Nick Blevins Family Ministry Podcast: Children | Youth | Students | NextGen

3 Ways to Draw Kids In and Keep Them There with Corinne Noble How 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 Jesu...

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 emot...

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 frustr...

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...

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...

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...

What does it actually take to help families move from attending to fully engaged? In this episode, Nick sits down with Greg Curtis and Tommy Carreras to talk about the real challenges churches are facing right now when it comes to assimilation and next steps. They unpack what’s changed over the last few years, why many church assimilation strategies are no longer working, and what they’re experime...

What makes a great VBS, and how do you pull one off without burning yourself out in the process? In this episode, Nick sits down with Jeremy O'Neill to talk all things VBS, from big-picture planning and promotion timelines to volunteer leadership, programming strategy, registration questions, and what actually makes a VBS successful. Jeremy shares lessons from years in local church kids ministry,...

In this episode, Sean Sweet shares insights on the evolution and importance of preteen ministry, drawing from his transition from church staff to leading a nonprofit focused on preteen resources. He highlights the unique developmental needs of preteens, the value of intentional programming, and how preteen ministry can effectively bridge children’s and youth ministries through engaging, community-...

In this episode, Jen Edwards explores how to measure health in kids ministry beyond attendance and numbers. She emphasizes evaluating milestones, building trust with families, and understanding long-term impact while navigating the pressure of performance metrics in ministry. Jen Edwards Connect with Jen and find resources at the following sites: Jen Edwards Website Jen Edwards IG The Volunteer Pl...

In this episode, Jessica Bealer shares insights from her experience in family ministry, focusing on volunteer management and building healthy team cultures. She highlights the importance of clear communication, volunteer care and appreciation, and layered leadership to effectively support and retain volunteers in today’s church environment. Jessica Bealer Connect with Jessica and find resources at...

In this episode, Tony Myles and Heather Flies share insights from their years in student ministry, reflecting on both the challenges and successes of connecting with today’s youth. They discuss their new book on relationships, dating, and singleness, emphasizing the need for honest conversations between parents and students as ministry continues to evolve. Heather Flies & Tony Myles Connect wi...

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 &...

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 Play...

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 The...

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...

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 ministr...

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 fo...

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...

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...

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 Connec...

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...

In this episode, Porfirio Caldera gives practical insights about moving to a NextGen staffing model within his church. Porfirio has maintained influence within the same church for over a decade in various ministry roles and he also shares the challenges faced while leading this change. Porfirio Caldera Connect with Porfirio by Email | Instagram Orange Tour Partnering with Orange Tour! **Head to or...

In this episode, Brittany Nelson talks about her new book Time to Update and speaks on how to leverage digital platforms to lead children's ministry. She also answers some very specific questions on not only WHY it's time to integrate digital discipleship but HOW to do it. Brittany Nelson Connect with Brittany on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Get the book on Amazon! Orange Tour Partnering with Or...

In this episode, Larry Cramer shares his experience leading the kid's ministry at Christ Church of the Valley (CCV) and the innovative kidmin ideas they have implemented at each of their campuses. He also gives some insight into their strategy behind creating ministry environments focused on boys (males of the family). Larry Cramer Connect with Larry through Email | Instagram Orange Tour Partnerin...