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

Nick Blevins: Church Leader, Speaker and Coach
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The Nick Blevins Family Ministry Podcast is where you can hear from top leaders in children’s ministry, student ministry and family ministry. You’ll learn the principles and practices they use to lead families with the goal of helping you maximize the potential in your ministry. For more content and notes, head to nickblevins.com.

  1. 7h ago

    Episode 312: Shepherding and Discipling Volunteers with Kristi McElheney

    Shepherding and Discipling Volunteers with Kristi McElheney Healthy 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 journey 01:32 – The "donut" analogy for discipling volunteers 02:16 – Why Jesus is the foundation of every volunteer strategy 03:37 – The leader's identity: why the glaze comes before the sprinkles 07:02 – The volunteers as the "sprinkles" and the discipleship cycle 07:49 – Avoiding the trap of finding your identity in ministry success 09:38 – Practical tools for discovering your God-given identity and purpose 13:41 – Four steps to disciple volunteers: onboarding, training, observation, and feedback 16:48 – Why observation isn't criticism—it's an investment in growth 19:12 – Having difficult conversations with volunteers through relationship, not authority 22:42 – Moving beyond volunteer management into genuine discipleship 23:14 – Building relationships through prayer, conversations, and intentional follow-up 25:31 – Creating volunteer trainings that foster spiritual growth, not just logistics 26:47 – Why discipleship should be woven into every ministry environment 27:20 – How to connect with Kristi McElheney If 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.

  2. Jul 21

    Episode 311: Spiritual Warfare Within Your Ministry with Beth Guckenberger

    Spiritual Warfare Within Your Ministry with Beth Guckenberger What 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 podcast 00:27 – Beth's ministry journey, family, and recent updates 01:53 – The story behind Throw the First Punch 02:10 – Why spiritual warfare is often overlooked in the church 02:55 – Leading a church through the pandemic and a life-changing staff meeting 04:30 – Shifting from a defensive mindset to spiritual offense 05:33 – Lessons from serving as an interim senior pastor 08:47 – Building empathy and stronger relationships with church leadership 11:15 – Finding a balanced biblical view of spiritual warfare 12:04 – Why children's ministry leaders are significant spiritual targets 12:55 – Confession, community, and staying spiritually healthy 14:23 – The importance of authentic relationships and accountability 15:11 – Overcoming loneliness in ministry through intentional community 17:00 – Teaching children about spiritual warfare without creating fear 17:57 – Beth's children's book series and equipping families 20:05 – Helping kids understand God's victory over evil 21:09 – Living with confidence because Christ has already won 22:06 – Bringing God's light into dark places 23:49 – Spiritual warfare on the mission field versus everyday ministry 26:52 – Recognizing discouragement and conflict as ministry leaders 28:29 – Where to connect with Beth and learn more about her ministry 29:19 – Final encouragement and closing remarks

  3. Jul 14

    Episode 310: Intergenerational Ministry with Christina Embree

    Intergenerational Ministry with Christina Embree What 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 Ministry 02:10 – What is intergenerational ministry? 03:48 – Why intergenerational discipleship matters 05:18 – Moving from connection to meaningful relationships 07:16 – Practical ways churches can build intergenerational ministry 08:42 – Small groups, volunteers, and deeper relationships 10:30 – Creating church-wide opportunities across generations 12:13 – Serving together as a pathway to discipleship 12:42 – Thin vs. thick intergenerational ministry 15:29 – How different cultures approach intergenerational relationships 17:26 – Equipping parents and caregivers for discipleship at home 20:29 – Helping volunteers strengthen family discipleship 22:25 – Practical ways to encourage parents every week 23:50 – How to connect with Christina and Refocus Ministry

  4. Jul 8

    Episode 309: 3 Ways to Draw Kids In and Keep Them There with Corinne Noble

    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 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 podcast 00:43 – Corinne shares ministry updates, curriculum, coaching, and consulting 01:32 – Why attracting kids requires intentionality—not just big events 03:17 – Way #1: Create an unforgettable experience 03:40 – Why environments matter more than we think 04:29 – Creating a great first-time guest experience 05:30 – Avoiding church jargon and insider language 06:01 – The importance of follow-up after a family's first visit 06:42 – Training volunteers to create consistent, high-quality experiences 08:44 – Why we shouldn't assume kids know Bible stories or church terminology 11:55 – Way #2: Engage kids in meaningful relationships 12:13 – Helping kids build friendships with peers their own age 13:31 – Practical ways to encourage connection in churches of every size 14:12 – The value of consistent small group leaders 15:12 – Engaging kids with God and His Word every week 17:24 – Why relationships are key to long-term ministry impact 18:34 – Way #3: Empower kids to grow and lead 19:22 – Asking open-ended questions that invite participation 20:28 – Giving kids opportunities to serve in ministry 21:42 – The two biggest factors that keep kids connected to church long-term 23:29 – What age should kids begin serving? 25:21 – Corinne's own childhood leadership experience and ministry calling 26:12 – Where to connect with Corinne and learn about KMC Ministries 27:36 – Social media, reels, and reaching the next generation of ministry leaders 30:12 – Final thoughts and wrap-up If 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.

  5. Jun 23

    Episode 308: Partnering with Empty Nesters with Chris Sasser

    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 podcast 01:06 – Chris shares an update on Port City Community Church and the Parent Network 03:42 – Why partnering with parents looks different in every church context 06:25 – The importance of having someone champion parent ministry 08:29 – The story that sparked Port City’s ministry to parents of adult children 10:53 – Launching Hopeful Parents and the unexpected response from families 12:52 – Why parents of adult children often carry hidden pain and uncertainty 16:10 – Helping parents shift from parenting a child to relating adult-to-adult 18:56 – Stories of grief, healing, and hope from parents walking through loss and prodigal seasons 20:26 – How marriage, in-laws, and changing family dynamics affect parent-adult child relationships 22:25 – What Hopeful Parents gatherings actually look like in practice 24:49 – Why community and vulnerability are the real catalysts for healing 26:28 – Chris shares resources for parents and church leaders, including Bags and the Parent Network 27:55 – Final encouragement for churches to care for empty nesters and parents of adult children

  6. Jun 8

    Episode 307: Solving Common Kids Ministry Problems with Josh Denhart

    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 Denhart 00:39 – Josh shares his ministry journey, Lead Ministry, and KidMin Science 02:03 – Behind the scenes of the Amazing Chemistry Show and ministry outreach events 03:23 – The most common coaching topics kids ministry leaders bring to Josh 03:35 – Josh's coaching philosophy: balancing urgent problems with long-term growth 08:29 – Why systems and organization are critical for ministry success 09:43 – Solving the shared-space cleanup problem with clear systems and accountability 14:49 – How outside perspectives help leaders solve recurring ministry frustrations 16:05 – The volunteer scheduling crisis every children's pastor knows too well 18:01 – Creating a culture of “switching, not ditching” among volunteers 19:30 – Why volunteer relationships matter more than scheduling tools 21:48 – The psychology behind volunteer ownership and reciprocity 25:06 – The value of an unbiased coaching perspective during seasons of change 25:36 – Navigating church growth and the challenges of adding a new service 27:00 – Why leaders shouldn't make multiple major changes at the same time 28:07 – Coaching through questions versus simply giving advice 30:17 – A difficult reality: helping ministry leaders determine whether it's time to leave 32:37 – Recognizing unhealthy church environments and toxic leadership dynamics 34:30 – A real coaching story about navigating a painful ministry transition 36:08 – Why many children's pastors struggle to find their next ministry opportunity 37:21 – The unique challenges of being “drafted” into kids ministry rather than called to it 38:18 – Finding the right ministry fit and aligning with church culture 39:11 – The personal and family impact of leaving a church staff role 40:10 – Supporting leaders through difficult ministry transitions 41:11 – Final reflections on coaching, leadership, and serving the local church 41:49 – Closing thoughts and where to connect with Josh Denhart Key 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.

  7. May 26

    Episode 306: Parenting and Leading with Purpose with Angie Hooie

    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 introductions 00:42 – Meet David & Angie Hooie and their family 02:14 – Angie’s role at Two Rivers Church and church growth 03:10 – How the “Purposeful Parenting” group started 05:06 – Why parents need connection and community 06:03 – Why traditional small groups don’t work for some families 08:47 – Parenting groups during church services and practical logistics 10:14 – Topics parents are asking about most today 11:21 – Technology, anxiety, discipline, and parenting challenges 13:03 – Healthy marriage rhythms and putting God first 16:31 – Love languages, communication, and understanding your spouse 18:05 – Why couples need to keep dating after marriage 19:15 – The “no talking about the kids” date night challenge 21:00 – Supporting a spouse in vocational ministry 22:57 – Ministry as a calling and learning to embrace the role 25:05 – Worship, Sabbath, and staying spiritually healthy in ministry 26:36 – Lessons from Israel and practicing intentional Sabbath rhythms 28:03 – Ministry burnout and the importance of rest 30:47 – How to connect with David & Angie Hooie 31:09 – Final encouragement for ministry leaders and parents If 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.

  8. May 19

    Episode 305: How to Raise Kids with a Faith That Sticks with David Rausch

    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 background 06:06 – The origin story of Go Curriculum 13:00 – Why David wrote Feeding Faith 13:45 – The alarming reality of kids leaving church after high school 16:03 – Why this is a children’s ministry issue, not just a youth ministry issue 17:01 – The “EAT Strategy”: Education, Application, and Transformation 18:02 – Why biblical education alone isn’t enough 19:00 – Putting application in the right place within lessons 20:15 – The missing piece: spiritual transformation 21:00 – Helping kids build a real relationship with God 23:20 – Practical ways to create transformational moments in ministry 24:00 – Making the gospel central in every lesson 25:00 – Teaching kids how to respond to the gospel 26:20 – Using response stations, prayer, journaling, and reflection with kids 27:50 – Why so many young adults leave church after graduation 29:30 – The critical role parents play in lasting faith formation 30:40 – Why churches need spiritual parenting strategies 32:00 – How culture has shifted parenting responsibility onto the church 33:00 – Why lead pastors must champion family discipleship 34:10 – Where to get Feeding Faith and Go Curriculum resources 35:00 – David’s hope for helping more kids develop faith that lasts

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The Nick Blevins Family Ministry Podcast is where you can hear from top leaders in children’s ministry, student ministry and family ministry. You’ll learn the principles and practices they use to lead families with the goal of helping you maximize the potential in your ministry. For more content and notes, head to nickblevins.com.

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