What really happens behind the GMA Dove Awards, and what does it take to lead one of Christian and gospel music’s biggest nights? Jackie Patillo, President of the Gospel Music Association (GMA) and Executive Producer of the Dove Awards, joins The Stephan Hogan Podcast for an exclusive conversation about the story behind the Dove Awards, the Christian music industry, faith, leadership, and the personal sacrifices that come with a public calling. Jackie shares her journey from working the front desk of a record label to becoming one of the most influential leaders in Christian and gospel music. She discusses rebuilding trust in the Gospel Music Association, helping grow the Dove Awards, navigating the business of Christian music, and following God’s calling when you don’t feel qualified. But behind the awards, the performances, and the spotlight is a deeply personal story. Jackie opens up about losing her son Gabriel to cancer, struggling with unanswered prayers, wrestling with anger toward God, and carrying the responsibilities of leadership through unimaginable grief. In a season when she felt she couldn’t fall apart, she was forced to confront what faith really means when life doesn’t turn out the way you prayed. We also explore servant leadership, the future of Christian and gospel music, the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music in Nashville, and the people and purpose behind the Dove Awards. ABOUT THE 2026 GMA DOVE AWARDS The 57th Annual GMA Dove Awards took place October 6, 2026, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, celebrating excellence in Christian and gospel music. Hosted by Tauren Wells, this year’s Dove Awards feature performances and appearances from Brandon Lake, Lainey Wilson, Elevation Worship, CeCe Winans, TobyMac, Amy Grant, Natalie Grant, Tye Tribbett, Chris Tomlin, and other leading voices in Christian music. Watch the 2026 GMA Dove Awards Friday, October 9, at 7:30 PM ET on TBN and the TBN+ app, with a simulcast on SiriusXM’s The Message. Official Dove Awards website: https://doveawards.com #DoveAwards #JackiePatillo #ChristianMusic This episode was made possible with the help of our friends at Studio Bank. We're especially grateful to Jackie, a member of Studio’s Founders' Advisory Board, for sharing her story and wisdom with us. 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction 05:45 – Sitting in Uncertainty: Why We Crave Answers 12:10 – The Trap of Overthinking & Analysis Paralysis 18:35 – Faith, Trust, and Letting Go of Control 25:20 – Taking the First Step When You Can’t See the Whole Staircase 33:05 – Focusing on What Is Within Your Control Today 41:15 – Personal Stories: Walking Through the Unknown 48:40 – Finding Peace & Purpose in the In-Between 56:10 – Daily Habits to Build Inner Resilience 1:02:30 – Final Reflections & Key Takeaways Partner Links: •Learn more about Studio Bank: https://www.studiobank.com/ •Sound Royalties helps music creators access funding through their royalty income without giving up ownership of their music. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4i4ZBuW •Stay at The Countrypolitan Hotel: https://shorturl.at/JtN6r •Drink Stage Water: https://stagewater.com/ •Simon Says Clothing: https://www.simonsaysnashville.com/ Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/stephanhogan https://www.facebook.com/stephanhogan https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhogan Email: contact@mavericksmediaco.com Connect with The Stephan Hogan Podcast: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanhogan https://www.instagram.com/stephanhogan https://www.facebook.com/stephanhogan
