Podcast

Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan answer a follow up question from last week's episode about simplifying ministry.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how to simplify 4 key areas of ministry.

Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the importance of the advent season and recommend a variety of resources for you and the families at your church.

Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan talk with Jean Paul Molyneux about his exerience with activating families in his church for discipleship. Jean Paul oversees all aspects of Family Ministry and missions at Ocean View Church in San Pedro,...

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how a ministry's view of Scripture impacts its direction and confidence.

Description: In this episode, the guys give practical steps to implementing catechisms into various avenues of ministry.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help listeners rethink their approach to teaching the Bible and provide three steps for improving biblical competency in kids.

"How do I effectively recruit and develop volunteers?" Many children's ministry leaders struggle with this question. In this popular episode, the guys walk through a helpful framework to help you LAND and keep volunteers.

Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam talk with Nick Judd about the grading scale he created for his children's ministry called the "4 Stages of Next Gen Discipleship." Nick is the Next Gen Pastor at the Journey Church in Lebanon, TN and the...

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam discuss how to establish strong leadership in children's ministry. 

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss the state of kidmin as it relates to programming, family discipleship, and more. 

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam explore the beauties and challenges of leadership at different sizes and levels of ministry.

Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan explore various aspects of children's ministry that you might be approaching incorrectly—or at least in a way that differs from their perspective on how it should be done.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter continue their conversation with Jim Wideman to discuss coaching and children's ministry tips.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter bring on good friend and coach, Jim Wideman, to discuss his top advice for children's ministry leaders.

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter intervew Anne Eby about family worship and kids church. She is a wife, homeschool mom of three, and Kids Ministry Coordinator at Grace Story Church in Nashville, TN. Her desire to give her children a...

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the importance of clear policies and expectations. They walk through things to consider from the time families arrive to when they leave and everything in between. 

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss what their DREAM conference would be like.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss kids Bibles, and which ones they suggest for different ages.

Description: In Part 2 of the Forming Faith series, Hunter and Sam speak with Awana Presiedent and CEO, Matt Markins, on the context of faith formation, its systems, and practical next steps.

Description: In this episode, Hunter interviews Sam Luce about his upcoming book and the comparison he makes between Mr. Rogers and Walt Disney's approaches to forming kids.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss the three aspects of a healthy ministry.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the benefits of the stations and rotations model, and how it can be implemented in any church, no matter the space or time constraints.

Description: In this episode, Ryan interviews Hunter on his recent decision to leave Awana and become a children's pastor at a local church.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Ryan discuss the challenge of deciding when to continue or leave a ministry position.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter offer advice on running a children's ministry with a low (or non-existent) budget.

Description: In this episode, the guys help churches fly in the SKY of context by discussing what leaders need to consider to serve their community well. 

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help you stand on the SHORE of retention by discussing what volunteers need to stick around for the long haul.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how one's perspective on the church and structure of ministry can aid in ministering to families who attend inconsistently.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss different approaches to outreach and give examples of ways they've connected with new families in their ministries.

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter provide a framework and tips for developing a discipleship strategy for your children's ministry. 

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter provide a framework and tips for developing a discipleship strategy for your children's ministry.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss planning and promoting VBS. They also discuss hushpuppies - the food... not the shoes.

Description: What is midweek, and is it effective? In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the pros and cons of midweek ministry and how a church can decide whether or not it's right for them.

Description: How do preschoolers learn? What's the best way to teach them? How should a preschool ministry be structured? In this episode, Hunter and Ryan get behind the mics to discuss all things preschool.

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Lori Buck. She is the Global Kid’s Ministry Director at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York and oversees production and creative...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Courtney Wilson. She is the KidsWorld Pastor for the St Charles/South Elgin Campus of Christ Community Church in St. Charles, IL....

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Josh Zello. He is the Director of Family Ministry at Redemption City Church in Baltimore, Maryland, and the creator of...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Dale Hudson. He is the Children's Pastor at Abundant Life Church in Lee's Summit, Missouri and the founder of Building Children's...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Hanna Costello and Angela Aliff. They are the Kids directors at C3 Church Atlanta. They are passionate about partnering with...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Zack Rickards. He is the lead Kids Pastor at Family Church in South Florida and is passionate about partnering with parents to...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Joe Mally. He leads the kid's team at Kingsway Christian Church in Indiana and is the co-founder of Kidtivitybooks.com.  ...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Rebekah Jones. She is the Kid's Director at Fairview Church in Lebanon, TN and has a passion for holistic discipleship for...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Nick Judd. He is the kid's pastor at The Journey Church in Lebanon, TN and the co-host of the Everyday Apologetics podcast.  ...

Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Chris Ammen. He is the pastor to children and families at Grace+Peace Church in Ooltewah, TN and the Founder of Kaleidoscope Kid's...

Description: It's our One-Year Annivesary of the podcast! To celebrate, we hosted an epic collaboration episode with two other children's ministry podcasts. Tom Bump (Kids Ministry Collective Podcast) and Melanie Hester (Child Discipleship Podcast)...

Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In the final part of this series, the guys discuss common misconceptions about biblical literacy, why it's in decline, and how to elevate it in your ministry.

Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 3 of this series, the guys discuss two areas of ministry that will optimize your volunteers.

Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 2 of this series, the guys discuss families and why activating them for discipleship can change the trajectory of the entire church.   Connect With Us! If you have any questions or...

Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 1 of this series, the guys discuss the power of simplifying everything and how it can change your ministry for the better.

Description: What do Shark Tank, Zip Strings, and Jonathan Edwards have to do with Kid's Ministry in the New Year? You'll have to listen to Sam's unpopular opinion about New Year's resolutions to find out.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the doctrine of Christ and Santa's role in the Narnia books, along with a supposed knockout punch he delivered at the Council of Nicea.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how a ministry's view of Scripture impacts its direction and confidence. Resources:  (Chapter 1, Paragraph 7) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email...

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss how our understanding of God changes the way we view ourselves and others.

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss how the doctrine of Creation impacts children's ministry and helps cultivate a lasting wonder of God in kids.

Description: In part 2 of this conversation on mentorship, Jim Wideman shares what good mentors do and how you can be one to others. 

Description: "Everybody does better with a coach." In this episode, Sam interviews veteran coach and mentor, Jim Wideman. In part one of this conversation, Jim shares why everyone (including you) needs a mentor. 

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss how principles from classical education can take your children's ministry to the next level. 

Description: For many, meetings are tedious, boring, and downright annoying. But they don't have to be! In this episode, the guys share tips for planning and executing stellar meetings in your ministry.

Description: Your first year of children's ministry can be hard. In this episode, the guys share 4 things you need to consider when planning your first year of kid's ministry.

Description: There is so much to do every week in kid's ministry. How do you accomplish it all and do so fruitfully? In this episode, the guys provide helpful tips and tools for planning and getting the most out of your week.

Description: The number of curriculum options for kidmin leaders can be overwhelming. In this episode, Hunter and Ryan survey the curriculum landscape and discuss five factors that help churches narrow down their options.    Resources: ...

Description: In this episode, Ryan shares his opinion about a children's ministry event, but Sam and Hunter are skeptical. Will Ryan be able to change their minds?

Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam consider the challenges of firing difficult volunteers and discuss preventative measures that can be taken to avoid these tough situations.

Description: In this episode, Ryan interviews Sam to unpack the process his church pursued to select their new Kidmin curriculum.

Description: "Who am I?" Everyone is seeking to answer this question, including kids. In this episode, the guys discuss identity, its modern challenges in children's ministry, and how to approach it faithfully as leaders in the church.

Description: The rapid advancement and power of technology can lead to various challenges in children's ministry. In this episode, the guys discuss some of these challenges and how leaders can thoughtfully work through them.

Description: When serving kids, disruptions are bound to happen, but how should they be handled? In this episode, Ryan and Hunter answer common questions and provide practical tips for managing your classroom with confidence and grace.

Description: What is the best way to teach kids? Should the goal be comprehension, attention, or retention? In this episode, Ryan and Hunter pick their favorite among the three and discuss why it should be deemed "king." Along the way, they give...

Description: What role do the design and structure of your children’s ministry space play in the discipleship of your kids? In this episode, the guys discuss ministry environments and what they communicate to families and kids.

Description: Disagreements happen. There are moments when co-workers or fellow believers need to be confronted, but how do we do this well? How do we foster unity and wisely handle conflict? In this episode, Sam and Hunter provide helpful tips for...

Description: Summer in children's ministry is usually a season of events. VBS. Camps. Block Parties. After all is said and done, how do you know if your events were fruitful? In this episode, Sam and Hunter walk through a framework for evaluating and...

Description: Whether you serve in a small or large church, having a check-in system is important. But with so many options and features to consider, how can you know which system is best for you? In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss why check-in...

Description: The best leaders are equipped leaders, but what should training look like? In this episode, the guys walk through 4 elements of training every Children’s Ministry needs.

Description: Everything we do in children's ministry is done to proclaim the gospel and disciple children in its truth. But how? How do we share the gospel message in a way that is faithful, beautiful, and true? In this episode, Hunter and Sam unpack...

Description: How can we teach our kids biblical truth in a way that is faithful and memorable? In this episode, the guys discuss catechisms and how they can serve as game-changers in your children's ministry.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss what new children's ministry leaders need to know in their first year of ministry.

Description: Welcome to the Kidmin Seminary! In this class, friend and kidmin legend Jim Wideman comes on the show to share a history of kid's ministry and what we can learn from the past to serve kids today.

Description: Welcome to the Kidmin Seminary! In this class, Lauren Jackson comes on the show to discuss the key characteristics needed to lead well in children's ministry.

Description: Welcome to the Kidmin Seminary! In this class, comes on the show to discuss child development and its impacts on how we relate and minister to kids.

Description: Welcome to the Kidmin Seminary! In this class, Janine McNally comes on the show to discuss Generation Alpha and how ministry leaders can effectively understand and support them.

Description: Welcome to the Kidmin Seminary! In this class, Phylicia Masonheimer comes on the show to discuss what theology is and how children's ministry leaders can teach it to their kids.

Description: What would a seminary for children's ministry leaders look like? What classes would be offered? Who would teach them? In this episode, the guys answer these questions as they launch a multi-part series called the "Kidmin Seminary." ...

Description: Have you ever wanted to write a book but didn’t know where to start? In this episode, the guys talk with Champ Thornton (author and Acquisitions Editor at Crossway) to discuss the writing process, what publishers are looking for, and...

Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter evaluate different children's ministry conferences, giving the pros and cons of each one. They also discuss why children's ministry conferences are important and give tips for getting the most out of...

Description: In part two of this two-part series, the guys continue evaluating different children's ministry models, giving the pros and cons of each one.

Description: In part one of this two-part series, the guys evaluate five different children's ministry models, giving the pros and cons of each one.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the need for a well-defined ministry philosophy along with practical steps to develop and assess yours through a unique tool known as the “kidmin sandbox.”

Episode Description Developing leaders within a Children’s ministry requires thoughtful delegation. In this episode, the guys walk through a process called “WAATR” that will help you learn to delegate wisely within your ministry.

Episode Description: When tragedy strikes, knowing what to say to kids can be hard. In this episode, the guys have a powerful conversation with special guest Dr. Jonathan Gibson to discuss how leaders and parents can wisely approach the topics of...

Episode Description "How do I effectively recruit and develop volunteers?" Many children's ministry leaders struggle with this question. In this episode, the guys walk through a helpful framework to help you LAND and keep volunteers.   Resources:...

Description: How do you prepare a Bible lesson or sermon for kids? In this episode, the guys provide principles and tips for teaching the Bible to kids in faithful, age-appropriate ways.

Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the importance of biblical literacy and provide practical ideas for increasing the biblical literacy of the kids and parents in your ministry. Resources: by David Helm by Lifeway Connect With Us! If...

Episode Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how Children's ministry leaders can equip parents for family discipleship.

Episode Description As a Children’s ministry leader, God has called you to lead your ministry faithfully. This calling not only includes leading the volunteers and children in your care; it also includes leading those above you. Whether it be a lead...

Do you find yourself wishing you could walk and talk with Jesus? Wouldn't life be easier if we had that face to face relationship with Him? Did you know that Jesus told his disciples - people who did have a face to face relationship with him - that...

“If we want crockpot results in our children’s ministries, then we need to move beyond microwave methods. In this episode, the guys provide helpful tips for evaluating the discipleship resources used in equipping parents, training leaders, and...

How do you teach the concept of the Trinity to children when even adults have difficulty understanding it? Is an egg or three leaf clover the best solution or do anaologies like that lead you down dangerous paths?

So... Who are these guys? In this episode, you'll get to know the show hosts and why they're still passionate about raising the next generation of lifelong Christ followers.

For the past decade, and research research has shown that 2/3 of kids who attend church regularly end up leaving the church after they graduate high school. In this episode, the guys share their thoughts on the research and what they believe is the...