Description

Song Revolution Podcast – Season 3

Host: John Chisum

Guest: Emily Hostetler (Founder of Heaven on Earth Festival)

Episode Title: EMILY HOSTETLER: Heaven On Earth

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Song Revolution, host John Chisum is joined by special guest Emily Hostetler, founder of the Heaven on Earth music festival—a unique and immersive Christian music and wellness event held in stunning locations like Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Moab, Utah.

Emily shares her journey of discovering God's love throughout her life—from a childhood of spiritual curiosity in Boulder, Colorado to shaping a boutique worship experience that bridges the gap between churchgoers and seekers alike. Through storytelling, music, wellness, and natural beauty, Heaven on Earth offers a deeply personal space for rest, connection, and inspiration.

John and Emily also talk about the power of music in spiritual formation, the artists and vision behind the festival, and why gathering in community can be so transformative for both creatives and attendees.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Emily’s unconventional spiritual journey led to founding Heaven on Earth
• Why the festival focuses on soulful connection over religious programming
• The unique role of nature, music, and storytelling in personal transformation
• How Christian and mainstream artists create a welcoming, restorative experience
• What to expect at this summer’s event in Moab, including glamping, hikes, cold plunges, and stargazing
• Why authenticity and vulnerability are essential for deeper faith conversations

Featured Festival Artists (2024):

• JOHNNYSWIM
• Amanda Cook
• Dave Barnes
• John McLaughlin
• Ashley Hess
• Eauclaire
• Madeline Rose
• The King Will Come

Key Moments:

[02:00] Emily’s spiritual foundation and discovering God's love in everyday moments

[06:30] The slow revelation of faith and growing in understanding over time

[08:45] Music’s emotional impact and favorite worship influences

[14:00] The thinkers, pastors, and voices who shaped Emily’s spiritual formation

[19:45] The origin of Heaven on Earth and its unique vision

[24:00] Creating a festival experience that refreshes the soul without being preachy

[27:00] Keeping the festival small and intimate to foster deep community

[28:00] A look at the daily schedule: morning workouts, live music, storytelling, and stargazing

[31:00] Recording a communal festival song and exploring creativity on-site

Resources & Links:

Learn more and register for the Heaven on Earth festival:

https://www.heavenonearthfestival.com

Get Involved with NCS:

NCS 2025 Songwriting Challenge – Get the free guide & grow your songwriting skills this year!

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/challenge2025

Free First Monday Songwriting Training

https://courses.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/training

NCS Community Membership – 52 weeks of access to the right music industry professionals. Join today! 

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/community/

NCS Collective:

https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ncs-collective/

Connect With Us:

NashvilleChristianSongwriters.com

Support the Show:
If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your fellow songwriters!