JOHN CHISUM: Time, Tithe, and Talent

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Hosts: John Chisum & Bryant Urich

Episode Title: Time, Tithe, and Talent

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Song Revolution, John Chisum and Bryant Urich shift the focus inward to explore what it really means to be a songwriter in today's world. Beyond writing lyrics and melodies, this conversation is about discovering the deeper motivations that drive your creative work—your identity, purpose, and the integrity behind the songs you share.

John and Bryant discuss the pressures that come with songwriting in the Christian space, the temptation to chase trends, and the challenge of staying spiritually grounded in the process. With honest stories and practical insight, they offer encouragement to writers at any stage—whether you're just getting started or trying to reignite your creative spark.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why songwriting is as much about spiritual formation as it is about craft

How to stay connected to your purpose when writing gets hard

The danger of creating to be seen or validated by others

Why your identity must be rooted in something deeper than public approval

How personal growth leads to stronger, more honest songs

Why songwriting is a long game that rewards consistency and humility

Key Topics and Highlights:

• The internal conflict many songwriters face between calling and performance
• Why it's okay to take breaks when creativity feels dry
• John's reflections on mentoring writers through burnout and self-doubt
• Bryant's experience rediscovering joy in the process of writing, not just releasing
• The power of writing songs that minister to you before they minister to others
• Letting go of perfectionism and pressure to produce commercial work
• Writing from a place of wholeness instead of striving
• The value of community, coaching, and trusted feedback in your journey

Final Takeaway:
Your songs matter—but not because of streams, charts, or recognition. They matter because they're a reflection of your story, your journey, and your willingness to be honest with God and others. When you write from that place, the impact will follow.

Resources & Links:

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/