Episode Summary:

In this episode, the hosts discuss the transition from Halloween to the holiday season, sharing thoughts on Thanksgiving and Christmas music. They also reflect on heavy topics and the contributions of their designer, Stanley, who creates graphics for the podcast. The conversation includes insights about the band As I Lay Dying and their musical evolution, as well as personal anecdotes from the hosts.

Key Topics:

• Transitioning from Halloween to Christmas episodes
• The lack of Thanksgiving music topics
• Shout out to Stanley, the podcast's designer
• Discussion of As I Lay Dying's album and musical talent
• Personal stories and memories shared by the hosts
• Mention of other podcasts and projects by the hosts

Featured Music:

• As I Lay Dying's latest album (details to be inserted)
• Discussion of popular Christmas songs (e.g., "All I Want for Christmas Is You")

Sponsor Messages:

• Bose Coffee Company: Use discount code MUSICSPEAKS for 10% off your order at BonesCoffee.com
• Better Help: Visit BetterHelp.com/MUSICSPEAKS for 10% off your first month of therapy

Social Media Links:

• Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok: @WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaks

Contact Information:

• Email: James@WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaks.com
• Email: Blake@WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaks.com
• Email: Amanda@WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaks.com
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Additional Notes:

• Don't forget to subscribe and leave a rating/review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform!
• Check out our YouTube channel for interviews, music video reactions, and more at YouTube.com/WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaks

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for listening! Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

Show Notes

Belief in Greater Intelligence

• Steph Carse's belief in a creator and greater intelligence
• Mention of life's purpose beyond current perceptions
• Gradual acknowledgment by science

Personal Growth and Spirituality

• Importance of spiritual presence and gratitude
• Connection between worship, gratitude, and revelation

Media and Misinformation

• Concerns about negative influence of media
• Critique of lack of genuine journalism and online misinformation

Living Without Cable

• Steph and his wife's decision to opt-out of cable
• Use of VidAngel app to filter content

Time of Great Deception

• Belief in the current era of significant deception
• Opportunities to witness God's promises

Creative Process and Influences

• Blending various influences in music
• Focus on storytelling and positive messages
• Using music for advocacy, such as Special Olympics and anti-bullying

Steph Carse on Inspiration and Message

• Influence of self-perception in music
• Biblical parallels in messages of empowerment
• Emphasis on overcoming obstacles

Musical Preferences

• Steph's draw to powerful endings and theatrical songs
• Discussion of personal musical taste evolution

Power of Music

• Uplifting and transformative nature of music
• Reference to biblical stories illustrating music's impact

Genre Exploration and Personal Projects

• Satisfaction with current work, big dramatic songs
• Christmas movie project with wife

Personal Beliefs and Celebrations

• Views on Halloween and personal faith
• Importance of individual faith relationships

Future Aspirations and Projects

• Fundraising for upcoming projects
• Personal goals of starting a family
• Aspiration to produce impactful true story films

Musical Influences and Preferences

• Variety of musical influences
• Focus on impactful songs, mentioning "Gratitude"

Stephanie's Personal Projects and Beliefs

• Website stephcars.com for updates
• No longer selling merchandise

Steph's Film and Media Projects

• "The True Miracle of Christmas" on Amazon
• James Cox's appreciation and collaboration invitations

Concluding Discussion on Music and Emotions

• Music as expression and affirmation
• Steph's deeper personal revelations and openness

Personal Stories and Advocacy Work

• Special Olympics background and personal experiences
• Anti-bullying advocacy through "Why I Count" program

Complexity of Life and Divine Perception

• Discussion on life's complexity and divine understanding

Impact of Song "Awesome"

• Song's message of self-worth and resilience
• Program "Why I Count" inspired by the song

Dr. Emoto's Study Reference

• Influence of words on water molecules and human health

Host Introduction and Guest Background

• Brief introduction of podcast and guest Steph Carse

Religious Views and Challenges

• Discussion on modern religious views and challenges

Personal Struggles and Insights

• Overcoming personal difficulties
• The impact of struggles on personal growth and music philosophy

Show Notes:

Compassion and Understanding:

• Emphasis on compassion related to people's behavior.

• Connection between outbursts and long-term personal issues.

• Potential societal improvements through increased compassion.

Men’s Mental Health:

• Discussion on the stigma surrounding men's mental health.

• Need for acceptance of emotional expression among men.

• Reference to returning soldiers with PTSD.

• Shalaine's song tackling societal expectations about men's emotions.

Songwriting and Personal Expression:

• Shalaine's song about her husband hypothetically committing suicide.

• Importance of authenticity in songwriting for musicians.

• Shalaine's independent songwriting process.

• Balancing personal vulnerability with broader themes in her music.

Performance Dynamics:

• Unique dynamic created by performing with her father as her drummer.

• Emotional impact of on-stage performances, leading to personal moments.

• Shalaine's father stepping back from active drumming.

Musical Background and Growth:

• Shalaine's journey from musical theater, dance, and choral music to country music.

• Early performance experiences influencing her stage presence.

• Inheritance of her grandfather’s guitar sparking a renewed passion for music.

Musical Preferences and Influences:

• Shalaine's strong roots in country music and lack of interest in genre shifting.

• Influences from Allison Krauss, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, and others.

• Comparison of music streaming payouts, preference for Apple Music over Spotify.

Song Release and Genre Evolution:

• Upcoming release of "Dirt Road Race Remix 1."

• Original recording of "Dirt Road Race" with revisions to remove jazz elements.

• Collaboration with Sound Foundation and advice from Michael Botte to achieve a modern country rock style.

Inter-generational Musical Connections:

• Nostalgia for Backstreet Boys and NSYNC.

• Exposure of Shalaine’s children to 90s music like "I Want It That Way."

• Discussion on the nature of "guilty pleasure" songs from the past.

Community and Personal Connection:

• Shalaine’s participation with "the Amigos" group.

• Building confidence through community and family-oriented performances.

• Relationship management and emotional themes in songwriting, like "Ghost in This House."

Online Presence and Merchandise:

• Shalaine's presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

• Challenges and learning curve with TikTok for those over 30.

• Merchandise availability and personal production for fan interactions.

Financial Aspects of Music:

• Challenges associated with low streaming royalties.

• Discussion on making excessive money and its impact on enjoyment.

Support and Recognition:

• Introduction of Shalaine by Kayden Gordon to the podcast.

• Participation and success at the International Singers Songwriters Association Awards.

Personal Influence and Legacy:

• Influence of Shalaine's grandfather on her musical passion.

• Writing of "Silver and Gold" in tribute to her grandfather.

Closing Remarks:

• Appreciation for Shalaine's guest appearance.

• Finishing the episode with the ethos: "when words fail, music speaks."