Ministry Architects is a highly-skilled team of pastors, teachers, executives, youth workers, children's pastors, writers, and professors. We're passionate about helping faith-based organizations find clear direction and sustained momentum. On this feed, you'll hear interviews and conversations to inspire, equip, and bring clarity around all areas of success in ministry. For more about our team and mission, visit ministryarchitects.com
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Fixing Small Group Ministry Podcasts
Giving pastors a vision for discipleship in their local church that's more than closing the back door or retaining church members, but transformative.
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Should Pastors and Staff Join Small Groups? Navigating Guilt, Obligation, and Soul Care
41:12
41:12
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41:12Are small groups a non-negotiable for pastors and staff? This episode tackles the sensitive topic of staff participation, exploring how to foster genuine community while protecting your own soul. Guests Phyllis Kim Myung, a Lead Pastor in LA, and our very own Mike Crain join the conversation to unpack the nuance. Full Show Notes and Resources…
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Why Big Events Don’t Always Bring Big Impact—And How to Fix Them
49:24
49:24
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49:24Today we're joined by guests Candi Cylar and James Warren to unpack what keeps people coming back to churches and ministries. The conversation draws from decades of ministry leadership, event planning, and hands-on experience with church growth, all aimed to equip pastors, church leaders, and volunteers—especially those serving in small or plateaue…
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The Unseen Ministry Partner: Why Your Building Design Matters More Than You Realize
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40:22
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40:22In this episode, we are joined by Derek DeGroot, President of Aspen Group, to explore the overlooked yet essential role of physical space in church ministry. Drawing from Derek's expertise as a licensed architect dedicated to designing and building church spaces, the discussion encompasses sacred stewardship, the intersection of tradition and innov…
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Is Your Church a Place Where Kids in Foster Care Truly Belong?
37:36
37:36
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37:36In this episode of the Ministry Architects podcast, hosts Renee Wilson and Brandon Collins are joined by Keith Cureton, CEO of Bethany Christian Services. They dive deep into the urgent need for foster care and how churches and individuals can transform children's lives. Full Show Notes
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How to Ensure Your Next Conference Is a Game-Changer, Not a Time Sink
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42:40
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42:40In this value-packed episode, we dive deep into the world of ministry conferences, exploring everything from maximizing the conference experience for church teams to building meaningful connections. We discuss practical tips for both attendees and presenters, share strategies for implementing conference learnings, and offer guidance on selecting th…
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Ready for Anything: How to Equip Your Ministry for Unexpected Disasters
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41:02
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41:02In this important episode, host Renée Wilson talks with Laura Addis and Anthony Prince about powerful, real-world experiences and insights from leading churches through devastating natural disasters. Laura Addis recounts her church's response to Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina (September 2024), while Anthony Prince shares lessons lear…
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The Surprising Case for Ministry Podcasting: A Practical Guide for Church Leaders
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46:43
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46:43In this episode, Brandon and Renee chat with Todd Hixenbaugh, a ministry leader and podcaster, about the relevance, strategy, and practicalities of using podcasts as a tool for church ministry and communication. They explore current trends, audience engagement, content repurposing, and how to view podcasting as an integral part of ministry efforts.…
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More or Less? Surprising Truths About Bible Engagement & Your Ministry's Future
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34:12This episode dives deep into the latest research from the American Bible Society's "State of the Bible" report. John Plake shares surprising statistics about Bible engagement across different generations and demographics in America, discussing trends like "religious churn," the plateauing of the "nones," and how churches can effectively connect the…
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Technology and Discipleship Pathways - Derek Maxson
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37:49
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37:49Derek's goal is to help churches and pastors be more effective and joyful. With experience as student / executive pastor, church board chairman and technology company leader, Derek has experience in many leadership contexts and is passionate for the church. Derek was a student ministry pastor through most of his twenties in California and Oregon. A…
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The Ancient Tool That’s Helping Churches Lead with Confidence in 2025
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35:59
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35:59In today’s episode, we’re pulling wisdom from the past to solve one of the most pressing challenges of today: how to lead a church in a culture that’s spiritually curious—but deeply skeptical. You’ll discover why the Nicene Creed—yes, that ancient statement of faith—might be the most relevant discipleship tool for this cultural moment. We’ll unpack…
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AI, Texting, and TikTok: Navigating Tech Without Losing the Gospel
36:31
36:31
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36:31Technology isn’t optional anymore—it’s shaping the way we disciple, connect, and communicate. But how can ministry leaders embrace digital tools without compromising the relational heart of the church? In today’s episode, we’re joined by Brad Hill, Chief Solutions Officer at Gloo, to unpack the tensions, trends, and tools shaping today’s ministry l…
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Why "Competing" Churches Should Collaborate in Youth Ministry (And How to Make It Work)
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44:11In this episode of The Ministry Architects Podcast, Renée and Brandon sit down with Sean and Kate, two youth pastors who have successfully implemented a collaborative youth ministry model in McMinnville, Oregon. They share the journey of forming the McMinnville Youth Collective, how it has transformed their youth groups, and why churches should con…
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If Change Feels Impossible in Your Church, This Might Be Why
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37:03
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37:03Change in church ministry can feel like an uphill battle—especially when every new idea seems to hit resistance. But what if that resistance isn’t actually the problem? In today’s episode, we explore why naysayers aren’t just obstacles but essential partners in making meaningful change happen. Learn how to shift your perspective on resistance, leve…
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Brian has served in Christian ministry for 30 years. Brian founded and is the Director of Disciples Made (501c3) and the Fully Alive Community. Brian coined the MyImpact Equation "Character X Calling = Impact" and the Intentional Disciple-Making Environment, which is "Outcome Focused, Habit Fueled, and Content Flavored." For free and meaningful dis…
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Church Trends for 2025: Thriving with Less Through Staffing, Systems, and Stewardship
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32:01In this episode of the Ministry Architects Podcast, we’re diving deep into the biggest shifts happening in churches today. The landscape of ministry is changing—budgets are tighter, staffing models are evolving, and volunteerism remains a challenge. But churches aren’t just surviving; they’re finding smarter, more sustainable ways to thrive. Join R…
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Strategy in Discipleship - Glenn Underhill
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45:47Glenn Underhill has served in full-time ministry for over 25 years. He has trained churches, pastors and leaders throughout the United States and around the world in Jesus' disciple-making model. He is currently a board member for discipleFIRST, a coaching program for individuals involved in ministry who are looking for support, guidance, and train…
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The Church Staffing Playbook: Strategies for a Changing Ministry Landscape
51:39
51:39
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51:39Staffing challenges are at an all-time high in ministry, with churches across the country facing unprecedented vacancies and shifting workforce dynamics. In this episode, we dive into the critical staffing strategies churches need to adapt, grow, and thrive. From rethinking recruitment to building sustainable leadership pipelines, this conversation…
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Overcome Resistance, Lead Change: Tools for Innovation in Your Church
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47:52
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47:52Change can feel daunting, but it’s often the key to unlocking your church’s full potential. In this episode, we explore practical tools to overcome resistance, spark creativity, and lead impactful innovation in your ministry. Featuring insights on how to identify root challenges, inspire fresh thinking, and build momentum for sustainable change, th…
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Jonathon "Jon" Seidl is a writer, speaker, and digital media strategist. He’s the author of the #1 bestseller, "Finding Rest: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating the Valleys of Anxiety, Faith, and Life." He was a founding editor for the news website TheBlaze.com, which became one of the top 50 websites in the country, reaching over 35 million unique v…
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Ian Dunaway is a Teaching Pastor at G6 Church, as well as Director of Ministry Development at G6 Allies. He obtained his Master of Divinity degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and he has an extensive background in student ministry. Join us as we discuss the role of a Student Pastor in discipling students and leaders in the local …
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Deck the Halls with Hospitality: Engaging Guests This Christmas
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48:24
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48:24We’re diving into the heart of hospitality during the Advent season, equipping church leaders with actionable strategies to make Christmas services a welcoming experience for all. Whether you’re a small church wondering how to get started or a large ministry looking to refine your guest engagement systems, this episode is packed with practical tips…
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A New Approach to Church Leadership: The Art of Empowering Young Leaders to Build Sustainable Ministry
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46:09
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46:09In today’s episode, we’re diving into a holistic approach to empowering young leaders for sustainable ministry—without burning out or holding back the church’s potential as we grow older. We’ll cover strategies for equipping new leaders, fostering innovation, and building a future-ready church. Full Show Notes…
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Why TenX10’s Vision Could Be the Answer to Youth Ministry’s Biggest Challenges
38:28
38:28
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38:28In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most pressing issues in youth ministry: keeping young people connected to their faith. We’ll dive into TenX10’s transformative approach, exploring how relational discipleship can replace program-heavy models to build lasting, meaningful connections with the next generation. Show Notes…
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Breaking the Mold: Transforming Your Church Through Ministry Grants
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27:28In today's episode, we’re breaking the mold on traditional ministry approaches. We’ll explore how ministry grants can be the game-changer your church needs to embrace innovation, unlock new possibilities, and fuel sustainable transformation. Whether you’re looking to start something new or breathe fresh life into your current ministry, this episode…
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Travis Benge is the Directional Pastor at MacArthur Blvd Baptist Church. He began his pastoral journey in Louisville, KY, eventually moving to Hebron Baptist Church in 2016, where he served in various capacities, including Pastor of Missions and Students as well as Pastor of Discipleship and Students. In 2019, he joined MacArthur Blvd as the Pastor…
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A Lead Pastor's Role in Disciple-Making in the Local Church
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43:29Brad Patterson is the Lead Pastor for First Baptist Lavon. His ministry has had a particular focus on discipleship from the beginning. As captain of his high school football team, he led his teammates through various struggles and guiding them to Christ. He then went on to study at Criswell Bible College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminar…
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Kevin Cole is the Discipleship Pastor at Purcellville Baptist Church. He began serving as an intern in 2009 and went on to serve full-time in 2011 as part of the Youth Ministry. Over the course of 10 years, he began to transition into overseeing discipleship at his church. In this episode, Kevin discusses the importance of community and fellowship …
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Bible Curiosity Boom: Reaching the "Movable Middle" in Your Ministry
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39:14
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39:14On today's episode, we're learning about the group of 65 million Americans who are curious about the Bible. We'll dig into the research on this group and discuss strategies for effectively engaging them in your ministry. Full Show Notes
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Capitalize on Crisis: Social Enterprise as a Church Opportunity
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47:30In this episode, we're looking at "social enterprise," a revolutionary concept that's reshaping the way many churches operate. We'll explore how this innovative approach can help churches thrive in a rapidly changing world. Discover how social enterprise can generate revenue, strengthen your ministry's impact, and even provide a lifeline to your co…
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Remote Revolution: The Rise of Virtual Admins in Ministry
35:04
35:04
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35:04In today's episode, we're diving into the digital frontier of ministry and exploring the revolutionary impact of virtual admins. This role is reshaping the way churches and ministries operate, offering a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solution to a wide range of administrative tasks. From managing calendars and emails to handling finances a…
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Is It Time? When to Leave Your Career for Vocational Ministry
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35:37Have you ever looked at your career and wondered if there was something more? Maybe you’ve built a successful career in business, technology, or another field, but a persistent pull towards ministry keeps tugging at your heart. In this episode, we sit down with Rob Dyer and Candi Cyler, two individuals who made the bold leap from their professional…
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Small Church, Unlimited Possibilities: Discovering And Unleashing Your Church's Unique Strengths
48:18
48:18
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48:18On today's episode, we're diving into the unique challenges faced by smaller churches and uncovering innovative strategies to provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive. We'll explore the crucial differences between the needs of large and small congregations, reveal the power of community collaboration, and discuss how to build…
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Internships: Building a Sustainable, High-Impact Program for the Future of the Church
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40:15In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of church internships. We'll explore how to build a sustainable, high-impact program that equips young people for a lifetime of service. Full Show Notes
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From Isolation to Inclusion: Building Bridges with Special Needs Families
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45:02
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45:02Today's episode isn't just about inclusion, it's about unlocking the joy that comes from creating a community where everyone thrives. Get ready to be inspired by stories of connection and learn how your church can foster vibrant community that welcomes everyone! Join as for an incredible conversation with Gail Ewell! Full Show Notes…
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Forging Fellowship: The Time-Tested Guide to Sustainable Small Groups
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44:59In this episode, we'll explore how to empower your leaders to forge lasting fellowship in their small groups. You'll find several key principles to build sustainable small groups that become anchors for your church. Full Show Notes
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AI in Action: Real-Life Use Cases to Enhance Your Ministry
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48:19In today's episode, we return to the world of artificial intelligence and its massive potential for church ministries. We'll explore real-life use cases that show how AI can streamline operations, enhance engagement, and drive innovation in your ministry. Full Show Notes
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Revolutionize Your Staff Evaluations: Building a Culture of Feedback and Growth
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49:59
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49:59Imagine a world where staff evaluations aren't dreaded meetings, but exciting opportunities for growth. Today's episode will help you craft meaningful conversations, empower your staff, and create a culture of continuous improvement that fuels ministry success. Full Show Notes
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Summer Siesta or Strategic Shift? Mastering Ministry During the Off-Season
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43:42In this episode, we'll crack the code on the summer slowdown, revealing how to navigate the changing tides of attendance and schedules, empower your team for self-sufficiency, and unlock fresh possibilities for growth all year long. Full Show Notes
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Beyond Band-Aids: Build Systems for Sustainable Ministry Success
41:13
41:13
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41:13Ministry leaders often feel stuck in a cycle of urgency and quick fixes. In this episode, we'll show you how to break out of that pattern with systems that not only survive but keep your ministry moving forward sustainably for the long-haul. Full Show Notes
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Planning Miracles: Long-Term Vision for Ministry Transformation
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49:34
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49:34Planning takes us from chaos to clarity. In today's episode we'll show you how to create a roadmap that fuels ministry growth, frees you from worry, and unleashes greater impact for your ministry. Full Show Notes
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How to Give & Receive Coaching to Unleash Your Ministry's Potential
41:48
41:48
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41:48This episode cracks the code on coaching. Whether you're coaching your team or connecting with a ministry coach of your own, you'll learn how to maximize the impact of the each insight and unlock hidden potential. Full Show Notes
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Leading by Listening: How Talking Less Can Fuel Your Ministry
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36:25This episode dives deep into the lost art of active listening. We'll explore why good listeners make powerful ministry leaders, uncover the hidden dangers of "waiting to talk," and discover how to silence the voice in your head so you can truly hear the hearts of your people. Full Show Notes
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Meet Cute for Ministry? Building Partnerships to Elevate Your Ministry
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39:29In today's episode, we dive into the strategic importance of forging effective ministry partnerships. We'll explore how an initial assessment and open communication can lay the groundwork for a successful collaboration, propelling your ministry to new heights. Full Show Notes
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From Burnout to Balance: Tame The Sunday Scaries and De-Stress Your Ministry
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46:44On today's episode we're tackling the specific anxieties faced by ministry leaders and volunteers, offering practical solutions to tame that stress and create a more sustainable ministry experience for staff and volunteers alike. Full Show Notes
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What Is AI and Should I Be Using It in My Ministry?
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41:17In today's episode, we explore artificial intelligence, including its potential and its pitfalls. Can AI be a tool for good, or will it steal your pastoral touch? The answer may surprise you. AI Resources: Blog Post: Embracing AI: A Pastoral Perspective Free Resource: AI Cheat Sheet Download Full Show Notes…
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Beyond Bulletins: Reaching Hearts Through Strategic Church Communication
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40:13Today’s episode is all about communication. From social media strategies to storytelling tips, we'll unveil secrets to engage your community, both inside and out. Full Show Notes
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Navigating the New Hire: Onboarding Done Right
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41:26In this episode, we take a deep dive into the art of onboarding a new staff member. We'll go beyond administrative checklists, focusing on building genuine relationships, fostering open communication, and giving tips that can help create momentum throughout the onboarding process. Full Show Notes
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Unleashing the Book Within: A Discussion on Writing and Publishing
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38:38In this episode, we explain the journey of writing and publishing a book. We explore how it's possible to balance family, work, and writing, and discuss the crucial question every author must answer: "What do you want your book to do for you?" We also touch on the power of patience, the importance of having a platform, and the healing process that …
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How Spiritual Direction Can Take You Deeper in Your Walk With the Lord
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36:21In this episode, we explore the concept of Spiritual Direction. We’ll dig into what Spiritual Direction is, how it can help you, and the best ways to get started. Full Show Notes
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How to Find Peace, Unlock Joy, and Avoid Burnout Amidst the Holiday Chaos
37:47
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37:47In this episode, we discuss effective strategies to combat stress and burnout during the busy holiday season. Discover how to recognize warning signs, establish healthy rhythms, and prioritize self-care. Plus, learn valuable tips for managing expectations and maintaining resilience. Full Show Notes
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