Episodes
The Walk Podcast Celebrates Mother's Day: An Inspiring Conversation with Kim Walker-Smith In a heartwarming special edition of The Walk Podcast, hosted by Worship Leader Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Joshua Swanson, listeners were treated to a profound discussion with renowned worship leader, artist, and songwriter Kim Walker-Smith. This Mother’s Day special not only honored mothers but offered insights applicable to all listeners, underscored by Kim's personal journey into motherhood and her...
Published 05/10/24
Welcome, esteemed readers and devoted listeners, to another enriching exploration of worship as a dynamic spiritual practice and a formidable form of spiritual warfare. In the latest devotional podcast from The Walk, hosted by Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, we are privileged to hear from Meredith Andrews, a revered voice in the worship community. Her insights not only delve into the personal and communal aspects of worship but also highlight its profound impact on...
Published 05/06/24
A Texan's Journey with Red Heifers and Biblical Prophecies In today's exploration, we delve into a riveting conversation from the latest episode of "The Walk," hosted by our Editor-in-Chief, Joshua Swanson, with the distinguished Byron Stinson, a Texas native. This episode invites us into the profound layers of a project that’s stirred significant global interest among various faith communities—the transportation of five red heifers to Israel. A Mission Rooted in Prophecy The endeavor that...
Published 05/01/24
The Spiritual Genesis of Lucy Grimble In a delightful and insightful episode of The Walk Podcast, Lucy Grimble, a gifted U.K.-based worship artist, sits down with Joshua Swanson, the sagacious Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine. Together, they unveil the tapestry of Lucy's spiritual journey, intertwined delicately with the rich heritage of Anglican worship and the profound, transformative encounter with the Toronto Blessing. Lucy’s narrative begins in the quiet suburbs of London,...
Published 04/24/24
In this episode of “The Walk” podcast, Joshua Swanson, our esteemed Editor-in-Chief, engaged in a profound dialogue with the artist and worship leader Mac Powell, whose seasoned wisdom shines through the tenure of his journey in Christian music.  Powell, with grace akin to the silver strands in his beard, reflects on his newfound role as an elder statesman in the industry. He fondly recalls the influence of stalwarts like Michael W. Smith and Stephen Curtis Chapman, now passing the baton as...
Published 04/08/24
The Transformative Power of Scriptural Songwriting Aaron Shust, a prominent voice in Christian music, offers an enlightening perspective on the role of Scripture in songwriting. His creative process, deeply anchored in biblical texts, transcends the mere composition of music. It is an act of faith, believing that the Word of God, when melded with melody, will accomplish its divine purposes in the hearts of listeners. Shust's commitment to this principle is particularly evident in his work...
Published 04/01/24
In the latest episode of The Walk podcast, we find ourselves in a rich conversation with the artists Marty and Jennifer Goetz, whose lives have been a tapestry woven with the threads of faith, music, and heritage. One cannot help but be moved by the authenticity with which they share their journey. Embracing Heritage and Faith Marty Goetz, a man who embraces his identity as a Jewish gospel singer, captures our imagination as he recounts his aspirations to be like the musical icons of his...
Published 03/25/24
In the recent episode of The Walk listeners were treated to a profound and heartfelt devotional by Sean Rodriguez, a worship leader and artist renowned for his breakout pop anthem "Center Stage" and his participation in the 2023 Winter Jam Tour. With an evangelical heritage that shapes his music, Rodriguez is dedicated to celebrating God's transformative power and majesty, making him a fitting guest for a discussion on the essentials of worship leadership. Sean Rodriguez's Personal Journey...
Published 03/18/24
From Asbury to Authenticity: The Walk Podcast Explores Revival with Consumed by Fire The latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Worship Leader Magazine's Joshua Swanson, shines a spotlight on the Ward brothers of the band Consumed by Fire. The brothers share their fervent commitment to spreading the gospel through their music and discuss their spiritual journey influenced by their ministry-rich family heritage. A Revival of Hearts: The Asbury Awakening Discussed The conversation takes a...
Published 03/13/24
In our latest episode of The Walk podcast, we had the honor of delving into the heart and mind of Sarah Reeves, a multifaceted artist whose journey in music is as inspiring as it is instructive. Herein, we provide a comprehensive look at this illuminating exchange. Welcoming Artistry and Worship Joshua Swanson, our erudite Editor-in-Chief, sets the stage by introducing Sarah Reeves, an artist who entered the music scene at the mere age of 18. With a career burgeoning with versatility and...
Published 02/28/24
A Time for Everything: Discovering Faith's Seasons with Misha Goetz In the latest episode of The Walk Podcast by Worship Leader Magazine, listeners will be graced with an intimate and moving narrative by musician Misha Goetz. Host Joshua Swanson introduces us to the Nashville native, whose story weaves through the tapestry of deep personal loss, unwavering faith, and the transformative power of music and worship. The Impact of Personal Loss Listeners will learn about the profound impact of...
Published 02/19/24
The Reimagining of "How Great Thou Art": A Conversation with Matt Maher and Matt Redman In a compelling episode of "The Walk," hosted by Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, contemporary worship music luminaries Matt Maher and Matt Redman delve into the profound legacy and innovative revival of the venerable hymn "How Great Thou Art" through their collaborative work, "How Great Thou Art (Until That Day)." This year marks the 75th anniversary of the hymn that has...
Published 02/07/24
From Worship to Action: The Send's Rallying Cry for a Missionary Generation In today’s exploration of the vibrant world of worship and mission, we delve into an enriching  "Conversations on the Walk," where Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, engages with Andy Byrd, Founder of The Send, and Lindy Cofer from Circuit Riders. This dialogue orbits around the nexus of worship, evangelism, and the galvanizing of a generation for missionary work. What Is The Send? The Send...
Published 01/31/24
The Melody of Duty: Yair Levi's Journey from the IDF to Worship In the bustling heart of Nashville, a voice whispers a tale of longing—a longing for home, family, and heritage. Yair Levi, an Israeli Orthodox singer, carries within him the legacy of the ancient Levite tribe, a lineage of sacred service. But Yair's service extends beyond the spiritual; he is also a former captain in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), a role that has shaped his life as deeply as his music. On a recent episode...
Published 01/28/24
Calvin Nowell's Musical Journey: Embracing Diversity and Authentic Worship In the latest episode of "Conversations on the Walk," host Joshua Swanson welcomed the multifaceted talent Calvin Nowell. A figure synonymous with diversity and authenticity in Christian music, Nowell shared insights from his personal journey, reflecting on a career that includes collaborations with icons like Stevie Wonder and Michael W. Smith. Intention In Worship Nowell's narrative is a testament to unexpected...
Published 01/22/24
In the latest episode of The Walk Podcast, titled "A Conversation with 'You've Already Won' Songwriters Shane and Shane," listeners are welcomed into the thoughtful and heartfelt world of Shane Barnard and Shane Everett. They delve into their experiences with family, faith, and the shaping of young believers in a culture teeming with dissatisfaction and longing for something more fulfilling than what the world offers. Evolution of Shane and Shane's Ministry Joshua Swanson, the host, sets...
Published 01/15/24
Philippa Hanna Shares Her Journey, Songwriting, and Ministry Mindset In a recent episode of "Conversations on the Walk," Worship Leader Magazine had the privilege of engaging with Philippa Hanna, a talented worship leader and songwriter hailing from the UK. Editor-in-Chief Joshua Swanson led the conversation, delving into Philippa's unique experiences, insights, and her approach to songwriting in a post-Christian world. Encountering Revival Philippa shared her personal encounter with...
Published 12/18/23
Finding Solace in Psalms – Mike Janzen's Journey and Planning Center's Serendipitous Genesis In the latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Joshua Swanson, two captivating stories unfurl—a testament to the transformative power of faith and music. Mike Janzen, a multifaceted Canadian musician, recounts a profound devotional journey rooted in the Psalms, while Aaron Stewart, co-founder of Planning Center, reveals the serendipitous origin of the premier church service software. Their narratives...
Published 12/10/23
In the latest episode of "Conversations on the Walk," Worship Leader Magazine's Joshua Swanson sits down with the talented Christian songwriter and artist, Benjamin William Hastings. Hailing from Ireland, Hastings shares insights into his life, Christmas traditions, and the profound journey of faith that has shaped his music. Rediscovering the Presence of God Hastings begins by discussing the challenge of keeping God at the center of our lives. He emphasizes the importance of...
Published 12/04/23
In a candid and spirited conversation with Worship Leader Magazine Editor-in-Chief, Joshua Swanson, Darlene Zschech, the renowned Australian musician, songwriter, worship leader, and pastor, shares insights into her life, Christmas traditions down under, the state of worship music, and the heartbeat behind her recent songwriting. This intimate dialogue, captured on video, offers a glimpse into the heart of a woman who has left an indelible mark on the world of worship. Christmas Down Under:...
Published 11/27/23
In a recent interview, songwriter and worship leader Jenn Johnson, renowned for her award-winning song Goodness of God, shared insights into her perspective on worship, the role of the local church, accountability, and the songwriting process. Johnson, who received the Song of the Year award at the 2023 Dove Awards for Goodness of God, opened up about her personal journey and the profound meanings behind her music. Worship: A Multifaceted Lifestyle When asked about the meaning of worship,...
Published 11/20/23
In a recent conversation with Worship Leader Magazine Editor Joshua Swanson, Rend Collective's Chris Llewellyn opened up about his son, new music, and the beauty of God's use of struggle to call us back to Him. Llewellyn and Swanson began by discussing Rend Collective's history, which dates back to 2003. Llewellyn explained that the band began as a Bible study group and that their early music was simply a way to document their journey together. "We must have pressed like a hundred EPs,"...
Published 11/13/23
The episode tells the story of Justin Gambino, a Texas worship leader, recording artist, and songwriter whose life journey is a testament to faith and forgiveness. Raised in a devout Christian family, Justin's early passion for music led him to become a talented musician. However, in his teenage years, he succumbed to self-destructive behaviors, including addiction and legal troubles. Facing a pivotal moment in court at the age of 18, he chose redemption by opting for community service and...
Published 11/06/23
Worship Leader and The Walk Podcast had the exclusive opportunity to dive deep into the minds of the legendary Newsboys, featuring the dynamic duo of Michael Tait and Adam Agee. This candid and enlightening conversation took us on a journey through the intricate world of worship, music, and the challenges that fame brings. The Newsboys had more than just music to share; they offered a spiritual experience like no other. The Sonic Puzzle of Worship Music Our voyage begins with the enigmatic...
Published 10/30/23