Digital Media Church Podcast

Welcome to Digital Media Church (formerly the SMC Podcast)! In this episode of Digital Media Church, host Matt Williams sits down with Justin Trapp (founder of Ministry Pass and Sermonary) to discuss how pastors and churches can use podcasting to extend their sermons, deepen discipleship, and reach people throughout the week. Justin recounts his journey from student pastor to digital ministry entr...

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 ve...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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, tran...

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 leverag...

The newest episode of The Social Media Podcast features one of the veterans in church communications, Katie Allred, sharing insights on the social media trends we can expect in 2025.   Katie discusses the rise of AI and how churches can leverage tools like ChatGPT and Claude effectively and ethically. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and community-driven content while also addressing...

The latest episode of the Social Media Podcast features Christian social media influencer and pastor Kap Chatfield sharing his inspiring journey--from growing up in a Christian family to becoming an atheist, and ultimately returning to the faith.   Kap discusses how God guided his path, from being a videographer to a creative director, and eventually, a pastor. He shares how his content is now rea...

Uncover invaluable insights and strategies tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities multisite churches face when navigating social media management.    Tune in as special guest Kent Richardson, the Director of Communications for New Life Community Church in Chicago, shares his wisdom on crafting compelling content, optimizing platform management, utilizing essential tools, strategic sch...

Prepare to embark on a spiritual and technological journey like no other, as we unveil a groundbreaking fusion of faith and innovation with Michael Whittle.    In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of spirituality and cutting-edge technology, guided by Michael's expertise. We explore how neural networks and AI are transforming the sermon landscape, drawing wisdom from sacred t...

This episode of the Social Media Podcast features Dan Watts from Hope Media discussing the God Listens App, a new prayer tool for churches and ministries.   Dan demonstrates how the app can help organizations better manage and engage with prayer requests. He also catches up with DK Hammonds, and they share their experience at the CITN (Church Information Technology Network) conference. DK emphasiz...

Guess what? Nils Smith has a special guest— ChatGPT! In this one-of-a-kind episode, Nils and ChatGPT discuss how churches can effectively leverage social media. ChatGPT shares strategies for maximizing social media impact, including focusing on authentic relationships, community engagement, and sharing inspirational messages. Nils suggests that if you're not yet using ChatGPT in your workflows, no...

Are you a Christian leader or ministry enthusiast looking for inspiration and connection?  Tune in as we get to know Alicia Lee and Danny Yoo who founded the heart and soul of a Christian social network, Faithly. Join us on this insightful journey to explore the intersection of faith and ministry, gain valuable insights, and how this platform can help you.  Subscribe today and stay connected with...

DK Hammonds and Kim Tarlton discuss the importance of effective church communication and the need for future preparedness. DK tackles why clear communication is essential in conveying the vision of the church. Kim shares how the Church Communications Facebook Group grew and the significance of strong communication during crises. Both reflect on the responsibility of church communicators to ensure...

The words "data" and "analytics" have been thrown around a lot in the digital and social media world. But do we really know what they mean and why they're important? And why does it matter for our church? Join us for this captivating conversation as Amber Smart, founder of SmartMetrix, shares her expertise on how we can connect these dots and help our churches make better decisions with data-drive...

Join us for an insightful podcast episode as we sit down with Marle Mae, a distinguished social media strategist from the Philippines, to unveil the untapped potential of "The Social Media Strategy You Didn't Know You Needed."  Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just dipping your toes into the digital waters, Marle's insights will transform the way you approach social media. Dive into the lates...

DK Hammonds and Dr. Justin Lester reunite to discuss the latest AI technology and tools, and their relevance to the church. DK reflects on the importance of understanding AI's future and impact to the society. Justin explores recent AI developments, including Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Pulpit AI, and their potential applications in church and discipleship. Both emphasize the need fo...

Nils Smith and Jay Kranda reunite to discuss Jay's new book, "Online Church Is Not The Answer."  Nils reflects on their early days in online ministry and commends Jay for his extensive work. Jay Kranda shares fresh insights into digital ministry, emphasizing the importance of integrating digital tools and strategies beyond live streaming. Tune in to also learn more about Saddleback's online minist...

Nils Smith and DK Hammonds discuss what they believe is the greatest social network of all time—YouTube. Nils talks about how YouTube is prioritizing Shorts and competing for attention against TikTok. DK shares his success on YouTube and explains how a full video can serve as both a sales opportunity and an invitation to church. Both agree that YouTube is the platform that will help churches and b...

In today's episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds discuss the past, present, and future of Amplify Social Media—the company that has been our trusted partner in all our endeavors. Nils recounts the company's origins over a decade ago, when it was established to help churches and ministries enhance their social media presence. DK explains why he is taking over from Nils and outlines his plans to provi...