Best Aaron Traylor Podcasts (2025)

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Matt Crocker's 4 Secrets to Writing Powerful Worship Songs 26:18

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5d ago26:18

26:18

What if the secret to writing songs that connect isn't thinking bigger, but thinking smaller? Matt Crocker, the songwriter behind "Oceans," "This I Believe," and "I Surrender" (streamed over 2 billion times), reveals his counterintuitive approach to worship songwriting—and why his biggest breakthrough came from writing for just 50 people instead of…

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Everything Changed When I Stopped Hiding Parts of My Gifting w/ Jonathan Traylor 25:52

12d ago25:52

25:52

What happens when you stop sidelining the gifts God’s placed in you? In this episode, Jonathan Traylor shares his journey of embracing all of his God-given gifts—from dance to worship leading—and the breakthrough that followed. He opens up about the early pressure to “stay in one lane,” and how choosing to fully steward his creative calling led to …

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The One Question That Transforms Worship Teams w/ UPPERROOM's Jonathan Lewis 36:01

19d ago36:01

36:01

What if your past success is actually holding your worship team back? Jonathan Lewis from UPPERROOM Dallas reveals why comfortable teams stop growing—and shares the one question that changes everything: "What if we tried this?" Discover why humility is what heaven breathes through, how to shepherd your congregation into new sounds without losing th…

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Worship Guitar Mastery: The Fastest Route to Sunday Stage-Ready w/ Matt Podesla 27:38

27d ago27:38

27:38

What if you could go from total beginner to Sunday stage-ready in just 12 months? In this episode, legendary worship guitarist Matt Podesla breaks down the exact roadmap he’d give to someone starting from scratch. From chord mastery and tone crafting to strumming techniques and pedal picks, Matt pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to gro…

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Why Copying Bethel & Elevation Could Be Hurting Your Worship Culture w/ Faith Worship Arts 25:00

1M ago25:00

25:00

Is your worship team finding its voice—or just echoing someone else’s? In this episode, we sit down with John Dreher of Faith Worship Arts to explore the delicate balance between inspiration and imitation in modern worship culture. John shares how the diverse, multi-generational team at their church built a worship culture that reflects their commu…

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Tauren Wells: The 4 Keys for High-Impact Worship Leading 21:13

1M ago21:13

21:13

What separates a worship leader who just sings songs… from one who shifts atmospheres? In this episode, Tauren Wells shares the 4 keys he believes every high-impact worship leader must carry — and how embracing them can change not just your Sunday set, but your entire church culture. You’ll learn: Why songs about “us” fall flat — and what to sing i…

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STOP Picking Sets Like a DJ — START Planning Like a Pastor w/ Justin Tweito 24:53

2M ago24:53

24:53

Too many worship leaders are unintentionally leading like performers… instead of pastors. In this episode, we unpack a powerful mindset shift: how planning worship like you’re preaching the Gospel changes everything. You’ll learn: Why worship sets aren’t just song lists — they’re intentionally crafted journeys. How a college conversation transforme…

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Small Leadership Habits That Quietly Kill Your Culture (w/ CCV Music) 28:31

2M ago28:31

28:31

Most leaders don’t ruin culture with one big mistake. They're slowly broken—by leaders who ignore the small habits that erode trust, unity, and momentum. In this episode, Jordan from CCV Music shares the real stories and hard-won lessons of leading creatives through conflict, comparison, burnout—and breakthrough. We explore what quietly weakens a t…

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Who REALLY Deserves to Get Paid on the Worship Team? w/ Seacoast Music 29:14

2M ago29:14

29:14

Not every worship musician gets a paycheck—but should they? There’s a lot of ways to approach the topic! This episode with Seacoast Music unpacks the tough questions around paying worship team members, who gets the check, and why it matters for your team's health. If you care about building a unified, thriving worship culture (without the silent re…

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Top Songwriting Hacks Worship Writers SWEAR BY (and Why They’ll Change the Way You Write Forever) w/ Aaron Williams 25:02

3M ago25:02

25:02

Ever feel like everyone else is effortlessly writing powerful worship songs—while you’re stuck recycling the same tired phrases, just hoping something lands? Aaron Williams breaks down that exact struggle—sharing the songwriting hacks that helped him go from shaky starts to co-writing with legends like Matt Redman and Daniel Bashta. If your vocabul…

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Passion Music: How Living With URGENCY Unlocks the Ministry You Were Made For 26:44

3M ago26:44

26:44

What if the thing standing between you and the ministry you were made for… is urgency? I know it sounds extreme, but it’s true. In this powerful conversation with Passion Music’s Kristian Stanfill, we unpack how living with ruthless intentionality can transform your leadership, your calling, and your everyday impact —whether you’re on stage or in t…

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Bethel's Emmy Rose: Top Spontaneous Worship Tips (that can also backfire...) 30:44

3M ago30:44

30:44

Want more impactful spontaneous worship moments? Bethel Music’s Emmy Rose shares the exact tips that help her flow with the Spirit—and the surprising ways those same tips can totally backfire. Whether you’re just learning how to flow or you’ve been chasing those spontaneous moments for years, this episode will challenge, equip, and stretch you. Hit…

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Jesus Culture: Large Spotify Streams Don’t Always Equal God’s Favor 28:13

3M ago28:13

28:13

Jesus Culture joins the show for a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the tension between success and purity in worship music. Visibility and God’s favor can align—but they don’t always. So today, they open up about resisting the idol of output, discipling creatives without feeding egos, and what it really takes to build a healthy songwriting culture. …

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The Secret to Recruiting & Onboarding Worship Volunteers w/ VOUS Worship 27:15

3M ago27:15

27:15

Struggling to build a strong, committed worship team? You’re not alone. Recruiting and onboarding volunteers can be one of the biggest challenges for worship pastors, but VOUS Worship has found some things that make it so much easier. In this episode, we sit down with the team from VOUS Worship—the powerhouse worship ministry from Rich Wilkerson Jr…

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We Spend 93% of Our Lives Indoors—and It’s Impacting Our Connection with God (w/ 11:21 Worship) 17:41

4M ago17:41

17:41

Did you know that 93% of your life is spent indoors? What if that’s actually keeping you from a deeper connection with God? In this powerful conversation with 11:21 Worship, we dive into: The surprising way nature recalibrates our souls and draws us closer to God. How biblical worship looks radically different from what most of us experience today.…

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Bethel Music's Edward Rivera: Stewarding Your Calling & Influence - The Key Worship Leaders Must Not Ignore 19:38

4M ago19:38

19:38

How can worship leaders faithfully steward their calling and influence over the long run? Bethel Music’s Edward Rivera shares wisdom from his journey—what he’s learned about staying planted, navigating influence, and growing in spiritual maturity. Hear personal insights on balancing ministry, creativity, and favor while keeping your heart anchored …

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When What You Thought Was God’s Plan Doesn’t Happen w/ Celebration Music 25:26

4M ago25:26

25:26

What do you do when the vision you believed was from God doesn’t come to pass? In this episode, we dive deep into handling disappointment when life doesn’t unfold the way we expected—especially in ministry and calling. Celebration Music shares a powerful insight that changes how we approach calling and expectations, allowing us to walk with trust. …

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John Mark McMillan on “Does Success Mean God’s Hand Is On It?” 29:34

4M ago29:34

29:34

Does "success" in worship music and ministry always mean God’s favor is on it? John Mark McMillan opens up about the tension between writing from the heart and chasing what “works.” This episode challenges how worship leaders define success, calling, and artistic integrity—even within the church. Listen now as John Mark shares his insights on this …

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Can a Church Service Have Too Much Spontaneous Worship? w/ Engedi Music 25:26

5M ago25:26

25:26

Is there such a thing as a worship service having too much spontaneous worship? In this episode, we explore the balance between spirit-led moments and ensuring your community stays engaged. We discuss how to build a culture of spontaneous worship while keeping it accessible for new believers and those unfamiliar with the style. Tune in as Engedi Mu…

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Challenges You’ll Face When Serving Long-Term on a Worship Team w/ FC Music 15:48

5M ago15:48

15:48

Serving in ministry with family—or on any close-knit team long-term—can be both a gift and a challenge. In this episode, we’re joined by FC Music and sisters Moriah and Hadassah as they share what it takes to thrive while leading alongside family. Whether you're leading with family or serving on a team you've been part of for years, this conversati…

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Leading Through Hard Seasons w/ Gateway Worship 23:28

5M ago23:28

23:28

What do you do when hard seasons shakes your church to its core? Gateway Worship shares their powerful story of leading with transparency, grace, and unwavering faith through a public moral failure. Hear how they're caring for their people and keeping their eyes on Jesus when everything around them was shaken. Worship Online is your new secret weap…

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The 4 Non-Negotiables of Building Thriving Teams w/ Church of the City 26:53

5M ago26:53

26:53

Learn the 4 essential principles Church of the City uses to build thriving, long-lasting worship teams. Explore practical ways to create a culture that values faithfulness, servanthood, and stewardship. Hear how these principles have transformed their team dynamic and inspired volunteers to stay engaged for the long haul. Tune in now to equip yours…

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How Leaders Help Their Teams Discover Their Calling w/ ZOE Music 20:59

6M ago20:59

20:59

Great worship leaders don’t just manage tasks and build great bands—they inspire purpose and help their teams discover their true calling. In this episode, ZOE MUSIC shares how focusing on people over roles creates a transformative culture of growth. When you lead the right way, not only will your team discover their calling, but they’ll also excel…

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Rekindling Your Passion for God w/ Michael Bethany 23:02

6M ago23:02

23:02

Have you ever felt like your passion for God has faded, leaving you longing to restore the fire and joy you once felt in His presence? Today, Michael Bethany shares his powerful insights on what it means to maintain a vibrant and mature relationship with God that’s still full of passion—even in the dry seasons. Discover practical steps to reignite …

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Christmas Service Non-Negotiables for Worship Leaders w/ Andrew Holt from The Belonging Co. 25:12

7M ago25:12

25:12

Save time preparing for Christmas services, manage the chaos with ease, and focus on what truly matters! Join us as we sit down with Andrew Holt from The Belonging Co. to explore how his team navigates the challenges and opportunities of Christmas services. From production and rehearsals to spiritual investment in your team, Andrew offers practical…

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Unlocking Congregational Participation in Worship w/ Tasha Layton 23:15

7M ago23:15

23:15

Struggling to ignite passion in your congregation’s worship? Discover how these intentional choices can transform your heart and your congregation’s experience! In this episode, we sit down with renowned worship leader and artist Tasha Layton to uncover powerful strategies for worship leaders looking to foster deeper engagement from their church. F…

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Guiding Your Congregation into Deeper Worship this Advent Season w/ Caroline Cobb 16:40

7M ago16:40

16:40

Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas—it’s an invitation into a deeper connection with Jesus, one that rushing straight into 'It’s the most wonderful time of the year' can’t provide. In this episode, Caroline Cobb helps us rediscover the beauty and depth of Advent. We explore how this sacred season calls us to slow down, confess, reflect, an…

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What to do When the Dream Feels Out of Reach w/ Brenton Miles 26:13

7M ago26:13

26:13

Do you ever feel like the dream in your heart is just out of reach? Like you’ve been given a vision of what’s possible, but the path to making it happen seems unclear? In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Brenton Miles to explore the question so many of us wrestle with: How do we step into the fullness of the dream that’s been placed in …

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Mastering Conflict Conversations for Worship Leaders w/ Kory Miller of Red Rocks Worship 32:19

8M ago32:19

32:19

Are you terrified of conflict and wish you had tools to make hard conversations easier? In this episode, Kory Miller of Red Rocks Worship uncovers game-changing strategies to boldly and healthily address conflict without shying away. Learn go-to phrases to confidently open conversations, the value of peacemaking over peacekeeping, and how consisten…

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7 Keys to Building a Thriving Co-Writing Environment w/ CXMMXNS 26:37

8M ago26:37

26:37

Discover the often-overlooked interpersonal dynamics that make or break co-writing environments for worship songs. Renowned worship songwriters Reuben Morgan and Ben Fielding draw from over two decades of experience to deliver practical and impactful keys for thriving co-writing environments. Throughout the episode, they reference worship anthems l…

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Multi-Language Worship Sets: Practical Steps w/ Ricky Vazquez 26:15

8M ago26:15

26:15

Imagine leading worship sets where every person can connect deeply with God in their native tongue—this is the power of multi-language worship. Today, Ricky Vazquez shares practical steps for transforming worship sets into experiences that speak to everyone in the room, no matter their language. There’s something profoundly impactful about connecti…

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Tricks for Helping Singers Discover Their Ideal Key w/ Rudy Villarreal 29:27

8M ago29:27

29:27

Worship pastors and vocalists struggling to find the best keys for your singers—this episode is for you. Worship Vocal coach Rudy Villarreal shares practical tips, tools, and strategies to help worship leaders and vocalists choose the perfect key for every song. Discover how understanding vocal ranges, leveraging innovative technology, and fosterin…

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The Mindset Shift That Transforms Worship Leadership w/ Anthony Evans 17:02

9M ago17:02

17:02

I know it sounds a little wild—comparing worship leaders to wedding planners—but what if that’s the key to truly impactful worship pastoring? In this episode, we break down how focusing on the needs of the congregation, just like a wedding planner serves the bride, can transform worship into a meaningful encounter with God. Trust me, once you embra…

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Darlene Zschech: Overcoming Pride on Stage 26:39

9M ago26:39

26:39

In this episode, we dive deep with Darlene Zschech to tackle a common struggle for worship leaders—pride on stage. Have you ever caught yourself leading worship for the wrong reasons, letting ego creep in? You're not alone. Darlene shares powerful insights on recognizing and overcoming pride, helping us refocus on leading with a pure heart and auth…

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How Secure Leaders Build Thriving Worship Teams w/ NewSpring Worship 28:43

9M ago28:43

28:43

Today, our conversation with Blake Goss of NewSpring Worship reveals how leading from a place of security directly influences team culture and skill level. When a leader’s identity is wrapped up in their role, it creates a fragile environment that can lead to micromanagement, burnout, and stifled creativity. But when leaders find their worth beyond…

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The Key to Growth for Leaders, Musicians, & Vocalists w/ Legacy Music Nashville's Brian Nhira 28:39

9M ago28:39

28:39

What if the key to fulfilling your potential isn't about working harder, but about who you surround yourself with? Today, we have a powerful conversation with Legacy Music Nashville’s Brian Nhira, for a powerful conversation on growth, identity, and the importance of intentional relationships. Brian shares a key insight: growth isn't about becoming…

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Singing the Right Way: Temitope’s Journey from Vocal Loss to Strength 26:26

10M ago26:26

26:26

Imagine singing for over 20 years, only to discover you've been doing it wrong all along. Worship leader Temitope faced this harsh reality when he lost his voice. In this episode, Temitope shares his journey of vocal rehabilitation after discovering the strain his incorrect technique caused. He dives into the expert advice he received from top voca…

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Discover & Protect Your Church’s Unique Worship Culture w/ Kingdom Culture Worship 25:17

10M ago25:17

25:17

Kingdom Culture Worship highlights the importance of worship teams embracing and nurturing their unique identity. The power of rejecting external pressures and embracing what’s true to their community. Much like David chose his sling over Saul’s armor, churches must discern their unique calling and pursue excellence in what makes them distinct. Lea…

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Should Fallen Pastors Regain Their Platforms? 27:44

10M ago27:44

27:44

When a pastor falls, the impact ripples through the entire church community. In this episode, we explore the difficult question: Should they be given a second chance to lead? We dive into the deeper issues often underlying moral failures, discuss the importance of a genuine and gradual restoration process, and consider the unique circumstances that…

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Why You Need to Have & Be a Mentor w/ Hannah Hobbs 26:41

10M ago26:41

26:41

Are you and those around you fully tapping into your potential? In this episode, we sit down with worship leader and songwriter Hannah Hobbs to explore the transformative power of mentorship Hannah shares how a mentor can help you uncover hidden strengths and propel you toward your calling. She also reveals the life-changing impact of becoming a me…

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UPPERROOM: The Power & Challenges of Leading Alongside Close Friends 23:15

11M ago23:15

23:15

One of the most impactful, joyous, and challenging aspects of leadership is leading alongside your closest friends. We sat down with the team from UPPERROOM to explore how deep friendships within leadership will transform team dynamics. Discover how being in the trenches with those you truly love creates not only a stronger bond, but also enhances …

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How Large Worship Teams Can Still Prioritize People w/ Sean Curran 35:22

11M ago35:22

35:22

Ever felt the tension of trying to invest deeply in everyone while leading a large worship team? Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with worship leader Sean Curran. Today, Sean shares what it looks like to prioritize people within large worship teams, sharing practical strategies to invest in all team members. Learn how to delegate e…

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How Health Challenges Made Me a Better Worship Leader w/ Ke'Erron 23:54

11M ago23:54

23:54

Feeling like your struggles & limitations make you less capable or will stifle your impact? Think again. Meet Ke'Erron, a worship leader who faces ulcerative colitis and stage 4 liver cirrhosis. In this powerful episode, Ke'Erron shares how his health challenges, rather than holding him back, have made him a more effective leader. Discover how our …

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Unleash Musical Creativity on Your Worship Team w/ Mission House 19:22

11M ago19:22

19:22

Ever wondered how to unleash creativity in your worship team? Mission House shares their inspiring journey of balancing unique artistry and the needs of corporate worship, all to pioneer a new sound in worship. Creating a new sound requires riding a fine line between pushing the envelope without creating a jarring experience for our congregations. …

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Why Elevation Worship Experiences High Congregation Engagement in Their Services 27:14

12M ago27:14

27:14

Reviving a church's worship culture can be challenging, but it's possible! Join us for a conversation with Elevation Worship as they share the reason behind why they see so much energy and engagement from their congregation. In this conversation, we focus on a key strategy that results in authentic engagement from your church during worship. Embrac…

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Creating a Culture of Personal & Spiritual Growth w/ Kirby Kaple 35:38

12M ago35:38

35:38

It’s undeniable that the culture of a team is directly connected to the health of its leader. Discover the impact authentic leadership has on you and the team you lead in this episode with Kirby Kaple. Kirby shares her story about how embracing your true self, getting into your story, can transform your leadership and inspire your team to live more…

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Maintaining Mental Health as a Ministry Leader w/ Josh Wilson 29:57

1y ago29:57

29:57

Today, we have a transformative conversation on mental health with worship artist Josh Wilson, tailored specifically for ministry leaders. Explore the often unspoken struggles of mental health in ministry, where the joy of soul-fulfilling leadership meets the challenges of emotional exhaustion and isolation. Learn practical strategies to find safe …

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The Secret of Building Successful Worship Teams w/ Aaron Williams 42:31

1y ago42:31

42:31

Discover why the success of your team hinges on its health & your health, in this game-changing conversation with Aaron Williams. In this episode, Aaron shares his journey and insights on nurturing both outer and inner health within worship teams. Discover practical & simple strategies and deep wisdom that can transform your team's dynamics and imp…

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Kim Walker-Smith: Finding Peace by Embracing Stillness 31:03

1y ago31:03

31:03

Ever feel the weight of anxiety flood back following busy ministry seasons? Join us as we dive deep with the incredible Kim Walker-Smith, who shares her transformative journey into a lifestyle of stillness with the Lord. Discover how embracing stillness can lead to deeper engagement with your inner self and ultimately make you a healthier worship l…

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The Ripple Effect of Empowerment: Increasing Worship Team Impact w/ Gas Street Music 33:50

1y ago33:50

33:50

Discover the power of empowerment in worship leadership in this compelling episode with Nick Herbert of Gas Street Music. Learn how focusing on empowering the spiritual giftings within your team can amplify your reach and impact. Understand the role of great leaders in ministry to disciple and develop others' abilities. If you want to see the impac…