Join us for a special episode of Songwriter Connection as rising artist Āelle gathers around the dining room table with some of her closest friends, collaborators, and fellow musicians for an unforgettable evening of music and conversation. With new music on the horizon, Āelle shares the stories behind her upcoming releases and gives listeners an inside look at her creative journey. The highlight of the episode comes when Āelle and her talented friends—including 10-year-old vocalist Lillian—perform a beautiful a cappella version of Āelle's upcoming song, In Control. Recorded in front of an intimate live audience, this episode captures the magic that happens when great voices, great songs, and great friends come together around the dining room table. Expect laughter, stories, harmonies, and a sneak peek at music you'll be hearing a lot more of in the months ahead. Pull up a chair and join us for this special celebration of friendship, collaboration, and the power of song. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome singer-songwriter Megan Barker to the dining room table for a conversation filled with music, stories, and a family legacy deeply rooted in songwriting. For Megan, songwriting is truly in her blood. Her father built an impressive career as a songwriter, penning songs recorded by artists such as Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, and Hank Williams Jr.. Growing up surrounded by music and great songs helped shape Megan's own artistic path and passion for storytelling. During our conversation, Megan shares her journey as an artist, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the inspiration behind her music. She also performs several original songs, giving listeners an intimate look at the talent, heart, and authenticity that define her work. Join us around the dining room table as we explore family, songwriting, and the next chapter of a musical legacy with Megan Barker. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome Australian country troubadour Angus Gill — an award-winning singer-songwriter known for his sharp storytelling, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable sense of humor. From his roots in rural Australia to the stages of Nashville, Angus has built a reputation as one of the most authentic voices in modern country music. In this conversation, Angus shares the stories behind his songs, the journey that brought him from Down Under to Music City, and how classic country influences continue to shape his sound. We also dive into songwriting, touring, life on the road, and the creative process that fuels his music. As always, the episode features live acoustic performances and honest conversations around the dining room table — the way great songs are meant to be shared. If you love real country music, timeless songwriting, and artists who wear their heart on their sleeve, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week on Songwriter Connection, we sit down with Nashville-based alt-acoustic artist Nicole Alexis (N/A), a true one-woman force in modern DIY music. Fresh off the release of her debut EP Mirrors and Smoke, Nicole opens up about the journey from performing stripped-down covers online to finally turning the lens inward and telling her own stories—raw, honest, and unapologetically real. With standout tracks like “Don’t Tell Me To Breathe” and “Just A Friend,” the EP showcases her gift for blending vulnerable songwriting with an alternative edge. Nicole shares how she built a massive following from the ground up, creating looped, acoustic-driven covers that caught fire across social media, and how that momentum gave her the confidence to step into her own artistry. We also talk about her fully hands-on approach—writing, producing, and engineering every release herself—and what it means to stay fiercely independent in today’s music landscape. From playing Vans Warped Tour’s Unplugged Stage to having her music featured in major brand launches, Nicole is carving her own lane with grit, vision, and authenticity. Plus, she performs live and gives us a deeper look into the stories behind the songs on Mirrors and Smoke. If you’re a fan of honest songwriting, DIY spirit, and artists who aren’t afraid to bet on themselves, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome rising country artist Adysen Malek—a fresh voice bringing heart, honesty, and a whole lot of soul to Nashville’s songwriting scene. With a style that blends modern country storytelling and emotional authenticity, Adysen is quickly making a name for herself as both a compelling artist and a gifted songwriter. In this episode, she shares the stories behind her music, her journey to Music City, and the experiences that continue to shape her sound. We dive into her creative process, the inspiration behind her latest releases, and what it’s really like carving out a path as a new artist in today’s country landscape. Plus, Adysen performs live, giving listeners an up-close look at the talent that’s turning heads around town. If you love discovering new artists before they break big, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A true songwriter at heart, Allie has carved her own lane in country music with honest lyrics, emotional depth, and a fearless authenticity that connects with fans across the globe. The daughter of country legend Garth Brooks, Allie has stepped out from the spotlight of her roots to build a career entirely on her own terms—and she’s doing it her way. In this episode, Allie shares the stories behind her latest music, the inspiration that fuels her songwriting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a rapidly changing industry. We also talk about her unique journey, her time performing across the country, and her upcoming trip to Cuba to celebrate a historic milestone with members of the military. Plus, Allie treats us to live performances that showcase the heart and soul behind her songs—reminding us why she’s quickly becoming one of the most respected rising artists in Nashville. Don’t miss this honest, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation with Allie Colleen—streaming now everywhere you get your podcasts. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville singer-songwriter Lauren Lucas — a true Music City original with a story that hits just as hard as her songs. Growing up surrounded by music and sharpening her craft right here in Nashville, Lauren has built a reputation as a powerful vocalist and an honest, fearless writer. From her time studying at Belmont to performing on some of the city’s most iconic stages, she’s lived the journey so many artists only dream about — and she’s got the songs to prove it. In this episode, Lauren opens up about her path in country music, the stories behind her songwriting, and what it really takes to carve out your own lane in a town full of dreamers. She also shares some incredible music you won’t want to miss. If you love real stories, raw talent, and the heart behind the song, this is one episode you need to hear. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Emily Burdette—an incredibly talented singer-songwriter and Belmont University grad, now based in Wilmington, North Carolina. We dive into her journey, the craft behind her songwriting, and what inspires her as a rising artist. Plus, Emily treats us to a special live performance around the dining room table. Don’t miss this inspiring episode Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome “The Coastal Cowgirl,” Kimberly Dawn. Originally from Canada and now splitting time between Nashville and the West Coast, Kimberly brings a refreshing blend of classic country storytelling and modern country spirit to her music. Known for songs like “Deere John,” “Leave Her Better,” and “In Love With Tennessee,” Kimberly’s writing is rooted in real-life experiences and themes of perseverance, courage, and resilience. Her music has earned millions of streams and recognition from outlets like CMT and the Academy of Country Music, while her powerful song “The Bottle” shines a light on mental health and recovery. In this conversation, Kimberly shares the story behind her “Coastal Cowgirl” brand, her journey from Canada to Nashville, and the inspiration that fuels her songwriting. Plus, she performs a few songs live around the table, giving listeners a chance to hear the heart behind the music. It’s a great conversation about chasing dreams, telling authentic stories, and finding strength through song. Don’t miss this inspiring episode of Songwriter Connection. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, Dave welcomes rising country artist Jadynce Jean to the table for a conversation about music, determination, and chasing a dream at a young age. With powerhouse vocals and a natural connection to her audience, Jadynce has been performing since she was just six years old and hasn’t slowed down since. Now splitting time between Kansas and Nashville, she’s building momentum with heartfelt originals, high-energy performances, and songs that reflect both real life and real emotion. In this episode, Jadynce shares the story behind her journey into music, the challenges she’s faced along the way, and what it’s like navigating the Nashville songwriting scene as an emerging artist. She also performs some of her music live around the table, giving listeners an intimate look at the songs and stories behind them. If you enjoy discovering the next generation of country artists and hearing the stories behind the songs, you won’t want to miss this conversation with Jadynce Jean. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy