Advertise on podcast: The Walk: A Devotional Podcast from Worship Leader Magazine

In this episode of The Walk, host Kurtis Parks sits down with Dove Award–winning worship leader and songwriter Meredith Andrews for an honest conversation about rejection, rest, identity, and learning to live at the walking pace of Jesus. From her home near Nashville, Tennessee, Meredith shares how seasons of burnout and hiddenness revealed deeper wounds shaped by rejection—and how God met her with healing, rest, and a re-anchored identity in Christ. This episode speaks directly to worship leaders, creatives, and anyone feeling the pressure to stay productive while their soul is tired. Episode Topics How rejection quietly shapes identity in ministry Learning to rest without guilt or fear Why hidden seasons often bring the deepest healing Living from God instead of constantly living for God Untangling calling from productivity and platform Featured Guest Meredith Andrews is a Dove Award–winning worship leader, songwriter, author, and speaker based in the Nashville, Tennessee area. She is known for songs sung by churches across the U.S., including Open Up the Heavens, Spirit of the Living God, Not For a Moment, Lamb of God, and Faith and Wonder. Meredith previously served with Vertical Worship and Long Hollow Church and regularly leads worship at women’s and worship leader gatherings nationwide. She released her first mini-book, Healing the Wound of Rejection, in September 2025. Her upcoming live album, Live From Liberty University (with Liberty Worship Collective), releases April 3, 2026, with the single Prevail releasing February 6, 2026. Quote from the Episode “What I thought was rejection, God showed me was actually His protection.” Links & Resources Meredith Andrews Website: https://meredithandrews.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremusic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeredithAndrews Book – Healing the Wound of Rejection: (Available wherever books are sold) Upcoming Album – Live From Liberty University (Liberty Worship Collective): Releases April 3, 2026 Single – Prevail (with Liberty Worship Collective): Releases February 6, 2026 Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, the all-in-one software to help your church plan services, schedule volunteers, and stay organized. Try it free: https://planningcenter.com/?utm_source=thewalk&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=episode156 Listen & Subscribe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it look like to come full circle after 30 years in ministry and music? In this raw and inspiring episode of The Walk, Grammy-winning artist Mac Powell shares what it's like reuniting with Third Day for a 30th Anniversary Tour, the sacred weight of worship, and the surprising joy of rest after decades on the road. From the depth of stage memories to the fire that fuels his calling, Mac invites listeners into a legacy of faith, friendship, and spiritual renewal. Guest Bio Mac Powell is a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and worship leader best known as the frontman of the iconic band Third Day. Founded in Atlanta, Georgia in 1991, Third Day became one of the most influential live acts in Contemporary Christian Music, selling over 10 million albums, earning 31 No. 1 hits, and performing on major national platforms like The Tonight Show, 60 Minutes, and the cover of Billboard. In recent years, Mac has led worship at his home church and toured as a solo artist while preparing for Third Day’s highly anticipated 30th Anniversary Tour. With a passion for connecting deeply through music, Mac continues to inspire audiences across generations. Episode Highlights Why Mac stepped back from church worship leading and what he learned in the stillness How the band prepared for the 30th Anniversary Tour after a 7-year hiatus Which Third Day songs made the cut—and the surprising reason why The spiritual depth of the Come Together and Worship Tour with Michael W. Smith and Max Lucado What fuels Mac's joy and calling after decades in music ministry Featured Quote "It would be hard to continue if it weren't fun. But every night feels different because we know God has specific people there for a reason." Thanks to our sponsor! This episode of The Walk is made possible by Planning Center—the all-in-one platform to help you organize, coordinate, and communicate with your church teams. Click here to learn more.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“We’re not just making art — we’re shaping theology.” In this deeply honest and thought-provoking episode of The Walk, musician, producer, and hymn scholar Andrew Osenga unpacks the surprising discovery that reshaped his faith: ancient songs still speak today. From his early years in Caedmon's Call to his executive work at Integrity Music, Andrew has always wrestled with what the Church sings — and what it doesn't. He shares how old hymnals, Anglican liturgies, and honest songs about suffering reconnected him to Jesus after a season of spiritual burnout. You'll hear why songs about doubt, the future, and loving our enemies are urgently needed today, and how Gen Z is leading a revival of ancient rhythms. If you’ve ever longed for worship that tells the whole truth — this is your episode. 👤 Guest Bio Andrew Osenga is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter, producer, and A&R veteran known for his work with Caedmon’s Call, The Normals, and artists like Steven Curtis Chapman and Andrew Peterson. He currently leads the collective Anchor Hymns, hosts the podcast The Pivot, and serves his community through songwriting, spiritual formation, and Anglican liturgy. He lives in Nashville, TN with his wife and three daughters. 🔍 Episode Highlights What songs are missing from modern worship? “We don’t sing about suffering, doubt, or the future. And that shapes how we see God.” Why hymns still matter: “Nobody’s making a dime off of ‘Amazing Grace.’ And we feel that difference.” What drew Andrew to Anglicanism: A flooded house, an elderly Bible study, and the quiet beauty of written prayers. Why Gen Z loves liturgy: “In a world of marketing, old words feel trustworthy.” What’s next for Anchor Hymns: A new collection of songs based on Every Moment Holy, funded by a grant from the Lilly Foundation and Samford University. 💬 Pull Quote “We typically don’t leave church with the sermon in our head — we leave with the songs. And they teach us what we believe about God.” — Andrew Osenga 🔗 Helpful Links 🎵 Anchor Hymns 📖 How to Remember by Andrew Osenga 🎧 The Pivot Podcast 📷 Follow Andrew on Instagram 🙏 Sponsor Blurb This episode of The Walk is made possible by Planning Center — the all-in-one platform to help you organize, coordinate, and communicate with your church teams. Click here to learn more Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

📘 Show Notes What if God gave you seven dreams that changed everything? In this raw and Spirit-filled episode of The Walk, worship leader and recording artist Skye Reedy (Nashville, TN) shares how God spoke to her through prophetic dreams, Scripture, and the challenges of new motherhood. From touring while pregnant to writing worship songs in the kitchen, Skye reveals how obedience in the wilderness leads to deeper intimacy with Jesus. 💡 Whether you're a worship leader, a mom, or just longing for God's voice, this conversation will stir your faith. 👤 Guest Bio Skye Reedy is a Nashville-based worship leader, recording artist, and songwriter who has toured with Michael W. Smith and Mandisa, and collaborated with Brandon Lake, Cody Carnes, and others. She is part of the worship team at The Belonging Co and recently stepped into motherhood while preparing for her next worship album. ✨ Episode Highlights How did seven dreams lead Skye and her family to a new church? What does it look like to write worship songs as a new mom? Why is singing Scripture over your life so powerful? How do creatives protect their hearts in the middle of ministry? What’s next for Skye’s upcoming worship album? 🔥 Pull Quote "I just feel on fire like never before... staying close to the Lord keeps worship alive in the wilderness." 🔗 Helpful Links Follow Skye Reedy on Instagram Skye Reedy on Spotify The Belonging Co Church 🎁 Thanks to Our Sponsor This episode of The Walk is made possible by Planning Center — the all-in-one platform to help you organize, coordinate, and communicate with your church teams. Click here to learn more. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“I thought I had my whole plan mapped out. His plan was better.” In this deeply personal episode of The Walk, Lexi Fromm—President of Worship Leader Magazine and daughter of Maranatha! Music pioneer Chuck Fromm—shares a powerful testimony of disrupted plans, painful losses, and unexpected callings. From law school ambitions to taking the reins of a ministry in the wake of her father’s battle with Lewy body dementia, Lexi’s journey is a raw and Spirit-led look at faith, legacy, and letting go. You’ll hear about growing up in the epicenter of the Jesus Music movement, singing prayers off a diving board, surviving four knee surgeries, and learning to lead Worship Leader Magazine with both conviction and compassion. 📍 Guest Bio: Lexi Fromm lives in Franklin, Tennessee and serves as President of Worship Leader Magazine. With a background in education and a passion for empowering creatives, she carries forward a legacy rooted in the Jesus Movement while forging a vision for tomorrow’s worship leaders. 🔍 Episode Highlights 🎓 Q: What were Lexi’s original career plans? A: She planned to attend law school and become a children’s rights attorney through Teach for America. 🛑 Q: What disrupted those plans? A: A spontaneous meeting with her father’s board changed everything—and led to her calling. 🧠 Q: What personal struggles has she faced recently? A: Caring for her father through dementia, grieving his loss, and enduring four knee surgeries in one year. 🧭 Q: How does she discern God's will? A: Through daily surrender, “garden walks” of prayer, and remembering Proverbs 16:9. 🎙️ Q: What’s the future of Worship Leader Magazine? A: Digital resources built on timeless truths, podcast curation, and a relaunch of Song Discovery. 💬 Pull Quote “God didn’t cause my pain—but He’s brought me through it. And He’s still writing the story.” 🔗 Helpful Links Worship Leader Magazine 💡 This episode of The Walk is made possible by Planning Center The all-in-one platform to help you organize, coordinate, and communicate with your church teams. Click here to learn more. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week on The Walk, worship leader and Christian artist Magen Thurman shares a powerful and deeply personal testimony of surrender, identity, and rediscovering the voice of God in the wilderness. After years of leading worship and raising a family, Magen stepped away from recording—only to be called back in 2025 with a renewed fire and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to walk with Jesus. Through heartbreak, spiritual warfare, and wilderness seasons, she learned to worship not from the stage, but from the floor of her living room. 🎙️ In This Episode: Why surrendering her dream opened the door to her true calling How God spoke through literal dreams after her ministry collapsed What the wilderness teaches us about identity, trust, and timing The story behind her song Walk With Jesus Seeing the Father's love more clearly through raising children “God didn’t bring me into the wilderness to punish me. He brought me there to get Egypt out of me.” – Magen Thurman 🔗 Helpful Links: Follow Magen Thurman on Instagram Listen to her music on Spotify This episode is sponsored by Planning Center — the all-in-one platform to help you schedule teams, plan services, and keep your worship ministry organized. Start your free trial at planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Kurtis Parks has lived a remarkable worship journey—spanning rock bands, publishing deals, pastoral ministry, and now serving as a worship pastor in Richmond, VA. A former American Idol contestant and songwriter of over 1,200 songs, Kurtis shares his deeply personal transformation from chasing fame to fully surrendering his life to Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. In this testimony-rich episode, Kurtis walks through decades of spiritual highs and valleys, ultimately revealing the moment a small group question redirected his destiny. Episode Highlights: From American Idol to a Holy Spirit-filled worship life The turning point that redefined Kurtis’s purpose How spiritual disciplines anchor his leadership What the Psalms teach us about authentic worship Leading worship vs. pastoring people: knowing the difference “You have to stop coming to God as a lead pastor—and start coming to Him as a son.” Helpful Links: Destination Church (Kurtis's current church) Bridges Nashville (Church he helped plant) Book Mentioned: Good Morning Holy Spirit – Benny Hinn Book Mentioned: The Pursuit of God – A.W. Tozer SPONSOR Planning Center Easily organize your services and schedule your teams with Planning Center Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us for a moving conversation with worship leader and songwriter Jenn Chenoweth as she shares her journey from childhood ministry roots to battling chronic pain, and how it all shaped her voice, heart, and theology of worship. A Southeastern University alum and respected leader, Jenn brings honesty, depth, and grace to everything she touches—including her new worship project Out to Get Me. In this episode: How early experiences shaped Jenn’s passion for worship The pain and purpose behind her vocal injury and recovery Embracing your voice when it doesn’t match your personality Why worship leaders must learn to rest—and how that itself is worship The story behind her new project and the surprising meaning of “Out to Get Me” Sponsored by Planning Center: Worship is about more than music—it’s about ministry. Planning Center is here to help you plan and resource your services with ease so your team can focus on what matters most. Explore Planning Center Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful episode of The Walk, Clark Beckham shares how his journey from American Idol finalist to soul-stirring singer-songwriter has been shaped by faith, marriage, and the tension between performance and worship. From discovering his vocal identity post-puberty to leading with spiritual integrity in mainstream music, Clark reveals why surrender—not skill—is the true key to transformation. Whether you're a worship leader, singer, or just someone learning to trust God’s voice over your own, this episode will leave you deeply moved and freshly inspired. Who is Clark Beckham? Clark Beckham is a Grammy-nominated artist who rose to national fame as the runner-up on American Idol. Known for his soulful tone, technical brilliance, and heartfelt lyrics, Clark blends gospel, R&B, and jazz with a convictional call to holiness. He's performed with the Nashville Symphony, opened for artists like Jon Bellion, and is now signed with Nashville Christian Songwriters. ✨ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS How technique and surrender work together in worship The moment a vocal breakthrough changed everything at age 16 Why marriage shapes every musical decision he makes His deep convictions about singing “through redeemed eyes” The surprising way he warms up before a performance “If I’m singing about heartbreak, I want someone to check on me after the set. That’s the goal.” —Clark Beckham 🔗 HELPFUL LINKS Clark Beckham Website WorshipLeader.com Listen to More Episodes 🎙 PLANNING CENTER BLURB Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this unforgettable episode of The Walk, Lecrae shares the powerful story behind his latest album, Reconstruction, and the spiritual overhaul that brought it to life. From religious trauma in his upbringing to near-death experiences that led him back to Christ, Lecrae opens up about the cost of being a cultural bridge between faith and the world. Whether you're a worship leader, artist, or anyone caught between church culture and real-world struggle, Lecrae's journey will inspire you to let go of performative faith and embrace a deeper identity rooted in Christ. Who is Lecrae? Lecrae is a four-time Grammy-winning artist, New York Times bestselling author, actor, activist, and founder of Reach Records. Known for pushing boundaries in Christian hip-hop, he uses his platform to address faith, justice, identity, and transformation. Episode Highlights Why Lecrae had to deconstruct cultural Christianity to rebuild biblical faith The healing power behind the song "Holidays" with John Bellion How Lecrae creates safe spaces for artists like T.I. and Madison Ryann Ward to wrestle with faith What it cost him to step outside the church bubble and reach culture The spiritual weight and responsibility of doing prison ministry after release Helpful Links Lecrae – Official Site Stream Reconstruction on Reach Records WorshipLeader.com The Walk Podcast Feed Sponsored by Planning Center Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this unforgettable episode of The Walk, Colton Dixon shares a deeply personal journey from industry pressure to spiritual renewal. From his breakout moment on American Idol to chart-topping songs and even launching a fragrance, Colton’s story reveals the tension between platform and purpose. But it's his candid reflections on anxiety, fatherhood, and the call to authenticity that will stay with you. Whether you're a worship leader navigating industry expectations or a parent trying to live your faith at home, this conversation will inspire you to choose presence, purpose, and Jesus. Who is Colton Dixon? Colton Dixon is a gold-certified recording artist, husband, father of twins, and bold worshiper known for hits like “Build a Boat” and “Miracles.” He launched into national attention via American Idol and has since expanded his creative footprint to books, fragrances, and family-centered ministry. 🔑 Episode Highlights Why biblically sound music should never compromise authenticity How Romans 8 helped him overcome anxiety and inspired his latest single The responsibility of modeling faith at home as a father and artist Why “the plaque isn’t the point—it’s the people” How creative outlets like fragrance and fashion can still serve ministry 💬 One Powerful Quote “We’re not stopping at gold. It’s not for the plaque—it’s for the people.” 🔗 Helpful Links Colton Dixon's Website Listen to “The Love I Have for You” Shop Desert Rain Fragrance WorshipLeader.com More Episodes of The Walk 🙌 Sponsored by Planning Center Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

📄 Episode Summary / Show Notes In this unforgettable episode of The Walk, Melanie Penn shares her winding journey from Broadway stages to Redeemer’s worship ministry under Tim Keller, and ultimately to her calling as a Christian singer-songwriter. From striving for identity in the performing arts to discovering true worth in Christ, Melanie opens up about the divine redirection that led to The Rising, her new resurrection album told from the perspective of biblical witnesses. Whether you're a worship leader, creative, or a believer seeking deeper roots in the gospel, this conversation will reawaken your awe in the resurrection and stir your imagination for what sacred storytelling can become. Who is Melanie Penn? Melanie Penn is a singer-songwriter based in Nashville, formerly a Broadway performer and longtime worship leader at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC. Her work blends narrative songwriting, Scripture, and artistic excellence. Her latest project, The Rising, is a first-person resurrection album voiced by biblical figures. Episode Highlights 🎭 Why performing other people’s words left her empty—and how God rewrote her story 🎤 The moment a Redeemer attendee offered to fund her first album ✝️ How New York after 9/11 became the birthplace of her faith 💔 What Peter’s redemption story taught her about honest faith 🎶 The creative process behind The Rising and writing “in character” from Scripture Helpful Links MelaniePenn.com WorshipLeader.com Sponsored by Planning Center Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. LEARN MORE: planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ian Simkins: Faithfulness Over Platform in the Age of Distraction In this powerful episode of The Walk, pastor and communicator Ian Simkins shares how God has shaped his calling through quiet faithfulness, spiritual formation, and the tension between comfort and the cross. From preaching his first sermon at 16 to leading The Bridge Church outside of Nashville, Ian opens up about raising sons, resisting distraction, and confronting the pull of platform culture in the American church. If you've ever wrestled with calling, comfort, or the desire to be seen, this conversation will remind you that fruitfulness in the Kingdom is often born in the unseen places. 👤 Who Is Ian Simkins? Ian Simkins is the lead pastor of teaching and vision at The Bridge Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee, and host of The Common Good. A Detroit native, Ian has served communities in the U.S. and abroad—from the streets of India to the suburbs of Nashville. Known for his humility, humor, and theological depth, Ian is passionate about helping people live formed, faithful lives of mission and presence. ✨ Episode Highlights Why faithfulness must come before influence How to raise children in identity, not just morality The danger of distraction and the call to deep presence Why the Kingdom of God is about now, not just later How Ian’s church challenges comfort from the start 💬 One Powerful Quote “Public fruit grows from private formation.” 🔗 Helpful Links Learn more about Ian: thebridge.church Follow Ian’s podcast: The Common Good Explore worship leader resources: worshipleader.com Listen to more episodes: All Episodes of The Walk 🙌 What Is Planning Center? Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jamie MacDonald: How God Used Grief to Give Me My Voice Back In this raw and hope-filled episode of The Walk, breakout artist Jamie MacDonald shares how God met her in the depths of loss to restore her voice—both literally and spiritually. From being silenced as a child to standing on the K-LOVE Fan Awards stage, Jamie reflects on the years of hidden healing, background vocals, and divine timing that led to her debut single, Desperate. Whether you're walking through grief, rediscovering your calling, or learning to worship in weakness, Jamie’s story will remind you that God often uses our deepest valleys to bring forth our most powerful songs. 👤 Who Is Jamie MacDonald? Jamie MacDonald is one of Christian music’s most authentic emerging voices. Her single Desperate spent seven weeks at #1, and her recent collaboration with Lauren Daigle continues to impact listeners globally. Before launching her solo career, Jamie spent years writing, touring, and singing background vocals—until God called her out of the shadows and into the spotlight, through a season of caregiving, reconciliation, and raw surrender. ✨ Episode Highlights Why Jamie laid music down for seven years—and how grief called her back The day Lauren Daigle texted her out of the blue Singing for inmates—and how prison ministry unlocked her voice What happens when worship comes from weakness, not perfection The promise God gave her: “These songs will heal you first” 💬 One Powerful Quote “I stepped into the spotlight at the weakest point of my life—and that’s exactly where God showed up.” 🔗 Helpful Links Listen to Jamie's music: Jamie MacDonald on Spotify Watch the new version of Desperate with Lauren Daigle Read more artist stories and worship devotionals: worshipleader.com Follow the podcast feed: All Episodes of The Walk 🙌 What Is Planning Center? Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Finding God’s Presence in Fear and Family In this moving episode of The Walk, Bethel Music worship leaders Paul and Hannah McClure share their journey of faith, worship, and family. From their roots as teenage worship leaders in North Carolina to writing anthems like I Belong to Jesus and Even Though I Walk, the McClures open their hearts about walking through miscarriage, confronting fear, and finding God’s presence in every season. They remind us that worship isn’t about performing for others but about returning to our first love—and that the truest songs often come from our hardest valleys. Episode Highlights Worship as a weapon against fear and anxiety The story behind I Belong to Jesus and Even Though I Walk Balancing family life with ministry and touring The power of excellence and anointing in worship Why identity must be rooted in Christ, not the stage Helpful Links Paul & Hannah McClure on Instagram Bethel Music Worship Leader Magazine Podcasts What Is Planning Center? Planning Center is a powerful suite of software tools built to help churches plan services, schedule volunteers, manage giving, and foster community. Whether you're a small team or a large ministry, Planning Center helps worship leaders stay organized and focused on what matters most—people and presence. planningcenter.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.