Summary
In the season one finale of Coffee with Cory, host Cory Jackson sits down with hit songwriter Steve Dean to discuss the power of persistence, the importance of faith, and the healing potential of music, especially for veterans. They explore Steve's journey in the music industry, the evolution of songwriting, and the impact of AI on the creative process. The conversation also highlights the work of Freedom Sings USA, an organization dedicated to helping veterans share their stories through music, showcasing the transformative power of artistic expression.

🇺🇸 Freedom Sings USA
Freedom Sings USA is a nonprofit organization that pairs professional songwriters with veterans and active-duty military to help them tell their stories through music. Steve Dean is one of their longtime collaborators, helping turn powerful, personal experiences into healing songs.

Learn more, donate, or get involved:
Website: freedomsingsusa.org
Instagram: @freedomsingsusa
Facebook: Freedom Sings USA

🎙 Follow Steve Dean

Instagram: @stevedeanmusic
Facebook: Steve Dean
Website & Booking: http://www.stevedeanmusic.com/

Takeaways

• The importance of persistence in pursuing one's dreams.
• Support from family can be crucial in times of doubt.
• Music can serve as a powerful outlet for emotions.
• Collaboration with others can enhance creativity.
• Staying grounded in faith can guide decision-making.
• The music industry requires treating artistry as a business.
• AI is changing the landscape of music production.
• Veterans can find healing through storytelling and music.
• Personal experiences shape songwriting and artistic expression.
• Community support is vital for personal and professional growth.

Sound Bites
"This episode is for you."
"Life goes by in a hurry."
"Carry on my wayward son."

Chapters
00:00 The Power of Persistence
08:06 Faith and Foundation
20:36 Music and the Journey
22:56 Navigating Pivots in the Music Industry
29:39 The Evolution of Identity as a Songwriter
37:36 Surprising Moments in Songwriting
43:38 Casting It Out There: Embracing Change and AI
48:03 The Impact of AI on Music Creation
50:01 Adapting as a Songwriter
52:55 Songs That Inspire and Motivate
56:53 Freedom Sings: Healing Through Music

Summary
In this episode of Coffee with Cory, host Cory Jackson welcomes Cliff and Susan, a dynamic country music duo from Arkansas. They discuss the importance of community, mentorship, and the journey of being independent artists. The conversation covers their experiences on the road, the significance of vocal health, and the launch of their Entertainers Academy, which aims to empower aspiring musicians. They share personal stories about the impact of their music, the importance of transparency in the industry, and their upcoming projects, including a crowdfunding campaign for their next album. The episode emphasizes the power of music to connect people and the importance of supporting one another in the creative journey.

👉Join Entertainers Academy
Entertainers Academy Resources: https://linktr.ee/entertainersacademy

🎙️Follow Cliff & Susan

Cliff & Susan Links: https://linktr.ee/cliffandsusan

Takeaways

• Community is essential for growth in any field.
• Mentorship can significantly impact an artist's journey.
• Health and vocal care are crucial for performers.
• Transparency about mental health is important in the music industry.
• Cover songs can create powerful connections with audiences.
• Every artist starts somewhere; it's okay to seek help.
• The experience of live music is irreplaceable.
• Practice until you can't get it wrong.
• The journey of recording can lead to unexpected collaborations.
• Crowdfunding can help artists achieve their goals.

Sound Bites
"We all have the life existential questions."
"You never know who that's going to bless."
"Practice until you can't get it wrong."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
03:01 Coffee Conversations and Personal Connections
05:51 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
09:06 The Role of Faith and Foundation in Music
12:00 Building the Entertainers Academy
14:56 Balancing Artistry and Mentorship
18:05 Vocal Health and Performance Preparation
20:49 Finding Purpose in Music
23:50 Staying Grounded and Inspired
27:07 Faith and Vision for the Future
32:28 Embracing the Journey of Growth
33:48 The Impact of Music on Healing
35:39 Creating a Lasting Legacy through Music
42:09 Finding Your Voice as an Artist
44:27 The Importance of Mentorship in Music
49:28 Collaborating with Others for Growth
56:59 Introducing Entertainers Academy
01:01:59 Future Plans and Music Releases

Summary
In this episode of Coffee with Cory, host Cory Jackson and guest Gracee Shriver discuss the challenges of setbacks in life and music, emphasizing the importance of faith, resilience, and personal growth. Gracee shares her journey through vocal issues, the impact on her identity, and how she learned to redefine success. They explore the role of God in their struggles, the power of prayer and fasting, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The conversation concludes with Gracee's new music and upcoming projects, encouraging listeners to embrace their journeys.

🎙 Follow Gracee Shriver
Stay connected with Gracee and all she's doing in music and beyond:

• Instagram: @graceeshriver
• TikTok: @graceeshriver
• Facebook: Gracee Shriver
• YouTube: Gracee Shriver
• Spotify & Apple Music: Just search Gracee Shriver to stream her latest releases!

📀 Check out her new single “RICH” — now available on all streaming platforms!

📬 Booking & More:
Visit www.graceeshriver.com for tour dates, booking inquiries, merch, and more.

Takeaways

• Setbacks can be transformative and teach valuable lessons.
• Faith plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges.
• It's important to redefine success beyond external validation.
• Creativity can flourish from personal struggles and experiences.
• God's presence can be felt in moments of uncertainty.
• Staying true to oneself is essential in the music industry.
• Fasting and prayer can deepen one's relationship with God.
• Personal growth often comes from facing difficult situations.
• Healing and transformation take time and patience.
• Embracing the journey is key to personal fulfillment.

Sound Bites
"God meets us in those moments."
"Don't take anything for granted."
"I can fight through things."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Snacks and Setbacks
05:02 Music and the Journey: Overcoming Vocal Challenges
12:50 Faith and Identity: Lessons from Struggles
18:13 Redefining Success: Staying True to Oneself
23:42 Navigating Doubt and Seeking Guidance
25:09 Finding Strength in Faith
26:17 Embracing Opportunities with Gratitude
27:16 Encouragement Through Setbacks
30:33 Building Confidence Through Challenges
33:09 Scriptural Inspirations and Personal Growth
36:03 Celebrating New Music and Personal Milestones
40:11 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations