The Formed Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Stephanie Gossard, Content Manager for ABLE Ministries and a seasoned Disability Coordinator, offers crucial insights into supporting students with disabilities. She shares a practical approach to inclusion by using spiritual IEP forms and emphasizes the importance of educating peers to prevent bullying. Stephanie suggests facility accommodations like ramps and sensory rooms to enhance accessibility. Plus, she provides do's and don'ts for inclusive teaching, empowering educators to embrace all learners with confidence.

In this engaging discussion, Pastor Joshua Carson, a ministry leader from Indianapolis, shares insights on facilitating holy conversations at home. He emphasizes the importance of intentional discipleship and how parents can teach their children using everyday moments. Carson highlights resources for new believers and the need for unity between church and home teachings. He also explores how car rides can serve as perfect opportunities for spiritual dialogue, urging families to make conversations organic and interactive.

Dr. Cindy Miller, a pastor and counselor with a PhD in pastoral care, discusses the critical but often overlooked topic of rest in ministry. She highlights Jesus' practice of solitude and the necessity for clergy to embrace rest. Cindy shares insights on identity, workload, and the importance of family boundaries. She provides practical steps for integrating rest into busy schedules, stressing the value of planning sabbaticals and mentoring successors. Personal anecdotes reveal her journey through burnout and recovery, emphasizing the health benefits of establishing concrete habits for rejuvenation.

Kami Ann-Giwa, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Better Before Best Counseling, shares her expertise on abuse awareness and prevention for teachers and church leaders. She defines various types of abuse and highlights visible signs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing emotional and physical indicators. Kami urges swift action on suspicions and discusses the complexities of reporting in unsafe family situations. With practical strategies, she focuses on advocating for children and the power of believing and supporting them through challenging circumstances.

Justin Jeter, an expert trainer for local church teachers, shares his insights on facilitating impactful altar calls. He discusses the balance between preparation and spiritual responsiveness, highlighting how to create a welcoming atmosphere for worship. Jeter emphasizes teaching with spiritual guidance to enhance learning experiences, particularly for children. He also offers anecdotes demonstrating the significance of personal reflection in educational settings. Finally, he uplifts educators, encouraging them to rekindle their passion and effectively engage their students in transformative spiritual experiences.

Nancy Norris, an expert in training teachers within the local church, shares her journey in ministry and the transformative power of storytelling. She reflects on a nostalgic educational project, emphasizing the blend of visual elements in engaging storytelling. The discussion highlights the significance of authentic narratives in connecting biblical tales to today's experiences, as well as the profound themes of faith and hope during hard times. Personal anecdotes and practical techniques reveal how storytelling enriches ministry and resonates across all age groups.

Tim Bizelli, a trainer for local church teachers, shares invaluable insights on supporting students experiencing trauma. He emphasizes the critical role of empathy and understanding in education, highlighting practical strategies to create inclusive environments. The conversation covers the dual role of educators in providing academic and emotional support, as well as the importance of validating feelings and fostering connections. Bizelli also addresses the necessity of self-care for teachers to manage their own emotional strain while helping their students heal.

Explore the transformative 'Selah moments' that enhance spiritual teaching and personal growth. Discover how engaging biblical narratives, like the story of the prodigal son, can connect deeply with critical issues such as addiction. Learn the importance of divine timing in fostering authentic relationships with God. Delve into balancing structured lessons with emotional insights to create genuine connections in educational settings. Emphasize the need for authenticity in teaching while navigating the challenges of modern education.

JoDana Flowers, an expert in effective teaching methods, shares insights on maximizing classroom impact within tight 45-minute lessons. She discusses time management and building student relationships, especially post-COVID-19. JoDana emphasizes interactive strategies and content prioritization for various age groups, enhancing engagement in church settings. She also highlights the power of delegation among students to foster a collaborative and efficient learning environment, making teaching both fun and effective.

Raymond Woodward, an expert in resources and training tools within the Pentecostal community, shares his insights on lesson preparation. He emphasizes the transformative power of structured lesson planning and blending teaching with preaching to create lasting impacts. The discussion also covers the significance of clarity in communicating biblical teachings, especially to unfamiliar audiences. Woodward highlights the need for relatable language and engaging methods to connect with youth, finishing with an inspiring prayer for educators.