My imaginary “book it list” definitely envisioned a few lifetime adventures, but I never imagined Nashville would be on that horizon. Oh, but it was. Let’s rewind to October 2023, after a dismal summer of rain in Cornwall that merely gave way to more rain in autumn. Endless rain! I own a clothing shop named ‘Quirky’ in Looe, Cornwall, situated just twenty meters from the harbor wall. For the first time ever, the combination of high tide, a super moon, sodden ground, and storm surges brought floodwater into my shop.
The initial panic and stress quickly turned into curiosity when I received an email from an A&R representative named John Gold. He invited me to apply for something called The Extreme Tour and The Objective Sessions in Nashville. “Yeah, right!” I initially thought, dismissing it as a scam. But I was wrong—it was real, and I have just returned from an inspirational trip to the music capital of the world, Nashville, Tennessee, all thanks to The Objective Sessions… and A Step FWD.
From the moment that email landed in my inbox, a months-long process of applications, identity checks, promos, branding, photo shoots, podcasts, and a wealth of itinerary literature began. This opportunity turned into a breathtaking reality. The Extreme Tour is a visionary music mission aimed at bringing messages of light and hope to impoverished and underprivileged communities—not in grand venues but in grassroots public spaces like skateboard parks or outfield.
In pursuit of excellence for this mission, “The Objective Sessions” equip and prepare artists either through the tour itself or their own musical calling. It’s an incredible event and arguably the best of its kind worldwide. Over four jam-packed days, the sessions offer free training, coaching, mentoring, and encouragement for artists with a divine calling on their lives. Industry professionals from all sectors guide, instruct, speak, motivate, and for a select few, provide critique—both written and verbal for the benefit of all attending artists.
We had the opportunity to perform and receive critiques from many industry leaders, and also enjoyed individual mentoring sessions, networking, vocal coaching from Brett Manning, insights into record deals, social media training, and meet & greets. We toured Castle Studios, met top producer Billy Smiley, and had a session with the brilliant Tom Jackson, who in real-time, demonstrated tour excellence and strategy. It was sharp, unimaginable, and unforgettable.
I’m still processing it all! How did I get to do this with my family—my mother and brother? How was I so blessed to be part of this during such a bleak time for my waterlogged business? What will come from this?
There are two answers to these questions. Firstly, during the sessions, I befriended John Gold and asked how he discovered me. After some thought, he mentioned reading an article about me on the Step FWD platform, related to my “Pilgrim’s Progress” film, and from there he explored my music and poetry. “I feel like I know you already,” he said, expressing his admiration for my work. One article on AStepFWD.com led to this whole opportunity—a true sliding doors moment.
The second answer, of course, is God. God’s timing, grace, purpose, provision, wisdom, orchestration, and calling on my life. Juliet Dawn, perhaps being called from behind the counter in a flooded shop, to opportunities making a difference for Him in this generation. I believe this and it inspires me to pray as I face this transition and the next chapter in my life. Here I am at the crossroads, trusting that God has the plan.
What can I say? Thank you, God, and thank you, A Step FWD.
From a grateful pilgrim and traveler, Amen.
