Welcome to Biscuits and Jam from Southern Living. I'm Sid Evans, editor-in-chief of Southern Living Magazine.

The music career of today's guest was launched almost overnight as she went from serving pizza in small-town Georgia to being watched by millions on TV every week.

Honestly, looking back on it, it's kind of a blur. I was so young and there were so many things happening.

And then I signed a record deal and I started traveling and I was doing concerts.

And it was like the girl that was dropping the pizzas three months ago is now on tour with

Jason Aldine.

Like, what has just happened to me?

In 2011, Lauren Elena took home second place on American Idol, and she hasn't stopped

writing, performing, or being in front of a camera since.

She's competed on Dancing with the Stars, had hits with performances alongside Kane Brown

and Rascal Flats, and is toured with some of country music's biggest names like Luke

Brian and Alan Jackson.

On our show today, Lauren tells me how losing her stepfather to cancer inspired a deeper

connection to faith, as well as her songwriting.

I prayed more in that season than I probably ever have, and then the day that he died changed my life forever.

And I want to share that story because I think there are a lot of families who don't get that.

You know, these people get sick and their family members get sick, and they don't get that hopeful end.

Plus learning how to make Hernandez Biscuits and Gra gravy and more this week on Biscuits and Jam.

Well, Lauren Elena, welcome to Biscuits and Jam. Biscuits and Jam. Hello. I love biscuits.

Well, I do too. Who doesn't?

Who doesn't?

Exactly.

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