1 Degree of Andy

Todd shares the stories behind “Grace Like Rain” and “My Jesus,” the surprising way his first record deal came together, and why some of his most powerful songs were born out of wrestling with faith rather than having all the answers.

The brief recording career of my Benson lablemate Brian Becker led him to success as a pioneering internet entrepreneur, software executive, and mentor—proving that God's calling doesn't end when the spotlight fades. This is a conversation about purpose, reinvention, faithfulness, and the many ways a life can leave a legacy.

Bubba Smith may not be a household name, but his fingerprints are on some of the most influential Christian music of the last five decades. In this fascinating conversation, Bubba takes Andy behind the scenes of the Christian music industry—from driving buses with The Spurlows and Bridge to becoming one of Nashville's most respected A&R executives, producers, and music publishers.

Marty joins me for an honest conversation about family, faith, songwriting, and the unexpected turns life takes after decades in music. He’ll share stories from his upbringing in south Louisiana, his early years leading worship, life on the road with 4Him, and how God continues to shape his ministry through teaching, mentoring, and creating new music.

For nearly a decade, Mike "Q" Quistad was the man who kept one of Christian music's biggest touring bands moving. As 4Him's tour manager, he handled everything from budgets and logistics to impossible travel schedules, backstage crises, demanding promoters, and the daily challenge of keeping four artists focused on what they did best. This is a tribute to friendship, servant leadership, and the people behind the scenes who rarely get the applause—but deserve so much of it.

With humor, vulnerability, and theological insight, Crowder reflects on the importance of asking hard questions, holding plans loosely, and trusting God through unexpected turns. This is a conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, nostalgia, and the kind of honesty that has defined Crowder's career.

My friend Travis Cottrell joins me as we attempt to construct our Mount Rushmore of CCM male vocalists, and of course we're gonna get it wrong! Join us for the chaos and laughs, and maybe be reminded of a few great artists you forgot about...

In this unique episode, Andy turns the microphone around and welcomes longtime listener Neil Leach, whose thoughtful messages and deep knowledge of Christian music have made him a familiar friend behind the scenes. Together, they take a heartfelt journey through the golden age of Christian music, reminiscing about Petra, The Imperials, Phil Keaggy, Russ Taff, Mylon LeFevre, The Beatles, and the artists who shaped their lives.

My friend and one of the great mix engineers of all time, Bill Deaton, offers a rare look into the craft of recording, mixing, and mastering. Along the way, we'll reminisce about Nashville's golden era of Christian music, discuss the importance of real musicianship in an age of technology, and celebrate the producers, engineers, and artists who shaped an entire generation of music.

What do a broken-down Gremlin, a chicken coop library, the Museum of the Bible, and a homeless teenager have in common? Jerry Pattengale joins Andy to tell a remarkable story of faith, purpose, books, and God's unexpected plans. This conversation may leave you reaching for your Bible—and your reading list.