In this episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, host Chris Hennessee talks with country artist Emily Ann Roberts. Known for her powerful vocals and strong faith, Emily shares insights into her musical journey, East Tennessee roots, and her personal battle with anxiety. This candid conversation reveals the life of a rising star in country music who remains grounded in faith.

Early Roots: From East Tennessee to the Stage

Emily grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, in a close-knit church community. Her great-grandfather, Reverend Roberts, started the church she attended, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Raised in a family deeply connected to faith, Emily believed everyone shared her experience, only realizing later that her mission field extended beyond her small town.

Emily’s musical career began in her teenage years when she performed at a local Mexican restaurant. From eighth grade until her sophomore year of high school, she played nearly every Friday night, gaining experience and building her confidence as a performer.

From Local Gigs to The Voice

Emily’s big break came with her appearance on The Voice, where her powerful vocals captivated viewers. Reflecting on the nerve-wracking experience of performing on national television, she admits she relied on her faith to find peace and confidence. The challenges she faced before The Voice helped prepare her for this opportunity, and she credits her faith for sustaining her throughout.

The Battle with Anxiety: Finding Strength in Faith

One of the most impactful moments in the episode is when Emily opens up about her struggle with anxiety during high school. Overwhelmed and unsure if she would ever feel "normal" again, Emily sought medical advice but found relief only through her faith. After a conversation with her pastor, she turned to Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” This scripture became a foundation for her healing, helping her replace fear with peace through prayer and reliance on God.

Bringing Faith into the Music Industry

Emily is committed to integrating her faith into every aspect of her career. She acknowledges that the music industry can be challenging but believes God placed her in this space for a reason. Emily views her mission field as any room she enters, whether it's a studio, stage, or writing session, and she encourages others to embrace their own mission fields in life.

"The Building" and Its Personal Connection

One of Emily's most personal songs, "The Building," tells the story of faith and family, deeply resonating with audiences. Though autobiographical, it has become a song that many listeners relate to, as it reflects shared experiences of growing up in a church community. The music video, filmed in a chapel, symbolizes the sacred memories of her faith journey.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Emily Ann Roberts?

Emily is currently working on new music, including singles and potential albums, while continuing to tour. She remains focused on storytelling, especially songs that reflect her faith and life experiences. Staying true to her calling, Emily aims to be an inspiration to others, whether they are aspiring musicians or simply looking for a source of hope.

Conclusion

Emily Ann Roberts is not only a talented country artist but also a beacon of faith and hope in the music industry. Her journey from Knoxville to national recognition is a testament to her belief in God's plan and the power of perseverance. In her conversation with Chris Hennessee, Emily’s passion for music and faith shines through, making her an artist to watch and a voice of inspiration for many.

Be sure to check out Emily Ann Roberts on tour and listen to her latest music. Follow her on social media for updates on her risi

In this episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, host Chris Hennessee welcomes his long-time friend and renowned songwriter Jim Beavers. Known for penning hit songs for some of the biggest names in country music, Jim's career is as impressive as it is inspiring. Throughout this engaging conversation, Chris and Jim delve into the nuances of the music industry, the challenges of songwriting, and the vital role of faith in both their personal and professional lives.

The Early Days: From Texas to Nashville

Jim Beavers grew up in Texas, a place that has a long and storied connection to country music. Jim recalls how Texas, being the only state that was once its own sovereign nation, has always had a sense of independence and pride. This background, combined with his family's roots in Lebanon, Tennessee, eventually led Jim to pursue a career in music. He moved to Nashville in the early 90s, driven by a passion for country music and a desire to be part of the music business.

Jim's initial goal was to work at a record company, and he began his career at Capitol Records, where he started in the mailroom. This humble beginning gave him invaluable insight into the inner workings of the music industry, though he soon realized that his true calling might be elsewhere.

Transitioning to Songwriting

Jim's transition from working behind the scenes to becoming a songwriter was not straightforward. He initially aspired to work his way up in the music business but found himself increasingly drawn to the creative side. After a stint in the finance department at Capitol Records and a brief foray into management, Jim finally decided to focus on songwriting.

Faith and Songwriting: The Guiding Force

A significant theme in this episode is the role of faith in Jim's life and career. Jim shares how his faith has been a source of strength and guidance, especially during challenging times. He discusses how Matthew 6:34, which advises against worrying about tomorrow, has been a particularly powerful verse for him. As someone who naturally tends to worry, Jim has found solace in this scripture, learning to trust in God’s plan and focus on the present.

This faith has not only helped him navigate the uncertainties of the music industry but has also shaped his approach to songwriting. Jim talks about how he tries to infuse his work with authenticity and integrity, qualities that he believes are deeply rooted in his faith.

Memorable Collaborations and Gimmicks

The podcast episode is filled with anecdotes about Jim's collaborations with various artists, including Dierks Bentley, Billy Currington, and Luke Bryan. One particularly interesting story involves Jim's use of the pseudonym "Writer X" early in his songwriting career. He adopted this name as a way to transition from his role in the business side of music to being taken seriously as a songwriter. This playful and somewhat gimmicky approach helped him stand out and generated buzz, proving that sometimes, unconventional methods can be effective.

The Importance of Not Taking Yourself Too Seriously

A recurring theme in Jim's conversation with Chris is the importance of maintaining a sense of humor and not taking oneself too seriously. Jim discusses how some of his biggest hits, like "Red Solo Cup," were born out of a willingness to embrace the fun and light-hearted side of songwriting. While some may dismiss such songs as gimmicky, Jim sees them as opportunities to connect with a broad audience and bring a bit of joy into the world.


For anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of country music or seeking inspiration in their own creative endeavors, this episode is a must-listen. Follow the Fully Armed Podcast for more insightful conversations and be sure to catch this episode wherever you enjoy your podcasts.

In this episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, host Chris Hennessee sits down with Anthony Sims, the mastermind behind Lucky Dog Guitars. Known for creating some of the finest guitars in the industry, Anthony’s reputation precedes him. Over the past six months, Chris has gotten to know Anthony personally, and this episode delves into the life, faith, and passion that drive the man behind the guitars.

The Birth of Lucky Dog Guitars

The conversation shifts to how Lucky Dog Guitars came to be. After spending 25 years playing music in honky-tonks and clubs, Anthony found himself at a crossroads. Boredom and a desire for something new led him to build his first guitar. He wanted to create something unique—guitars that reflected his family’s history and the high-end custom guitars he admired but couldn’t afford. This personal project quickly turned into a full-fledged business as more people noticed his work and started placing orders.

A Moment of Spiritual Clarity

Anthony recounts a pivotal moment in his life when he was performing at a sold-out show in Chattanooga. Mid-song, the world seemed to go silent, and he felt as though he was being called home—not in the literal sense, but spiritually. The next morning, he woke up with a feeling that his addiction to performing had been “deleted.” This experience led him to step away from music and focus on building guitars. He realized that this was part of God’s plan for him, opening new avenues in his life.

Building a Business on Faith and Integrity

As the business grew, Anthony faced many challenges. He speaks candidly about the struggles of starting a business from scratch, from working late into the night in his laundry room to moving operations into a garage and dealing with the pressures of entrepreneurship. Despite the hardships, Anthony’s faith remained central to his journey. He credits his success to God’s guidance and the unwavering support of his wife, who believed in his vision and encouraged him to pursue it full-time.

Crafting Guitars for Legends

One of the most defining moments for Anthony was when he had the opportunity to build guitars for music legends like Garth Brooks and Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott and Phil Collen. These experiences validated his work and solidified Lucky Dog Guitars’ place in the industry. However, Anthony remains humble, acknowledging that the real reward comes from the connection he forms with his customers—ordinary people who share a love for quality craftsmanship and music.

The Role of Faith in Business

Throughout the interview, Anthony emphasizes the role of faith in his business. He strives to reach people for Jesus not by preaching, but by example—through integrity, kindness, and genuine care for others. His approach has resonated with many, including atheists who have come to faith after working with him. Anthony’s story is a testament to the power of living a life guided by faith, where actions speak louder than words.

Anthony Sims’ journey is one of faith, craftsmanship, and unwavering integrity. From the humble beginnings in Sim's Holler to building guitars for some of the biggest names in music, Anthony’s story is a powerful example of how God’s guidance can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. The Fully Armed Podcast offers a glimpse into the life of a man who has not only mastered his craft but has also remained true to his values, inspiring others along the way.

If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Lucky Dog Guitars and follow Anthony’s journey as he continues to create beautiful, custom instruments that are as unique as the people who play them.