Sometimes people are surprised by the amount of time, energy, and resources churches invest in Sunday school, youth camps, curriculum, and children’s ministry. But when we look at it through the lens of the Kingdom of God, the return on that investment is extraordinary. Every life matters, regardless of age, yet there is something powerful about reaching hearts early and helping children build a foundation that can influence the rest of their lives. 

Some of what we try to cover

• Investing Early Creates Lasting Impact
• Kids Ministry is Kingdom Multiplication
• Every Life Matters, But Kids Matter Too

Today is the last of four releases of an audio I put together for our cast as a reference track for our Gladiator theme.

I recognize that this isn't publish-ready, but I hope it's interesting for people to hear a little bit behind the scenes.

Today is the third of four releases of an audio I put together for our cast as a reference track for our Gladiator theme.

I recognize that this isn't publish-ready, but I hope it's interesting for people to hear a little bit behind the scenes.

Today is the second of four releases of an audio put together just for our cast for reference. We did a Gladiator theme with an ongoing story and this was created for them to reference for overall feel of the theme.

While this is certainly not publish-worthy, I thought it might be interesting for people to hear and get a look "backstage".

Hope you enjoy!

While this is certainly not publish-worthy, I thought it might be interesting for people to hear and get a look "backstage".

Hope you enjoy!

Most people think classroom management is about control, but that’s not the goal. It’s about creating an environment where kids can encounter the Spirit of God.

Quiet doesn’t equal effective. Engagement is what drives impact.

The goal is not behavior modification, it’s heart transformation. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Build the right foundation
• Own the room
• Lead with intentional discipline

We often chase simplicity because we think it will make things easier. We want the clear plan, the straightforward system, the step-by-step path that removes confusion. And while simplicity does give us clarity, it doesn’t remove the effort required to execute. In fact, the moment something becomes truly simple, it can actually feel harder. Why? Because there’s no more hiding behind complexity. No more overthinking or constant tweaking. Just a clear objective, a defined goal, and a system that works, if we do.

That’s where most people get stuck. Not in understanding what to do, but in consistently doing it.

Understanding that difference is a game-changer for how you lead, work, and follow through. 

We all love the idea of “set it and forget it.” Build a routine, lock in a system, and let it run. It feels efficient. It feels in control. But real life doesn’t stay fixed, and neither do we. The challenge isn’t choosing between discipline and flexibility. It’s learning how to hold both. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Why we crave "Set it and forget it"
• The reality: Nothing stays set
• The leadership shift: Set systems, schedule revisions

There’s a difference between showing up with a perfect plan and actually connecting with the people in front of you. Whether you're leading kids, a team, or a room full of energy, the real skill is learning how to “read the room” and adjust in real time. Today, we’re talking about how to hold a plan loosely, and lead people well. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Have a plan, but don't worship it
• Pay attention to emotional temperature
• Adapt in real time

We ended up talking about some past characters and past themes - hope you enjoy!

We don't have an outline today, but the premise of what we're talking about is that we must ignore the naysayers and keep moving forward! You won't be criticized by someone doing more than you. Don't give up! A winner is just a loser who tried one more time.

There’s a dichotomy many of us feel; we long for a powerful move of God in our kids ministry, like the Azusa Street Revival, but our daily lives don’t always reflect the kind of hunger that produced it. As Horst Schulze (The Ritz-Carlton) said, “We’ve given away who we are, but now we want to be who we were.” The real question is: do we want revival… or just the idea of it? 

Some of what we try to cover:

• We Romanticize What We're Not Willing to Reproduce
• What Kids Experience Publicly Flows from What Leaders Practice Privately
• We Have to Decide What We Actually Want

When we think about teaching kids the Bible, it’s easy to imagine sitting them down and explaining theology. But kids don’t learn that way. They learn through stories, play, curiosity, and relationships. If we want kids to grasp biblical concepts and doctrines, we have to translate truth into experiences they can connect with. 

Some of the things we try to cover

• Start with story, not explanation
• Turn big truths into simple pictures
• Make learning active and fun

Think about the stories you still remember from childhood: the playground showdown, the coach’s halftime speech, the moment someone stood up and changed the tone of the room. Those moments stick because they carried tension, meaning, and direction. Most messages don’t fail because they’re wrong; they fade because they’re forgettable. The issue isn’t always attention spans; it’s how the messages are delivered. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Attention is earned before it's taught
• Stories carry what statements cannot
• The goal isn't applause, it's alignment

The waterfall was always there.

The opportunity, the knowledge, the growth; it didn’t suddenly appear.

What changed was our capacity to capture the water.

Trying to catch a waterfall with a teacup doesn’t mean the waterfall failed, it means we weren’t ready yet.

We need to expand our cup, not blame the source. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Opportunity Doesn't Arrive When We Want, It Exists When We're Ready
• Small Containers Limit Big Moments
• Capacity Is Built Quietly, Before the Moment Comes

Growth doesn’t happen in a straight line. It happens while you’re moving, while you’re making decisions, trying things, and occasionally getting it wrong. Growth in Motion is about embracing imperfection, expecting speed bumps, and learning so well from mistakes that nothing is ever truly wasted. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Embrace Imperfection
• Expect Speed Bumps
• Don't Waste Mistakes

Les Brown said, “You get three or four thoughts a year that, if acted upon, could change your life.”

In children’s ministry and church leadership, those thoughts often look like a new program, a systems improvement, a volunteer strategy, or a better way to reach families. The difference between a good idea and lasting impact isn’t just passion; it’s leadership readiness. You must buildthe capacity to execute when the right idea shows up. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Strategic leaders position themselves for the right ideas
• Capacity determines whether an idea can scale
• Execution is the difference between insight and influence

Ministry has never been about simply filling a slot on a schedule; it’s about the heart you bring into the room. That’s especially true in children’s ministry. Kids don’t just hear what we say, they feel who we are. You can show up, follow the plan, and check every box on the list, but if there’s no passion behind it, it won’t take long for that to show. Loving what you do isn’t a luxury in ministry; it’s essential. Because when passion is missing, the ministry might continue, but the impact won’t. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Passion is the price of admission
• Checking boxes vs. carrying the vision
• Passion always shows, one way or another

We love the fun, the comedy, the object lessons, the décor, the climbing walls, the slides, and even the explosions.

But in all the excitement, there’s a leadership question we must keep asking:

Do our kids (and staff) know why we’re really here? Today we’re talking about keeping the mission clear without killing the fun. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Fun is a tool, not the mission
• The Mission: Connecting kids to God
• Leadership means guarding the mission

Most leaders overestimate what they can change in a year and underestimate what they can change today.

John Maxwell’s “Today Matters” reminds us of a simple but uncomfortable truth: you don’t control tomorrow, you only control today.

Today we’re talking about Sunday school leaders and how leadership success isn’t built in big moments, but in small, daily decisions that compound over time. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• "Today" is where leadership is actually lived
• Consistency beats intensity every time
• Daily choices shape long-term impact

Being a “man of action” feels productive, and it often looks impressive. But when we rush straight into the theme, the lesson, or the big moment, organization is usually the first thing to get sacrificed. The truth is that great ministry and great leadership don’t fall apart in public; they fall apart in the details behind the scenes. If we want consistency, impact, and growth, we must get organized. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Action without organization eventually breaks down
• Great leaders win in the small, unseen moments
• The mundane tasks are what separate success from mediocrity

Teaching kids-especially theology or complex ideas-isn’t just about saying true things. It’s about being understood. The moment kids stop understanding, they stop paying attention. One simple but powerful tool helps bridge that gap: the audience surrogate. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Why understanding and attention are linked
• What an audience surrogate really is
• They the "Dunce" character works so well

Have you ever been motivated and started a whole bunch of projects only to find out that you didn't really have the time to finish them?

Ever bitten off more than you can chew?

Or, on the flip side, has fear of failing and the "imbalance" above held you back?

While we don't claim to have solved this dilemma, that's our topic for today.

Sunday school doesn’t run on talent alone; it runs on availability. Great leaders understand that ministry moments don’t always come with notice. The Bible challenges us to be ready in season and out of season, and in Sunday school leadership, that means two things:

One; being willing to serve wherever needed, and two; preparing ourselves so we’re actually capable when the moment comes. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Availability is a leadership decision
• Preparation makes availability effective
• Great leaders multiply their readiness

Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but many people quit because they expect it to. We’re talking about what consistent development really looks like, why patience matters, and how to turn everyday moments-especially mistakes-into progress. This is about playing the long game with your growth. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Development is a process, not an event
• Every experience is a learning opportunity
• Keep the big picture in focus

In theater, great performers don’t just deliver their lines; they set up what comes next. The same is true in ad-lib: you do your bit, but you also make sure the next moment has someplace to go. And in Sunday school or any teaching environment, this skill becomes even more important. When we intentionally set up the next segment, we keep the lesson on track. 

Some things we try to cover:

• Why "Setting Up" Matters
• How to Set Up the Next Segment in Real Time
• Applying This Skill in Sunday School

Great teams and great leaders don’t stay great by accident. Vision fades, culture drifts, and yesterday’s wins don’t guarantee anything about today. As Rory Vaden puts it, “Success is not owned, it is rented, and the rent is due every day.” This episode is about what it takes to pay that rent; practically, consistently, and with intention. 

• Some of what we try to cover:
• Vision Leaks Without Daily Attention
• Culture Isn't What You Declare, It's What You Reinforce
• Greatness Requires Today's Effort, Not Yesterday's Reputation

Most people wait for the “right moment” to start something meaningful, but that moment rarely comes. We assume successful people had smoother paths or easier conditions, but they faced the same friction we do. What separates them is ownership. Today’s episode is about choosing to make it happen, even when it’s hard and even when the circumstances aren’t ideal. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Real Progress Requires Realistic Expectations
• Urgent Intensity Beats Comfortable Pace
• Prepare, But Stay Flexible

When you practice, it's important to work out the details and get it right because practice is for developing habits. You want your habits to be on point. If you're lazy in practice, it will show up later in the real thing.

This applies to the stage and to life...

Preparation is essential for leadership; planning, studying, and practicing sharpen our effectiveness. But over-reliance on preparation can limit our ability to think on our feet. Great Sunday school leaders don’t just prepare for Sunday; they stay agile and responsive when the unexpected arrives. 

• Some of what we try to cover:
• Preparation builds confidence
• Spontaneity elevates leadership
• Balance makes you unstoppable

Every leader makes thousands of decisions each day—some trivial, some transformative. The difference lies not just in the size of the choice, but in its ripple effect. Great leadership isn’t about always being right—it’s about recognizing that every decision, big or small, shapes direction, trust, and destiny. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The Power of Every Choice
• The Cost of Indecision
• The Influence of Wise Decision-Making

When you step into a room, your title might speak before you do, but it only says so much. True leadership isn’t granted by a nameplate; it’s sustained by trust, integrity, and earned influence. Your reputation opens the door, but your character determines whether people invite you to stay. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The Law of Influence
• Beyond Positional Leadership
• People Follow the Person Before They Follow the Vision

True leadership often shows up in the spaces between the bullet points. Titles and task lists can’t capture the quiet consistency, initiative, and influence that make someone indispensable. Doing your job well means doing far more than what’s written in ink; it’s what you bring in spirit.

Some of what we try to cover:

• The Invisible Requirements
• Competence Beyond the Checklist
• The "Right People on the Bus" Principle

In children’s ministry, it’s easy to always look toward the next event, the next series, or the next big goal. But here’s the truth: many of us are already standing in the middle of what we once prayed for. The kids showing up, the volunteers fully onboard, the families being reached; this is the dream. Our call is to be content yet not satisfied. Basically, be thankful for what God is doing today while still believing for more tomorrow.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Recognize the Dream You're Already In
• Lead With Gratitude, Not Entitlement
• Expand the Dream for Others

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Leadership is a Daily Choice
• Consistency Builds Trust
• Your Best Inspires Others' Best

We live in a time where knowledge is everywhere. Parenting books, leadership blogs, podcasts, and conferences are just a click away. It’s easy to think the secret to leading kids better is hidden in one more resource. But here’s the truth: knowledge by itself doesn’t change lives. Kids don’t remember what we knew; they remember what we did. Real impact comes when we take what we’ve learned and put it into action. 

Some of what we try to cover:

• Knowing without doing doesn't help kids
• Action builds stronger leaders
• Impact comes from what we do, not what we plan

Stepping into leadership is never just about a title—it’s about the responsibility that comes with it. As leaders, professionalism is expected. But professionalism doesn’t mean arrogance, entitlement, or thinking of ourselves as being “above” others. True professionalism flows from humility, integrity, and the weight of responsibility we carry for those who look to us as examples.

Some of what we try to cover:

• Professionalism is a responsibility, not a privilege
• Humility anchors professionalism
• Overcoming imposter syndrome in professionalism

It gets a little crazy, but so was Sunday...

Children’s ministry thrives where big vision meets strong leadership. The idea of “10X” challenges us to set goals ten times bigger and take ten times the action. John Maxwell’s Law of the Lid reminds us that our results will never exceed our leadership capacity. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• See Potential Like God Does
• Take Massive Action
• Raise the Lid

We don’t always realize who is watching us. A child in the back of the room, a teenager in the hallway, or a new guest on the fringes may be quietly studying our words, tone, and choices.

Small things we do—both good and bad—can stick in a child’s mind and alter their course for years to come. That’s why it’s essential to live with intentionality, humility, and self-awareness. We can’t control every perception, but we can control our example.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• You're Always Leading, Even When You Don't Know It
• Your Impact Can Be Good or Bad
• Lead With Intentional Self-Awareness

In leadership, growth rarely happens in comfort. The line between ordinary and exceptional often lies in where we place our baseline—our mental standard for what’s normal, acceptable, and sustainable. For most people, discomfort signals it’s time to stop. But for elite leaders—like the Navy SEALs—discomfort is where the work begins. Their baseline isn’t comfort, it’s hardship. And that mental shift makes all the difference.

To lead at a higher level, you must learn to reset your baseline. What you consider difficult today should become your new normal tomorrow. This article explores how leaders can adopt that mindset and push beyond self-imposed limits. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Identify Your Current Baseline
• Shift From Comfort-Seeking To Capacity-Building
• Sustain The New Baseline Through Rhythms and Systems

Every August, our church in Chehalis, WA, hosts a Youth Conference, and on Thursday night and Friday night, we have Children's Church.

This year was a Gladiator theme and Apostle Paul.

We sat down to kind of recap some of the highlights from this year.

We often admire overnight success stories, dramatic transformations, and life-changing decisions made in a single moment. But true, lasting success doesn’t arrive with a bang — it’s built brick by brick, decision by decision. It’s not one big thing; it’s a thousand little things. Every time you delay action, you defer progress. Every time you give in to laziness, you subtly disrespect the people who believe in your potential. Ministry leadership isn’t found in the grand moments — it’s forged in the daily grind. If something is worth doing, it’s worth starting today. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Ministry Is Built In Small Steps, Not Giant Leaps
• Laziness Undermines Trust and Potential
• Urgency Creates Movement, and Movement Creates Results

Leadership success, whether in business, ministry, or personal development, doesn’t usually arrive like a lightning bolt. More often, it’s the result of steady, persistent effort—an accumulation of small, intentional actions that compound over time. 

While we often celebrate big breakthroughs, it’s the behind-the-scenes discipline—the systems, processes, and yes, the humble checklist—that quietly drives greatness. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Greatness is built on small things
• Systems deserve micromanagement
• Checklists shape culture

In ministry, systems shape everything. From how we plan meetings to how we communicate, systems are the structure behind the scenes. But here’s the danger: if we don’t know why we do something, we risk becoming slaves to systems that no longer serve us—or worse, that harm us. 

Just because “we’ve always done it this way” doesn’t mean it’s the right way. Often, bad habits or broken systems sneak in quietly and linger unnoticed. The good news is the same principle works in reverse—small intentional decisions can create systems that compound for good over time. 

As leaders, we must stay aware of what we’re building and ensure it’s built with purpose. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Every system should have a purpose
• Bad habits can become hidden systems
• Small, intentional habits build strong systems

Whether you’re playing a prophet, a talking sheep, or a knight from a medieval village, characters can bring the Bible to life in ways kids will never forget. But the question is: how do we go all in—costumes, voices, and all—without losing sight of biblical truth?

Let’s talk about how to make Bible characters and theme characters come alive while keeping your theology on point. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Become the character - from head to toe
• Commit to voice, emotion, and accent
• Connect character to the lesson

We're talking about the balance between taking creative liberties and maintaining biblical accuracy.

In our Sunday school we try to bring Bible stories to life each Sunday through an interactive Bible theater experience. There is a necessary balance between creative expression that grabs kids’ attention and biblical accuracy.

When we add dialogue to biblical characters that Scripture doesn’t record their words, or when we imagine the thoughts and feelings of people like the unnamed servant girl who suggested Naaman visit Elisha, we enter a delicate balance. We don’t want to just entertain; we want kids to understand that Bible stories are fundamentally different from fairy tales. Our creative additions should illuminate rather than obscure biblical truths.

• Some of the things we try to cover:
• Establish some boundaries
• Maintain distinction between facts and "parable"
• Create feedback through review
• Know the story

In the relentless pursuit of ambitious targets, leaders often fall into the trap of goal obsession—fixating on outcomes while neglecting the fundamental systems that create those outcomes. This approach, while seemingly logical, frequently leads to short-term thinking, unsustainable practices, and ultimately, inconsistent results. The most effective leaders understand a counterintuitive truth: sustainable success comes not from chasing goals, but from designing and committing to the right processes. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

1. Reverse Engineer Your Vision into Daily Actions
2. Have Systems that Don't Depend on Motivation
3. Measure Discipline, Not Just Outcomes
4. Refine the Process

The Michelin Star is a prestigious award given to restaurants by the Michelin Guide, a widely recognized and respected culinary guide. It signifies exceptional quality and is a symbol of excellence. 

The Michelin Star is a highly sought-after award, signifying that the restaurant is among the best in its city or region. 

In 1889, two brothers founded a tire company, and in 1900, they published a free guide for motorists that included maps, tire repair information, and restaurant recommendations. 

By 1926, this was a paid guide, and Michelin Tire Company began awarding single stars to fine dining establishments. 

In 1931, 3-star ratings were introduced: one star for “a very good restaurant”, two for “excellent cooking, worth a detour,” and three for “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey”. 

In 1936, Michelin published the criteria for the star rankings:

1. High-quality ingredients 
2. Mastery of flavor blending 
3. Technique and skill 
4. Chef’s personality 
5. Consistency 

We use the above criteria to discuss how this applies to children's ministry.

Focus is not simply about working harder or longer—it's about channeling collective energy, resources, and talent toward what matters most. Sunday school ministries that master the art of focus develop a cutting edge that compounds over time, creating momentum that makes them thrive. This focused approach transforms what may be a scattered script of silliness and fun into a laser focus on the altar service, ultimately transforming lives. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Overstating
• Remove Dilution
• Consistency Builds Momentum
• There's Power in a Team

In today’s culture, we often obsess over destinations – the promotion, the milestone, or even attendance numbers – while neglecting the path that takes us there. The most effective “ministers” know that true success and fulfillment comes from more than just reaching the goal, but from fully engaging with the journey itself.

When we approach our work half-heartedly, simply going through the motions until we reach some distant objective, we risk boredom, disengagement, and eventually burnout. Conversely, when we commit ourselves completely to the process—when we're "all in"—we discover that the actual work of "doing" becomes a source of energy, creativity, and satisfaction. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Presence Transforms Performance
• Continuous Growth
• Connect Tasks to Purpose
• Embracing Imperfection and Iteration

Imagine walking into a classroom and suddenly finding yourself on the streets of ancient Rome, in the depths of a rainforest, or aboard a spaceship headed for distant planets. In our Sunday school, we love building big, epic sets.

Studies show that immersive learning environments can increase student engagement by up to 40% and improve information retention significantly. How much more important it is with the message that we’re teaching every single Sunday!

Today, we're exploring how going all-out with themed classrooms—complete with elaborate decor, costumed teachers, thematic music, and interactive props—can transform the Sunday experience and transport kids to another world. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The Impact of Immersive Environments
• Break the Mold
• Some Sets We've Done
• Over the Top

Leading kids ministry is a deeply rewarding calling, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. While we strive for excellence, it's easy to become overwhelmed by perfectionism and lose sight of what truly matters. 

We want to explore how embracing the occasional chaos of Sunday school can lead to powerful altar calls and meaningful discipleship. Some of the most impactful moments happen when we step away from our carefully crafted plans and into the mess of real ministry. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Perfect Plans Meet Real People
• Adapt or Die
• Fail Forward
• Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing

When we see successful people, businesses, or projects, we often witness only the final result—the tip of the iceberg, while 90% remains hidden beneath the surface. 

For every leadership triumph we witness, there exists a hidden landscape of challenges, setbacks, and perseverance that remains largely invisible. Like a duck gliding gracefully across a pond while frantically paddling underneath, success stories typically showcase the polished outcome while concealing the chaos, hard work, and determination that made it possible. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The Emotional Roller Coaster
• Foundation of Failures
• Hidden Hours
• The Messy Middle

In the kingdom of God, creating a culture of excellence isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s imperative. When Sunday school ministries commit to excellence as a core value, they establish an environment where innovation thrives, staff are inspired, and kids are fully engaged. 

A culture of excellence doesn't happen by accident; it requires intentional leadership, consistent reinforcement, and alignment throughout the ministry.

Som of the things we try to cover:

• What Could Be?
• Set The Standard
• Push The Envelope
• Part Of Something Bigger

Leading in children's ministry is a bit like tending a campfire. When you first begin, there's lots of excitement—bright flames that catch everyone's attention! The kids are enthusiastic, the volunteers are eager, and new ideas spark all around. 

But just like real fire, ministry passion naturally tends to die down over time. Those initial big flames might settle, but underneath can be a powerful bed of coals—your deep commitment and calling—that just needs some fresh fuel to keep burning strong. Maintaining this fire isn't automatic; it requires intentional care. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Seasons
• Fueling the Fire
• Watch Out For Fire Extinguishers
• Wildfire

The difference between good and exceptional often lies in one's commitment to excellence. Many settle for meeting basic expectations but never reaching their full potential. We find ourselves "getting by" with adequate performance, losing sight of what true excellence looks like. Yet within each of us lies the capacity for world-class achievement—the ability to stand out as a "5-star" contributor within our kids ministry. Today, we want to explore how to recognize and overcome the mediocrity trap and chart a course toward exceptional performance.

Some of the thing we try to cover:

1. "Good Enough"
2. Set Higher Standards
3. Develop a Growth Mindset
4. Embrace Discomfort

When you return to your corner after the final bell, exhausted but knowing you held nothing back—that's when you've truly succeeded as a fighter. 

There is something that distinguishes professionals. They’re on a completely different level. 

I believe that most of this is due to countless hours of practice and preparation. But there’s another element, which is how they treat each performance-even if it’s just singing a couple of lines during an interview. 

True professionals or experts are always “on” and when they do what they do, it’s at the next level. It may seem effortless, but they give it everything they’ve got.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Focus
• Enthusiastic Energy
• Empty the Tank
• Halfway is a Waste

The most memorable children’s productions often emerge from the smallest ideas. When directing Sunday school, the magic often lies in taking the seemingly insignificant – a quick joke, a minor character interaction, or a fleeting moment – and transforming it into something spectacular. Sunday school can thrive on this kind of amplification, where small seeds grow into unforgettable theatrical experiences.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Amplify small things
• Creating a visual spectacle
• If the character thinks it's important, then it is
• Highlight the unexpected

Imagine as a Kidmin leader you walk into an event and a guy yells out, “goofy, crazy, silly!” Then someone else chimes in, “immature, foolish, shallow!” And then an official looking lady comes up with a huge sticker that has all these words and places it squarely on your forehead to wear for the duration of the event. Imagine how you might interact knowing that every time you engaged with someone they were staring at that label.

When we assign labels to those on our staff or those kids in our care, we participate in a powerful act of identity formation. Whether positive or negative, these labels can deeply influence how people behave and grow in their walk with God. Today we want to talk about labeling others and even reevaluating our own labels. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Shake it off
• God isn't disappointed in you
• Self-fulfilling nature of labels
• Top-of-the-line label maker

As leaders in the church, we carry a profound responsibility. God has placed unique gifts, talents, and resources in our care—not merely for safekeeping, but for multiplication. 

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25 reminds us that faithfulness isn't measured by preservation alone, but by wise stewardship that yields growth. When we recognize that everything we possess comes from God's hand, we understand that we are accountable for how we develop and deploy these divine investments. 

Our calling is not simply to maintain what we've been given, but to maximize our God-given potential for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Intentional uniqueness
• Divine accountability
• Growth mindset
• Investment

We call this podcast Kidmin Backstage and yet we often talk about leadership principles and one’s personal growth as a Sunday school leader. So today we wanted to live up to our name and take a peek behind the scenes of our Sunday school. Along with this, maybe we can offer some ideas on how someone might perform a Bible story – or what mistakes to avoid. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The best story resource
• Are well-known Bible stories boring?
• Involve the kids
• Blooper reel

Your most meaningful contributions to God's kingdom are still ahead. Every Sunday school leader has moments where they wonder if their best ministry days are behind them. But the truth is, your deepest impact on kids, your most transformative lessons, and your most profound ministry moments might be waiting just around the corner. The path to your greatest achievements in ministry starts with believing God isn't finished working through you yet. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• It's a different world now
• When was your last failure?
• It's not too late
• It won't just happen

Momentum is the driving force that multiplies success and makes progress easier. If we as Sunday school leaders can focus and capture momentum, obstacles appear smaller, and achievements feel more attainable. But to access this powerful force, it takes effort. The beginning can be painstaking and labor-intensive, but once you start the snowball, it’s virtually unstoppable. There is a method to achieving momentum and there’s a process to sustaining it, and that’s what we want to talk about today. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Clear Vision
• Monumental Effort
• Maintain Momentum
• The Process

How much should we expect out of our Sunday school kids? Experience and even research show that children rise to meet the standards we set for them. When we raise the bar while providing support, we create an environment where kids can discover and achieve their God-given potential. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• The Power of Expectation
• Inspiring Atmosphere
• Raise the Bar
• Talents Parable

Excellence isn't a destination – it's a habit formed through consistent, intentional choices in both major initiatives and minor details. In ministry, our commitment to excellence reflects our devotion to God and impacts our ability to influence others. When we approach every task with excellence, regardless of its perceived importance, we build trust and create a foundation for lasting impact. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Extraordinary results are built on small tasks done with excellence
• Excellence is contagious
• Consistency compounds impact
• Details reveal character

Being a great leader isn't about your own achievements. It's about building a space where people can become their best selves. Real leadership strength doesn't come from being the boss—it comes from spotting what makes each person special and helping them shine even brighter. When you become exceptional at lifting others up and listening to different ideas, something amazing happens: everyone grows stronger, and the whole team becomes more than the sum of its parts. It all starts with how you see people and connect with them. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Value Outside Perspective
• See the Potential in Others
• Inspire with Vision
• Empower with Purpose

There's a profound difference between acting like a character and truly being them. When audiences detect "acting," the magic breaks. But when they forget they're watching a performance - when they're simply witnessing a real person living through real moments - that's when theater becomes transformative. 

The difference between a good performance and an unforgettable one often lies not in the big dramatic moments, but in the subtle details that make a character feel truly alive. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Characters Connect
• Embrace Your Character's Reality
• Trust Your Character's Impulses
• Stay Present in the Character's Journey

• Bold Vision Creates Magnetic Appeal
• Excellence Demands Excellence
• Challenge Breeds Growth
• Impact Attracts Investment

• Daily Disciplines
• Learn Beyond Your Current Role
• Build Relationship Equity
• Strengthen Your Character Foundation

• Create a Funny Situation Instead of a Joke
• Use Honest Reactions
• Let the Kids Be the Smart Ones
• Play With Status

• Narnia Memories
• Other Sunday School Memories
• Why We Do Themes Like Narnia
• Bible Story Memories

Remember, Jesus himself faced the temptation to quit in Gethsemane. His response - "Nevertheless, not my will but yours be done" - provides our model for pushing through difficulty toward divine purpose. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Recognize the Signs of Quitting Culture
• Reframe Difficulties as Growth Opportunities
• Champion Long-Term Commitment
• The Art of Persistence

• Master Your Morning Routine
• Invest In Continuous Learning
• Push Harder
• Stay Mission-Focused

• Identify Strategic Reset Points
• Cast the Vision
• Build Early Wins Into Your Plan
• Establish New Rhythms Quickly

• Take the Plunge with Myles (Episode #10)
• The Antagonist with John (Episode #11)
• Raise the Flag with Bryan (Episode #15)
• Glory in the Grind with Matthew (Episode #30)

I hope you enjoy this; if not, we'll be back to our regularly scheduled broadcast next week!

• Keep the Priorities in Mind
• Use Systems
• Non-Negotiables
• Remember the Mission

In a world that's quick to criticize and slow to encourage, our children are bombarded with messages that can crush their spirits. As Sunday school leaders our job isn't just to teach Bible stories - it's to help kids discover and reach the potential God has placed inside them. 

Some of the things we try to cover:
1. The Power of Personal Narrative
2. Character Growth
3. A Culture of Encouragement
4. Embrace Failure

What begins as a minor compromise in effort often cascades into a pattern of mediocrity that affects every aspect of our ministry. Like a small crack in a foundation, these seemingly insignificant choices to give less than our best eventually threaten the entire structure of our work and witness.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Slow Fade
• Preparation Sets the Tone
• Kids Notice
• Small Choices Add Up (bad and good)

• Response to pressure
• Time allocation
• Relationships
• Personal discipline

• Keep focus and stay present
• Keep your balance
• Resist the urge to rush the end
• Make a lasting impact

Your team's future success isn't determined by chance – it's determined by the choices you make today about how you'll grow tomorrow. Make those choices count. 

The trick is to be intentional about everything you do and collaborate with your team. When everyone “gets it” – from the lead actors to the facilitators – you can create an incredible experience that makes kids glad they came and want to come back. 

But here's the kicker: people aren’t sitting there hoping you'll fail. People actually want you to do something amazing. They want you to step up and lead!

If we can stop being timid and concerned about what we might look like or what people might think about us and just step out and do the work of God without constraint, we might be amazed at what we accomplish.

Imagine: Who is waiting for you to ‘show up’? 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Reframe your perspective
• Embrace vulnerability
• Focus on your team
• Take action

Have a question? Got an interesting topic? Email me at info@kidminbackstage.com

• Milestones are meant for journeys
• The oxygen mask principle
• The ripple effect

• Delight in serving others
• Unexpected customer service
• Go over the top
• Do it for the team and the kids

• Cultivate Consistency and Continuous Improvement
• Build a Process Framework
• Focus on Biblical Education

• Clarify Apostolic Values
• Servant Leadership
• Sphere of Influence

• Getting over stage fright
• Low-Risk Threshold opportunity
• Entry level for several roles
• Intentional development

• Change it up
• Keeping Track
• Don't break the fourth wall
• Cast for consistency

1. Experience builds intuition
2. The more engaged you are, the better your intuition
3. Your perspective affects your intuition
4. Fast-track building your intuition

In Sunday school and just church ministry there are many jobs and most of us wear more than one hat. When you’re trying to overcome a challenge, there’s a concept of throwing everything to see what sticks. I think we should take this approach when it comes to children’s ministry. If you’re asked to be a dog instead of wearing the firemen’s hat, be the best dog you can be! 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Be available and you will be used
• Fully invest
• Be willing to fulfill "less than ideal" positions
• Pass it on

• Dreams and Ideas
• Prioritize
• Follow Through
• Move Fast

• Abstract concepts lose attention
• Set the stage (stage props)
• Using handheld props
• Various types of visuals

If you have any questions or ideas of topics you'd like to hear email us at info@kidminbackstage.com

• When the person on stage is nervous, it makes everyone nervous
• Different types of stage presence
• Practice makes perfect
• Remember your purpose

• Jesus told stories for a reason.
• Kids today are overwhelmed with "attractive" media.
• Know the details.
• Give it your all.

Some of the things we try to cover:

• It's not a competition.
• Realize what you already have.
• Let greener grass be an inspiration.
• Some grass is just different, not better or worse.
• Follow your pastor's landscaping specifications. 

• Why cool themes are important.
• Stories keep kids interested.
• Create specific scenarios to obtain interest.
• Remember, you will have a lasting impact.

• Don't be distracted by the "BIG"
• Outline the big goals for your Sunday school
• Work backwards
• Each small bite creates momentum

• Why Sunday School Shouldn't be Boring
• Fast-Paced Sunday School
• The Level of Interest from the Staff is Translated
• Stay Unpredictable

• Little Things Add Up
• Kids Notice
• Power in Perfection
• Manage the Details

• THERE’S MORE THAN ONE SIDE TO THE STORY
• WHERE ARE THEY COMING FROM?
• THEIR POINT OF VIEW
• APPLYING IT TO STAFF

• It Starts With Me
• Learning About God's Word
• Develop a Relationship With God
• Teach How To Be a Christian

• Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork
• Collaborative Scriptwriting
• Collaborating Outside of Sunday School

There are some people that seem to know a little bit about everything. These people are extremely valuable to have around and can accomplish so much, yet sometimes they can’t quite reach the level of quality you desire. Today, I’m not necessarily advocating for one or the other, I just merely want to discuss the merits of the two and if there’s any kind of balance we can have. 

To reference today’s title; imagine a boxer that is too worried about what people in the audience think to execute. They wonder if they should’ve worn a different color, or does the ref think his breath stinks? This is extreme and even silly, but we find ourselves in the quote, ring, every Sunday and sometimes we feel inadequate. 


Some of the things we try to cover:

• False Bravado
• Supreme Confidence
• Inadequate and Unqualified

• Changing Your Outlook
• Beyond the Bare Minimum
• The Extra Mile Person
• You Can Do Anything for One Hour
• The 2nd Mile is Enjoyable

 David was anointed to be king way before he ever stepped foot into the palace. He fought Goliath when he had no position or authority to do so. But David was destined to be a king.

As Sunday school leaders we need to understand that we are working in the kingdom of the Almighty God. And we need to remember that some of the kids we deal with each week, has a king (or queen) inside them. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Remember Who We're Working For
• Be Bold in Faith
• We Are Working With Kings

• No Hypocrites
• Everyone Started Somewhere
• People Don't Really Think About You Anyway
• Be Confident AND Humble

• Avoid 'GroupThink'
• Think Outside the Box
• The Goal is more important than the Role
• C.R.O. Chief Reminding Officer

• Having a Love For Kids
• Connect By Not Being Boring
• Facilitating Kids' Connection to God
• And a few Sunday School stories...

So, the temptation of quick fix has always been there. In Sunday school we can look around at other churches or even see a lack of what we define as progress in our own Sunday school and become discouraged. Today we want to talk about the “secret” to get out of the microwave mentality. 

Some of the things we try to cover:

• Define the Goal
• Define the Path
• Not "Do" but "Be"
• Start Now

• Being creative "in the moment"
• Fix it on the fly
• Prepping for ad-lib (an oxymoron?)
• A few examples

• Discipline Over Feelings
• Our One Chance
• Motivation is a Byproduct of Doing
• Don't Lower Your Standards for Kids

• What the Costume Manager does.
• The Backstage Scramble.
• Random Props & Costumes.

• Why do we need training?
• Training Topics brainstorm
  • Facilitating (crowd control
  • Acting
  • Action Songs
  • Teaching
  • A/V (audio/visual)
  • Puppets
  • Outreach
  • Bus Ministry
  • Scripting
  • Infrastructure (building sets, decor, cleanup etc.)
• Scheduling

• Symptoms of stage fright.
• Overcoming (most of) stage fright.
• Be real.

A few of the things we try to cover:

Building a relationship with your Pastor.
Cultivating a relationship and trust with your team.
Making your Pastor's vision your own.

• Personality
• Who
• What
• Where
• Primary Motivation