The Small Church Ministry Podcast

In this powerful episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham sits down with Kim Botto to explore how small churches can create a welcoming environment for every child, especially those with neurodivergent needs or trauma backgrounds.Listen in to:Discover why 1 in 3 families with children with disabilities have left a churchLearn practical strategies for inclusion that don't require big budgetsUnderstand the difference between simply including children and helping them truly belongGet actionable tips for supporting children with sensory needs and behavioral differencesHear inspiring stories of churches making meaningful changesKim shares practical strategies for inclusion, debunks common myths, and offers hope for churches wanting to ensure every child feels they truly belong. Learn how simple tools like fidget resources and compassionate relationships can transform children's church experiences. Perfect for ministry leaders, volunteers, and parents seeking to make church a safe, loving space for all children.Connect with Kim Botto:www.kimbotto.com www.instagram.com/kimbotto Every Child Belongs Podcast: www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/every-child-belongs/id1788322535Get your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Laurie Graham and youth ministry expert Mike Haynes discuss effective strategies for engaging and teaching teenagers in small church youth groups. Key topics include: Recognizing the challenges of over-scheduled teensLeveraging teenagers' natural agencyStructuring interactive youth group timeAdapting teaching methods to match teenage cognitive developmentThe episode equips small church youth leaders to better connect with and disciple the next generation.Connect with Mike Haynes:www.youthministrycurriculum.comGet your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Join Laurie Graham and special guest Angela Marks in this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast as they dive deep into children's ministry. Angela shares her transformative journey from an IT professional to a passionate children's minister, revealing how a great children's ministry isn't about big budgets or fancy programs, but about seeing the incredible potential in every child.In this episode: Discover how to minister effectively with limited resourcesLearn to see children's potential beyond their current behaviorUnderstand the power of affirmation and personal testimonyGain strategies for staying motivated when ministry feels challengingHear powerful stories of transformation from Angela's ministry experienceWhether you're serving in a small church or feeling discouraged by low attendance, this episode will reignite your passion and help you see ministry through a lens of hope, love, and possibility.Connect with Angela Marks:www.youtube.com/@AngelaMarkswww.instagram.com/angelammarksGet your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Laurie Graham and Victoria White discuss the inclusion of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the church. Victoria, an experienced advocate, shares her passion for this issue and the benefits of welcoming this population, such as slowing down and gaining new perspectives.The conversation covers practical steps for churches to reach out and build relationships with the IDD community, as well as the importance of addressing attitudes and misconceptions. The key takeaways highlight the need to recognize the underrepresentation of people with IDD in many congregations and the transformative impact their presence can have.Connect with Victoria White:vwand2@gmail.comwww.disabilityministrynetwork.orgwww.cityhopegr.orgJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this episode, Laurie Graham welcomes guest Kelly Wilson to discuss her experience implementing a "planning party" at her small church. Kelly shares how the planning party concept helped address the challenges she and her husband faced as the primary planners and implementers of church activities.The planning party involved the congregation in a low-pressure way to generate ideas ...leading to a positive responsesuccessful volunteer recruitmentongoing enthusiasmKelly explains the execution and impact of the planning party, and encourages other small churches to try this approach to build momentum, gain volunteers, and share the workload of ministry.Your Best Ever Women’s Ministry Planning PartyPlanning Party ArticlesJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this episode, host Laurie Graham and guest Brenna Fields Hayes dive into the topic of healthy responses to church conflict. They discuss the prevalence of unresolved conflict in many churches and the importance of creating safe environments for open communication. Brenna shares insights on: the role of personal responsibilityevaluating one's own motives and emotional readinessfinding scriptural guidance during challenging timesThis conversation offers practical steps for navigating conflict in a measured, prayerful manner, benefiting volunteers, ministry leaders, and anyone seeking to foster healthier, more unified church communities.Connect with Brenna Fields Hayes:www.newseasonnewday.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Alastair and Nicola Bruce from a small church in Scotland share how they transformed a coffee shop space into a community pantry, cafe, and pre-loved shop to provide support with dignity and build relationships. They offer practical advice for other churches to start small and match resources to community needs. The community pantry became a platform for long-term support and missional engagement beyond just providing food.Connect with Alastair and Nicola Bruce: www.ellonparishchurch.co.ukJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Laurie Graham and Cheri Kulhawick share tips for small churches organizing large community events, including ...The importance of early planningBuilding a diverse teamBefining a clear purposeBeing flexible when things don't go as expectedCheri also shares a candid story about pivoting after an event had more supplies than attendees. This episode is full of practical wisdom and encouragement for small churches wanting to make a big impact.3 Core Values For A Successful EventJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this episode, Laurie Graham and DG Wynn discuss finding your place of influence and using your unique gifts and passions in ministry. They explore ...The limitations of spiritual gifts inventoriesShare examples of people making an impact through unexpected talentsEmphasize the importance of embracing small beginningsThis episode encourages listeners to be open to using their gifts, no matter how unusual, and to create space for others to do the same in their churches.Connect with DG Wynn:www.chasmgaming.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this episode, Laurie Graham welcomes Justin King, the founder of The Church Crew, a scheduling tool designed to help small churches manage their volunteers more effectively. They discuss:Justin's personal experience with volunteer management challenges, the features of The Church CrewThe importance of healthy systems to support volunteersBalancing the use of scheduling tools with leaving room for the Holy SpiritThis conversation provides valuable insights for small church leaders looking to empower their volunteers and create more sustainable ministry practices.Connect with Justin King:www.thechurchcrew.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, 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 showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/