
Soul Impact : How Music Saved Us
Weekly show featuring people who's lives have been changed through the power of music. Hosted by Willie Thornton
Episodes
Reading the feed…

Weekly show featuring people who's lives have been changed through the power of music. Hosted by Willie Thornton
Reading the feed…
Wild Willie welcomes Randy Moore to discuss his journey and new record, "High Cost of Low Living." They explore the competitiveness of today's music industry and the shift from traditional to modern production. Highlights include recording at RCA Studio B, Elvis' influence, and opening for artists like Cal Smith. Randy shares how music serves as self-therapy, backed by a Harvard study on its emotional power. They delve into Randy's Texas roots, industry challenges, and staying true to oneself. Advice for discouraged artists and the importance of support systems are discussed. Enjoy performance
Dennis Welch joins Wild Willie to share his journey through music and life. Dennis reflects on his early songwriting and touring experiences, his return to music, and recent Grammy-nominated achievements. The conversation delves into the profound impact of music and faith on healing, with Wild Willie sharing his own story. They discuss how music can transform family dynamics and community, touching on parenting strategies and mental health awareness. Dennis talks about his inspiration, unique performance experiences, and the value of music beyond accolades. The episode also covers sound engine
Wild Willie welcomes Brad Stewart to discuss his journey into the music industry, from early career beginnings to founding Stewart Entertainment Agency. They navigate challenges posed by COVID-19 and Brad's pivot to developing Music Mogul AI, a platform revolutionizing artist representation. The conversation highlights the pay-to-play model, software development, and the importance of high-quality live video for bookings. Brad shares insights on pricing, consulting, and services offered by Music Mogul AI, along with client profiles and challenges artists face. The episode emphasizes the signif
Join Wild Willie as he chats with Michael Cagle about his transformative journey through music and theater. Michael shares how these art forms saved his life, leading to his transition into podcasting and the release of his new album. They discuss themes of self-worth, mental health, and healing from trauma. Michael talks about his impactful songs "Mirror of the Soul" and "Broken Child," and the authenticity of independent artists. Reflecting on growing up gay and facing bullying, Michael highlights influential artists who shaped his music. The episode concludes with insights on human connecti
Join Wild Willie as he welcomes Shannon Standiford to explore music's profound role in healing and transformation. Shannon shares his journey, highlighting music's impact on emotions and mental health. They discuss genres, artists, and children's music preferences, emphasizing authenticity. The conversation covers music as a universal language, cross-cultural influence, and the nostalgia of CDs. Shannon delves into overcoming addiction through music and discovering Christian music's power in personal growth. They reflect on evolving music preferences and finding hope. The episode concludes wit
Wild Willie introduces Jayme Smith, highlighting the podcast's mission and sharing his personal journey. Jayme discusses how music saved him, the healing power of expressing trauma, and the impact of Jimi Hendrix. They explore authenticity, music progressions, and a special moment involving Wild Willie's child and "Man in the Mirror." The episode covers music's role in sobriety, songwriting intent, community giving, and shared experiences. Jayme shares his military background, PTSD struggles, and Zach Bryan's influence. They discuss his work with veterans, pride in being a live sound engineer,
Wild Willie introduces Birdy Young, who shares her experiences working with senior living communities and her musical journey. They discuss the profound impact of music on mental health, with Birdy revealing her personal story of trauma and healing through music. The conversation highlights the importance of community in personal growth and Birdy offers a message of peace along with advice for those facing mental struggles. Willie shares his own transformation through music before they wrap up with Birdy's future projects. The episode concludes with final thoughts and reflections on the power
Wild Willie kicks off the episode with an introduction to Soul Impact and welcomes Dmidd, who shares his musical background, the influences that shaped his stage name, and how certain songs have profoundly impacted his life. They discuss Dmidd's perspective on the current state of music and his dream collaborations. Dmidd delves into his songwriting and recording process, along with his advocacy for mental health. He reveals details about his future plans and upcoming album. The conversation touches on areas Dmidd aims to improve, particularly in music and online presence. The episode wraps up
In this episode, Wild Willie introduces Soul Impact and shares his music journey with guest Casey Rupp. Casey discusses his challenging upbringing, military service, and how music was his lifeline during tough times. They explore Casey's transition to military life, his motivations, and experiences, including self-defense and returning home. Casey opens up about post-deployment loneliness and co-founding Operation Combating Veteran Suicide with Shar to bridge veteran resource gaps. They discuss music's role in reintegration, PTSD struggles, and its power as a universal language, while addressi
Wild Willie kicks off the episode with CrazyKidd, diving into their shared passion for music and personal struggles. They discuss societal expectations, mental health, and family influences in their musical journeys. Mentorship and sound engineering take center stage as CrazyKidd reflects on his upbringing and the importance of authenticity in music. The conversation turns to the humor found in lifted trucks and the genuine passion that fuels music. Overcoming challenges and potential collaborations are explored, along with CrazyKidd's tour plans. They touch on sound engineering preferences an
In this episode, Wild Willie kicks off with a nod to Scene Projects podcast network and introduces guest Greg Lind. Greg shares his musical journey and how software became integral to his creative process. They explore music's therapeutic role in travel and cultural influences on Greg's sound. The discussion covers collaboration, mentorship, and networking in music and software, with insights from Willie on podcasting. They address challenges for musicians, technology's impact, and AI ethics in music. Greg reflects on "How Music Saved Us" and music's deep communication with listeners. The epis
Wild Willie introduces Kevin Presbrey, who shares his personal background and the origin of the Soul Impact Podcast. Kevin delves into his music career and the emotional connection he has with music, particularly how personal loss has influenced his songwriting. They discuss the creative processes and challenges artists face, including overcoming writer's block. Willie reflects on Kevin's song "Afterglow," and Kevin offers insights into its recording. The transition from sports to music highlights the role of discipline in Kevin's journey. The episode wraps up with Kevin's future plans and clo
Wild Willie introduces the Scene Projects network and chats with Steve Morgan about his journey into improv. They discuss various improv styles and how its philosophy applies to life. Willie shares insights on personal growth and the podcast's inspiration. They delve into cultural influences, the emotional impact of songs, and music's role in personal and generational growth. The conversation highlights music and storytelling's community-building power and Wild Willie's DJ journey. Steve discusses his music projects, collaboration challenges, and a positive industry attitude. They cover posthu
Wild Willie welcomes Len May to discuss their shared passion for music and its profound impact on their lives. Len shares his early connection to music and how it helped him manage ADD, particularly during his time at Tower Records. The conversation explores music as a form of meditation and inspiration, and the influence of cannabis on creativity. They delve into Len's work with EndoDNA, focusing on genetic predispositions to cannabis and individual differences in response. The episode highlights music's role in wellness, emotional processing, and collective experiences, while also addressing
Join Wild Willie as he welcomes Cameron McKay, who shares his remarkable recovery journey after a shooting incident that led to PTSD and a coma. Cameron discusses the challenges he faced, a spiritual encounter during his coma, and how it changed his outlook on life. He opens up about his struggles with alcohol, achieving sobriety, and the vital role music played in his recovery. They explore the impact of specific songs, overcoming a victim mentality, and social media's influence. Cameron also discusses music's role in parenting and personal growth. The episode wraps up with stress management
Wild Willie introduces the episode with guest Cristina Santiago, sharing his personal music journey before diving into Cristina's background and the profound impact music has had on her life. They discuss music as a healing force, exploring Cristina's musical influences and insights into hip hop. Both share experiences in podcasting, while Cristina expresses her admiration for Taylor Swift and how music has shaped her life. They emphasize the importance of support systems in fostering musical growth. The episode concludes with details on Cristina's online presence and closing remarks from Will
Join Wild Willie as he welcomes mindset coach David McKee for an insightful discussion on music's influence on personal growth. David shares his journey with music as a creative and emotional outlet, while Willie reflects on his own musical aspirations. They explore overcoming the victim mindset, managing emotions, and Another Angle Consulting's philosophy. Topics include music therapy, community healing, and the resurgence of authentic music. They emphasize balancing dreams with mental health, neuroscience hacks, and celebrating small wins. The episode wraps up with gratitude, contact info, a
Wild Willie welcomes Scott Mocha to explore his remarkable journey from DJ to missionary, highlighting the personal connections that music has facilitated along the way. Scott shares his struggles with addiction and the role faith played in finding peace and redemption. They discuss the fear of starting over and how life's challenges can lead to growth. Scott talks about writing "A Row with Two Chairs" and how music and art have been instrumental in his personal development. He recounts his experiences transitioning to missionary work in Paris and offers a message to artists about embracing ha
Wild Willie kicks off the episode by introducing guest Steve Sxaks and sharing a personal story. Steve dives into his background, recounting his first experiences with music and how his military service influenced his musical path. They explore the evolution of music genres, with a special focus on country music. The conversation shifts to Steve's teaching endeavors and Willie's experiences as a DJ. Steve shares insights into his creative process and pivotal moments in his career, emphasizing how music has been a saving grace both personally and professionally. The episode wraps up with Steve
Wild Willie sits down with Weston Brandon to explore his journey of loss, resilience, and healing through faith and music. Weston shares the trauma of losing his wife during pregnancy complications and how faith and music aided his recovery. They discuss the DRIVE framework, emphasizing purpose, self-investment, and goal visualization. The conversation underscores the role of faith in success, fatherhood, and mental health, especially for veterans. Weston talks about his growth through men's retreats, music, and keynote concerts. The episode concludes with advice for the lost, a suicide preven
Wild Willie welcomes Jennifer Harper to discuss her transformative journey with music and how it has been a source of healing. Jennifer shares how music helped her overcome self-doubt and the emotional impact of her work. Willie reflects on his DJ experiences and his advocacy for mental health. They delve into Jennifer's album "Soul Alive," exploring its influences and her memorable performances. The conversation touches on the intersection of music, motherhood, and healing, as well as the importance of mentorship in Jennifer's career. The episode concludes with information on where to find Je
In this episode, Wild Willie sits down with Hunter Mounce from the Scene Projects Podcast Network. They delve into Hunter's journey, exploring his roots in Ashland City and the influence of rural communities on his music. Hunter shares his experiences with firefighting, the challenges of stage fright and self-doubt in Nashville, and how these have shaped his musical path. They discuss the origin of the Fire Boot Initiative, emphasizing community support and giving back. Hunter opens up about his songwriting process, particularly his most personal song, "Bronco," and its live performance. The e
Wild Willie dives into the transformative power of music with guest Lil Milfy. The episode begins with Lil Milfy sharing her journey in music and the importance of self-belief. They discuss the significance of community support and exchange insights on songwriting. Lil Milfy opens up about her musical inspirations and the personal support that has bolstered her career. The conversation also touches on overcoming challenges within the music industry and managing mental health, particularly coping with self-criticism. Lil Milfy highlights her online music presence and the community backing her j
Wild Willie welcomes ImExclusive to discuss their respective music journeys, highlighting ImExclusive's influences and inspirations. They delve into challenges faced, impactful songs, and the supportive systems that have bolstered ImExclusive's songwriting. Willie shares songs that have shaped his own path. The conversation covers ImExclusive's platforms and aspirations, offering advice for artists on self-belief and coping with criticism. They explore music's significant role in mental health and coping strategies, before wrapping up with a recap and a recommendation for PodMatch. The episode
Wild Willie chats with Sequoia Blue about her captivating music journey and unique style, including her song "Whiskey." They explore podcasting, tech, and the "abstract soul" genre, highlighting music's role in storytelling and creativity. The discussion covers music's evolving impact, significance in life transitions, and Sequoia's live performance highlights. Sequoia shares her shift from thrillers to children's books and introduces her "Dating Assassins" card game. They touch on entrepreneurial lessons, music's role in mental health, and the importance of support. The episode wraps up with