Authentic Digital Ministry for the Next Generation with Melissa Gepford

Welcome to Digital Media Church (formerly the SMC Podcast)! In the latest episode of Digital Media Church, host Matt Williams sits down with Haley Cousins, Digital Marketing Director at Crossroads Church, to explore how modern ministries can navigate the digital landscape with theological depth and strategic clarity.  Haley shares her professional experiences—from serving as Saddleback Church's very first social media manager to her current leadership role—offering a unique perspective on why social media must be viewed as a dedicated ministry space rather than a mere marketing channel. Central to their conversation is the "Connect, Teach, Share" framework inspired by John 4, which provides a biblical foundation for digital engagement.  Learn how churches can move beyond metrics to measure true ministerial success. Discover practical tips on digital ministry and how small churches with limited budgets can thrive online by balancing authenticity and humor with a commitment to excellence.  Matt and Haley also uncover faithful use of AI tools, identifying where technology can assist and where churches should exercise caution. They also teach how to leverage other platforms for deeper connection, as well as, use a tech stack that includes Canva, Arbor, and Sprout Social. Whether you're a pastor, a volunteer running social, or leading a full digital team, this conversation will give you language, frameworks, and tools to reach more people for Jesus in digital spaces. 🔔 Subscribe so you don't miss upcoming conversations.  🤝 Share this episode with another ministry leader who cares about digital ministry and wants to grow.   Show Notes: Haley Cousins LinkedInHaley Cousins FacebookHaley Cousins Instagram Haley Cousins ThreadsHaley Cousins X   Follow Digital Media Church on Social Media: Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@digitalmediachurchpodcast Threads- https://www.threads.com/@digitalmedia.church  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/digitalmedia.church/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalmediachurch Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalmediachurchpodcast Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/digitalmediachurchpodcast This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.  

Welcome to Digital Media Church (formerly the SMC Podcast)! In this episode, Matt Williams introduces the new chapter of a podcast that has served church and ministry leaders with over 450 episodes—and explains why digital ministry is no longer optional. Matt unpacks how social media is just one piece of the digital ministry puzzle and why churches must see every online touchpoint—websites, email, podcasts, YouTube, social, livestreams, and more—as a mission field, not just a marketing channel. Learn how digital ministry has evolved from "post consistently" to a full discipleship strategy and why today's Great Commission is also a "digital commission". Understand the dangers of digital noise—which can pull people away from hope and community—and discover how churches of any size can work smarter, not harder, using free and low-cost tools. Moving forward, we will dive deeper into: Websites & SEO, Email Marketing, Content Strategy, Podcasting & Video Production, and AI Tools for Ministry. If you're a pastor, communications director, or volunteer who feels overwhelmed by digital, this podcast is here to come alongside you with practical strategies and a kingdom-first approach. 🔔 Subscribe so you don't miss upcoming conversations.  🤝 Share this episode with another ministry leader who cares about digital ministry and wants to grow. Follow us on social media: Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@digitalmediachurchpodcast Threads- https://www.threads.com/@digitalmedia.church Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/digitalmedia.church/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalmediachurch Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalmediachurchpodcast Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/digitalmediachurchpodcast   This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

In this newest episode of the Social Media Church Podcast, host Matt Williams explores with Melissa Gepford how churches can authentically engage young people in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Melissa, an ordained deacon and the Intergenerational Discipleship Coordinator for the Great Plains United Methodist Conference, draws on her extensive experience leading programs like Leadership Lab and Dandelion Marketplace. Together, Matt and Melissa examine strategies for integrating digital and in-person ministry to build genuine relationships with kids, youth, and young adults. They cover the evolving role of the church in a digital-first world, including insights from Gen Z and young leaders, and how to use social media, AI, and other tools responsibly. Melissa also provides practical leadership tips and tools for busy church leaders and content creators, stressing that authenticity and understanding youth perspectives are key to effective ministry. Whether you're a church leader, youth worker, volunteer, or digital strategist, you'll find new ideas and inspiration to help your ministry thrive in today's digital environment. Listen now, subscribe for more episodes, and share your thoughts with our community! Show Notes: Connect with Melissa Gepford Melissa Collier Gepford LinkedIn  Melissa Collier Gepfhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/melissacolliergepford/ord Facebook Melissa Collier Gepford Linktree  Great Plains United Methodist ConferenceDandelion Marketplace Sacred Roots  Connect with Digital Media Church DMC Youtube  DMC Threads DMC Instagram  DMC Tiktok DMC Linkedin DMC Facebook   This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.  

In the latest episode of the Social Media Church Podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Marc and Amy Cameron of "How We Love" for an interesting conversation on the intersection of faith, relationships, emotional health, and digital media. Our guests tell their story and how they took over "How We Love." They introduce the role of attachment theory not only in marriages, but also in spiritual and relational growth. They explained each of the different attachment styles and how they shape relationships, parenting, and even church communities. The couple also discusses practical tools for deepening communication and conflict resolution. Get insights on how Marc and Amy leveraged digital media in growing their ministry. Marc also shares his new book, "Understanding Your Attachment Styles," plus other hands-on resources available for individuals and churches. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, individual, couple, or anyone looking to strengthen your relationships and ministry, this episode is packed with wisdom and strategies. 👉 Take the FREE Attachment Love Style Quiz here:  https://howwelove.com/love-style-quiz/ 👉Watch the "Comfort Circle" video at www.howwelove.com   👉 Check out Mark's new book  "Understanding Your Attachment Style www.understandingyourattachmentstyle.com  —NOW AVAILABLE!   👉 Subscribe for more episodes on building digital and faith communities www.youtube.com/socialmediachurch     Show Notes: Connect with Marc and Amy Cameron Marc Cameron InstagramAmy Cameron Instagram How We Love How We Love FacebookHow We Love InstagramHow We Love Youtube How We Love TikTokUnderstanding Your Attachment StyleSchedule with MarcNew Life Live Youtube Social Media Church Discord This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

In this episode of the SMC Podcast, our host Matt Williams does another round of conversation with Online Pastor at Mariners Church Justin Herman about digital ministry. This time, they discuss Carpooling with Jesus, a devotional podcast for kids and families that turns morning car rides into faith-filled moments.  Justin and Matt continue to give practical digital ministry strategies for church leaders, families, and anyone passionate about making a spiritual impact in today's digital world. Our guest shares tips on how to launch and manage a faith-based podcast from idea generation to editing to sharing with your community.  Justin emphasizes the importance of focusing on the next generation. He excitedly shares his passion for supporting parents and using digital platforms to reach the world. If you're looking for new ways to engage, whether you're a large church or a small congregation, this podcast equips you with the tools and inspiration you need to start making a meaningful impact on the church wherever you are.  Show Notes: Connect with Justin Herman EmailFacebookInstagram Mariners Online  Carpooling with Jesus Spotify Carpooling with Jesus Apple Podcasts Carpooling with Jesus YouTubeCarpooling with Jesus Facebook  Carpooling with Jesus Instagram Social Media Church Discord This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.  

In this episode of the Social Media Church Podcast, you can learn how to step into the future of digital ministry. Host Matt Williams chats with Justin Herman, Online Pastor at Mariners Church, as they explore what it means to build a genuine online community. Justin tells of his journey from in-person ministry to remote leadership and reveals stories of lives changed through digital outreach. He also shares how Mariners Online Church drives spiritual transformation and pushes creative boundaries in the digital world. The conversation also includes practical strategies for measuring success beyond the typical view count, as well as tips on what works, what doesn't, and where Justin believes the digital church is heading. Whether you're leading a large congregation or a small church, you'll end this listen with a fresh vision and practical tools for planting seeds in the ever-expanding digital mission field.   Show Notes: Connect with Justin Herman FacebookInstagram Mariners Online Social Media Church Discord   This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

The latest Social Media Church episode is an essential listen for any ministry team navigating the digital world. Host Matt Williams welcomes KartWheel founder Kristen Chouinard to unpack the secrets of effective social media ministry. This conversation centers on shifting the mindset from "marketing" to "connection." Kristen and Matt analyze what it takes to build a meaningful online presence and share ideas for creating content that resonates, even with limited budget and resources. If you're a ministry volunteer or church leader, this episode will provide you with a wealth of strategies to help you reach more people and deepen your community impact.   Show Notes: Connect with Kristen Chouinard Kristen Chouinard LinkedInKartWheel This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

In the latest episode of Social Media Church, Matt Williams shares why churches STILL MUST engage with social media in 2025. He explores the dangers and incredible ministry opportunities, and provides a practical roadmap for using social media to spread seeds of hope and transformation. Matt discusses the real impact of social media on mental health and why Jesus calls us to digital mission fields. He also presents strategies for ministry online and practical tips for a sustainable social media presence. Whether you're a church leader, ministry worker, or passionate believer, this episode will change how you view social media forever. Tune in now and learn how to be salt and light in the digital world!   Show Notes: Connect with Matt Williams: Matt Williams Linkedin This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

In the newest episode, Nils Smith passes the torch to Matt Williams as the new host of the Social Media Church Podcast! Join us as we take a trip down memory lane through the podcast's 14-year history, explore the evolving landscape of digital ministry, and discuss how churches can effectively use social media to reach people in 2025. Matt shares his background, including his baseball career, transition to ministry, and current role at Resurrection Church. He emphasizes the importance of digital presence for churches. Matt also discusses his use of AI tools for efficiency and his passion for integrating digital media into ministry. Nils mentions his new role at Faith Driven Entrepreneur and their initiative to support entrepreneurs in churches. Together, the two explore the latest social media strategies and AI applications in ministry. Whether you're a church leader, ministry worker, or simply interested in the intersection of faith and digital media, this episode is packed with important insights and inspiration. Show Notes: Connect with Matt Williams: Matt Williams Linkedin Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith Website Nils Smith FacebookNils Smith TwitterNils Smith InstagramNils Smith LinkedIn This episode is brought to you by Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

The Social Media Podcast's latest episode features DK Hammonds kicking off 2025 by unveiling the Top 5 Major Trends That Will Revolutionize Your Ministry. DK, a passionate advocate for the intersection of faith and the future, shares insights into God's innovative work through technology and within this digital realm. He highlights five key trends transforming how ministries and nonprofits leverage technology to maximize their impact.   Watch this episode to discover how you can strategically harness technology to amplify your ministry's influence and still ensure the human element remains central to your mission.   Show Notes: Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube Social Media Church Discord   This episode is brought to you by: Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.  Donorbox MinistryMatters Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to increase tithes and offerings. With comprehensive tools like a lightning-fast donation form, donor-managed recurring giving, the powerful Donorbox Live™ Kiosk app to collect in-person donations, crowdfunding and peer-to-peer functionality, and more, raising more for your church or ministry has never been easier. Discover how Donorbox MinistryMatters can elevate your ministry's impact today.