TCD Sidekick

In ministry, investing in apprentices is so important. See how and why as Christopher Wesley shares.

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ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What stood out to you? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom .
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter/X, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. To read the article we discussed, click here. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for all ministers , not just church communicators or social media managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry coaching? theChurch.digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
If you are in digital ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop weekly email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person to be interviewed for a future podcast episode, contact Tom Pounder

Caring for others is a great ministry opportunity for all ministry leaders. These are ministry opportunities in-person and online. Online care is something Stacy Knapp does and has been doing for years. See how she cares for others online and how you can as well.

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ACTION STEPS:

Stacy is a great resource and would love to connect with you. She has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL ministers , not just church communicators or social media managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
If you are in digital ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person to be interviewed for a future podcast episode, contact Tom Pounder

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One thing that came out of the covid pandemic was that people became more transparent, honest and authentic. That really resonated with people.

Today, Cory Sullivan joins the podcast to talk about how he is being authentic on social media and how he is using that to reach people.

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ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom .
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL ministers , not just church communicators or social media managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
If you are in digital ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person to be interviewed for a future podcast episode, contact Tom Pounder

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Youth Ministry has changed a lot over the years, especially since COVID. So what does Youth Ministry look like today? Steve Cullum joins the podcast to talk about it and how we can be encouraging teens and youth ministry leaders.

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ACTION STEPS:

Steve is a great resource. He’s on Twitter and has a great website with resources and great insights.
If you are looking for other youth workers in your area, please check out the NNYM.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL ministers , not just church communicators or social media managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
If you are in digital ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person to be interviewed for a future podcast episode, contact Tom Pounder.

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How are you reaching the "nones" in your community? The "nones" are those who do not attend Church, nor do they have any interest in attending. Today, Mark MacDonald shares from his blog post a few tips Churches can implement to reach those in your local and online communities.

Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com , a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. He is also a best selling Author and has written over 800 magazine articles.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast Android Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Mark is a great resource. He’s on Twitter and has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers , not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community . We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here .

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Ministry is happening in the Metaverse and VR. But what exactly? Stuart McPherson comes on the podcast to talk about what is happening and how Churches can move forward with ministry in digital spaces like the Metaverse.

To learn more about Stuart’s Metaverse Learning Community go to: https://buff.ly/4dvDjO1

You can find Stuart's book, "Your Church In VR: How To Plant A Church In Virtual Reality" on Amazon.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Stuart you can find him on Twitter/X. You can also check out his podcast "Metaverse Church" and his blog.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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Digital Discipleship has grown leaps and bounds in recent years. And the future is bright for what lies ahead as ministers learn how to continue to use technology to disciples people. That is why DK Hammond is back on the podcast. Today, we talk about what you can do now and what are some of the more effective ways to disciple people digitally today.

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What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
DK is a great resource and is always open to chatting about digital and online ministry. You should connect with him on Twitter/X, Threads or check out the Social Media Church Podcast.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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What is Discord and how can your Church utilize it for ministry purposes? Today, Andy Mage joins the podcast to talk about all of that and how Digital and Online Ministers can join The Church Digital Discord to learn together in community.

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ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Andy check him out on Discord (Chinomage) and Threads. He is very active on social media so definitely connect with him if you have a question. Make sure you follow him as well!
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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How can digital help you and your Church campaign? Find out as Jake McNamara joins the podcasts and share. To learn more practical insights about digital ministry check out http://thechurch.digitalTo be part of a community of ministers learning digital tools and applying them to our ministry go to the Digital Bootcamp at http://facebook.com/groups/theDigitalBootcamp

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It happens every year. Right after Easter, attendance, when the weather turns warmer and as school ends Church attendance tends to decline. But, not this year.. This year can be different. To talk about this today is Justin Nava from Nava Church Marketing. He will share 3 ways you can break the normal summertime attendance decline this year.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on YouTube, Twitter and TikTok.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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While ministry leaders and Churches do a fantastic job caring for those who are sick and in need of help, what happens when someone needs longer term care. Or, they are chronically ill? Today, Jeanette Yates joins the podcast to talk about how Churches can help in this way.

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ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter/X. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her. If you would like to book a time with her for a free conversation, click here.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital.

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Communications changes regularly, especially in this digital world we live in. That is why it is important to be in the know of what is happening and what is trending. That is why Mark MacDonald is on the podcast.

Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com, a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. He is also a best selling Author and has written over 800 magazine articles.

While Tom and Mark talk about a few of the trends in Church Communications, you can read the rest of his trends here.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Mark is a great resource. He’s on Twitter and has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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There are a lot of ways you can serve your online community. In today's episode, Sly King comes on and shares about how his Church is planning on serving their online community (and in-person community, as well). And, how that is leading to some great discipleship opportunities.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other ways you can serve your online community? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
Sly is an amazing resource for Online Ministry! To connect with him, check him out on Twitter or email him.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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As much as people don't like them, meetings have to happen. While people don't often like them, there are creative ways you can run a meeting that is positive and yields lots of great ideas. But how can you do that? Ben Stapley joins the podcast today to talk about it.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are some other ways you can run meetings that yield lots of ideas? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Ben, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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Whether it is a work related one or personal one, we have all been in funks before. And while we have all been in them, it doens't mean we have to stay in them. Today, Cory Sullivan joins me on the podcast to talk about some very practical steps you can take to get out of that funk.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you do when you are in funk? How do you get out of it? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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Podcasts are a very popular form of media that people like to consume. And, there are a wide variety of podcasts out there. But, when it comes to Churches, the main podcast out there are sermon audio. That is there podcast. Well, today, Justin Herman, the Online Pastor from Mariner's Church in California comes on the podcast to talk about what they are doing, but also to offer other ideas for Churches to podcast about.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are some other podcast ideas are out there for Churches to do? Share below or on Twitter/X by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Justin, there are a few places you can connect with him.
Digital Coffee
Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter
Get help with Your Church's Podcast with Podcast Cool
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital.

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Meeting new people and learning from others is something that I really enjoy doing. That is why, ever since 2016, I have been highlighting some of those people each year that I think you should follow and learn from. They are people/groups I've learned a lot from and highly recommend. You can find the previous years here: 2016, 2017 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023

In order to make my list, the criteria is two-fold. For starters, these people have to be involved in Church Communications, Social Media, Student or Family Ministry or Online Ministry. Secondly, they also need to be sharing great content on a consistent basis. And that's it. It's pretty simple but those are the important aspects of my criteria.

So, in NO particular order, here are the top 6 to seek out in 2024:

Peter Von Kahle. Peter is a videographer working for numerous ministries and Churches for video and marketing support.. He’s on Twitter/X, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights and encouragement. Here my conversation with him about Premiere Pro Tips here.
Kenny Jahng. When it comes to technology, Kenny is everywhere. He has a passion to help others in ministry learn about it and how it applies to your ministry context. He's been in the Online Ministry world for a number of years, serving as an Online Pastor at Liquid Church for a number of years. He is the Director of AI NEXT for Exponential and runs AI for Church Leaders and Church Tech Today. You can also find him on Twitter/X.
Vernette John-Joiles. Vernette is the founder of Digging into Digital where her goal is to "upskill Christian leaders into the digital age." She offers great webinars, training sessions and consulting for Churches and ministry leaders to help them become more proficient in the digital world. In addition to her website, you can find her on Facebook. Here my conversation with her here.
Aaron Magnuson. Currently, Aaron is working at Pray.com and has been for the past year and a half. However, he started doing online ministry for 10 years serving as an Online Pastor for 10 years at Churches in Oregon, California and Texas. He is also the co-host of the Social Media Church Podcast with Nils Smith and DK Hammonds. He's been doing that for the past 5 years. You can find him on Twitter/X. You can hear my conversation with him here.
Barbara Carneiro. Barbara is a Church Communications specialist who is the Founder & Chief Mentor at Accidental Church Communicator and started the Church Communicator Conference. She is an amazing communicator and strategist that has a humble heart and a desire to help Churches communicate better both to their local and online communities. You can hear my conversation with her here.
Dustin Stout. Dustin has a ministry background but is an entrepreneur, working in digital and online world for a number of years..Currently, he is working on Magai which he started. It's goal is transform the way you generate and refine content by using "Magai’s revolutionary AI tools and intuitive chat interface." It's a great program. Follow him on Twitter/X. You can hear my conversation with him here.

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There are a lot of good video editing software out there. While there are many great FREE video editing software out there, iMovie being one of them, Premiere Pro from Adobe is one of the gold standards. To help process how you maximize Premiere Pro with some tips, Peter Von Kahle comes on the podcast and shares his insights based on a blog post he wrote, "Master the Art of Editing: 10 Premiere Pro Tips to Elevate Your Video Content."

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are the areas of leadership that you grow most from? Where do you need to invest more time into? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Peter, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter/X, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights and encouragement.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital.

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There are a lot of Church Management Systems (CMS) out there. While a lot of them are good, they often are not complete. Enter Amplify from Ministry Brands. See how this one complete solution and empower healthy churches to connect, engage, and grow their ministry.

To talk about this is Nathan James who is from Ministry Brands. We talk about how Amplify can help your Church.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are the areas of leadership that you grow most from? Where do you need to invest more time into? Share below or on Twitter/X by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Nathan, you check out the Ministry Brands site and get more information.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital.

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Digital is here to stay. So, how do you incorporate it into your ministry? And, what elements of digital do you incorporate into your ministry and what do you hold off on? To talk about this is Christopher Wesley. He will share some perspective that will help any ministry leader as they look at incorporating digital into their ministry.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are the areas of leadership that you grow most from? Where do you need to invest more time into? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. To read the article we discussed, click here. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University as well.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital.

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While VR and the Metaverse has been around for a while now, doing ministry in those areas is not always clear. What can you do and not do? That is why Stuart McPherson joins Tom on the podcast today. Stuart has been doing ministry in the metaverse for years and has a new book out about how you can start doing Metaverse ministry today.

You can find Stuart's book, "Your Church In VR: How To Plant A Church In Virtual Reality" on Amazon.

ACTION STEPS:

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Stuart you can find him on Twitter/X. You can also check out his podcast "Metaverse Church" and his blog.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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According to the latest PushPay's "State of Church Tech" report, 89% of churches currently offer both online and in-person services. However, just 81% plan to continue the hybrid model next year. Unfortunately, this is the trend happening more and more with digital discipleship and evangelism offerings from Churches. However, this trend doesn't have to continue.

Today, Vernette John-Joiles joins Tom on the podcast talking about how your Church can move forward and become more digitally relevant in your online and in-person community.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Vernette you can find her on Instagram and Facebook. You can also learn more about how she can help you and your Church at her website.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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While AI has become known more and more around the world, how to use it currently is still be debated. This is particularly true amongst Church and ministry leaders. Enter Dustin Stout and Magai. Magai is a powerful AI tool that gives you access to the worlds most advanced AI chabot models as well as other great features. Learn more about it in this episode.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Dustin you can find him on Twitter/X, Instagram and Threads. You can also learn more about Magai, as well.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Ministers can work 24/7 and still never been finished with the work. That is why when a tool comes along that helps you reach more people and saves you time is a tool you have to consider. That is where Sermons.Tech comes in. It's a new tool that will help you use lessons, sermons and messages beyond Sunday morning. See how in this interview with Josh Burnett.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Josh you can find him at Sermons.Tech.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Starting in the late 1900s, we were living in the Information Age, This era brought about a time period in which people could access information and knowledge easily. We then moved into the age of engagement where people would seek to engage people on social media platforms chatting and engaging with each other. Now, as Barbara Carneiro shares, we are in an age of curation. what does that mean and how does it impact you and your Church? Find out as she shares.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Barbara you can find her on Facebook and her Facebook Group. She is very active on social media, so get in touch with her. Also, learn more about the Church Communicators Conference.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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What are you doing to minister and support caregivers in your community? Who is serving them and supporting them? The reality is that at some point in our life, we are either going to care for others or be cared for. That is why today Jeanette Yates from Text-in-Church joins me to share about what she is doing. And, more importantly how she is supporting caregivers and what your Church can do today to support them as well.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter/X. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her. If you would like to book a time with her for a free conversation, click here.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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AI has taken over the world. While not literally, definitely figuratively. From schools to professionals, everyone is looking into how they can use it in their context. And the same applies to ministers and Churches. What should the Church and ministers do with AI? That is why Mark MacDonald is on the podcast today. Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com, a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. We use Mark's blog post as a reference for our discussion today.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have?
Mark is a great resource. He’s on Twitter/X and has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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You can use digital tools to help you so much in your ministry. Today, DK Hammond joins me to talk about how he uses them and what digital tools he uses to create great systems and processes for his Church. In addition, we talk a little about Threads as well.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
DK is a great resource and is always open to chatting about digital and online ministry. You should connect with him on Twitter/X, Threads or check out the Social Media Church Podcast.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Whether you know it or not, you are making a difference with your online ministry.

Today, Brooks Talbott comes on the podcast for the first time. He shares about his story and how he got into online ministry, but also what kind of impact they are having at their Church (Compass Church in Texas) and his first thoughts on the Apple Vision Pro.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Brooks is a great resource, so you should connect with him on Instagram or email brookstalbott@mycompasschurch.com
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Ministry is tough work. There are lots to do and not always enough people to carry the load. So, what do you do when you find yourself in this situation?

Today, Justin Nava comes back on the podcast and shares why outsourcing can be a great and viable option for you and your Church.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. And, check out his podcast, "The Best Known Church Show." You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Online Ministry is always changing. What was effective in reaching people online yesterday, may not be effective today. So, what is working? What are some trends that online ministry leaders looking at and doing currently to be effective?

To talk about this, Aaron Magnuson joins Tom to share.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you using photography for your Church's online presence? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Aaron, check him out on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question. Also check out the Social Media Church Podcast and be encouraged in your online ministry.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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No matter what your ministry is, every ministry needs volunteers. But how do you not only recruit them, but empower them so that they can be long term volunteers? To talk about this, Nick Blevins joins Tom to share how you can do this based on his new book, "The Volunteer Playbook".

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you using photography for your Church's online presence? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Nick, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for a Coach or Guide to help you with social media and other digital ministry tools? Take this quick survey and connect today.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Every week, Churches spend countless hours on 1-2 hours of a Sunday morning. While it's very important to do that, that seems like a lot of hours spent on such a short period of time. What would be ideal is if you could take that Sunday content and supplemental content so that you can encourage people in and outside of your Church and outside beyond Sunday morning.

To talk about this, Ben Stapley joins Tom to share why and how you can do that for our Church.

Subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ | ⁠Android⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠RSS⁠

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you using photography for your Church's online presence? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Ben, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Creating systems and processes is so important for ministry. But, how can you create these digitally so that your whole team can communicate effectively and be on the same page? Cory Sullivan joins the podcast to talk about this and how it can help your ministry team minister more effectively.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Where are you at with your online ministry? What are your next steps? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@thechurch.digital

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Can real relationships happen online? They can and Online Discipleship Pastor Justin Herman from Mariner's Church shares 4 specific tools he uses on a regular basis. These tools not only help him reach people online but also develop relationships online as well.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What others tools do you use to build relationships online? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Justin, there are a few places you can connect with him.
Digital Coffee
Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter
Mariners Church Online
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Did you know that Google is giving non-profits $10,000 a month in FREE money to spend promoting themselves? Yes, it's true. They really do give you that money. It's called the Google Ad Grants. The problem is not everyone knows how to effectively use it. That is why Jesse Carbo with Digital Missions Project joins the podcast. He shares different tips and how to get started with Google Ad Grants.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other Google Ad Grant tips would you share? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Jesse you can find him at DigitalMissionsProject.com.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Children's and Youth Ministry has changed a lot over the years. However, one thing that hasn't changed is the importance of effectively communicating to parents. Today, Dan Istvantik from Youth Ministry Hub shares the 3 C's of effective communication to families. Discover what they are and start communicating more effectively today!

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other email tips would you suggest? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Dan you can find him on Twitter, Youth Ministry Hub and Youth Group Games Hub as well. He is very active on social media.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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While social media has been a part of youth ministry since it came about, when Covid hit, social media and online ministry became vital for youth ministers and leaders. Today Brett Talley joins the podcast to share about how youth ministry leaders can practice the ministry of digital presence with teens today.

To learn more information about the Orange Conference, click here.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other email tips would you suggest? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Brett you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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One of the main criticisms Churches face when texting is that it is often a promotional text or simply a text that doesn't engage people. But texting doesn't have to be that way for Churches. There are ways to create engagement and interaction. See how as Jeanette Yates from Text-in-Church joins me to share.

Also, learn more about the Engage Conference here.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other email tips would you suggest? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Instagram has been in the social media news a lot lately. However, more for what is upsetting people on social media rather than making it right. So, is Instagram still worth it to use Instagram to engage with your community? Jennifer Benton shares different tips to engage your communion on Instagram.

Here are some Instagram accounts to follow and be inspired by:

Caleb Rowe
Lit With Prayer
Andrew F. Carter
Rev. Chris
Jennifer Benton

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Jennifer is a great resource for marketing and Instagram. You can find her and connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, and, of course, Instagram.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com

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Email is a powerful tool for your Church to communicate. However, there are some common mistakes Churches make when emailing people. Today Mark MacDonald is joining me on the podcast to talk about it. He will share tips and tools you can avoid these mistakes and communicate more effectively.

You can read the rest of his suggestions here.

Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com, a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. He is also a best selling Author and has written over 800 magazine articles.

In addition, Jeff Reed highlighted a He Gets Us Campaign that you and your Church can be part of. Click here for more info on that.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Mark is a great resource. He’s on Twitter and has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Even before the pandemic, people were doing online ministry. And while many Churches have made a lot of investments in this area, there are a number of Churches who are now backing off online ministry for a variety of reasons. While it can be frustrating at time, instead of backing off, look at the areas of online ministry you can keep improving and investing in.

Today Justin Nava from Nava Church Marketing joins me on the podcast to discuss ways to continue to improve your online ministry rather than calling it quits.

In addition, Jeff Reed highlighted a He Gets Us Campaign that you and your Church can be part of. Click here for more info on that.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Ever since 2016, I have been highlighting some people each year that I have learned from and think you should follow and learn from on social media, as well. You can find the previous years here: 2016, 2017 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

All of the people highlighted have an emphasis on online ministry in some way. Here are the top 6 to seek out in 2023:

Jeff Reed and The Church Digital Podcast. I have highlighted Jeff before, but Jeff has taken on new responsibilities since COVID hit thus making him a MUST FOLLOW. As the founder of The Church Digital, the Director of Metaverse Church NEXT, Leadership Network and the Digital/Metaverse Regional Director, NewThing Network, Jeff has a ton of insights and connections to what is on the horizon with online ministry.

Andy Mage, Mark Lutz and the Online Church Blueprint. This new podcast is your “how to” show for all things digital and online church. Hosts Andy Mage and Mark Lutz will be giving you tips, tricks, and best practices for online church services, digital small groups, discipleship, and anything else you can think of.

Joey Santos, Jason Morris and Digital Pastor Community. Joey and Jason have been part of online ministry for years. They know what it is like to be an Online Pastor and can offer encouragement and support.

Stuart McPherson, Michael Uzdavines and Metaverse Church. While people have been doing ministry in the metaverse for a while now, it is still relatively new. That is why Stuart and Michael have a podcast dedicated to how to do ministry effectively in the metaverse.

Jon Pyle and Better on the Inside. Jon podcasts regularly about how to work for a church without losing your soul. He also has a "Better on the Inside Facebook Group" where he encourages the community share their stories and encourage each other in their spiritual journeys.

Hector Martinez, Sarah Kinzer and Pocket Pulpit Podcast. Hector and Sarah co-host a fantastic podcast about social media ministry.

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The Christmas season is a special time of year. There are lots of celebrations and opportunities to rejoice. And that includes your volunteer leadership team. Christmas is a great time of year to honor and appreciate them. But, how can you do that?

Cory Sullivan joins the podcast to share different ideas you can do for your volunteers this Christmas season

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What are other ways you can honor and appreciate volunteers this Christmas? Share them with us below or on social media
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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The Christmas season is upon us. So, what are you planning on doing this Christmas at your Church? In particular, what are you looking to do for your online community?

To talk about this is Jake McNamara, the Online Pastor at The Compass Church in Illinois. Jake shares about what his Church is doing this Christmas season and encourages us that this is possible for any online community leading up to Christmas.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are you doing this Christmas season? What encourages you from this conversation? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom. Keep this conversation going online.
If you want to connect with Jake check him out on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely connect with him if you have a question. Make sure you follow him as well!
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Leaders should always be learning. In today's podcast Christopher Wesley returns to talk about how leaders can continue to be learn and grow. In fact, he shares 4 different areas of learning.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are the areas of leadership that you grow most from? Where do you need to invest more time into? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University as well.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Stan Rodda is back on the podcast! He is the Lead Pastor at Lee's Summit Community Church near Kansas City. And Stan just led his Church through a slight rebrand. So today we talk about why they choose to rebrand with an updated logo and promotion material.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Do you know people who are doing Online or a Hybrid Student Ministry position? If so, what are they doing and how can you, as a student minister, incorporate a hybrid model into your ministry so that you can reach more people for Christ? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
If you want to connect with Stan you can read his blog and watch his videos here on 4Gen or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Bible software or resources for you or your Church? Check out Logos! They have so many great resources. If you click this link you can get some good discounts on their products. Link: http://logos.com/SideKick
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Video is vital for your online and social media presence for your Church. But, before there was video, photography was just that. And while video is the "it" thing to post today, having a strong photography presence is really important for your Church. Why is that? Ben Stapley explains in this interview.

Ben currently serves as the Executive Pastor at The Life Christian Church and has had a lot of experience in both photography and video.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you using photography for your Church's online presence? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Ben, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Taylor Terpstra has been doing Online Youth Ministry for the past 2 years. In fact, he is the Online Youth Lead at Sandals Church in California. To my knowledge, he is still the only Online ONLY Student Minister.

Today we talk about how his ministry has evolved over the past year as it has gone from Online ONLY to more of a Hybrid Student Ministry position.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Do you know people who are doing Online or a Hybrid Student Ministry position? If so, what are they doing and how can you, as a student minister, incorporate a hybrid model into your ministry so that you can reach more people for Christ? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Are you thinking about doing Online Only Student Ministry? Connect with Taylor via email (taylorterpstra@sandalschurch.com) or find him on Instagram. He would love to connect.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Have you ever had an idea for a book? What did you do with that idea? Robert Carnes has just completed his third book, "The Story Cycle" and joins the podcast to talk about his book, how it came about, what he hopes to accomplish with it and how you, too, can write your own book.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Have you ever thought about getting your idea published before? How has this helped you? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Robert is a great resource for writing and marketing. He’s on Twitter, has a website and you can find his book, "The Story Cycle"
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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While no one knows what it takes for a piece of content to go viral, there are some things you can do at your Church to create shareable content. Today Cory Sullivan joins the podcast to discuss what is shareable content and how can Churches create that content that people want to share to their friends and others.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What other factors go into creating shareable content? Share them with us below or on social media
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Jeff Reed has been doing online ministry for a very long time, well before Covid hit. Today we get to hear his story of how servers going down propelled him to online ministry and how the Digital Church Network can help people doing online ministry succeed and have a community to help support and encourage. Learn more about it in this episode.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have from this interview with Jeff? Share your thoughts below or on Twitter tagging Tom.
Jeff is a great resource. You can listen to or read his podcast and blog here or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Even though your Church may have been a long time in your community, it does not mean that your Church is known in the community. The reality is that less and less people are attending Church today. So how does your Church become known in the community today? Today Justin Nava and I talk about how you can do that so that more and more people can come to know Christ as their savior.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Church communications is so important in today's world. But, with every opportunity comes challenges. Today, Seth Muse comes on the podcast to talk about what those challenges are in communications and how Churches can address them.

To find out the other challenges are and how you can fix them with this FREE download.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Seth is a great resource in communications and would be happy to connect with you. You can check out his blog and podcast and as well as his Facebook Group. You can also learn more about how to fix your Church Communication challenges by checking out the Church Comms Team.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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There are a lot of different analytics that you can track for your Church communications. While all of them are important in different ways, Google Analytics is one of the most important analytics to track.

Today Jeremy Zach joins the podcast to talk about why and how to get started on Google Analytics.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? Have you started working with Google Analytics yet? What do you think? What questions do you have? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
Jeremy is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Covid has been hard on all of us and have effected us all in different ways. Now, Springtide Research Institute has NEW research out about how the pandemic has directly affected Generation Z in regards to faith and faith leaders.

To talk to me about their findings is Dr. Josh Packard, the Executive Director of Springtide. He shares 3 findings that the Institute has found about how Gen Z coming out of covid.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? Have you seen Gen Z responding in this way in your area? How are you ministering to Gen Z? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Josh, you can always connect with him on Twitter.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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When you say the word Twitch, people often think about gaming. In fact, Twitch is often associated with gaming. However, it is much more than that. It's a great live streaming app that people from all different backgrounds use for different purposes. It can even be used to start a Digital Church!

Today Mark Lutz, founding Pastor of Lux Digital Church joins me on the podcast to talk about how he used Twitch to start Lux and what he is doing on that platform to minister to people.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? Do you use Twitch? If so, how? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Steve, you can always connect with him on Twitter. He also writes and podcasts on his own site as well as writing blog posts for Youth Specialities and Orange.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com

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Student Ministry is always changing. But, over the past few years, it has changed so much more than normal. And that change was in large part because of Covid.

So what has changed and how can student ministers adapt to the change? That is what Steve Cullum and I talk about in this podcast. Steve has been on the podcast before discussing how he is using games (especially online games) for ministry and how you can best recruit and train leaders during the pandemic.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are some other ways you can communicate more effectively to middle schoolers in this digital and online world we live in? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Steve, you can always connect with him on Twitter. He also writes and podcasts on his own site as well as writing blog posts for Youth Specialities and Orange.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Ministering to Middle Schoolers has always seemed hard. They aren't children anymore and yet they aren't teenagers. They are tweens in which a 6th grader looks very much different from an 8th grader developmentally and spiritually.

To make matters more challenging, there just isn't a lot of resources out there for middle school ministry and how to best communicate to them. That is why I am excited to have Ashly Bohinc on the podcast again. She works for Orange and is the Director of Middle School Strategy. She recently wrote a new book called "Communicating to Middle Schoolers: A Guide to Developing and Delivering Messages That Stick". You can find it on Amazon today!

It's a great book and today Ashley and I talk all about it.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are some other ways you can communicate more effectively to middle schoolers in this digital and online world we live in? Share your thoughts with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Ashley, you can find her on Twitter and on IInstagram. She is very active on social media so definitely hit her up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com

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Twitter doesn't have the best of reputations amongst people on social media. It is knowns as a place where more arguments happen than agreements. Yet, hundreds of millions of people are on this platform. As Digital Missionaries, we are called to minster to all nations...and platforms. We are called to love and serve those around us...and on Twitter.

So what can people do to minister to people on Twitter? Today I talk to Sarah Kinzer about how she is using Twitter to minister to people. She has a wonderful ministry on Twitter and it's not even her main job! Find out what she is doing and how it can encourage you today.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? Have you tried using Twitter ? If so, how? Share them with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Sarah, check her out on Twitter. She is very active on social media so definitely message her with questions.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Ever since Covid hit TikTok has become the most popular social media network in the world. And this isn't just amongst Gen Z and Alpha. This is amongst all generations. People are doing dances, inspirational video, funny videos and so much more.

With the popularity of TikTok only increasing, it presents a great opportunity for digital missionaries to minister to people online. There are many different ways you can be a digital missionary in today's world. TikTok is definitely one of them! And, to talk to me about what she does to minister to people on TikTok is Megan Carter. She is the Digital Engagement Pastor at Church Anywhere.

If you would like to check out my TikTok account where I like to encourage people with Sidekick Tip Devotionals, you can check it out here.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? Have you thought about using TikTok as a Digital Missionary? If so, how? Share them with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Megan, check her out on TikTok. She is very active on social media so definitely message her with questions.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com

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TikTok has been the hottest social media platform since Covid hit. In fact, it just recently passed 3.5 billion all-time installs. It was the most downloaded in 2021 and already, in the 1st quarter of 2022, report the most downloads of any other social media app.

With the popularity of TikTok only rising more and more, has your Church ventured into the world of TikTok? If not, why not?

Today, Sammy Kelly, joins me on the podcast to talk about what Churches can do to reach people for Christ more effectively on TikTok. She shares insights and encouragement on her own TikTok.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What apps do you have that you just love and help you in life or work? Share them with us below or on social media
If you want to connect with Sammy, check her out on TikTok or on Twitter. You can also check out her Video Editing work called VidBridge Editing Solutions as well. She is very active on social media so definitely message her with questions.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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There's an app for that" used to be a common phrase when apps came out and were new for smartphones. And, the reality is there an app for almost anything. After all, there are lots of digital tools and apps out there. Some are fun. Some are productive. Some are for learning. Apps have have so many uses these days. But what are the ones that are helpful and useful for you personally or your ministry?

To talk about is with me is Cory Sullivan and Shane Higgins. Cory is a podcast regular and Shane was helping produce this live show that we did. In this conversation we talk about what apps or tools are most helpful for us personally or in our ministry.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What apps do you have that you just love and help you in life or work? Share them with us below or on social media
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Easter is one of the most important days in the life of a Christian and the Church. And, it is celebrated all over the world. It also means that more people are going to come to Church that day, even if they don't regularly attend your Church. That means your Church needs to be prepare for an increased number of people and families. There are lots of ways you can do this, however, unless you are prepared for following up with them afterwards, no matter what you do on Easter Sunday, it will be for not.

That is why Mark MacDonald and Jeanette Yates joined me to talk about follow up from Easter and what your Church can do this year.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Are you doing to follow up from your Easter Service? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Mark, you can always connect with him on Twitter. You can find his website here. You can also connect with Jeanette on Twitter as well.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Church planting is hard work. It takes years of planning and praying. However, when a global pandemic hits, it definitely messes up plans.

Imagine spending many months praying, planning and preparing to launch a Church when all of a sudden the Covid pandemic shuts everything down in your community. What do you do? How do you pivot and still minister to your community? See what Jared Nassiff did and how digital was a big part of it.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are you doing to prepare for Easter? What are your next steps? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and get some FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely him him up if you have a question.
Learn more about Passion for Planting and their resources here.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Considering that Easter is one of the biggest Sundays of the year for Churches, Staffers and Volunteers spend countless hours preparing to help make the Easter experience an amazing time for families, many of whom will be coming for the first time or the first time in a long time.

That is why I invited Adam McLaughlin back on the podcast. He wrote a blog post for ChurchBanners.com entitled, "Easter First Impressions: 3 ways to wow your guests ". We took his 3 ways and added 2 more to them for 5 Easter Preparation Tips your Church can be doing right now to help make Easter a great experience for those coming to your Church this Easter.

ACTION STEPS:

What are you doing to prepare for Easter? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and get some FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely him him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Just like in any Church, there are lots of different types of people who are online and participate in online ministry. There are so many different types of people who are online. One group of people who seemed to be overlooked by Churches are gamers

Enter Checkpoint Church. Checkpoint Church is led by Nathan Webb and is a Church designed for "nerds, geeks and gamers". We talked about how they are using Twitch and Discord to minister to gamers and the gaming community.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you ministering to gamers? What tools are you using? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
Nathan is doing great things with Checkpiont Church. If you want to connect with him, you can email him at checkpointchurch@gmail.com. You can also connect with Checkpoint Church on Twitch, Facebook and on Twitter.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
If you are in Digital Ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter Community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively. Click here to be part of it.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Easter is fast approaching. While a lot of Churches are focused on in person Easter services, there are lots of different online Easter experiences you can create that engage your specific online attendees.

What does that look like and how can you do it? Tyler Volkers and Jake McNamara join me on the podcast today to talk about what they are doing and how they are ministering to their communities online this Easter. Discover different ways you can create an engaging online Easter experience this year.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Are you doing an Online Easter Service? If so, what are you doing? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Tyler, you can always connect with him on Twitter. You can connect with Jake on Twitter as well.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com

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Going through covid changed a lot of the ways we have done life and work. And while our lives improved in some areas, we also developed some bad habits in other areas, especially in regards to our work habits.

So how do you correct some of those bad work habits? How can you set some boundaries in your life that will help you use your time wisely and more effectively? To talk about is with me is Cory Sullivan. Cory is a podcast regular and together we talk about some tips you can implement to break those covid bad work habits.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are some other tips you can share that help you break your covid bad work habits? Share them with us below or on social media
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Parenting was always tough work. But then you add technology into the mix and it become a bit more challenging. The reality is that we live in a digital world and technology encompasses so much of our daily lives.

So how do adults manage technology for themselves AND parent? This week I welcome back Matt McKee to the podcast. I first met Matt through the reThink Group but he has since moved on towards work as an Entrepreneur helping parents navigate this digital world we are living him. He has authored books about this topic and has a great Facebook Group called Parenting in a Tech World.

Parents need help understanding all that their tweens and teenagers are getting into online and how we can protect them. Matt has some great encouragement today.

Check out the Parenting in a Tech World Facebook Group.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Do you know people who are doing Online Only Student Ministry? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Matt McKee is a great resource for all things technology, but in particular with helping parents navigate the tech world for themselves and their families.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Churches have been doing student ministry for decades. Over that time, what student ministry "looks like" has changed and evolved. After all, if you are still trying to do student ministry the same way as they were back in the 1960s, you probably wouldn't be as successful as you could be.

Enter Taylor Terpstra. He is the Online Youth Lead at Sandals Church in California. He was hired in December 2020 to be, to my knowledge, the first ever Online ONLY Student Minister. That's right, he is trying to reach students online and lead them to Christ. How is he doing that and what is he doing? That is what we talk about today.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Do you know people who are doing Online Only Student Ministry? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Are you thinking about doing Online Only Student Ministry? Connect with Taylor via email (taylorterpstra@sandalschurch.com) or find him on Instagram. He would love to connect.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Why is Google Search so important for your Church? What does it do and how does it help you reach more people for Christ?

Today Mark MacDonald is joining me on the podcast to talk about it. He will share tips and tools you can utilize so that Google Search can work best for you and your Church.

Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com, a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. He is also a best selling Author and has written over 800 magazine articles.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! In what ways have you seen Google Search impact your ministry? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
Mark is a great resource. He’s on Twitter and has a great website with resources and great insights.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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No ministry can be done by a single person. You need a team of people around you to help you be as effective as possible in reaching as many people as possible. And this applies to Online MInistry as well.

Many people started doing Online Ministry during the pandemic and they were a one person team. Now, as we are growing in our online ministry capabilities, it is vital to the health of the ministry to create a team. How do you do that? That is why I have Christopher Wesley back on the podcast.

Chris has been on numerous podcast before and today we talk about what it looks like to form a team . Then, how we can take those principles and apply it as we create an Online Ministry Team.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What have you done to create your online ministry team? Share your thoughts below or on social media.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. In addition, check out his coaching and cohort options.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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In every business, organization or Church strategy is important. But, in order for the strategy to be effective, research is necessary. Research is important for a variety of reasons, but most importantly it is because without doing the right research and asking the right questions, your Church may not be effective in creating a great strategy to reach your community.

To talk to me about doing the research is Tammy Burdick. She is the co-founder of Firm Foundations Marketing and is all about helping church leaders improve connection with people and minister to the true needs of their community.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How have you found doing community research helpful for your Church? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
Tammy is a great person and an amazing resource! To connect with her, check her out on Twitter and also make sure you check out the Ministry Reset: 50 Questions Growing Churches Ask to Engage People in their Community.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Strategy is so important in anything we do. Over the last 2 years a lot of online ministry has been throwing stuff at the wall and seeing what sticks. After all, a lot of online ministry has started over the last 2 years. But ultimately, strategy needs to take precedent in order to be truly effective in online ministry.

To talk to me about this is Sly King. Sly is a friend of mine who has been doing Online Ministry for a long time (long before COVID hit). We relate the shift to strategy for effectiveness to one of our favorite topics: college football! Discover how we can all be more effective with our online ministry with an effective strategy.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other tips or thoughts would you suggest? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
Sly is an amazing resource for Online Ministry! To connect with him, check him out on Twitter or email him.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Emails are a part of everyday life. You send and receive tons of them. But how can your Church send an email that will be effective in reaching your Church with a greater open rate?

To talk about this with me is Jeanette Yates. She is the Communications Manager for Text in Church. Before she went on staff with Text in Church she had years of experience in Church Communications so she has sent her fare share of emails. We discuss some tips that Churches can implement to have a greater open rate and get the necessary information your Church members need.

Also, learn more about the Engage Conference happening on February 8-10th, by clicking this link.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? What other email tips would you suggest? Share below or on social media by connecting with Tom.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Looking for Digital Ministry Coaching? The Church Digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts. Just click here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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A new year is upon us and with the new year it is great to evaluate where we are in ministry as well as what lies ahead. What has been working well and what new tech trends are out there that we should be monitoring.

To discuss what is happening with online ministry is Marcus Cylar. Marcus is an Online Ministry veteran and has been on the front line of helping people discover God online. In today's podcast we focus on 3 main areas:

Community. Where are people discovering community online and how can online ministries help grow community.
Discord. This is a messaging app that younger people, especially gamers are building community and hearing about Jesus.
NFTs and VR (the Metaverse). What is especially new and trending are NFTs and the Metaverse. How can the Church use these platforms for ministry purposes? Since they are still very new, it is hard to tell at this moment. However, they are worth exploring and looking into.

If you are looking for some Digital Ministry training this year (including Metaverse, Phygital or Online Ministry), check out the Equip Page at the Church Digital.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are some other last minute Christmas encouragement do you have to share? Share them with us below or on social media
Marcus is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Twitter here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tapounder@gmail.com.

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Since 2016 I have been highlighting 6 people you, as ministers, should follow on Social media. They are people/groups I've learned a lot from. You can find the previous years here: 2016, 2017 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

While 2021 was challenging, the reality is, if you were following any of the digital ministers I have shared about in the past, you would have gotten a lot of great encouragement and help. Now that we are into 2022 and now I have 6 new ones to follow. As in years past, the criteria that I have is that they are involved in Church Communications, Social Media, Student or Family Ministry or Online Ministry. They also need to be producing great content on a consistent basis. And that's it. It's pretty simple but those are the two important aspects of my criteria.

So, in NO particular order, here are the top 6 to seek out in 2021:

Tyler Volkers. Tyler is the Online Campus Pastor at The Ridge Community Church. I met him through Jeff Reed at the beginning of the pandemic. I've had him on the podcast before and he provides great encouragement and ministry insights.

Angela Craig. Angela started Pursuit Church Live, the first social media church in the Assemblies of God fellowship years before the pandemic hit. She was on the forefront of online ministry. She blogs regularly at AngelalCraig.com, leads a great Facebook Group.

Church Juice. This is a great resource for Church Communicators. They offer blogs, resources and a great podcast with Bryan Haley and Jeannette Yates. The two have many years experience and offer great ideas in a short amount of time for your Church.

Altar Live. Founded during the Pandemic, Altar Live helps faith communities engage people in authentic relationship. I like to think of them as a combination of Zoom and the Church Online Platform. Check them out here.

Robert Carnes. Robert has been on my podcast numerous times and has great marketing insights. He also has a fantastic book called The Original Storyteller.

VR Leaders. VR, Meta, Augmented Reality are going to be big in 2022. This is going to be the year of virtual reality and the metaverse. So, start following people like Jason Poling, PastorBrock, Theo Davis, Pastor Souzy, DJ Soto, Jate Earhart, and others to start and what they are doing.

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Christmas is just 2 days away and for some of you Christmas services may have already started at your Church. With all that is happening it can be a very stressful time of year. So, what can you do to be encouraged as a minister and how can you, as a minister, encourage and support your team?

To talk about is with me is Cory Sullivan. Cory has been on the podcast numerous times (the most of any guest) and together we talk about what are some last minute Christmas encouragement for you and for your team this year.

Make sure you take time this Christmas, and right after, to settle down, be encouraged and encourage and support your team. Everyone needs a break and time to recharge. The more you can enable this to happen, the stronger you and your team will be for the new year.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are some other last minute Christmas encouragement do you have to share? Share them with us below or on social media
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He's a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Creating guest pathways in ministry is so important to keeping guests at your Church engaged and coming back. It's important for you to have a pathway from being a guest to a regular attender and member of your "in person" Church AND for your online ministry. The reality is that people will likely come to your Church first online before they come in person to your Church. So, how do you create an effective digital guest pathway for your Church?

To talk about this is Jake McNamara, Online Pastor at The Compass Church in Illinois. Jake shares his insights on how to fully engage someone new to their Church Online and how your Church can do something similar.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are you doing at your Church to create a digital guest pathway? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom. Keep this conversation going online.
If you want to connect with Jake check him out on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely connect with him if you have a question. Make sure you follow him as well!
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group. To learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop Weekly Email. Each Friday get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
If you have an idea for a topic or a person for Tom to interview for a future podcast episode, email tom@theChurch.digital.

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Youth Ministers are responsible for a lot. Over the past few years being social media savvy has become one of the most important things Youth Ministers need to be concerned about. After all, students are on social media all the time. Knowing what to say, how to say it and how to act is so vitally important.

That is why Dan Istvanik is on the podcast today. Dan is a Student Ministry Veteran of over 23 years and has written a blog post on why it is so important for Youth Ministers to be social media savvy. In this episode we cover some of the blog post, hitting on some really important aspects of social media.

To follow along, check out the blog post here.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are your thoughts on being social media savvy as a student minister?Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
Connect with Dan. If you want to connect with Dan, check him out on Facebook. You can also check out his website as well. He has a ton of writings and resources on that page so check it out.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.

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People learn in a variety of different ways. They enjoy podcasts, lectures, videos and reading. Yes, reading. While lots of people learn from audio and video styles, reading is still a great way to learn.

To talk about this with me is Robert Carnes. He is the author of “The Original Storyteller” devotional book that will help you become a better storyteller in 30 days. Using everyday and biblical examples, Robert helps us become more effective storytellers in his book. He is also a freelance writer writing on many different publications.

In today’s podcast we talk about the value of reading and the different types of content you can read. here is a hint, it's not just books.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? Do you read? If so, what kind of content do you love to read? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
If you want to connect with Robert, he is a great resource, especially for writers. You can find him on Twitter or at his “The Original Storyteller” site. You can also check out his website here.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Before Covid hit there were very few Online Ministers. Sure, you had some Communication Directors and Social Media Managers, but not as many Online Ministers.

There are now more Online Ministers who are serving who used in traditional ministry roles. So how does one make the transition to becoming an online minister when they have served in traditional roles before? To talk about this with me is Tyler. Volkers. Tyler is the Online Campus Pastor at The Ridge Community Church. But, he has served in a variety of traditional ministry roles up until COVID hit.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Have you made the transition from a traditional ministry position to an online one? If so, how is it going? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Tyler, you can always connect with him on Twitter.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Podcasting is not new. In 2004 Adam Curry and Dave Winer are credited with inventing the medium and by 2013 Apple announced that there were over 1 billion podcast subscribers.

Today 50% of Americans say they listen to a podcast. Because of that, podcasting presents a great opportunity for Churches to reach their local community. To help discuss what those opportunities are Joe Radosevich joins me on the podcast today.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Are you using podcasting for your Church? If so, how? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Joe, you can always connect with him on Facebook. He also podcasts and writes on his own blog.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Can you post this for my ministry? Can you share about this event? Can you put this up on social media?

Church Social Media Mangers are bombarded with a variety of social media requests from different ministries. That's not to mention all the stuff they need to share on their own to do list.

So how do you determine what to share, when to share it and what it looks like? Adam McLaughlin joins me on the podcast today to talk about the breakdown of an effective social media post for your Church.

Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Android | Spotify | RSS

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! Where are you at with your online ministry? What are your next steps? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and gets some great FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.

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We are now almost 2 years into COVID. And with that many Churches and ministries are now almost 2 years into Online Ministry. As more Churches are asking what is next for Online Ministry at their Churches, I have invited Ben Stapley on the podcast to talk about this with me.

Ben Stapley is the Weekend Experience Director at Christ Fellowship in Miami, Florida. Ben shares with us Church Online Flowchart. We discuss this flowchart in detail as it really helps Churches and ministries decide what their next step is in Online Ministry. Do they continue with it or not? And, if they do continue with it, what are the options for Churches out there.

As you process what your next steps are in Online Ministry, use this flowchart with your online team and Senior Leadership as a way to help decide what works best for you.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts!Where are you at with your online ministry? What are your next steps? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom.
If you want to connect with Ben, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.

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Covid has impacted us in a variety of ways. One of those ways that is impacting minsters is that it is affecting our faith and calling. Because we have been working so and creating a lot of unhealthy work happens, it has taken a toll on our calling and has cause us to question that calling to God and the Church.

So what can you do to reclaim your personal faith and ministry calling? Ben Kerns comes on the podcast to discuss this and share some strategies to reclaim and rebuild your faith and calling.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How has covid and working during the pandemic caused you to doubt your calling or weaken your faith? Share your experiences and share how God has ministered to you during this time.
Connect with Ben: Ben is a great friend and a tremendous ministry resource. If you would like to connect with Ben, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter as well as his blogs Benjamin Kerns (more leadership focused) with tons of great insights each week.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Recruiting and training volunteers has always been a challenging proposition for ministry leaders. Whether it is student ministry, Children’s ministry or hospitality, it can hard. Throw in a pandemic and it can become even more challenging.

So how can you recruit and train volunteers during Covid? To discuss this with me is Steve Cullum. Steve has been on the podcast before discussing how he is using games (especially online games) right now in his ministry. Steve has been doing a great job with this and it can be very encouraging for us all so we discuss this in this episode.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? How are you recruiting and training volunteers during Covid? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
If you want to connect with Steve, you can always connect with him on Twitter. He also writes and podcasts on his own site as well as writing blog posts for Youth Specialities and Orange.
Make sure you goto iTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it. 🙂
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Websites are really important for your Church. And, over the years, we’ve talked a bit about website tips on the podcast. For instance…

Optimizing your Website for Next Steps
How you can Maximize these website trends.

This week’s podcast focuses on more website tips that can help you and your Church. For this, Jeremy Zach joins the podcast for the first time in a long while. Jeremy has a ministry background and shares 3 website tips (plus some additional thoughts) on what your Church can do for the website to reach more people and get them the information they need to learn more about your Church.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think of these 3 website tips? What else would you recommend to do? Share your thoughts and experiences by posting on Twitter using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Jeremy is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you goto iTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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There is a lot that goes into guest follow up. One thing you can do is to have great guest gifts. But there is more to it. In today’s podcast, Justin Nava shares about 3 very specific things you can do that will help you have great guest follow up at your Church.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think of the 3 tips? What else would you recommend to do to have great guest follow up? Share your thoughts and experiences by posting on Twitter using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you goto iTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Covid isn't over but more and more churches are looking to reengage and reintroduce themselves to their community these days. After all, many people stopped attending Church during Covid. At first they were attending online but that got old after a while. So many people have stopped attending.

So what can you d, as a minister or ministry leader, to help reengage and reintroduce your Church to your community. That is why Adam McLaughlin is back on the podcast today. He shares tips and strategies that will help your and your Church this fall. ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you do? What have you seen work to reengage and reintroduce your Church to your community? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and gets some great FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question, especially on Twitter. Also, check out Sermon Clipper, the new tool that helps Churches create videos that you can use throughout the week.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Twitter is an amazing social media network that Christians can use to be digital missionaries. But, in order for you to be effective, there are some things you can and cannot do on Twitter.

So what are those Twitter best practices? To help me break it down on what that looks like is Rey De Armas. Rey is the former Church Online Pastor at Christ Fellowship in Miami, Florida but current PA student looking to use God’s gifts in him to help others. And while he may not be a full time “minister” these days, he is still doing ministry and he is using Twitter to do that. What is he doing and why is it effective? Find out as we talk about Twitter best practices for Christians today.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What are some other Twitter best practices for Christians? Share them with us on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Rey is a great resource. If you have question or thoughts, connect with him on Twitter here. And listen to TheChurch.Digital podcast with him and Jeff Reed here.
The Twitter Advantage eBook. Discover how you and your Church and use Twitter for ministry purposes in this FREE eBook.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or NOW on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Ministry events are great and very much needed throughout the year. Christmas events, Easter events, summer, spring, fall and winter time events are very important. The question is, what is the purpose for those events? And do you use those events to build community?

In today’s world getting people connected and in community is so important. So how do you build community in your ministry events? That is why I have Jeanette Yates sharing with me today. She is the Communications Manager for Text in Church and we talk about a variety of different ways you can build community in the events you are doing throughout the year. Also, learn more about the Engage One Day Conference happening on August 11th, by clicking the link.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? How do you build community in the events you do at your Church or ministry? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Ministry is a lot of programs and relationships. And that is very important. However, in order for those programs and relationships to be successful, there should be some systems in place. According to the Oxford Dictionary, systems are “a set of principles or procedures according to which something is done; an organized framework or method.”

Having the right systems in place will help your ministry succeed. To talk about is with me is Cory Sullivan. He loves to work through systems and processes in ministries. We discuss 3 systems that every ministry should have. ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What systems do you have in place for your ministry? Share them with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He’s a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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We are are coming out of the pandemic now. But what happened to us, as ministers, and our mental health during covid is still playing out today. We got in to a lot of bad habits and now, as we enter post-covid time, we need to start taking care of ourselves more. But how do we do that? What can we do to help our own mental health as we enter this new time.

To talk about this with me is Christopher Wesley. He’s been on the podcast numerous times and is a great resource for student ministers and leadership thoughts. Today we discuss some very practical ways that you can regularly be taking care of yourself post-covid so that you get healthy and stay healthy long term. ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are you doing today to take care of yourself post-covid? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University as well.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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How do you start strong in a new ministry position?

Stan and I have been friends in October of 2010 when I came on Staff at New Life Christian Church in Northern VA. However, just recently, Stan has accepted a Lead Pastor at another Church back near Kansas City. While it is going to be sad to see him go, it’s also an exciting time for him and his family. That is why he is looking to start strong at his new ministry position.

What can you do to start strong before you get there and when you start? That is what Stan Rodda and I talk about today on the podcast.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What are some other ways you can start strong in a new ministry position? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Stan you can read his blog and watch his videos here on 4Gen or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
If you are interested in being part of one of Stan’s 4Gen Cohorts, check them out here. And they are FREE!
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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The coronavirus changed so much about how Ministers operate and actually do ministry. We know this and we have adapted well. But what about in a post-pandemic world. How do you best minister to teens and help support parents today.

To talk about is with me is Cory Sullivan. Cory has been working with students and parents for years and had been working specifically with students one-on-one a lot lately. We talk about two specific things ministers to youth can be doing today. ACTION STEPS:

What about you? How has your ministry changed and adapted in this post-pandemic world we are living in? Share what you do with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He’s a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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We are entering a whole new world of ministry. As Jeff Reed has said, the pandemic has pushed digital ministry forward 5 years. As we look into ministry in the future, creating a digital only Church is beginning to happen more and more.

That is why I have Jeff Reed and Angela Craig on the podcast. Jeff works for Stadia and does the Digital Church have partnered with Stadia to work more on Church Online Plants. Angela started her own Digital Church years ago. She is the founder of Pursuit Church Live, the first social media church in the Assemblies of God fellowship. She knows exactly what it takes to start a digital only Church. Today we talk about what a digital only Church look like and who is it for.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you doing ministry in this phygital world? What do you think? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Jeff you can read his podcast and blog here or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
If you would like to connect with Angela she has a great blog and she does a variety of digital ministry consulting.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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We all want to be heard. But how do you get heard more? Contrary to popular belief or what you see on social media, it is not by talking more our talking louder than the person next to you. It is actually by talking less. Actually, it is talking less, more strategically.

How is that? Thankfully Mark MacDonald is joining me on the podcast today to talk about it. Mark is a Church Branding Strategist for BeKnownForSomething.com, a national Church Communication and branding agency, coaching Pastors and 1000s of Churches to become relevant in their community. He is also a best selling Author and has written over 800 magazine articles. So, he is quite knowledgeable in this area. Mark and I will be talking about how to be heard and how you can get your message out as a Church or ministry without talking so much about it.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? Share your thoughts and experiences by posting on Twitter using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok (you gotta check him out on TikTok!).
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Everyone likes to get gifts. And Churches love to give them out. But what kinds of guest gifts can your Church give out that will leave a lasting impression?

In today’s podcast, Justin Nava returns to talk about guest gifts. We go over what gifts work best, how to determine what works and the different forms of guest gifts you can give to those who are coming to your Church for the very first time. ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What guest gifts do you give and how did you determine it to be best? Share your thoughts and experiences by posting on Twitter using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Justin is a great resource. You can find him and connect with him on his website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and TikTok (you gotta check him out on TikTok!).
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Being a Digital Missionary is not a new option for people. It has been around for a few years now and I have been talking about it for a while as well (here, here, and here). Tyler Sansom at Church Anywhere has been leading the charge of being a Digital Missionary by being one himself and encouraging others.

Today Tyler joins me on the podcast to talk about what it looks like to be a digital missionary and how you can mobilize digital missionaries in your Church. There are different ways to be a digital missionary today. Discover what skills do you need and how you can do that at any age.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think about this conversation today? How do you mobilize digital missionaries in your Church? Share your experiences below or on social media using #ymsidekick so we can all learn from each other.
If you want to connect with Tyler you can find him on his YouTube channel or at Church Anywhere, where he is the Lead Pastor.
Want to learn more about Instagram for your ministry? Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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When the pandemic hit, most Churches and ministries were focused mainly on just creating online content. Quality was secondary. Now that we are over a year in, we can focus more on creating quality online experiences for our Churches and ministries.

That is why Meagan Ranson is on the podcast today. Meagan has been working in Church Communications for over 15 years. She also works with Church Fuel and co-hosts the the Seminary of Hard Knocks Podcast with Seth Muse. She and I discuss what it means to create quality online experiences today. ACTION STEPS:

What do you think about this conversation today? Share your experiences below or on social media using #ymsidekick so we can all learn from each other.
If you want to connect with Meagan you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media so definitely hit her up if you have a question. Connect with her at Church Fuel or listen to the Seminary of Hard Knocks Podcast with Seth Muse.
Want to learn more about Instagram for your ministry? Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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It’s officially crunch time for Easter Prep. There is one month to go before one of the biggest ministry opportunities you have each year. Are you ready?

Recently, Mark MacDonald, Ben Stapley and I hosted a “Critical Church Easter Prep” Clubhouse Room where we highlighted things your Church can be doing this Easter a month away. In this hour long conversation, Mark, Ben and Justin Nava share insights and answer questions. ACTION STEPS:

What stood out to you from this Critical Church Easter Prep Clubhouse time? What questions do you still have or thoughts? Share your experiences below or on social media using #ymsidekick so we can all learn from each other.
Connect with the Ben, Mark and Justin. They are great resources and can help with your Easter prep.
Want to learn more about Instagram for your ministry? Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Social media is a beautiful train wreck. It’s amazing that you can connect with people from all over the world. But, it is also train wreck because in the blink of an eye you can go viral for all the wrong reasons.

That is why there is so much potential and hope for us as ministers. The world is at war with each other. It’s a war of words. They use a variety social media platforms to attack each other at one point and then to affirm each other in another moment. And, the sad thing about it is that ministers and believers are not immune to this. They can fall into traps of these conversations and it is causing more division rather than unity. This happens way to often.

That is why Sly King is on the podcast today. Sly King is in charge of Social Media and the Online Church at the Worship Center Christian Church and is actively looking for ways to engage people online. Today we share about how we, as ministers, can be polite online and encourage each other rather than tear each other down and lose our witness. Ministers and believers need to stop fighting online and start offering hope, the hope found in Christ alone.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think about this conversation today? How can you stop fighting online and start offering the hope found in Christ today. Share your experiences below or on social media using #ymsidekick so we can all learn from each other.
Sly is an amazing resource for Online Ministry! To connect with him, check him out on Twitter or email him.
Want to learn more about Instagram for your ministry? Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Social media is ever changing. What was once useful and state of the art 2 years or even 2 months ago may not be useful today. For instance, Snapchat was once the new kid on the block with their Stories feature. And while Stories is very impactful today, there are other social features that are really taking hold these days.

Enter TikTok and Clubhouse. TikTok has been around for a few years and it is very clear it is more than just about funny dance videos and trends. And then there is Clubhouse. Clubhouse is a social chat audio app that enables people to meet up and discuss topics in rooms. Both are unique and both present great opportunities for Churches and ministers to use them. To discuss both TikTok and Clubhouse with me today is Sammy Kelly. She co-owns Digivangelism and is very active on TikTok. She has also been on Clubhouse and has written a great post about “Why You Need to Pay Attention” for Churches and Ministries. We talk about how Churches can use both of these social media apps for ministry and how she is working with Churches today.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts!Are you using TikTok and Clubhouse for ministry? If so, how? Share your stories on social media using #ymsidekick when you share.
If you want to connect with Sammy, check her out on TikTok or on Twitter. You can also check out her website as well. She is very active on social media so definitely message her with questions.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics)

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It’s time to stop messing around and start getting serious about preparing for Easter. Hopefully you are already planning and preparing but just in case you are not, today is your start date.

Ben Stapley joins the podcast today to talk about this. He is the Weekend Experience Director at Christ Fellowship in Miami, Florida. Ben shares simple and effective steps you can be taking right now to prepare for Easter in a Phygital world. He has a great resource at http://PlanEaster.comto check out.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts!Now is the time to prepare for Easter. How are you preparing? Share your stories on social media using #ymsidekick when you share.
If you want to connect with Ben, check him out on Facebook or on Twitter. You can also check out his website as well. He is very active on social media so definitely him up if you have a question.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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When Covid hit and shut most everything down in March and April of 2020, many Churches were caught in a bind because they had not invested any money or equipment into streaming their Church services before. So many Churches had to scramble and figure things out on the fly. Christopher Wesley is a friend of mine and was tasked with figuring things out for his Parish. We talked about what they did to get up and running(you can listen to that episde here). Here is also a list of great live streaming tools and devices out there with one of them being Mevo.

Since those beginning times, Christopher has made a ton of advancements and improvements to their current structure. So today, Christopher and I catch up and talk about what it looks like to go from beginner to next level in streaming services.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What kinds of advancements have you made in streaming your services? How have you gone from beginner to next level? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University as well.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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What I love about social media is that every year I discover new people that I learn from and follow. Then, what I like to do is to share them with you all. In fact, I take 6 people or groups and highlight them once a year, usually at the end of December or early January. To find out my lists from previous years you can just like the year (2016, 2017 2018, 2019 and 2020).

While 2020 was challenging, the reality is, if you were following any of the digital ministers I have shared about in the past, like Ben Stapley, Dave Adamson, Jeff Reed, Katie Allred, Jeanette Yates, Seth Muse, just to name a few, you would have gotten a lot of great encouragement and help in 2020, especially with the onslaught of COVID.

The criteria that I have is that they are involved in Church Communications, Social Media, Student or Family Ministry or Online Ministry. They also need to be producing great blogs, vlogs or podcasts on a consistent basis. If they do not post regularly, they aren’t one the list. I am not going recommend you follow someone if they aren’t being consistent in their postings, no matter how great their content is. And that’s it.

Here are the top 6 to seek out in 2021:

Rey De Armas. I met Rey a few years ago from a mutual friend, Jeff Reed. Rey is the Online Pastor at Christ Fellowship in Miami, Florida. He is passionate about people coming to know Jesus and mobilizing others to minister to their friends and family (I have had him on the podcast before talking about this).

Tyler Samson. Tyler is the Lead Pastor at Church Anywhere. He is also an Admin for the Online + Digital Church Leaders Facebook Group. The group is designed for Online and Digital Minsters looking to learn from each other. It’s a great group with tons of help.

Digivangelism. I first discovered Digivangelism on TikTok in 2020. Their goal is to help “church leaders reach people with the love of Jesus ONLINE”. And, they do just that. What I really appreciate about what they do is that they are very active on TikTok which not a ton of minsters are at the moment.

Brianne Fleming. She may not be a minister but she is someone who has so much great content about brands and marketing. She hosts a very popular #PopChat on Twitter every Friday and Making the Brand podcast.

Jate Earhart. Jate is extremely gifted in digital media and motion graphics. He uses Twitch to stream and chat with people while he plays.

D.J. Soto. D.J. is the first person people go to for VR Church questions and thoughts. He is the Bishop of Virtual Reality Church.

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Follow up from a ministry event is always important. And the great thing about it is that there are a variety of ways you can follow up with people after an event is over. One of the biggest events of the year for your Church or Ministry is Christmas. So how do you effectively follow up after Christmas services at your Church?

That is why I have Jeanette Yates sharing with me today. She is the Communications Manager for Text in Church and we talk about effective Christmas guest follow up for your Church or ministry. Check out her Facebook Group for Christmas Follow Up.

Learn more about the Engage Conference.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? How do you do guest follow up from Christmas? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Creating student discipleship opportunities is a primary objective for Student Ministers. And while Christmas time is a festive and celebratory time of year, there are also plenty of discipleship opportunities you can have with students.

To talk about student discipleship opportunities over Christmas is Cory Sullivan. We go over some very simple things student ministers can do and welcome you to share about your ideas as well.

Hear Cory and I discuss and then share your insights below or with us on Twitter.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What student discipleship are you doing over Christmas? Share what you do with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He’s a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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In the Bible it says, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT). That was really pushed to the limits in 2020. There has been so much emphasis on what went wrong in 2020 that it is hard to think about what being thankful in 2020.

So, I called up and texted a bunch of my friends and asked them what they have to be thankful for in 2020. So, hear from Ben Stapley, Robert Caries, Justin Nava, Jeff Reed, Cory Sullivan, Ben Kerns, and Jeanette Yates as they wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and also share about what they are thankful for in 2020.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? What are you thankful for this year? Share what you do with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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We all know what a tough here 2020 has been. We don’t need to get into how much it has changed the world and people all over anymore. However, what do do need to get into is how can we help people finish the year strong. Especially students.

With me today is Cory Sullivan and we are going to talk about how we, as ministers, can help students finish 2020 strong. We talk about 4 specific things student ministers can do, but we know that there are other ways you can do that as well. Hear Cory and I discuss and then share your insights below or with us on Twitter.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? How are you helping students finish 2020 strong? Share what you do with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He’s a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Let’s face it, the world is not going to back to “normal”. At the time of this episode the pandemic has been going on for over 7 months and it doesn’t seem to be nearing an end anytime soon. And, even if it did end today, people will not go back to a “normal” life for quite some time.

So how do you disciple others in this pandemic world so that they can grow spiritually and also disciple others. To help me figure this out, I have Stan Rodda back on the podcast today. Today we talk about how to train and equip disciple people so they can disciples others makers in this pandemic world. ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you discipling others in this pandemic world? What are you doing and what tools are you using? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Stan you can read his blog and watch his videos here on 4Gen or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
If you are interested in being part of one of Stan’s 4Gen Cohorts, check them out here. And they are FREE!
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Digital Discipleship can be done in a variety of ways. It doesn’t have to be done through just online groups. It can be done through text messaging and encouragement.

Today Penn State Alum Steve Lutz joins the podcast to share about what he and his Church is doing through Front Yard Mission. Front Yard Mission is really assisted through Next Step which helps people in your Church go through the training and modules to hep people disciple others in person or on digital. Find out more about it and how it can help you and your Church make disciples digitally. ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you do? How are you doing Digital Discipleship? Have you thought about using text messaging to disciple and encourage others digitally? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Steve you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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You social media community can be very diverse. But that doesn’t mean you have to confuse them with your social media posts. That is why Adam McLaughlin is back on the podcast today. Using his blog post, “Your church’s social media strategy is confusing your community“, Adam and I discuss how you can work at clarifying your strategy on social media so that your community can be engaged more.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you do? How are you sharing with your social media community that isn’t confusing? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and gets some great FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question. Also, check out Sermon Clipper, the new tool that helps Churches create videos that you can use throughout the week.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Student Ministry has changed over the years. Every decade has brought changes that have helped student ministers adapt and minister more effectively teenagers as they change. However, with all the tech advancements that have occurred that ministers have relied on to connect with students, when the coronavirus hit the world, an interesting thing happened. Students becomes less interested in connecting online. That caused student ministers to go back to the past and implement some older strategies and get creative in connecting and reach students today.

That is why Ben Kerns is on the podcast today. He and I talk about how his team is getting creative in today’s world and developing an effective strategy to reach students today.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How have you gone back to the basics and used older style student ministry as an effective strategy today? Share your thoughts and insights below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick.
Connect with Ben: Ben is a great friend and a tremendous ministry resource. If you would like to connect with Ben, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter as well as his blogs – Average Youth Ministry (more student ministry focused) and Benjamin Kerns (more leadership focused) with tons of great insights each week.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Communicating Next Steps is really important to do in ministry. You want people to discover how they can take a next step in their faith whether they have been a believer for a long time or just a short while. And now, in this phygital world we are living in, it is even more important to effectively communicate what those steps are.

To help me break it down on what that looks like is Rey De Armas. Rey is the Church Online Pastor at Christ Fellowship in Miami, Florida and we talk about what we can do and, more specially, what are the 3 Cs to communicating next steps more effectively.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? What are you doing to effectively communicate next steps to people online? How are you doing it? Share them with us on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Rey is a great resource. If you have question or thoughts, connect with him on Twitter here. And listen to TheChurch.Digital podcast with him and Jeff Reed here.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or NOW on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Ministry has changed in 2020. One of the ways it has changed is that online has become a primary method of reaching and ministering. And while online gaming has been happening for years now, ministries have gone all in on ministering to others through video games.

online gaming Steve Cullum is an avid gamer and has discovered some cool ways to use video games to minister to people. That is why he is joining me on the podcast today. Today we talk about how he is using games right now and what that looks like for his ministry.

To take a look at Jackbox Games and find out all the cool games they have, click here.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? How are you using online gaming now? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
If you want to connect with Steve, you can always connect with him on Twitter. He also writes and podcasts on his own site as well as writing blog posts for Youth Specialities and Orange.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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That is why I have Sly King on the podcast today. Sly King is in charge of Social Media and the Online Church at the Worship Center Christian Church and is actively looking for ways to engage people online through a variety of tools. We discuss some new ideas of how Churches and Ministries can maximize the digital content and experiences in this new normal.

We are living in a new normal. Actually, every single day now we live in a new normal. So how do you live in this world? What can you do? And, more importantly, how can you maximize your digital content and experiences for those you are ministering to?

ACTION STEPS:

What are you doing to maximize your digital content and experiences in this new normal? Share your experiences below or on social media using #ymsidekick so we can all learn from each other.
Sly is an amazing resource for Online Ministry! To connect with him, check him out on Twitter or email him.
Want to learn more about Instagram for your ministry? Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Ads are really important to reach more people, especially in the area of COVID. And, for a while now, digital ads have been really valuable in the online world we are living in. But where can you advertise and how can use utilized them for your ministry purposes?

That is why Joe Radosevich is joining me on the podcast. In today’s podcast, Joe, the Lead Pastor from Belgium Community Church in Belgium, Wisconsin, joins me to discuss 3 ways you can utilize digital ads for your ministry.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? Are you using digital ads for ministry? If so, how? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
If you want to connect with Joe, you can always connect with him on Facebook. He also writes on his own blog and works with Jeff Reed at the Digital Church.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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When COVID-19 happened, ministry changed instantaneously. That’s an understatement. But out of that, new things happened. I talked earlier about some lessons learned from doing ministry during a pandemic in my recent blog post. But, to talk about this more and to get more perspectives on what ministry lessons have been learned during this pandemic is Cory Sullivan.

So what are you taking with you as you continue this new season of ministry…pandemic ministry? After all, pandemic ministry is so different than what we were used to pre-COVID and we’ve all learned some lessons and it has affected our ministries in different ways. Hear Cory and I discuss and then share your insights below or with us on Twitter.

ACTION STEPS:

What about you? How does your pandemic ministry look different than pre-pandemic? Share what you do with us below or on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
Cory is a great resource and you can find him blogging here. You can also follow him on Instagram here. He’s a great resource so hit him up and pick his brain.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email himhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Video is so important in this digital world. Photography is very important as well. What communication tool that tends to get lost these days is writing.

While not as popular these days, writing is a very effective tool to communicate your message to those you are trying to reach. And that is why Robert Carnes on the podcast. Robert is the author of “The Original Storyteller” devotional book that will help you become a better storyteller in 30 days. Using everyday and biblical examples, Robert helps us become more effective storytellers in his book. He is also a freelance writer writing on many different publications.

In today’s podcast we talk about how to find your niche in writing, the value of consistency, how to avoid the “comparison” game with other writers, and, most important, why should we all keep writing.

ACTION STEPS:

What do you think? Do you write? If so, what keeps you going? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #ymsidekick to share.
If you want to connect with Robert, he is a great resource, especially for writers. You can find him on Twitter or at his “The Original Storyteller” site. You can also check out his website here.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe to the podcast and see what cool things we do each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, email him here.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Content is king! You’ve heard that phrase numerous times. And, that is true and important. But, when a pandemic come into play it is very easy to produce so much content that you are giving people content fatigue. Too much of a good thing can be bad. Not only can you burn people out but you, the content creator, can burn out.

So, how do you balance it all? That is why Meghan Howard is on the podcast today. Meghan is a bi-vocational Pastor where she serves in the Church AND the community working in communications. We talk about how much content to produce, how to balance it and how you can disconnect so that you stay sane in this very uncertain tim.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you effectively dealing with content fatigue? What are you doing? And, how are you doing sharing content with others without giving them content fatigue? Share your experiences below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
Meghan is a fantastic resource for digital communication so make sure you follow her on Twitter as well on the Two Church Girls and a Microphone podcast. Check out her posts, podcast and chat with her on Twitter.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Discipleship is so important in ministry. It always has been important but now it has become a key emphasis in the Church and that is a great thing. So how do you train and equip disciples? And, how do you train and equip disciple makers so that they can make more disciples?

That is why Stan Rodda is on the podcast with me today. Today we talk about how to train and equip disciple makers and what Stan is doing through 4Gen to help prepare them.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What training and equipping are you doing for disciples and disciple makers? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Stan you can read his blog and watch his videos here or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Phygital is the combination of physical and digital. It’s used primarily as a marketing term but has come into play more since the coronavirus hit. Thanks to the coronavirus that combination has increased all the more as we are relying a lot more on digital tools. The thing is the world has changed and it is not going back. So how do you do ministry in this new phygital world? That is why I have Jeff Reed on the podcast. He works for Stadia and does the Digital Church have partnered with Stadia to work more on Church Online Plants. What are they and how can they help reach more people for Christ? Find out in today’s podcast interview.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! How are you doing ministry in this phygital world? What do you think? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Jeff you can read his podcast and blog here or you can find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Live Video used to be the “hot” thing on social media. However, just like everything else on social media, what was once hot is now not as hot. However, the coronavirus hit and changed things…once again. Live video is back to being a very important tool to communicate to those you are reaching at your Church or ministry.

But just like everything else, in order to do live video correctly, there are some helpful tips out there that will help you communicate more effectively.

That is why Adam McLaughlin is back on the podcast today. Using his blog post, “7 Simple Ways to Improve Your Live Video on Social Media“, Adam and I discuss how you can improve your live video.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you do? What are some helpful tips you have learned over time to help improve your live videos? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Adam you can read his blog here and gets some great FREE ebooks here. You can also find him on Twitter. He is very active on social media so definitely hit him up if you have a question. Also, check out Sermon Clipper, the new tool that helps Churches create videos that you can use throughout the week.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

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Text messaging has always been an effective way for people to “market” and reach people. This is even true for Churches. Whether there is a pandemic or not, text messaging communication is very effective.

With me today is Jeanette Yates. She is the Communications Manager for Text in Church. She also is co-host to the Church Juice Podcast along with Bryan Haley. It’s a great podcast and Jeannette is a wonderful resources for all church communicators as she is constantly learning and is very active in the Church Communication world.

To help Churches make that a bigger impact with text message communication, Text in Church is giving away 60 days FREE to. Now is the time to experiment and try new ways to stay connected. There are LOTS of ways to do that more than just communicating information. You can use it as a way to:

text in prayer request
ask questions
need help with something around the house
share Bible verse encouragement
share fun moments

The opportunities with texting are endless. That is why the Text in Church off of 60 days for FREE is amazing! Zero, no-cost, zip. If you haven’t been able to pull the trigger yet, now is your chance. Talk to Jeanette or anyone else at Text in Church and they can get you started.

Oh, and for the record, Jeanette did get her shirt from Stan Rodda and XXXIII Apparel.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What do you think? How are you using text messaging for your ministry or Church? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Jeanette you can find her on Twitter. She is very active on social media, especially on Twitter so get in touch with her.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

View Details

In this season of ministry in which the coronavirus radically changed the way Churches do ministry, there have been lots of new tools being use for ministry. One of the biggest changes and tools to use for Churches has been live streaming devices. There are lots of great live streaming tools and devices out there with one of them being Mevo.

In this episode of the YM Sidekick Podcast I interview Christopher Wesley to see how they started live streaming and how they have used Mevo to live stream a variety of things happening at the Parish. See what they are and how it can help you and your ministry today.

ACTION STEPS:

Share your thoughts! What set up do you have to live stream your services? Have you tried Mevo yet? Share below or on Twitter using #ymsidekick when you post.
If you want to connect with Chris, you can a few different ways. He’s on Twitter, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University as well.
Facebook Group! Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for ALL Ministers, not just Church Communicators or Social Media Managers.
Make sure you gotoiTunes and subscribe or on Spotify to see what great things we talk about each and every week! And make sure you rate the show, especially if you like it.
If you have an idea for a topic for a future podcast episode, emailhere.
Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop to get content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics).

TCD Sidekick: Recent Episodes