Sounding Board

This episode of Sounding Board, we’re honored to welcome David Gambrell—a theologian, liturgical leader, and one of the most influential voices in Reformed worship today. David has been a huge part of Worship & Music year after year, helping shape not just the conference, but the way many of us think about worship itself. His partnership with PAM has been a gift, and his voice is one we’re always eager to hear.

Welcome to Sounding Board, where we listen closely to the voices shaping worship, preaching, and the life of the church. Today we’re thrilled to be joined by the Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer—an extraordinary preacher, teacher, and scholar. If you were at Worship & Music 2025, you already know how powerfully her preaching rings with truth, imagination, and pastoral depth. Margaret is one of those voices who stays with you long after the sermon ends, and we’re so glad to welcome her into this conversation.

Today’s episode invites us to think more deeply about the power of music.We’re joined by Maren Haynes Marchesini for a conversation that weaves together ethnomusicology, social justice, and faith, exploring how music carries stories, identities, and hope across communities.It’s a rich and meaningful conversation—we’re glad you’re here.

In this episode, we sit down with Ron Byars for a wide‑ranging conversation about faith, worship, and the life of the church. Drawing on years of experience and thoughtful reflection, Ron shares insights that invite listeners to pause, listen, and engage more deeply with the work of ministry and the movement of the Spirit.

In this episode of Sounding Board, PAM’s podcast for worship leaders, musicians, pastors, and creatives, we sit down with the incomparable Tom Trenney for a conversation that will stay with you long after the episode ends.Tom brings wisdom shaped by years of ministry, artistry, and deep listening to the Spirit. In this rich and thoughtful interview, he reflects on the power of sacred music, the calling of church musicians today, the importance of beauty and vulnerability in worship, and the ways God continues to move within communities who gather to sing, pray, and serve.Whether you’re a lifelong church musician, a pastor seeking inspiration, or someone who simply loves conversations that speak to the heart, this episode offers encouragement, challenge, and a whole lot of hope.If you need a reminder of why what you do matters—or if you’re longing for fresh vision in your ministry—don’t miss this one.Watch, share, and join the conversation.New episodes of Sounding Board release regularly. Subscribe so you never miss a moment.

In this episode of Sounding Board, artist and storyteller Joel Schoon‑Tanis shares the heart behind his work, the inspiration he’s borrowed from his children (now professionals themselves!), and the creative vision that has shaped his art around the world.From painting pictures to large-scale community projects, Joel’s art invites people of all ages into joy, imagination, and deeper reflection. His stories in this episode are full of heart, humor, and the profound ways creativity can connect us.We’re excited to share that Joel will be joining PAM’s 2026 Worship & Music Conference as our Artist‑in‑Residence this summer! We can’t wait for participants to experience his creativity firsthand at Montreat.Joel’s full episode is rich with his journey, his passion, and his remarkable global work. We’re so glad to share it with you.

In Episode 2 of Sounding Board, hosts Sarah Abushakra and Jeremy Roberts sit down with visionary musician, educator, and justice advocate Arreon Harley‑Emerson for a rich, inspiring conversation about what it means to build communities where every voice is valued.Arreon shares how his passion for choral music intersects with his commitment to equity and belonging, offering practical wisdom for worship leaders, musicians, and faith communities navigating change. From reshaping rehearsal room culture to fostering genuine welcome on Sunday mornings, Arreon invites listeners to imagine worship spaces rooted in courage, curiosity, and compassion.Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just beginning your ministry journey, this episode offers encouragement, challenge, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Jeremy Roberts and Sarah Abushakra welcome Rev. CeCe Armstrong to Sounding Board for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, call, and serving the church today. CeCe serves as Associate Pastor at St. James Presbyterian Church (USA) in Charleston, South Carolina, and is Co‑Moderator of the 226th General Assembly (2024) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Join us for an episode full of insight, hope, and faithful imagination

What the Podcast Is About- The core message of Sounding Board is simple: Faith expressed, Music Explored and Stories Shared. Good worship leadership grows through honest conversation, shared wisdom, and the willingness to listen deeply. Each episode aims to:Explore real issues facing worship leaders today - Highlight creativity and best practices in church music - Tell stories from practitioners doing meaningful work - Offer encouragement, ideas, and resources that leaders can use immediately - Keep worship anchored in theological depth, pastoral care, and artistic excellence - Our tone is welcoming, thoughtful, curious, and practical. We want listeners to feel like they’re sitting at the table with trusted colleagues—reflecting, learning, laughing, and being renewed for ministry. Welcome to Sounding Board - New episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tues of every month!