The Small Church Ministry Podcast

Laurie Graham
  • 5.0 (97)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The only podcast created for volunteers and everyday leaders in smaller congregations, this show embraces small church ministry as a place where God is already at work. Founder of Small Church Ministry and the Small Church Network, Laurie J. Graham shares why small churches matter—not as a scaled-down version of something bigger, but as powerful communities with their own unique strengths. Each episode offers creative solutions to real challenges with a mix of honest encouragement, leadership skills, and actionable next steps.  Laurie hosts the show with a perspective shaped by decades in ministry on every side of small church life—as a volunteer, staff leader, and pastor’s spouse. She knows both the pressure and the beauty of small churches firsthand, and brings steady encouragement, practical wisdom, and deep care for both volunteers and ministry leaders.

  1. 2D AGO

    216: Mistake #1 - Not Asking Them What They’d Rather Be Doing | Church Volunteer Series

    This episode kicks off our Stop Doing This to Volunteers series by naming a simple but overlooked leadership habit: never revisiting where someone serves once they’ve said yes.  We talk about the fear that keeps churches from inviting movement, and the belief many people carry that enjoying their role — or wanting something different — is somehow selfish instead of faithful. In this episode, we cover: Why long-term service doesn’t always mean long-term fitThe fear that asking “what would you rather be doing?” will leave you short-handedWhy liking what we do - and wanting something different - doesn’t make us less holy RESOURCES MENTIONED Join our free Facebook Community Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    26 min

  2. FEB 10

    215: The Digital Ministry Your Small Church Is Already Doing (And How to Do It Better) | with Leslie Kons

    Your small church already has a digital ministry - whether you’ve planned for it or not. Through your website, social media, and emails, you’re constantly communicating who you are and what people can expect, sometimes clearly and sometimes unintentionally sending the wrong message.  In this episode, we talk about why that matters more than we think and how small, thoughtful shifts can help your digital presence reflect your heart, not just your information. In this episode, we talk about: How churches unintentionally communicate confusion, pressure, or disconnection onlineWhy your digital presence shapes trust long before someone ever visits in personWhat “digital ministry” actually means for small churches (without adding more work)Simple ways to align your online presence with the experience you want people to have Connect with Leslie Kons: studiokons.com Join our free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    35 min

  3. FEB 3

    214: Outside the Bubble: Why Our Outreach Isn’t Working & What We’ve Been Missing

    We’re sharing something special this week. Right after our Women’s Ministry for Small Churches Conference, we’re bringing you the opening mainstage session - a conversation that pushes back on the pressure-filled, program-heavy version of outreach many of us were handed. In this episode, we explore: Why traditional outreach models often don’t work in small churchesHow Jesus-centered outreach starts with people, not programsWhat it looks like to live with our communities instead of trying to draw people inSimple, relational ways to practice outreach without burnout or pressure Get the replays before Wednesday at midnight! www.smallchurchsummits.com Join our free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    53 min

  4. JAN 27

    213: The Church Women Who Shape Our Faith (Without Ever Holding a Title) | with Traci Mason

    So much of what forms our faith doesn’t happen in programs, events, or official roles. It happens through real women who show up, listen, love, and stay.  In this episode, Traci Mason and I share personal stories of women in our church lives who shaped us in lasting ways without ever being “in charge.”  This is an honest, grateful conversation about influence that’s relational, faithful, and far more impactful than we often realize. In this episode, we talk about: The women who shaped our faith through presence, consistency, and careWhy informal, relational influence often forms people more deeply than organized ministryHow small, faithful actions ripple through a church over timeWhat this kind of influence invites all of us to notice - and become Connect with Traci Mason:  tracesplace@msn.com Get your FREE ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference! >> www.smallchurchsummits.com Join our free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    42 min

  5. JAN 20

    212: What Women Really Need (And Why Church Programs Keep Missing It) | with Jessica Francavilla

    So much women’s ministry is built on calendars, themes, and events - and yet many women still feel unseen, overwhelmed, or disconnected.  In this episode, Jessica Francavilla and I talk about what it looks like to actually discern what women need in a given season, and why programs alone often miss the deeper spiritual and emotional realities women are carrying.  We share how a small, multi-generational team listened, paid attention, and responded in ways that were more relational, more human, and far more impactful than another event. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why well-intentioned programs often miss what women are really walking throughHow discernment starts with listening, not planningWhat a multi-generational approach reveals that one age group can’t see aloneHow presence and responsiveness can reshape ministry without adding more to the calendar Connect with Jessica Francavilla:  www.cityoffreedom.info  www.livinghopeva.com Get your FREE ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference! >> www.smallchurchsummits.com Join our free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    25 min

  6. JAN 13

    211: What Actually Works in Ministry With Women | with Abigail Doust

    After decades of ministry in small churches — including years as a pastor’s wife — Abigail Doust has learned what truly serves women and what quietly pushes them away.  In this episode, we talk honestly about moving beyond stereotypes, events-for-events’-sake, and one-person leadership, and toward ministry that helps women feel seen, known, and spiritually formed.  This is a grounded, experience-rich conversation about gathering women well, building teams, and creating space for authentic faith to grow. In this episode, we talk about:  The difference between women’s ministry and a ministry that actually serves womenWhy many women quietly avoid church events — and what changes thatHow small teams and shared leadership create healthier ministryWhat discipleship looks like when we focus on the whole person, not attendance Connect with Abigail Doust:  equippingforimpact.com Get your FREE ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference! >> www.smallchurchsummits.com Join our free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    31 min

  7. JAN 6

    210: Burnout Isn’t Anyone Else’s Fault (And That’s Actually Good News For the Church) 

    Burnout doesn’t happen because your pastor failed, your church is unhealthy, or no one stepped up to help. It happens when we believe we have no choice and keep serving under pressure instead of agency.  In this episode, we talk honestly about why burnout isn’t someone else’s fault, why that truth can feel uncomfortable at first, and why it’s also the doorway to real change.  You’ll hear:  The stories that keep us stuck in burnout without realizing it Why waiting for leadership or circumstances to change rarely brings relief How agency creates options (even when nothing else changes)What it looks like to serve faithfully without burning yourself outJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    35 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    209: Small Churches Got Honest: What 2025 Revealed About Pressure, Hope, & What’s Next

    As we wrap up 2025, we’re looking at the conversations that truly landed with small churches - the episodes and quotes that sparked response, resonance, and even pushback.  Topics like decline, pressure, money, conflict, and culture change weren’t just popular; they named real life. In this episode, we explore what that tells us.  And why honesty mattered more than neat solutions. You’ll hear: What this year’s most-downloaded episodes and most-shared posts reveal for all of usWhy honest conversations drew people in, even when they were uncomfortableThe unexpected hope running through some tough topicsA grounded way to close the year and look ahead with more peace and hope than ever Get $20 off your first month of the Small Church Network! (Hit the monthly payment option to redeem): www.clc.thrivecart.com/small-church-network Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week! FOLLOW US: Website: smallchurchministry.com Instagram: instagram.com/smallchurchministry Facebook: facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: smallchurchministry.com/membership

    33 min
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5
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97 Ratings

About

The only podcast created for volunteers and everyday leaders in smaller congregations, this show embraces small church ministry as a place where God is already at work. Founder of Small Church Ministry and the Small Church Network, Laurie J. Graham shares why small churches matter—not as a scaled-down version of something bigger, but as powerful communities with their own unique strengths. Each episode offers creative solutions to real challenges with a mix of honest encouragement, leadership skills, and actionable next steps.  Laurie hosts the show with a perspective shaped by decades in ministry on every side of small church life—as a volunteer, staff leader, and pastor’s spouse. She knows both the pressure and the beauty of small churches firsthand, and brings steady encouragement, practical wisdom, and deep care for both volunteers and ministry leaders.

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