistry, and why he believes Jesus loves the complexity found in music—yes, even a flat five.   You'll also hear about Clark’s passion for music education, the emotional weight of critiquing performers on his Idol Breakdown series, and why it's perfectly normal to not feel obsessed with your art every single day.   Key Takeaways: Clark’s honest experience as runner-up on American Idol Why he sees music as a competition with yourself The story behind “Jesus Loves the Flat Five” How faith, love, and genuine care translate in the entertainment world The difference between worship as a genre vs. worship as a personal practice Why it’s okay not to feel creative every day—and why you should keep going anyway The purpose behind Idol Breakdown and how he handles criticism responsibly Demystifying music theory through Clark’s online courses   Quotable Moments:  “Excuses are just permission slips for mediocrity.” “God is the author of art. And when we express emotions through it, He’s in it.” “You don’t follow your passion. You work really hard to get good, and passion follows.” “Jesus loves complexity. He loves art. He loves the flat five.”   RESOURCES & LINKS ClarkBeckham.com   Get Involved with NCS: NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/   NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    43 min

  8. 19 MAY

    JOHN CHISUM: Writing in Your Best Genre

    Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3   Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich   Episode Title: Writing in Your Best Genre   Episode Summary: In this episode of Song Revolution, hosts John Chisum and Bryant Urich continue their deep dive into genre, style, and artistic identity—with practical insights on how to discover and develop your best musical lane. From personal stories to real-world examples like Anya Lee, Clark Beckham, and the NCS Collective, John and Bryant unpack how to write with intention, identify your audience, and stay creatively inspired.   Whether you're new to songwriting or looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation will help you understand your artistic DNA, clarify your creative purpose, and embrace your unique sound and calling.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why genre and style matter more than ever in modern music How to write songs with clarity, context, and purpose The role of pre-writing in making your songs more impactful Tips for finding your “flow state” and discovering your lane Why writing in your natural genre can lead to greater creative freedom What to do when your favorite genre isn't "commercially popular"   Key Moments: [01:10] – Recapping May's focus on genre and style [03:00] – Musical influences and the evolution of artist identity [06:00] – Releasing experimental music & the freedom to try new things [09:10] – Why knowing your audience before you write is key [10:35] – Anya Lee’s fearless fusion of pop, gospel & testimony [12:00] – Micro-moments of flow: Clark Beckham's unique spin on worship [14:00] – Balancing creative authenticity and market relevance [20:00] – Finding your unique voice within broader genres [25:00] – Why pre-writing and research are essential to songwriting [29:30] – What to look for in a great lyric: hooks, form, and repetition [33:00] – Co-writing and the power of community and collaboration     Get Involved with NCS:   NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year! https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025   Free First Monday Songwriting Training https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today!  https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/     NCS Collective: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/   Connect With Us: NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com   Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!

    36 min
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Nashville Christian Songwriters
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    226
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Nashville Christian Songwriters
  • Show Website
    Song Revolution with John Chisum

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