Karl Bastian's Podcast (Formerly Kidmin Talk)

Karl Bastian

Formerly known as "Kidmin Talk" - The Karl Bastian Podcast is the podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, aka the "Kidologist," creator of Kidology.org, KarlBastian.club and PastorKarl.com for kids.  All of Karl's info is available at KarlBastian.info  Karl is a full time children's pastor in Colorado. He founded Kidology in 1994 pioneering the Internet for children's ministry before Google, YouTube and Yahoo even existed. Visit Kidology.org for thousands of helpful resources, curriculum, recruiting tools, training and much more.  Questions, comments, feedback or sponsorship inquiries can be sent to karl@kidology.org. NOTE: There is an older "Kidmin Talk" from 2008 that goes through episode 141 that Apple refuses to delete due to obsolete tools - THIS is the one you need to be subscribed to. Thanks for your support.

  1. FEB 16

    It's About the Gospel - Karl Bastian Podcast 220

    In this episode, Karl unpacks Kidology Theorem #1: It’s About the Gospel. Using a Child Evangelism Fellowship brochure from the early 1970s as a springboard, he walks through the powerful description of the calling and commitment of a children’s evangelist. What does it truly mean to give your life to reaching children with the Good News?  We claim the Gospel is top priority, but is it really? What does it mean to make the Gospel the most important aspect of our ministry? The answer may surprise you. Karl shares personal stories from his own ministry journey, reflects on the weight and wonder of Gospel calling, and challenges leaders to go deeper—even while keeping the message beautifully, boldly simple. The Gospel is simple enough for a child to understand… but deep enough to anchor a lifetime of ministry. If you serve kids, lead leaders, or simply need to realign your heart with the core mission, this episode will refocus your compass and strengthen your resolve. Because in the end, it’s not about programs, platforms, or popularity. It’s about the Gospel. Share with Kidology.org/podcast220 THE KARL BASTIAN PODCAST (Formerly KidminTalk) is the Podcast of "Kidologist" Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of The Karl Bastian Podcast  He is a children’s pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children. KarlBastian.club is home to Karl's coaching - check it out today! Listen to past editions of this podcast at KarlBastianPodcast.com Send Support via: Kidology.org/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Subscribe at KarlBastian.club Blog: Kidologist.com Facebook: Facebook.com/karl.bastian  Twitter: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    39 min
  2. Kidmin Talk #219 - Kidmin Covenant #12 - What Success in Ministry Really Looks Like

    FEB 9

    Kidmin Talk #219 - Kidmin Covenant #12 - What Success in Ministry Really Looks Like

    What does success in children’s ministry actually look like? Packed rooms? Growing numbers? Social media applause? In this final episode of the 12-part Kidmin Covenant series, we land on Commitment #12: measuring success by obedience—not by numbers, noise, or nods of approval. In this powerful wrap-up, Pastor Karl unpacks what lasting fruit really looks like: volunteers who keep serving, kids who open their Bibles on their own, letters from families whose lives were changed, and the ultimate goal—hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Plus, Karl answers real leadership questions from the email bag: • Why does recruiting volunteers always feel like begging? • How do you keep church fun without turning it into a carnival? • Am I burned out… or just in a hard season? If you’ve ever questioned whether what you’re doing truly matters… this episode is for you. Success isn’t bigger. Success is faithful. Success is obedience. Subscribe, follow, and share — and join the conversation. Share with Kidology.org/kidmintalk219 Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children’s pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children. This episode also includes a big announcement: beginning next week, Kidmin Talk becomes The Karl Bastian Podcast — expanding the conversation while keeping the heart for leaders strong. Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.com Send Support via: KarlBastian.club/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Blog: Kidologist.com Twitter: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    47 min
  3. Kidmin Talk #218 - Kidmin Covenant #11 - Rest is Best!

    FEB 2

    Kidmin Talk #218 - Kidmin Covenant #11 - Rest is Best!

    In this reflective and encouraging episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl unpacks Kidmin Covenant #11: Rest Is Best—a countercultural reminder that rest is not a reward for finishing ministry work, but a requirement for sustaining it. Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and decades of leadership in children’s ministry, Karl challenges leaders to rethink their pace, priorities, and definition of faithfulness. When ministry never slows down, burnout isn’t a possibility—it’s a certainty. Karl also shares the heart behind his new Proactive Ministry Master Class, designed to help leaders stop living in reaction mode and start leading with margin, clarity, and intention. Plus, Karl takes listeners back to the origins of the Yosemite Summit Retreat, a sacred space created for children’s pastors to unplug, walk with God, and rediscover their identity apart from ministry performance. If you’re tired, stretched thin, or running on empty, this episode is a gentle but firm invitation to trust God enough to rest. Questions or feedback? Email Karl directly at karl@kidmintalk.com Share this episode: Kidology.org/kidmintalk218 Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children’s pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children. Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.com Send Support via: KarlBastian.club/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Blog: Kidologist.com Twitter: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    33 min
  4. Kidmin Talk #217 - Kidmin Covenant #10 - Pass on the Praise!

    12/16/2025

    Kidmin Talk #217 - Kidmin Covenant #10 - Pass on the Praise!

    In this episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl dives into Kidmin Covenant #10: I will pass on any praise I receive to those who helped, inspired, guided, or assisted—and ultimately to Jesus With transparency, scripture, and heart, Karl challenges leaders to resist pride and pass on the praise when things are going well in your kids ministry. Everything we do, we do because God allows us. Packed with scripture, you'll be encouraged! PLUS: Karl is testing a new LIVE mode, and posted to: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/fccGBdbjckc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DvDDfbdqi/ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v732pn8-go-live-from-your-browser-with-restream-studio.html MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: National Center for Biblical Parenting biblicalparenting.org and their new resource, FIRST STEPS, over 3 hours of one-three minutes parent training videos you can use to Equip and Encourage your parents! Pioneer Clubs - pioneerclubs.org and thewayforkids.org More than just midweek clubs, check out The Way, their new children's church curriculum! Questions or feedback? Email Karl directly at karl@kidmintalk.com Share with Kidology.org/kidmintalk217 Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children’s pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children. Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.com Send Support via: Kidology.org/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Blog: Kidologist.com Twitter: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    26 min
  5. Kidmin Talk #216 - Kidmin Covenant #9 - For the LORD! And Mercy from a Super Soaker!

    10/28/2025

    Kidmin Talk #216 - Kidmin Covenant #9 - For the LORD! And Mercy from a Super Soaker!

    In this energetic and scripture-packed episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl dives into Kidmin Covenant #9: Do It All for the Lord—a joyful reminder from Colossians 3:23 that everything we do in ministry, whether seen or unseen, is ultimately for Him. You’ll laugh and learn as Karl shares a fun and unforgettable object lesson on Mercy and Grace involving candy, kids, and a GIANT Super Soaker! It’s a creative way to help children understand God’s unearned favor and how His mercy keeps us from getting what we deserve. Karl also gives a sneak peek at his upcoming series, BIG Bible Words, which teaches deep theology in a way kids can actually understand (and enjoy!). And... how to get it for FREE! This episode is sponsored by BiblicalParenting.org, equipping parents and ministry leaders with tools to reach the heart, not just control behavior. Whether you teach, lead, or serve, this one’s a refreshing reminder to keep your eyes fixed on your true audience—Jesus Himself.https://KarlBastian.club/donate MENTIONED ON THE SHOW BiblicalParenting.org – Sponsor and parenting resource siteBIG Bible Words Curriculum – Coming soon to Kidology.orgThe Kidmin Covenant Reflective Journal - Purchase HereKarlBastian.club – Coaching and community for children’s ministry leaders Questions or comments? Karl replies to every message at karl@kidmintalk.com Share this episode: Kidology.org/kidmintalk216 Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.com Send Support via: KarlBastian.club/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Blog: Kidologist.com X: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    21 min
  6. Kidmin Talk #215 - Kidmin Covenant #8 - UNOFFENDABLE!

    10/19/2025

    Kidmin Talk #215 - Kidmin Covenant #8 - UNOFFENDABLE!

    Kidmin Talk #215 - UNOFFENDABLE! In this heart-stretching episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl unpacks Kidmin Covenant #8: Be Unoffendable—a reminder that ministry is full of opportunities to take offense, but true spiritual maturity is shown when we refuse to. Drawing from Scripture and decades of ministry experience, Karl shares practical ways to guard your heart, respond with grace, and let God fight your battles instead of your emotions. You’ll hear personal stories, leadership insights, and a biblical challenge to live with thicker skin and a softer heart. Whether it’s a difficult parent, a discouraging pastor, a demanding volunteer, or a disappointing comment, Karl offers a God-honoring path toward peace, perspective, and perseverance. MENTIONED ON THE SHOW The FIRST STEPS PARENTING TOOL KIT, download at biblicalparenting.orgAmazing resource! 100 short parent-training videos, over 3 hours of content, to equip and encourage your parents!The Kidmin Covenant Reflective JournalKarlBastian.club – Coaching and encouragement for ministry leadersKidology.org – Tools, training, and community for those who minister to kids Share with Kidology.org/kidmintalk215 Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children’s pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children. Got a question or comment? Karl replies to every message—email karl@kidmintalk.com Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.com Send Support via: KarlBastian.club/donate PLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO! Follow Karl: Blog: Kidologist.com Twitter: @Kidologist Instagram: @KarlBastian or @Kidologyorg Support the show

    26 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Formerly known as "Kidmin Talk" - The Karl Bastian Podcast is the podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, aka the "Kidologist," creator of Kidology.org, KarlBastian.club and PastorKarl.com for kids.  All of Karl's info is available at KarlBastian.info  Karl is a full time children's pastor in Colorado. He founded Kidology in 1994 pioneering the Internet for children's ministry before Google, YouTube and Yahoo even existed. Visit Kidology.org for thousands of helpful resources, curriculum, recruiting tools, training and much more.  Questions, comments, feedback or sponsorship inquiries can be sent to karl@kidology.org. NOTE: There is an older "Kidmin Talk" from 2008 that goes through episode 141 that Apple refuses to delete due to obsolete tools - THIS is the one you need to be subscribed to. Thanks for your support.