For The Glory Podcast

Aug 28

Alexander Pappas: Worship Was Never Meant to Be Personal

What happens when worship stops being about the moment, the platform or the performance, and becomes completely about Jesus? In this episode, Sofia sits down with former Hillsong Young & Free worship leader Alexander Pappas for an honest conversation about worship, artistry, and what it really looks like to lead people toward Jesus. From his years with Young & Free to his journey as a solo artist, Alex shares how his understanding of worship has changed as he’s grown spiritually and personally. They talk about the difference between creating an emotional moment and genuinely serving what God is doing in a room, the danger of building a platform before building character, and why worship was never meant to be personal. Alex also opens up about disappointment, hidden seasons, the Australian and American church, the current Christian music landscape, and what genuine revival in the music industry could actually look like. For the Christian artists, songwriters and worship leaders listening, this conversation is a reminder that the goal was never to be impressive. It was always to point people to Jesus.If you’re a Christian creative navigating worship, artistry, platform and calling, this one’s for you.If you'd like to watch the exclusive bonus segment on collaboration and songwriting, join us inside Glory Gather: ⁠https://glorygather.wearefortheglory.com/c/show-tell⁠.Follow Alex: https://www.alexanderpappasmusic.com/STAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORYCheck out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our all playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlistsMore of For The Glory: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory⁠0:00 Intro2:40 The backstory 13:50 Solo artistry 16:55 What has changed? 26:54 Why do we praise? 34:00 Australian church vs American church39:23 Story behind "Fresh Outpouring" with Southland 46:50 What even is revival? 52:40 Copycats 54:24 Putting you on segment55:20 Outro#christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianworship #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #tipsforartists #ccm #alexanderpappas #hillsongyoungandfree #sydney

Aug 14

Meet The Geniuses Behind the World's Biggest Worship Songs

What does it take to write songs that shape the worship of millions of people around the world? In this episode, we sit down with Ben Fielding and Reuben Morgan of Commons Worship to talk about the craft, theology and community behind some of the most influential worship songs of the last few decades.From writing songs that teach Scripture, to the reality of writing bad songs before you get to the good ones, Ben and Reuben pull back the curtain on their songwriting process, their years of collaboration, and what it means to steward a gift that impacts the Church. We also talk about their journey from Hillsong and the influence of mentors like Darlene Zschech, balancing songwriting with worship leadership and family, how to approach collaboration, and why they believe some of the best songwriting happens in community rather than isolation. They share the heart behind the name change, their vision to remove barriers to worship, and their desire to champion and create space for the next generation of worship leaders and songwriters. If you'd like to watch the exclusive bonus segment on collaboration and songwriting, join us inside Glory Gather: ⁠https://glorygather.wearefortheglory.com/c/show-tell⁠ Follow Commons Worship: https://commonsworship.com Join Commons Community: http://www.commonsworship.com/community STAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORY Check out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our all playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlists More of For The Glory: ⁠ https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory⁠ #christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianworship #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #tipsforartists #ccm #commonsworship #hillsongworship #sydney

Jul 31

From Homeless to Making Music Full-Time as a Christian Rapper | Issac Mansfield

What does it look like to trust God when life doesn't go the way you planned? In this episode, we sit down with Florida-based Christian hip-hop artist Issac Mansfield. With more than 90,000 monthly Spotify listeners, multiple full-length projects under his belt, and collaborations with artists like Aaron Cole, Issac has become one of the most refreshing and gifted young voices in Christian hip-hop today. But behind the music is a story of God's faithfulness. From growing up in a white picket fence household to being disowned by his father and having everything stripped away, experiencing homelessness, studying to become a pastor while searching for work, finding the love of his life before turning 21 and unexpectedly discovering that God could use him through music while serving burgers, Issac's journey is full of unexpected turns and divine provision. This conversation is an honest reminder that God often writes stories we never could have imagined. If you'd like to watch the exclusive bonus segment on stewarding marriage and family life while working in the music industry, join us inside Glory Gather: https://glorygather.wearefortheglory.com/c/show-tell.

Apr 22

From Broadway Dreams to Surrendered Worship: Amanda Janson’s “Sinner to Saint” Story

“My kids didn’t care I dropped an album…” 😅 In this episode, singer-songwriter Amanda Janson shares the behind-the-scenes reality of releasing her debut album Sinner to Saint while balancing family life, preparing for a headline show, and navigating a full season of change. Amanda opens up about walking away from her Broadway dream at 19, moving to Nashville, and the difficult season in 2023 that nearly led her family to leave altogether. She also shares about a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit in early 2024 that shifted her perspective and brought her back to the foundation of her faith. We talk about the heart behind her recent album Sinner to Saint, her songwriting process, building a team in Nashville, and the importance of community, discipleship, and authenticity in the music industry. Follow Amanda: https://www.instagram.com/amandajansonmusic/ STAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORY Check out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/play... More of For The Glory: https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory #christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianworship #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #nashville #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #amandajanson #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #worshipleaders #tipsforartists #movingtonashville #christianmusicindustry #brookeligertwood #abbiegamboa #sinnertosaint #songwriting 0:00 Intro 01:36 The conception of Sinner to Saint 03:30 Story behind Where the Warfare Ends 07:26 How to build a team around your artistry 11:49 Album launch event 15:53 Why we hate genres 20:30 The journey from New York to Nashville 21:42 Broadway to worship 23:48 A catalyst moment 28:01 Worship leading & tips for vocalists 31:30 Not playing an instrument / songwriting process 34:34 Less networking more relationship building 37:09 Dream collabs 39:26 Glory Gather (community) 43:45 Putting You On Segment: Even Death On A Cross - Brooke Ligertwood & Abbie Gamboa 46:18 Outro

Feb 27

Do You HAVE to Move to Nashville to 'Make It' in Christian Music?

In this powerful conversation with two-thirds of Here Be Lions (Jordan and Drew), we unpack what it really means to live a life where worship is not confined to a stage but woven into family, ministry, creativity, and everyday obedience. What happens when you stop separating your work from your worship? When you wake up and ask God, “Do You still like what I’m doing today?” Jordan and Drew share how their ministry began as a family-rooted vision to mark uncharted territory for Jesus, building authentic community and proving we were never meant to do this alone. We talk about whether you really need to move to Nashville to make it in Christian music, how some sermons are preached without songs to carry them, and how kids ministry has shaped the way they lead worship. They also share practical advice for worship leaders, including why opening your eyes matters, how to lead a room with confidence, and why the stage is not the only place worship happens. If you are a worship leader, creative, songwriter, church team member, or simply hungry to build a kingdom culture in your everyday life, this conversation will reframe how you see calling, community, and what it truly means to live a life of worship. Follow Here Be Lions: https://www.instagram.com/therealherebelions/?hl=en STAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORY Check out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our all playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlists More of For The Glory: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory⁠ #christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianworship #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #nashville #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #herebelions #dustinsmith #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #worshipleaders #tipsforartists #movingtonashville #christianmusicindustry #mitchwong #hopeucnashville #songwriting 0:00 Intro 01:47 Songwriting Speed Round 08:55 Discussion on Band Name and Ministry 13:45 Family Dynamics in Ministry 18:53 Songwriting and Worship Leading Insights 21:50 Team Roles and Decision Making 30:35 Community and Nashville Experience 42:16 Kids Ministry and Worship Lessons 47:34 Engaging a Room in Worship 52:42 Glory Gather (community) 58:36 Putting You On Segment: Footstool - Mitch Wong 1:00:52 Outro

Feb 11

Before the Stage, There Was the Secret Place | Steady Okurame

"There’s no amount of teaching that can change a mans life if God is not involved in it."We are so honoured to have Steady Okurame on the pod. Originally from Nigeria and now based in Sydney, Australia, Steady, also known as the Minister of Hope, shares his journey from growing up as a pastor’s kid to becoming a gospel artist shaping the sound of faith in a new nation.In this episode, we talk about cultural expression in worship, the reality of bringing African praise into the Australian context, and why the stage is simply an extension of your private devotion. Steady opens up about: • His miraculous healing testimony • Walking through a season of having no job, no money, and sleeping in his car • The power of community and godly collaboration • Why teaching alone cannot transform a life and how only God changes hearts • The role of scripture in shaping both his faith and his music • Practical ways to grow in your Bible reading consistently We also discuss his upcoming album Elpis, a project rooted in hope, and the urgent need for more uncompromising Christian content in today’s music industry.Follow Steady: https://www.instagram.com/steadyokurame/?hl=enSTAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORYCheck out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our all playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlistsMore of For The Glory: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory⁠#christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianafrobeats #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #purposeoverplatform #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #steadyokurame #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast 0:00 Intro 01:10 Meet Steady: The Minister of Hope 03:55 Journey from Nigeria to Australia 08:20 The Call to Ministry and Music 12:10 Community in Christian Music 15:45 Experiencing the CalledOut Music Event 20:00 Onstage Inner-Thoughts 24:30 Navigating Doubts About God's Goodness 27:45 The Importance of Scripture in Songwriting 30:47 Creative Processes in Songwriting 36:20 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans38:45 Putting You On Segment: DMW - Maio39:50 Outro

Jan 9

2 Years of For The Glory (what we didn't tell you)

In this episode, Sofia and Haynes celebrate the two-year anniversary of For The Glory, reflecting on their journey, challenges, and triumphs. They discuss the inception of their passion project, the importance of community, and the evolution of the Christian music industry. They share personal insights, prophetic words, and the unexpected fruits of their labor, while looking ahead to future initiatives like Glory Gather, aimed at fostering a supportive community for Christian creatives in the music industry. Tune in to be encouraged, learn from our journey, and get inspired to pursue your creative calling with faith. Whether you’re a listener, creator, or simply love music and ministry, this episode will encourage and inspire you. Stay connected:🎧 Listen on all platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast 🎶 Check out our playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlists 🥳 Get excited for Glory Gather's launch: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/glorygather🔗 More of FTG: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/ #christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianpodcast #musicindustry #purposeoverplatform #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #fortheglory #2yearanniversary #weturned2 #christian 00:00 Introduction and Name Change 01:45 Celebrating Two Years of For The Glory 04:07 The Journey of For The Glory 05:08 The Responsibility of Ministry 22:17 Stewardship vs. Striving 23:24 The Importance of Consistency 25:05 Advice to Our Past Selves 28:23 Personal Testimonies and Growth 31:54 Unexpected Fruits of For The Glory 45:24 Unveiling Artist Stories 47:02 The Evolution of the Music Industry 51:14 Looking Ahead: Glory Gather 01:04:54 Community Building with Glory Gather 01:10:15 Putting You On Segment: Constanza Herrero - All I Need

12/10/2025

Counter-Cultural Creativity & De-Mystifying Songwriting | What God’s Doing in South Florida w/ Nate Emmanuel

"The more that you write, the less pressure you put on your writing." We are thrilled to have Nate Emmanuel on the pod, all the way from South Florida. His story is bold, honest, and full of faith-filled leaps. From moving across the country on a massive step of obedience to navigating the temptations and pressures of the creative world, Nate opens up about all that God is doing through his ministry "To The Lamb" and his music. He describes his music as a blend of pop, hip-hop, neo-soul, and sometimes a cinematic musical. In this interview he pulls back the curtain on his creative process, de-mystifies common songwriting misconceptions, and shares how he copes with the battle to remain counter-cultural but also engage with society. We dive into stepping into your calling even when it’s uncomfortable, creating content that points to eternity instead of personal fame, and saying the things others might shy away from. Nate also reflects on living in a culture that idolizes artists, resisting temptation, and the tension of marketing ourselves: “There’s this appearance of holiness that comes from not being in an environment that exposes certain sins.” Follow Nate: https://www.fvr.fan/nate-emmanuel?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnHCYjq5Vcd6JgoquPGyqC6B72UhKCCKQnnwLPWZS8lGcPL8elSTZ1rA73Y2w_aem_qy4rTmiKQGEPRsEzaEerLA Follow To The Lamb: https://www.instagram.com/tothelamb.southflorida/ STAY CONNECTED TO FOR THE GLORY Check out our podcast on other platforms: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/podcast Check out our all playlists: https://www.wearefortheglory.com/playlists More of For The Glory: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wearefortheglory⁠ #christianmusic #christianartist #testimony #faithjourney #christianhiphop #podcast #christianpodcast #musicindustry #purposeoverplatform #ftgpodcast #wearefortheglory #nateemmanuel #glorygather #christianmusicpodcast #bethvickers #markbeswick #heavenssoundtrack 0:00 Intro 2:10 First Nate Emmanuel Song You Need to Hear2:48 Nate’s Journey & Come Up in Music4:26 Sources of Inspiration Behind His Music9:27 Talking About Controversial Lyrics11:33 Marketing Yourself Without Losing Authenticity14:40 The Challenge of Staying Counter-Cultural While Engaging Society17:30 Inside Nate’s Creative Process20:00 De-Mystifying “Creator’s Block”22:30 To The Lamb: Devotion Meets Musical Craft27:44 Building Community in Florida33:22 Nate’s Vision for the Christian Music Industry37:18 Choosing the Right Collaborators40:21 Making Music Without Playing an Instrument42:38 Nate as a Visual Artist 43:54 Putting You On Segment: Who Will You Tell - Beth Vickers, Mark Beswick 45:23 Outro

For The Glory Podcast

Episodes

Alexander Pappas: Worship Was Never Meant to Be Personal

Meet The Geniuses Behind the World's Biggest Worship Songs

From Homeless to Making Music Full-Time as a Christian Rapper | Issac Mansfield

From Broadway Dreams to Surrendered Worship: Amanda Janson’s “Sinner to Saint” Story

Do You HAVE to Move to Nashville to 'Make It' in Christian Music?

Before the Stage, There Was the Secret Place | Steady Okurame

2 Years of For The Glory (what we didn't tell you)

Counter-Cultural Creativity & De-Mystifying Songwriting | What God’s Doing in South Florida w/ Nate Emmanuel

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