The Restful Work of an Indie Musician: Kevin Schlereth's Story

Join host Lucas Kitchen as he sits down with touring musician Kevin Schlereth for a deep dive into an unconventional life on the road.

In this episode, Kevin, a singer-songwriter known for his overtly Christian, niche, and theological music—including an entire album focused on the concept of Sabbath—discusses the unique approach he takes to his career, which he describes as "relational ministry".

What You'll Hear:

• Life on the Road: Kevin details his life as a full-time touring musician, playing mostly house concerts and traveling the country with his wife and children for the past 15 years.
• Avoiding the Industry: Learn why Kevin intentionally steps off the "hamster wheel" of the music industry, preferring intimate venues and face-to-face connection over seeking streaming numbers or record deals. He explains that playing for small groups allows him to have meaningful, personal connections that "bigger venues" make impossible.
• The Power of Intimacy: Lucas and Kevin reflect on the value of being face-to-face in an increasingly digital world. Kevin shares how his desire to foster "dialogue open across disagreements" and his approach to music as "casting the seed around" allows for genuine connection, even with those who may be "ex-Christians".
• Audiofeed Festival: Kevin, who helps put together the Audiofeed Art and Music Festival in Urbana, Illinois, discusses the event's unique focus on setting a "table for conversation around Jesus" for a wide audience, including those who may not identify as Christian. He also highlights the festival's commitment to being family-friendly, noting the extensive children's programming.
• Wrestle with Faith: Discover how Kevin's willingness to openly sing about deep theological topics and ask complex questions—like the meaning behind Jesus's "easy yoke"—creates space for challenging, yet honest, conversations.

Kevin’s approach offers a refreshing model for how to combine faith, family, and art in a way that prioritizes community and presence over commercial success.

• Guest: Kevin Schlereth
• Host: Lucas Kitchen