Shows
Midtown PodcastWHAT WORSHIP REQUIRES | CHUCK & LILY HOOTENIn this heartfelt episode, we sit down with worship leaders, songwriters, and father-daughter duo Chuck & Lily Hooten. From Lily’s first terrifying worship set to becoming a full-time musician, to Chuck’s wisdom on parenting, worship, and surrender, this conversation is packed with encouragement, laughter, and truth.We talk about overcoming fear, living a lifestyle of worship, why surrender is the real definition of success, and how to help others step into freedom. Plus, Lily shares details about her upcoming song release Had a Dream and her Chattanooga show with Gabe Baker.Whether you’re a worshi...2025-08-1150 minMidtown PodcastTRUSTING GOD IN THE CREATIVE PROCESS | STEWThis week on Midtown, we sit down with our friend Stew to talk about the beauty, tension, and trust in the creative process. From writing worship songs in the Dominican Republic to receiving songs in dreams, Stu shares the heart behind his new release “Don’t Worry”—a song born out of patience, presence, and surrender.We explore how to steward creative ideas, hear God in moments of silence, and walk faithfully even when the path feels slow. If you're a dreamer, creator, or someone stuck in the tension between fear and faith—this one’s for you.2025-08-0141 minMidtown PodcastWHEN HEALING DOESN'T COME | GENEVIEVE VERNICHWhat do you do when you pray for healing and it doesn’t happen the way you expected? In this heartfelt episode, Jay, Austin and Genevieve open up about loss, waiting, and what it means to stay tender before God. From real stories of pain to surprising encounters with healing and forgiveness, this one will meet you in the middle of your mess.2025-07-2448 minMidtown PodcastTHE POWER OF LOVING INSTEAD OF PREFORMINGIn this episode of the Midtown Podcast, Austin sits down with Jay and Sean for a raw, unfiltered conversation on evangelism. From awkward street moments to deep personal encounters, they explore what it really means to share Jesus—without a script, a playbook, or performance pressure. Whether you're passionate about telling people about your faith or terrified to start, this episode will challenge what you've believed about evangelism and free you to walk it out authentically.It’s not about results. It’s about presence.2025-07-1239 minMidtown PodcastLOSING STABILITY, FINDING HOMEIn this episode, we sit down with our friend Sarah to unpack one of the most relatable topics we’ve received—how to find a sense of home in the middle of change. From unexpected breakups to post-grad loneliness, to losing friendships or purpose, we talk about what it looks like to navigate the unknown without losing your footing.We dive into the idea that home isn’t always a place or a person—it’s a Presence. Drawing from 2 Corinthians, Psalms, and Ecclesiastes, we reflect on how grief, growth, and God intersect. We talk about being present, ste...2025-07-0335 minMidtown PodcastSMALL OBEDIENCE CHANGES EVERYTHING - SHAWN HATMAKERWhat if obedience to that tiny nudge from God changed the trajectory of your life? In this episode, we walk through moments that shaped a deeper intimacy with Jesus — from unexpected encounters in Knoxville to listening for the Holy Spirit’s whisper. We talk about humility, desperation, and choosing obedience over ego. This conversation is a reminder that God can use even the simplest ‘yes’ to rewrite your story.2025-06-2545 minMidtown PodcastLEARNING TO BE DESPERATE FOR JESUS (EVEN WHEN YOU DON'T FEEL IT) | BRENNON SEIGLERBrennan, a student-athlete at the University of Tennessee, joins us to share his powerful journey—from leading spontaneous worship nights as a zealous new believer to discovering the depth of true intimacy with Jesus. In this episode, we talk about spiritual hunger, learning through failure, vertical worship, and the quiet power of living a life fully surrendered to God. Whether you’re in a dry season or seeking to reignite your faith, this conversation will stir your soul and encourage your pursuit of Christ.2025-06-2037 minMidtown PodcastLIFE, BUSINESS, AND FAITH THAT ENDURES | HAPPY FATHERS DAYIn this special Father’s Day episode, I talk with my dad about the lessons that shaped his life — from parenting and marriage to perseverance in business and faith. If you need encouragement for your own journey, this one’s for you.2025-06-1130 minMidtown PodcastLIVING IN THE MEANWHILE | MARANATHAIn this episode, Cole Palmer joins us for a powerful conversation on what it means to long for Jesus’ return. We explore the cry of “Maranatha,” the tension of living in the “meanwhile,” and how God is softening hearts around us. From redemption stories on the streets of Knoxville to finding oil in the Garden of Gethsemane, this one will stir something deep.2025-06-0532 minMidtown PodcastWHAT IS WORSHIP?What if your greatest act of worship didn’t sound like music—but looked like surrender?We’re diving into Genesis 22, the first time the word “worship” is used in Scripture, and discovering what it really means to lay everything before the Lord—even when it costs you everything.2025-05-2926 minMidtown PodcastBE STILL AND KNOWWhat if the peace you're craving isn’t found in solving your problems, but in sitting still with God?In this episode, Austin and J share real stories—from runaway goats to moments of deep spiritual clarity—as they reflect on Psalm 131 and what it means to “calm and quiet your soul.”This is a vulnerable, hope-filled convo about trusting God, silencing the noise, and learning to hear His voice again.✨ Scriptures: Psalm 131, Psalm 4, Acts 16🎧 Listen now and let this episode walk with you into deeper soul rest.#MidtownPodcast #ChristianPodcast #BeStill #Psalm131...2025-05-2325 minMidtown PodcastWHEN CREATIVITY MEETS THE GREAT COMMISSION | CHUCK AND EMILY HOOTENChuck and Emily Hooten join Austin fresh off a powerful trip to the Dominican Republic with a team of creatives. From wild worship moments and Holy Spirit-led songwriting to redefining leadership and purpose, this episode is a deep dive into what happens when artists stop striving for platform and start living on mission. Whether you're a creative, a dreamer, or just burnt out—this one will hit home. 2025-05-1550 minMidtown PodcastWE'RE SEEING GOD MOVE | NICK BARNESIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Nick—a missionary turned mobilizer—who spent 13 years in the Middle East and is now on the frontlines of a gospel movement on the University of Tennessee campus. We talk about the hunger rising in this generation, the fall of religious gatekeeping, the rise of humility, and why it’s time to stop waiting and go for it. If you’ve ever felt the tension between tradition and truth, or sensed God stirring something new, this one’s for you.Topics include:Gen Z’s spiritual hungerCampus r...2025-05-0941 minMidtown PodcastBUSYNESS | LIVE AN INTERRUPTIBLE LIFEWhat if real strength looked like being interruptible? In this episode, we explore the way Jesus moved—never rushed, always present, fully available. From pausing for children to noticing the overlooked, Jesus showed us that slowing down isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom. Tune in for a deep dive on how to live with margin, walk in purpose, and reflect God’s pace in a world that never stops.2025-04-2533 minMidtown PodcastANDREW OSAKUE | YOU CANT HAVE IT BOTH WAYSWhat happens when a man running from God gets stopped by a knock on the door… and a storm that takes everything?In this raw and powerful episode, Andrew shares his incredible story—from chasing women and alcohol in New Orleans to leading one of the most impactful grassroots ministries in Knoxville. Hear how a hurricane, a knock from a neighbor, and a confrontation with God radically transformed his life. He opens up about father wounds, the tension of living a double life, and the resurrection power of forgiveness. This one will challenge your heart and...2025-04-1948 minMidtown PodcastHEAVINESS, BURNOUT, CONFESSION, AND THE WAY BACK TO JOYWhy do things feel heavy even when everything seems “fine”? In this vulnerable and deeply honest conversation, Austin and Jay unpack the hidden weight that comes from leadership, expectations, isolation, and performance. From ministry burnout and emotional numbness to the healing power of confession, brotherhood, and rediscovering intimacy with God — this episode is for anyone who’s ever felt crushed and didn’t know why.We’re not made to carry it alone. Let’s talk about what it means to shift the weight.2025-04-1033 minMidtown PodcastHOW DO I MAKE DECISIONS WITH GOD?Big decisions can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re trying to follow God through them. In this episode, Austin, Jay and Jay dive into a raw, heartfelt conversation about what it looks like to make decisions with God, not just for Him. From fears of making the wrong choice to the beauty of surrender and obedience, they unpack real-life stories, scripture (Psalm 37, Proverbs 3), and powerful insights that help break down the pressure to be perfect and replace it with a deeper trust in God's goodness and guidance.Whether you’re stuck between two jobs, thinking of moving, or just t...2025-04-0526 minMidtown PodcastRevival on Campus: Hunger for Jesus, Real Community, and the Power of YesIn this powerful episode of the Midtown Podcast, Jay and I sit down with Ella and Natalie—two students from the University of Tennessee—who are witnessing and living in the middle of a revival sweeping across college campuses. From 7 a.m. prayer gatherings with 400+ students to spontaneous worship runs through the streets of Knoxville, God is clearly moving in a generation hungry for truth, purpose, and authentic community.We talk about what it means to go from religion to relationship, from performance to presence, and how saying "yes" to Jesus changes everything. Whether you've walked with Jesu...2025-03-2843 minMidtown PodcastFROM PRISON TO PURPOSE | JAY HALEYWhat happens when you have everything the world says you need—money, success, and status—but still feel empty? In this powerful episode, Jay shares his incredible journey from a troubled past to a life completely transformed by faith.From losing his mother at a young age, navigating the streets of Lynchburg, and pursuing dreams of the NFL to facing federal prison time—Jay’s story is one of heartbreak, redemption, and the undeniable power of God’s grace.Join us as we talk about:🔥 The moment Jay surrendered everything to God🔥 How prayer and faith...2025-03-2045 minMidtown PodcastLESSONS IN WORK, WEALTH, AND WHAT REALLY MATTERSIn this inspiring episode of the Midtown Podcast, we sit down with Don, a man whose life story is nothing short of remarkable. From growing up in a small town in West Virginia with little to his name to working his way into the corporate world at IBM, Don shares the lessons he’s learned along the way. We talk about hard work, risk-taking, chasing success, and the importance of balance. Don’s journey also takes unexpected turns—including an undercover encounter with the FBI! But through it all, he’s discovered what truly matters in life. Whether you're an entre...2025-03-1152 minMidtown PodcastTO HELL WITH WHAT'S HOLDING YOU BACKWhat’s holding you back from fully saying YES to Jesus? In this episode, we sit down with Ryan to hear his powerful story of stepping into obedience, overcoming fear, and experiencing a deeper freedom in Christ. From battling doubt to making the life-changing decision to get baptized, this conversation is an invitation to stop hesitating and start walking in faith. Topics Covered:How fear of people’s opinions can hold us backWhy obedience leads to true freedomThe role of spiritual mentors in our journeyTrusting God even when we don’t have all the answersSaying to hell with...2025-03-0641 minMidtown PodcastOVERCOMING FEAR & WALKING IN BOLDNESSIn this powerful episode of the Midtown Podcast, Jay Smith and Austin Bradford dive deep into the topic of fear—how it manifests in our lives, how it holds us back, and how faith empowers us to overcome it. They share personal experiences of struggling with fear, from public speaking anxiety to the pressure of leadership, and discuss how Jesus transforms our insecurities into boldness.Through real stories, reflections on worship nights, and biblical truths, this conversation will encourage you to step out in faith, trust that you are not alone, and embrace the fullness of who Go...2025-02-2730 minMidtown PodcastHOW DO YOU HEAR GOD'S VOICE?How do you know if you're really hearing from God? In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest faith questions—how to recognize God's voice. We share personal stories of encountering the supernatural, the power of prophecy, and the importance of stepping out in faith, even when it feels uncomfortable. Whether you're new to faith, struggling to hear from God, or simply curious about the supernatural, this episode will challenge and encourage you to trust His guidance.2025-02-1946 minMidtown PodcastHOW TO LIVE A LIFE OF INTERRUPTION- BRAD BRENSONFaith isn’t meant to be boring—it’s an adventure. In this episode, Brad Brenson shares how he went from a reckless teenager to a passionate follower of Jesus, discovering purpose and power in saying "yes" to God. From unexpected mentors to life-changing encounters, Brad’s story is a testimony to how God calls, equips, and leads us into something greater.2025-02-141h 08Midtown PodcastHOW TO GO FOR ITHow do you just go for it? First episode of the Midtown Podcast.2025-02-0513 min