In this candid and inspirational episode, my guest is Canadian Inspirational/Country Music Artist Amanda Hagel, who has established herself as an artist whose mission is to create music that uplifts, empowers and inspires her listeners. For the better part of a decade, Amanda has gained both national and international recognition as a talented performer and songwriter. Growing up on a farm in the southwest corner of Saskatchewan near the town of Lancer, Amanda’s upbringing was steeped in country living, and it was in that environment that her love and appreciation for country music would blossom.Growing up in an era of country music, listening to amazing female artists like Martina McBride, Patty Loveless, and Alison Krauss, to name a few, provided Amanda with great inspiration as she began to develop her love for singing, playing guitar, and writing songs. Amanda’s family is also very musical, and being the youngest of 9 siblings, she also drew great inspiration from her family being surrounded by music at family gatherings and events.Beyond her love for country music, Amanda has also dubbed herself an “Inspirational Artist”. Amanda is often asked to explain what that means as it’s not a well-known genre, although the category title does exist in certain sectors. For Amanda, being raised in a faith-based home and the growth she has experienced on her own personal spiritual journey have led her on a path of expression grounded in deep faith, authenticity, integrity, truth, and love. This heart-centred expression is shared through her music and the messages it conveys. For Amanda, it has taken a great deal of courage and persistence to always remain true to following the promptings of her heart despite external pressure to fit in with current trends and styles in the music industry.