Episode 312: Shepherding and Discipling Volunteers with Kristi McElheney

What happens when one of the world's largest Christian streaming platforms turns its attention to children's ministry?In this episode, Nick Blevins sits down with Brian Mosley and Nancy Matossian from RightNow Media to discuss the launch of RightNow Kids, a brand-new curriculum created to equip churches, volunteers, and parents to disciple kids more effectively. They share the story behind the project, what makes the curriculum different, and why empowering families throughout the week—not just on Sundays—is central to their vision.Whether you're serving in a large ministry or a small volunteer-led church, this conversation offers practical insights into creating engaging, gospel-centered experiences that help kids grow in their faith.Timestamps00:00 – Meet Brian Mosley and Nancy Matossian01:32 – Why RightNow Media entered the kids ministry space03:13 – Nancy's journey to joining the RightNow Kids team05:00 – What the RightNow Kids curriculum includes08:00 – Building a three-year discipleship experience09:32 – Pricing and making curriculum accessible for churches11:12 – Supporting volunteers and partnering with parents14:12 – The parent app and extending discipleship beyond Sunday17:38 – Why the curriculum was designed with smaller churches in mind20:45 – The three pillars: God's Family, God's Story, and God's Character23:22 – Flexible scheduling and customizing the curriculum calendar25:15 – Early feedback from churches using RightNow Kids26:50 – Onboarding support and launching successfully27:55 – Free sample lessons and where to learn more30:15 – Lessons learned and what's next for RightNow Kids

Shepherding and Discipling Volunteers with Kristi McElheneyHealthy children's ministries are built on healthy volunteers—but recruiting volunteers is only the beginning. In this episode, Kristi McElheney shares her memorable "donut" framework for shepherding and discipling volunteers, emphasizing that effective ministry starts with Jesus, grows from a leader's identity in Christ, and flourishes through intentional investment in volunteers.Kristi explains why leaders must first anchor their own identity in God rather than ministry success, how to build meaningful relationships with volunteers, and practical ways to disciple teams through onboarding, training, observation, and feedback. Whether you're leading a handful of volunteers or an entire ministry team, this conversation will encourage you to move beyond volunteer management and into true spiritual leadership.Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Kristi McElheney and her ministry journey01:32 – The "donut" analogy for discipling volunteers02:16 – Why Jesus is the foundation of every volunteer strategy03:37 – The leader's identity: why the glaze comes before the sprinkles07:02 – The volunteers as the "sprinkles" and the discipleship cycle07:49 – Avoiding the trap of finding your identity in ministry success09:38 – Practical tools for discovering your God-given identity and purpose13:41 – Four steps to disciple volunteers: onboarding, training, observation, and feedback16:48 – Why observation isn't criticism—it's an investment in growth19:12 – Having difficult conversations with volunteers through relationship, not authority22:42 – Moving beyond volunteer management into genuine discipleship23:14 – Building relationships through prayer, conversations, and intentional follow-up25:31 – Creating volunteer trainings that foster spiritual growth, not just logistics26:47 – Why discipleship should be woven into every ministry environment27:20 – How to connect with Kristi McElheneyIf you've ever struggled to recruit, retain, or shepherd volunteers, this episode offers practical wisdom and biblical encouragement to help you cultivate a thriving, spiritually healthy volunteer team.

Spiritual Warfare Within Your Ministry with Beth GuckenbergerWhat if one of the biggest challenges in ministry isn't what you can see- but what you can't?In this episode, Beth Guckenberger shares practical, biblical wisdom on recognizing and responding to spiritual warfare in ministry. Drawing from decades of missionary work, leading an international orphan care organization, and her experience serving as an interim senior pastor during the pandemic, Beth explains why ministry leaders should stop living defensively and start leading with spiritual confidence.Together, Nick and Beth discuss how children's ministry leaders can identify the enemy's tactics, build stronger relationships with church leadership, cultivate authentic community, and equip the next generation to understand spiritual warfare without fear. If you've ever felt discouraged, isolated, or overwhelmed in ministry, this conversation offers hope, encouragement, and practical tools for standing firm in Christ.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and welcoming Beth back to the podcast00:27 – Beth's ministry journey, family, and recent updates01:53 – The story behind Throw the First Punch02:10 – Why spiritual warfare is often overlooked in the church02:55 – Leading a church through the pandemic and a life-changing staff meeting04:30 – Shifting from a defensive mindset to spiritual offense05:33 – Lessons from serving as an interim senior pastor08:47 – Building empathy and stronger relationships with church leadership11:15 – Finding a balanced biblical view of spiritual warfare12:04 – Why children's ministry leaders are significant spiritual targets12:55 – Confession, community, and staying spiritually healthy14:23 – The importance of authentic relationships and accountability15:11 – Overcoming loneliness in ministry through intentional community17:00 – Teaching children about spiritual warfare without creating fear17:57 – Beth's children's book series and equipping families20:05 – Helping kids understand God's victory over evil21:09 – Living with confidence because Christ has already won22:06 – Bringing God's light into dark places23:49 – Spiritual warfare on the mission field versus everyday ministry26:52 – Recognizing discouragement and conflict as ministry leaders28:29 – Where to connect with Beth and learn more about her ministry29:19 – Final encouragement and closing remarks

Intergenerational Ministry with Christina EmbreeWhat does it take to build a church where every generation grows together in faith? In this episode, Christina Embree, founder of Refocus Ministry, shares how churches can move beyond simply having multiple generations under one roof to creating meaningful relationships that lead to lifelong discipleship.Christina unpacks the difference between multigenerational and intergenerational ministry, explains why authentic relationships are essential for passing on faith, and offers practical ways churches can cultivate stronger connections through prayer, service, and intentional community. She also discusses how churches can better equip parents, empower volunteers, and create a culture where every generation learns from one another.Whether you're a children's ministry leader, pastor, volunteer, or parent, this conversation is filled with practical ideas to help your church become a place where faith is shared across generations.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Christina Embree and Refocus Ministry02:10 – What is intergenerational ministry?03:48 – Why intergenerational discipleship matters05:18 – Moving from connection to meaningful relationships07:16 – Practical ways churches can build intergenerational ministry08:42 – Small groups, volunteers, and deeper relationships10:30 – Creating church-wide opportunities across generations12:13 – Serving together as a pathway to discipleship12:42 – Thin vs. thick intergenerational ministry15:29 – How different cultures approach intergenerational relationships17:26 – Equipping parents and caregivers for discipleship at home20:29 – Helping volunteers strengthen family discipleship22:25 – Practical ways to encourage parents every week23:50 – How to connect with Christina and Refocus Ministry

3 Ways to Draw Kids In and Keep Them There with Corinne NobleHow do you create a kids ministry that children don't just attend—but genuinely want to come back to week after week?In this episode, Chris sits down with Corinne Noble to discuss three practical strategies that help churches attract kids, engage them in meaningful relationships, and empower them to grow into lifelong followers of Jesus. From creating unforgettable first impressions to building authentic connections and giving kids opportunities to serve, Corinne shares actionable ideas that leaders of churches of every size can begin implementing right away.Whether you're leading a large children's ministry or serving in a small church, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways to help you create an environment where kids can thrive.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and welcoming Corinne Noble back to the podcast00:43 – Corinne shares ministry updates, curriculum, coaching, and consulting01:32 – Why attracting kids requires intentionality—not just big events03:17 – Way #1: Create an unforgettable experience03:40 – Why environments matter more than we think04:29 – Creating a great first-time guest experience05:30 – Avoiding church jargon and insider language06:01 – The importance of follow-up after a family's first visit06:42 – Training volunteers to create consistent, high-quality experiences08:44 – Why we shouldn't assume kids know Bible stories or church terminology11:55 – Way #2: Engage kids in meaningful relationships12:13 – Helping kids build friendships with peers their own age13:31 – Practical ways to encourage connection in churches of every size14:12 – The value of consistent small group leaders15:12 – Engaging kids with God and His Word every week17:24 – Why relationships are key to long-term ministry impact18:34 – Way #3: Empower kids to grow and lead19:22 – Asking open-ended questions that invite participation20:28 – Giving kids opportunities to serve in ministry21:42 – The two biggest factors that keep kids connected to church long-term23:29 – What age should kids begin serving?25:21 – Corinne's own childhood leadership experience and ministry calling26:12 – Where to connect with Corinne and learn about KMC Ministries27:36 – Social media, reels, and reaching the next generation of ministry leaders30:12 – Final thoughts and wrap-upIf this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another children's ministry leader who would benefit from these practical insights.

In this episode, Nick sits down with Chris Sasser to talk about a group that often gets overlooked in family ministry: parents of adult children. Chris shares how a hallway conversation with hurting parents at Port City Community Church led to the creation of Hopeful Parents—a ministry designed to support moms and dads navigating broken relationships, prodigal kids, faith struggles, and the emotional complexity of parenting in the empty-nest years.Chris and Nick explore why churches need to think beyond parenting kids and teenagers, how to create meaningful community for parents of adult children, and what it looks like to offer hope, care, and connection in one of the hardest seasons of family life.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and Chris Sasser’s return to the podcast01:06 – Chris shares an update on Port City Community Church and the Parent Network03:42 – Why partnering with parents looks different in every church context06:25 – The importance of having someone champion parent ministry08:29 – The story that sparked Port City’s ministry to parents of adult children10:53 – Launching Hopeful Parents and the unexpected response from families12:52 – Why parents of adult children often carry hidden pain and uncertainty16:10 – Helping parents shift from parenting a child to relating adult-to-adult18:56 – Stories of grief, healing, and hope from parents walking through loss and prodigal seasons20:26 – How marriage, in-laws, and changing family dynamics affect parent-adult child relationships22:25 – What Hopeful Parents gatherings actually look like in practice24:49 – Why community and vulnerability are the real catalysts for healing26:28 – Chris shares resources for parents and church leaders, including Bags and the Parent Network27:55 – Final encouragement for churches to care for empty nesters and parents of adult children

What are the biggest challenges kids ministry leaders face today—and how can they solve them before they become major problems?In this episode, Nick Blevins sits down with children's ministry coach and leadership expert Josh Denhart to unpack some of the most common issues he encounters while coaching ministry leaders across the country.From volunteer scheduling headaches and shared-space frustrations to leadership systems, church staffing challenges, and knowing when it's time to leave a ministry role, Josh shares practical solutions that help leaders move from constant crisis management to proactive leadership.Whether you're a children's pastor, family ministry leader, or church staff member, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to build healthier systems, stronger volunteer teams, and greater ministry sustainability.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and welcome back to Josh Denhart00:39 – Josh shares his ministry journey, Lead Ministry, and KidMin Science02:03 – Behind the scenes of the Amazing Chemistry Show and ministry outreach events03:23 – The most common coaching topics kids ministry leaders bring to Josh03:35 – Josh's coaching philosophy: balancing urgent problems with long-term growth08:29 – Why systems and organization are critical for ministry success09:43 – Solving the shared-space cleanup problem with clear systems and accountability14:49 – How outside perspectives help leaders solve recurring ministry frustrations16:05 – The volunteer scheduling crisis every children's pastor knows too well18:01 – Creating a culture of “switching, not ditching” among volunteers19:30 – Why volunteer relationships matter more than scheduling tools21:48 – The psychology behind volunteer ownership and reciprocity25:06 – The value of an unbiased coaching perspective during seasons of change25:36 – Navigating church growth and the challenges of adding a new service27:00 – Why leaders shouldn't make multiple major changes at the same time28:07 – Coaching through questions versus simply giving advice30:17 – A difficult reality: helping ministry leaders determine whether it's time to leave32:37 – Recognizing unhealthy church environments and toxic leadership dynamics34:30 – A real coaching story about navigating a painful ministry transition36:08 – Why many children's pastors struggle to find their next ministry opportunity37:21 – The unique challenges of being “drafted” into kids ministry rather than called to it38:18 – Finding the right ministry fit and aligning with church culture39:11 – The personal and family impact of leaving a church staff role40:10 – Supporting leaders through difficult ministry transitions41:11 – Final reflections on coaching, leadership, and serving the local church41:49 – Closing thoughts and where to connect with Josh DenhartKey TakeawaysBuild systems that eliminate recurring ministry frustrations.Create volunteer teams that support one another instead of depending entirely on staff.Avoid implementing multiple major changes simultaneously.Use coaching questions to uncover better solutions and develop stronger leaders.Recognize when a ministry environment has become unhealthy and how to navigate transitions wisely.

In this episode, Nick sits down with David and Angie Hooie from Two Rivers Church to talk about healthy rhythms in ministry, marriage, parenting, and church leadership. Angie shares how their “Purposeful Parenting” group began as an experiment to help busy parents connect and grow spiritually, while David offers a unique perspective as the spouse of someone serving in vocational ministry.Together, they discuss practical ways to maintain a healthy marriage, avoid burnout in ministry, prioritize Sabbath, and create intentional family rhythms that last.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome and introductions00:42 – Meet David & Angie Hooie and their family02:14 – Angie’s role at Two Rivers Church and church growth03:10 – How the “Purposeful Parenting” group started05:06 – Why parents need connection and community06:03 – Why traditional small groups don’t work for some families08:47 – Parenting groups during church services and practical logistics10:14 – Topics parents are asking about most today11:21 – Technology, anxiety, discipline, and parenting challenges13:03 – Healthy marriage rhythms and putting God first16:31 – Love languages, communication, and understanding your spouse18:05 – Why couples need to keep dating after marriage19:15 – The “no talking about the kids” date night challenge21:00 – Supporting a spouse in vocational ministry22:57 – Ministry as a calling and learning to embrace the role25:05 – Worship, Sabbath, and staying spiritually healthy in ministry26:36 – Lessons from Israel and practicing intentional Sabbath rhythms28:03 – Ministry burnout and the importance of rest30:47 – How to connect with David & Angie Hooie31:09 – Final encouragement for ministry leaders and parentsIf you’re serving in ministry, raising kids, or trying to build healthier rhythms in your marriage and family, this episode is packed with practical encouragement and honest conversation.

What makes a child’s faith last beyond high school? In this conversation, Nick Blevins sits down with children’s ministry leader and Go Curriculum founder David Rausch to talk about the growing number of young adults walking away from church—and what churches and parents can do differently.David shares the heart behind his book Feeding Faith: The Discipleship of Kids That Last, the story behind launching Go Curriculum, and the practical “EAT Strategy” for building lasting faith in kids through education, application, and transformation. This episode is packed with practical ministry insights, encouragement for parents and church leaders, and actionable ways to help kids develop a real relationship with Jesus that sticks.Timestamps04:08 – David Rausch’s ministry journey and children’s ministry background06:06 – The origin story of Go Curriculum13:00 – Why David wrote Feeding Faith13:45 – The alarming reality of kids leaving church after high school16:03 – Why this is a children’s ministry issue, not just a youth ministry issue17:01 – The “EAT Strategy”: Education, Application, and Transformation18:02 – Why biblical education alone isn’t enough19:00 – Putting application in the right place within lessons20:15 – The missing piece: spiritual transformation21:00 – Helping kids build a real relationship with God23:20 – Practical ways to create transformational moments in ministry24:00 – Making the gospel central in every lesson25:00 – Teaching kids how to respond to the gospel26:20 – Using response stations, prayer, journaling, and reflection with kids27:50 – Why so many young adults leave church after graduation29:30 – The critical role parents play in lasting faith formation30:40 – Why churches need spiritual parenting strategies32:00 – How culture has shifted parenting responsibility onto the church33:00 – Why lead pastors must champion family discipleship34:10 – Where to get Feeding Faith and Go Curriculum resources35:00 – David’s hope for helping more kids develop faith that lasts

What stories are shaping the faith and worldview of today’s kids?In this episode, Nick sits down with Matt Markins, CEO of Awana, to talk about child discipleship, biblical worldview formation, and the core message of his new book, The Story We Tell Our Children.Matt shares his personal story, the research behind Awana’s child discipleship focus, and why churches need to move beyond “Bible-lite” teaching toward helping kids understand the full story of Scripture.They discuss:The three biggest factors that shape lasting faith in childrenWhy many churches unintentionally teach moralism instead of the gospelThe difference between teaching Bible stories and teaching the story of the BibleHow screen culture and modern media shape kids’ worldviewWhy parents and churches both play critical roles in faith formationHow Awana’s Bright curriculum approaches Scripture and discipleshipIf you care about helping kids develop resilient, lasting faith in Jesus, this conversation is packed with practical insight and theological depth.Timestamps00:00 Intro and Welcome00:24 Matt Markins’ Personal Story and Journey into Ministry03:40 How Awana Has Changed Over the Years05:20 Why Midweek Kids Ministry Is Growing Again07:15 The Three Biggest Factors That Shape Lasting Faith09:20 The Story We Tell Our Children11:00 Counterfeit Stories Shaping Today’s Kids13:10 The Role Parents and Churches Play in Faith Formation15:30 What “Bible-Light” Teaching Looks Like18:45 Moralism vs the Gospel in Kids Ministry20:00 Bible Stories vs the Story of the Bible23:15 How Much Bible Content Kids Can Actually Absorb25:35 Measuring Child Discipleship Effectiveness31:20 Can Churches Really Measure Spiritual Growth?32:20 The Vision Behind Bright Curriculum34:15 How Bright Approaches Bible Teaching and Discipleship36:10 Final Thoughts and Resources