Christian Music Mentor

Building Community Through Art: Lessons from Cinematic Artist Matt McLeod

In this episode of the Christian Music Mentor podcast, host Brad interviews cinematic artist and social media influencer Matt Macleod. Matt shares his journey from learning drums before he could walk, to producing cinematic worship music, and building a thriving online community with over 150,000 followers. Rooted in faith and mentorship, Matt's story highlights the power of authenticity, creativity, and service in music ministry. They discuss his early influences growing up in a worship household, his passion for reimagining worship songs with cinematic soundscapes, and how he uses TikTok not just as a platform for promotion but as an art form to build genuine connections. Matt also shares insights on mentoring artists, building community beyond social media, and how faith fuels his creativity. Whether you're an artist, worship leader, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement to create with purpose and passion. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:00 Matt Macleod's Early Love for Drums and Music 03:15 Growing Up in a Worship Household 05:30 Discovering Music Production and Mentorship 07:45 Reimagining Worship Songs with Cinematic Sounds 10:45 The Awe of Soundtracks and Hans Zimmer's Influence 13:00 Crafting Cinematic Worship with Limited Resources 14:30 Starting Out on TikTok and Social Media Journey 17:30 Mindset Shifts: Treating Social Media as Art 20:15 Authenticity, Passion, and Sharing What You Love 22:45 Building Community Beyond Platforms (Discord & Email) 25:30 Soundtracks that Inspired Him (Dune, The Wild Robot) 28:15 Advice for Artists: Have Fun Helping People 29:45 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement Follow Matt Macleod: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattmacleodmusic [https://www.tiktok.com/@mattmacleodmusic] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmacleodmusic/ [https://www.instagram.com/mattmacleodmusic/] Website: https://mattmacleodmusic.com/ [https://mattmacleodmusic.com/] Free Skool Community for Christian Artists & Songwriters: https://www.skool.com/christianmusic [https://www.skool.com/christianmusic]

Childlike Faith & Creative Calling: NONAH's Journey with Wes & Callie Strunk

In this inspiring conversation, Brad sits down with Wes & Callie Strunk of Nonah—the husband-and-wife duo blending worship and pop sounds with millions of streams worldwide. They share the heartfelt story behind their name, the journey of moving to Nashville with young kids, and the lessons they've learned about songwriting, discipline, and waiting on God's timing. From their 40-hour first song to releasing a full album and seeing God open unexpected doors, Wes & Callie offer powerful encouragement for artists who feel delayed or discouraged. This episode is full of wisdom on purity in the music industry, balancing family and ministry, and trusting God to breathe on your creativity. If you've ever wondered how to steward your calling while navigating real life, this one will fill you with hope. Get NONAH's new music 48 hours before it goes to the public: https://nonahmusic.com/ [https://nonahmusic.com/] Join our free community for Christian artists and songwriters: https://www.skool.com/christianmusic/about [https://www.skool.com/christianmusic/about]

Miracles, Marketing & Ministry: Kevin Winebarger on Building a Sustainable Music Career

In this powerful episode, Brad sits down with Kevin Winebarger — a singer, producer, music marketing coach, and worship leader whose testimony of healing and purpose will encourage any Christian artist. Kevin shares his journey from battling Graves' disease to experiencing full remission. He explains why he stepped away from releasing music for years and what shifted to reignite his purpose. You'll hear about the $850 strategy that helped his first single reach 100,000 streams, along with practical marketing and playlist pitching advice for indie artists. He also unpacks how to build a sustainable income from your music without burning out, and offers encouragement to trust God and stay faithful in the hidden seasons. Whether you want to grow your audience, steward your songs well, or make music your ministry and income, Kevin's story is packed with hope and hands-on wisdom. Links and Resources: Listen to Miracles by Kevin Winebarger: https://open.spotify.com/track/4nGKyM4fDvnZb43mbGJAI0 [https://open.spotify.com/track/4nGKyM4fDvnZb43mbGJAI0] Book a free call: https://www.couragemusicmarketing.com [https://www.couragemusicmarketing.com] Connect with Brad: https://www.christianmusicmentor.com [https://www.christianmusicmentor.com] If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, review, and share the show to help other Christian artists and songwriters grow in their calling!

Breaking Free from Fear and Comparison: Rheva Henry's Journey to Identity

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, worship leader, songwriter, and pastor Rheva Henry shares her journey of overcoming fear, breaking free from comparison, and embracing her full identity as a creative in the Kingdom. From growing up in a gospel church in Houston to leading worship at Bethel, Rheva opens up about the internal battles she faced—even while standing on big stages—and the breakthrough moment that changed everything. Whether you're leading worship in a megachurch or writing songs from your bedroom, this conversation will remind you that you don't have to choose between the different parts of your story. God wants to use it all. You'll walk away inspired to stop shrinking back, take up space, and bring the fullness of who you are to every room you step into. Connect with Rheva: https://rheva.com/ [https://rheva.com/]

Worship Leading For The Multitudes on Youtube With Sam Reed

In this episode of the Christian Music Mentor podcast, host Brad interviews worship leader and YouTube personality Sam Reed. Sam shares his journey from growing up in a musical household to becoming a well-known worship leader online. Despite challenges like losing his voice and going through personal struggles, Sam's heart for worship and his commitment to authentic ministry shine through. They discuss the importance of being authentic in worship, practical tips for creating impactful worship videos, and Sam's vision for future ministry. Whether you're an aspiring worship leader or simply looking to deepen your worship experience, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Worship With Sam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9i8XeiR6rEQ&list=PLyGA0c7HBFMNzgGQA3CqPPKDsL1RPPI5c [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9i8XeiR6rEQ&list=PLyGA0c7HBFMNzgGQA3CqPPKDsL1RPPI5c] Sam's Full Testimony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqlyEKe7nu8&t=4s 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:30 Sam Reed's Musical Beginnings 04:17 Growing Up in a Christian Home 05:15 Musical Development and Challenges 08:35 Early Aspirations and Voice Issues 13:45 Journey to YouTube and Worship Leading 18:49 COVID-19 and Musical Growth 20:27 Consistency and Motivation in Content Creation 26:17 Technical Aspects of Music Production 28:25 The Gift of Conviction 29:16 The Role of Worship Leaders 30:44 Community and Honest Feedback 34:34 Cultivating the Anointing 36:20 Practical Aspects of Worship 43:13 Future Vision and Ministry 51:24 The Power of Testimony 55:37 Closing Thoughts and Prayer