An Onslaught of Affirmation with Derek Webb

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Joe Graves sits down with singer-songwriter and activist Derek Webb to discuss his new album Survival Songs, a powerful project written and recorded in just three weeks as a response to the rising hostility against queer and trans communities, particularly youth. Derek opens up about his unique approach to music through intimate house shows, his history of innovation with platforms like NoiseTrade, and his deep commitment to advocacy through both art and action. We also explore the role of progressive faith spaces, how churches can participate in healing rather than harm, and the importance of grassroots creativity and personal proximity when doing justice work. The episode concludes with reflections on mental health, resilience, and the album’s final track—a moving audio collage of affirmations gathered from Derek’s queer friends, designed to speak life and hope directly to those who need it most.