Episode 297: Building Inclusive Ministry for Every Family with Russ & Gail Ewell

In this episode, Russ and Gail Ewell share their experiences in building a special needs ministry and the importance of fostering inclusion within children’s and student ministries. They discuss the structure of their Spiritual Resource Ministry, practical steps for starting a special needs ministry, and the impact of creating a culture of doing good that reaches the broader community. Russ & Gail Ewell Connect with Russ and Gail and find resources at the following sites: Bay Area Christian – https://bacc.cc/ Deep Spirituality – https://deepspirituality.com/ Website – https://russewell.com/ The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Building a culture of doing good takes time and commitment. Inclusion in ministry benefits both special needs and typical children. Creating sensory-friendly environments is essential for special needs ministry. Friendship deficits in special needs communities can be addressed through inclusive programs. Emotional intelligence is crucial for children in today's society. Start small when developing a special needs ministry to ensure success. Community outreach is a vital aspect of church ministry. Every child deserves the opportunity to participate in church activities. Volunteers play a key role in the success of special needs ministries. Churches can make a significant impact by being inclusive and supportive. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Mutheu Esilaba of 242 Community Church discusses the evolution of student ministry, the balance between fun and discipleship, and the impact of COVID-19 on youth engagement. He highlights the importance of vulnerability, authentic community, and empowering Gen Z and Gen Alpha to take active roles in church leadership. Mutheu Esilaba Connect with Mutheu via Email The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways The importance of recruiting volunteers for family ministry. The shift from programming to small groups in student ministry. Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and engagement. Gen Z is open to hard conversations about faith. Discipleship should be the core focus of youth ministry. COVID-19 accelerated the need for authentic community. Fun and discipleship can coexist in youth ministry. The next generation is looking for a big God. Churches need to adapt to the changing cultural landscape. Engaging students in meaningful roles is crucial for their growth. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Nick talks with veteran youth pastor Jody Livingston about the importance of longevity in ministry, balancing personal health, and nurturing family relationships. They discuss challenges youth pastors face, the value of clear expectations and strong teams, and how healthy ministry flows from personal well-being and ongoing self-reflection. Jody Livingston Connect with Jody via TheLongerHaul.com The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Jody has 26 years of experience in youth ministry. Longevity in youth ministry is crucial for effectiveness. The average tenure of youth pastors is often debated. Personal health is essential for successful ministry. Expectations in ministry should be clear and realistic. Building a strong team is vital for youth ministry success. Ministry should be a family affair, not a balance. Recognizing when to leave a ministry is important. Vision in ministry should align with the church's mission. Personal development is key to sustaining a long-term ministry. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, David Reneau shares insights on transitioning roles in ministry, prioritizing spiritual health, and the importance of aligning curriculum with a church’s mission. He also emphasizes building strong leadership teams to share the workload, foster growth, and ensure long-term sustainability in family ministry. David Reneau David Reneau is the Lead Pastor of Encounter Church in Toccoa, Georgia with his wife Liz and son Caleb. With over 17 years of experience in ministry, most of it in kids ministry, he has developed a passion to help others lead in their churches well. He loves to talk about ministry, leadership, video games and Star Wars. His goal is to develop an authentic faith in people that will last a lifetime. Connect with David via his website. The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Maintaining a relationship with God is crucial for ministry leaders. Curriculum selection should align with church doctrine and mission. Building a leadership team helps share the load in kids ministry. Effective leadership teams can prevent burnout and ensure continuity. Investing in volunteer development is essential for ministry growth. Creating a supportive community among ministry leaders enhances effectiveness. Curriculum should be practical and tailored to the needs of the children. Regular meetings with leadership teams foster collaboration and innovation. A well-structured ministry can sustain itself even during leadership transitions. Pre-order/Order new book HERE Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Tyler Bates from Amazing Life shares the evolution of the Orange Curriculum, focusing on the importance of biblical depth, worship integration, and collaboration between parents and churches. He discusses ongoing improvements driven by church feedback, the development of new resources like the APlay app, and the commitment to maintaining theological integrity in children's ministry. Tyler Bates Connect with Tyler via Instagram The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Tyler Bates has a rich background in kids ministry and worship. Orange Curriculum is evolving to better serve churches and families. Amazing Kids Curriculum will continue to exist alongside Orange. Changes in the Orange curriculum aim to enhance biblical depth and practical application. Worship plays a crucial role in kids ministry and is being expanded. A-Play app has the potential to revolutionize how churches access and use media. Feedback from churches is essential for curriculum development. The goal is to create a sustainable model for effective ministry. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Kim Botto and Nick Blevins discuss how to create inclusive children's ministry environments where every child—especially those who are neurodivergent or have experienced trauma—feels a sense of belonging. They share practical strategies from Kim’s new book, emphasizing volunteer training, supportive routines, and the importance of building trust, communicating with parents, and fostering a welcoming church community. Kim Botto Connect with Kim via Instagram | Kimbotto.com The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Understanding children's backgrounds is crucial for effective ministry. Practical strategies are essential in children's ministry. Connection before correction leads to better outcomes. Volunteers need training to handle diverse behaviors. Creating a safe environment is vital for children with trauma. Fidgets should be viewed as tools for regulation. Fidgets can be beneficial for preschoolers with sensory needs. Visual schedules help children feel secure. Empathy is key in responding to children's needs. Every child deserves to feel valued and understood. Engaging with parents requires empathy and understanding of their challenges. Effective communication with parents can foster a positive relationship. Building community support is crucial for families with neurodivergent children. Creating an inclusive environment requires understanding children's needs. Sensory rooms can support neurodivergent children while promoting inclusion. Invisible disabilities often lead to behavioral challenges that need addressing. Behavior can be a form of communication for children with special needs. Training volunteers on inclusivity can enhance children's ministry programs. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Nick Blevins and Kenny Conley talk with Amy Fenton and Chris Heaslip about recent changes at Orange, including its merger with Amazing Life and the organization’s renewed focus on children’s ministry. They discuss the importance of transparency, listening to church leaders, and implementing innovative, inclusive strategies to better serve the next generation. Amazing Life and OC25 Opening Session Connect with Amazing Life via Website | ORANGE CONFERENCE 2025 OPENING SESSION | Amazing Life Commitment The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways The mission of Orange is centered around serving the next generation. Building trust requires open communication and feedback. WATCH Opening Session of OC25 Chris Heaslip emphasizes the importance of serving in ministry. Amy Fenton is recognized for her expertise in children's ministry. The merger with Amazing Life aims to enhance the resources for churches. Effective ministry requires understanding the needs of the community. Chris's journey reflects a focus on giving value and serving others. The importance of nurturing relationships in children's ministry is emphasized. Feedback from church leaders is crucial for continuous improvement. Engaging with feedback is crucial for improvement. Change can be difficult, but it often leads to positive outcomes. Listening to concerns helps build trust within the community. READ AMAZING LIFE COMMITMENT LETTER ORANGE CURRICULUM UPDATES Navigating through moral failures requires grace and understanding. It's important to balance individual needs with organizational goals. Innovation in children's ministry is essential for future success. Inclusivity in curriculum development is a priority. Communication is key to resolving confusion and concerns. Building community involves addressing the needs of diverse groups. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching is back! Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Collette Taylor shares her journey in kids ministry, offering insights from her time at North Point Ministries and other organizations on creating engaging, intentional experiences for children. The conversation covers effective event production, volunteer management, and the creative processes behind delivering impactful messages in ministry contexts. Colette Taylor Connect with Colette via Email | ColetteTaylor.com The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Creating engaging experiences for kids is essential in modern church settings. Kids need to feel seen and connected to their leaders and peers. Transitions in programming are crucial to maintain engagement and flow. Collette emphasizes the importance of rehearsal and preparation for successful events. High school students often play key roles in tech for kids' ministry events. Intentionality in creating experiences can significantly impact children's engagement. The book ‘Creating Experiences for Kids' offers practical insights for church leaders. Production meetings are crucial for team alignment. Timing for rehearsals should consider volunteer availability. Planning should adapt to the specific context of the community. Debriefing helps identify areas for improvement after events. Creative meetings require focus to foster creativity. Using fidget toys can enhance concentration in meetings. Evaluating volunteers helps place them in the right roles. Shared notes can capture ideas for future events. Transitioning to new opportunities can be a leap of faith. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching is back! Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode of the Family Ministry Podcast, Nick Blevins and Lauren Jackson discuss key aspects of kids and student ministry, including the importance of vision, time management, and volunteer discipleship. Lauren shares insights from her experience and the NextGen Ministry Network, emphasizing the need to equip volunteers and build strong relationships within the church. Lauren Jackson Connect with Lauren on Instagram | LinkTree The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Key Takeaways Kids ministry leaders should focus on equipping volunteers rather than doing everything themselves. Discipling volunteers is essential for effective kids ministry. Time management is crucial; leaders should prioritize vision casting and relationship building. Creating a ministry where volunteers feel empowered leads to better outcomes for kids. Engaging with parents and volunteers is a key part of a kids pastor's role. Leaders should be proactive in building relationships with other staff members. It's important to assess how time is spent in ministry roles. Saying no to certain tasks can free up time for more important responsibilities. Collaboration with peers can enhance ministry effectiveness. Understanding the season of ministry helps in setting realistic goals. Watch it on YouTube Ministry Boost Coaching is back! Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.

In this episode, Andrew Snead spends time unpacking his journey from youth into children's ministry and how his passions have aligned in both areas. Andrew also shares the key focuses of River Valley Kids and the importance they place on trying new things that involve kids! Andrew Snead Connect with Porfirio by Email |  Phone: 612.619.5404 The Volunteer Playbook My first book is out! Buy the book by visiting volunteerplaybook.com or by visiting Amazon.  Episode Notes Moving from Youth to Kids Ministry Prompted from an honest conversation with God and with leadership “My hands are open” Old Testament examples: Samuel, at the age of 8 years old, heard the audible voice of God Josiah made king at the age of 8 There is no Jr. Holy Spirit When did the passion for kids ministry begin? Passions were congruent for both areas of ministry, but Sometimes people equate our calling with our passion Only God can define your calling It's less about an age group or a position and more about helping light people on fire for Jesus Focus on the eternal scope of your calling Key Focuses at River Valley Kids The Word of God Know how to respond – “The Application for the Revelation” Kingdom Builders (missional-minded) The NEW Kid's Pastor Youth Pastor – don't dismiss your influence on kid's ministry or say “It's not for me” Churches are looking for people in kid's ministry who are: Dynamic communicators (for all generations) Organizational juggernauts Action Items Get kids involved in the content (live or recorded) Build cross-functional teams with volunteers Consider your on-ramps and off-ramps for all events Watch it on YouTube EPISODE COMING SOON! Ministry Boost Coaching is back! Click here to check out the amazing benefits of coaching groups with Ministry Boost. Get An Email When Each New Episode Comes Out Use the form below to subscribe to my email list where you’ll get an email each Tuesday when a new podcast comes out. Subscribe | Share | Rate | Comment To make sure you never miss a post, hit the subscribe button in iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or Tune In radio. Keep your friends and co-workers up-to-date as well by sharing it with them via email or social media. Special Sponsor: Clearstream This episode is sponsored by Clearstream. Clearstream.io works with thousands of churches worldwide and integrates with tools your church already uses such as MailChimp, Church Community Builder, Rock RMS, Planning Center, and more. You can get started on a free-trial, and if you're with a new church plant under 1 year old can use Clearstream free for 12 months.