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On this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Nic Gonzales (Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South) is joined by Travis Cottrell (Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist) and Luke Roman (Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill) for a rich conversation on the theology of worship music and how song selection shapes the spiritual formation of a congregation. From building a healthy “song diet” to evaluating song rotation, introducing new songs, and retiring old ones, they discuss how worship leaders can shepherd their church through intentional and theological song choices.

Meet the Speakers:

• Nic Gonzales – Worship Minister at The Church at Avenue South, passionate about encouraging authenticity in worship through music and relationships.
• Travis Cottrell – Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist, seasoned leader, songwriter, and mentor shaping multi-generational worship in Middle Tennessee.
• Luke Roman – Worship Minister at The Church at Station Hill, committed to building singing congregations with a heart for spiritual depth and theological clarity.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• 2:00 – What is a healthy “song diet” and why it matters
• 6:00 – How singing shapes theology and discipleship
• 10:07 – Balancing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
• 13:00 – How worship engages mind, heart, and body
• 15:18 – Evaluating your current rotation with a quarterly review
• 20:15 – The role of theology in new song selection
• 23:00 – Practical approaches to introducing new songs
• 26:00 – How to connect new songs with spiritual moments
• 31:00 – How often should you repeat songs to build familiarity?
• 35:00 – When and how to “retire” a song with wisdom
• 38:20 – Preparing your church for Easter songs
• 47:00 – Encouragement for worship leaders in small or isolated churches

Resources Mentioned:

• Grace Upon Grace – Michael Boggs
• Bless God – Brooke Ligertwood
• He Will Hold Me Fast – Keith & Kristyn Getty
• Song Diet Exercise – Brentwood Worship team practice (inquire at Elevate Conference breakout sessions)
• Elevate Conference | September 9, 2025 | https://elevatechurchconference.com/