Kirk Franklin has spent more than three decades changing the sound of gospel music, connecting with generations of listeners, and making choices that continue to push culture forward. But after 20 GRAMMY wins and a career most artists could only dream of, Kirk says he still approaches every record like he’s a new artist.

In this episode, Crystal sits down with Kirk to talk about where that hunger comes from, knowing the difference between evolving and chasing relevance, and what he’s learned after more than 30 years of creating and leading. They also get into his new album I AM WHAT I AM, working with GloRilla again, writing about hope when life has shown you how hard things can get, and what success can make both easier—and more dangerous.

This is a conversation about hunger, wisdom, and purpose—and what happens when you’ve already made history but still believe there’s more ahead.

Kirk Franklin has spent more than three decades changing the sound of gospel music, connecting with generations of listeners, and making choices that continue to push culture forward. But after 20 GRAMMY wins and a career most artists could only dream of, Kirk says he still approaches every record like he&rsquo;s a new artist.
In this episode, Crystal sits down with Kirk to talk about where that hunger comes from, knowing the difference between evolving and chasing relevance, and what he&rsquo;s learned after more than 30 years of creating and leading. They also get into his new album I AM WHAT I AM, working with GloRilla again, writing about hope when life has shown you how hard things can get, and what success can make both easier&mdash;and more dangerous.
This is a conversation about hunger, wisdom, and purpose&mdash;and what happens when you&rsquo;ve already made history but still believe there&rsquo;s more ahead.

Keep It Positive, Sweetie is more than a podcast—it’s a movement rooted in purpose, faith, and healing. Hosted by Crystal Renee Hayslett, this show creates a safe space for raw conversations and real connections that uplift, inspire, and empower.
Each episode brings together culture-shifting guests for unfiltered talks on love, self-worth, growth, and navigating life with grace and grit. Whether we’re laughing, learning, or leaning into tough truths, the goal is always the same: to keep it honest, keep it healing, and always… Keep It Positive, Sweetie.

Keep it Positive, Sweetie

Every Version of Me with Kirk Franklin

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/fe0d91c3-0fd3-44b6-b44d-b4f4016f41ec/transcript