Some words stay with you. For Macy Dot, a few of those words came from Dolly Parton.

After receiving the BMI Foundation’s 2023 Dolly Parton Songwriters Award, Macy received a message of encouragement from Dolly that she still reads when she’s feeling uninspired. In this episode of That Nashville Girl, she shares what that message means—and why being encouraged to keep writing can matter just as much as being recognized for something you’ve already written.

But don’t let the sweet introduction fool you. This Texas girl also gave us “Hot Mess” and “Cowboy Wanted,” and there’s plenty of personality behind those titles.

Amanda and Macy talk about the Chris Stapleton cover that brought them together, Deana Carter sharing Macy’s version of “Strawberry Wine,” and learning from the same guitar teacher as Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgraves. From childhood songs written after bedtime to studying songwriting at Belmont, Macy shares how she’s finding her voice in a town where talent is everywhere.

Then Rodney Atkins sends in a question about her dad, and the tissues become necessary.

Macy opens up about her adoption, a deeply personal song for her parents, and the father-daughter journal they’ve shared since she was a little girl. Her dad’s wisdom is equal parts faith, determination, and practical advice involving a donut. It’s hard to imagine a better combination.

Dolly’s encouragement brought you here. Macy’s heart, humor, and a little Texas sass will make you glad you stayed.

Listen to Macy Dot’s “Hot Mess,” “Texas Tennessee,” and “Cowboy Wanted.”

Follow @thatnashvillegirlshow @thatnashvillegirl & @askamandaadams on social media for more!

New episodes drop daily, Monday through Friday! Like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to make sure you never miss a minute!

Connect with the show on That Nashville Girl Instagram, Amanda's Instagram, and YouTube.