EPISODE · Jun 11, 2026 · 28 MIN
GRANGER SMITH: Fame, Faith & a Father's Grief - This One's for the Dads
from CIA: Contagious Influencers of America · host David Sams
What do you do when the worst thing imaginable happens — and you're left questioning everything you thought you believed? This week we're bringing back one of our most powerful conversations ever, and it hits even harder now. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sat down with Granger Smith — award-winning, platinum-selling country music artist turned New York Times bestselling author and minister — five years after the tragic drowning death of his three-year-old son, River. In this raw, honest conversation, Granger opens up about the 10 minutes he performed CPR on his little boy, the guilt, the grief, and the moment he realized fame and music had quietly become more about him than about God. So he walked away from it all. He also shares the beautiful story behind his youngest son Maverick's name — and why without losing River, Maverick wouldn't be the miracle he is today. This encore comes at the perfect time: Granger's new book Poison in the Well: 11 Toxic Beliefs That Kept Me from the Living Water of Jesus drops September 8, 2026 — and it's already generating serious buzz. It digs into the doubts that hit after loss, asking the question: "What if everything I believe about my faith was actually built on shifting sand?" If Like a River wrecked you in the best way, this one goes even deeper. Whether you're in a dark season, questioning your faith, or just hungry for something real — this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now. Then pre-order Poison in the Well at grangersmith.com.
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GRANGER SMITH: Fame, Faith & a Father's Grief - This One's for the Dads
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