GRANGER SMITH: Fame, Faith & a Father's Grief - This One's for the Dads

GRANGER SMITH: Fame, Faith & a Father's Grief - This One's for the Dads

Author: Contagious, Inc. June 11, 2026 Duration: 28:59

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.

 


The conversations found in CIA: Contagious Influencers of America are not your typical interviews. Hosted by nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, this podcast digs into the raw, human stories behind the people shaping culture from a foundation of faith. Each episode is a deep exploration of personal history, focusing on how guests-from artists and musicians to spiritual leaders and everyday pioneers-navigated profound challenges. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of battling addiction, confronting fear, and turning perceived failures into fuel for a meaningful life. The dialogue naturally unfolds to reveal how spirituality and creativity intertwine, offering listeners more than just inspiration; it provides a blueprint for resilience. This isn't about surface-level success stories. It's about the gritty, often unseen work of moving mountains, whether that work happens on a stage, in a studio, or within the quiet corners of one's own journey. The podcast creates a space where vulnerability is strength, and where the lessons learned in overcoming obstacles resonate with anyone seeking to make a tangible difference in their own world. Tune in for authentic conversations that examine the heart of influence, where faith meets action and music underscores the message of hope.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

CIA: Contagious Influencers of America
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