Social Media Church is a podcast for conversations with church leaders about social media, web strategy, and online trends. Hosted by Nils Smith and Nick Runyon.
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"Church With No Walls" Podcast: Religion, Livestreaming and Social Media in a Post-Pandemic World
Ryan M. Dearbone
For nearly 3 years, churches and other institutions of faith struggled with how to get their message out to the masses during a time when a worldwide pandemic raged. Many of them went to livestreaming and social media. This podcast follows what that experience was like for religious leaders, members of religious organizations, those who became "media ministers" and more. We also look at how media ministry is transforming the church now that the pandemic is over. Will the church as we know it ...
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Big Announcement from DK and Nils (Not Clickbait)
28:03
28:03
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In today’s episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds discuss the past, present, and future of Amplify Social Media—the company that has been our trusted partner in all our endeavors. Nils recounts the company’s origins over a decade ago, when it was established to help churches and ministries enhance their social media presence. DK explains why he is tak…
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Episode 12- "A New Generation of Disciples" (Pt. 1)- Minister Donari Merritt
47:02
47:02
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Send us a Text Message. In this 2-part episode, we talk to 19-year-old Minister Donari Merritt, who has been preaching since he was 14. In the first episode, Minister Merritt talks about his journey into preaching at an early age, and he gives us his perspective on what Gen Z feels about religion in a virtual space. He also shares his thoughts on w…
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Is Geofencing a Friend or Foe? (Justin Nava)
49:51
49:51
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In this week's episode, DK Hammonds and guest Justin Nava discuss what geofencing is about in the context of church and faith-based communities. DK shares the importance of using the right tools found in the tech space and introducing them into the church. Justin emphasizes how geofencing or geotargeting is properly done to make an impact in God’s …
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Navigating Politics on Social Media for Churches
34:20
34:20
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In this week's episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds tackle the complexities of navigating politics on social media for churches. Nils shares the challenges pastors face when expressing political views online, including potential division within the congregation. DK offers strategies for managing political discourse on church social media while maint…
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Episode 10- A Rock & A Hard Place: Part 1- (Pastor Dana Lockhart, Faith Lutheran Church- Lexington KY)
1:06:21
1:06:21
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Send us a Text Message. In the first episode of 2-part interview with Pastor Dana Lockhart, we learn the struggles he faced in the early days of the pandemic to set up a livestream and social media presence at a church he was only acting pastor of. He also tells us how the church still came together in-person to provide supplies to his community wh…
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Episode 11: A Rock & A Hard Place (Pt. 2) Pastor Dana Lockhart, Faith Lutheran Church- Lexington, KY
56:18
56:18
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Send us a Text Message. In part 2 of our interview with Pastor Lockhart, we look at the pressure that pastors may feel when these days when crafting their sermon knowing it will be sharing space in the virtual world with millions of others on a weekly basis. We also discuss how some churches and their leadership have chosen to become more provocati…
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Top AI Tools for Churches with Kenny Jahng
41:36
41:36
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Nils Smith and Kenny Jahng explore the impact of AI tools on churches and ministries in this week's episode. They discuss a range of AI tools and their applications in ministry settings, discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of this rapidly developing technology. Kenny even shares a fascinating example: his team's use of AI to create vid…
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Join Nils Smith and DK Hammonds as they explore different software options churches can leverage. In this episode, our hosts discuss the software and technology they've used in their own experiences and what they believe churches can benefit from. DK excitedly shares his recent drone purchase and the apps he's been using. Nils also details software…
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In this week’s episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds talk about the importance of SEO for websites. They explore content optimization, user experience, onsite and offsite SEO strategies, and the impact of AI on search results and SEO. DK shares Maslow's Hierarchy of SEO Needs, crawl accessibility, and some technical tips. Nils emphasizes having your …
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Episode 8- "Don't Overshadow the Word of God" (Elder Rob Wilson, Technology Minister at Zion Community Church- Northern Suffolk, VA)
35:03
35:03
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Send us a Text Message. The ultimate reason for adding technology to the church has been to share the gospel, but how do you keep it from overshadowing the word? In this episode, Ryan Dearbone talks to Technology Minister Rob Wilson of Zion Community Church about several topics, including building togetherness in the sanctuary versus through online…
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Episode 7- Connecting The Word Around the World (Julian Paul-Retired South African Priest)
31:36
31:36
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Send us a Text Message. What was church worship like outside of the United States during the pandemic? Ryan talks with his father-in-law, retired South African priest Julian Paul, about what challenges his church faced and how they responded. He shares how social media and livestreaming kept churches spread throughout the world connected to his. We…
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Episode 6: A Simple Plan (Dustin Bratcher- Liberty Methodist Church, Beaver Dam, KY)
44:07
44:07
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Send us a Text Message. Sometimes you don't need expensive technology to spread the word of God.... even during a pandemic! In this episode, we talk to Dustin Bratcher, Technology Coordinator for Liberty Methodist Church in Beaver Dam, KY about how his small church mixed simple parking lot worship services with the power of digital technology to st…
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Episode 9: "Technology Was Made for This" - Carla Dotson & Reva Keeling (Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Nashville, TN)
32:31
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Send us a Text Message. As much as we would like to attend church service in-person, sometimes we just can't. So having the online option can be a Godsend for many. In this episode, Ryan talks with Carla Dotson & Reva Keeling, both members at Mt. Zion in Nashville, TN about how they have used livestreaming to keep engaged with their church even tho…
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Using Value, Gamification and Automation to Help the Local Church with Dr. Justin Lester
44:37
44:37
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Using AI in the Church Pastor Justin Lester and DK Hammonds discuss how AI can enhance ministry and outreach in local churches. They explore gamifying church culture through values-based rewards and automated systems. Listen as they share case studies of implementing AI tools like chatbots, analytics, and immersive experiences. Learn how automation…
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Join us on this episode as DK Hammonds sits down with Roger Coles, a Canva design expert and top Canva Creator. Roger shares his journey from designing templates in Canva to becoming a leading figure in the community. Together, they dive into best practices for crafting impactful visual campaigns, utilizing Canva's brand kits, video editing tools, …
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The Power of YouTube Packaging to Reach More People for Your Church
39:00
39:00
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In this episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds discuss proven strategies for optimizing YouTube videos and channels for churches. They cover the importance of titles, descriptions, tags and thumbnails based on insights from top YouTube experts. Nils shares tips for packaging content to maximize views and reach from YouTube's algorithm while DK emphasi…
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AI and the Future of Bible Engagement with John Plake of American Bible Society
30:03
30:03
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John Plake, Chief Program Officer at American Bible Society, joins Nils Smith to discuss insights from ABS's annual State of the Bible report on AI and online church trends. They explore public perceptions of AI in relation to spirituality and the Bible across generations. John shares how research found differences between general and religious vie…
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Episode 5- From a Luxury to a Necessity (Richard Samuels- Owner, Pro Audio & Video Professionals)
40:15
40:15
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40:15
Send us a Text Message. Churches have been faithfully using audio and video companies for years for in-house needs. However, live-streaming services was not a thought for many. But the pandemic changed all of that. In this episode, we talk to Richard Samuels of Pro Video & Audio Professionals in Franklin, KY about how he went from installing media …
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Episode 4- Starting from Scratch (London Dixon, Greater Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church)
47:42
47:42
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47:42
Send us a Text Message. In the next episode of the podcast, London Dixon joins us and talks about his time as the Media Minister of the church, a role he wasn't expecting to have. He talks about having to record services on iPads and editing them just to create a presence on social media. He also recalls how he began streaming old church services f…
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Episode 3- Never Too Far From My Church (Bridgette Starks Terry, State Street Baptist Church, Bowling Green, KY)
24:20
24:20
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Send us a Text Message. We meet Bridgette Starks Terry, who is a virtual member of State Street Baptist Church in Kentucky, but she lives in Atlanta, GA. Find out how her life-long connection to this church led to her return in a virtual form. What issues does being a virtual member present and how does she navigate it? Why does she choose to be a …
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Episode 2- The History of Religion & Media (Dr. Larry Snyder, Religious Historian)
45:28
45:28
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45:28
Send us a Text Message. We sit down to talk to Dr. Larry Snyder, Professor Emeritus at Western Kentucky University about how religion has evolved over the years, including during the pandemic. He talks about both the new dependence on new forms of media but also the counterculture that isn't using media to guide its religious services. he touches o…
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Sit down with Nils Smith and DK Hammonds as they discuss how to effectively manage negative comments and reviews that come with increased online influence. They explore ignoring trolls, responding to criticism privately, and focusing on positive conversations. DK shares wisdom from personal experiences and advises having a plan to cut out distracti…
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How to Expand Your Church's Reach Through Sermon Shots with Corey Alderin
35:52
35:52
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In this episode, DK Hammonds interviews Corey Alderin of Sermon Shots to learn how churches can use their app to repurpose sermons into engaging social media content. Corey demonstrates how to easily create high-quality video clips, discussion guides, blog posts, and more using the sermon transcript and audio. DK and Corey discuss how Sermon Shots …
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A New Way to Reach People Online with Brad Hill of Gloo
37:14
37:14
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Tune in to this insightful episode as Nils Smith sits down with Brad Hill from Gloo to explore the intersection of technology and outreach in churches. With declining church attendance, the conversation delves into the urgency for innovation in leveraging digital tools effectively. Brad sheds light on Gloo's initiatives, including the Explorer’s Pr…
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X vs Threads, which is better? X, renowned for its expansive user base and user-friendly interface, goes head-to-head with Threads, a platform focused on concise communication and niche communities. In this episode, we dissect the unique features, user demographics, and community dynamics of each platform. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Platform …
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Bridgetown Church Quitting Live Streaming Services
26:25
26:25
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Step into the world of Bridgetown Church as they make a radical decision in the digital age–quitting live streaming services. In a landscape where online connectivity seems essential, this Portland-based congregation is challenging the status quo. Discover how this move has reshaped the Bridgetown community's engagement with worship, fellowship, an…
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Join Nils Smith and DK Hammonds in this podcast episode as they dive into the potential ban of TikTok in the US and its far-reaching implications, particularly for churches. Through engaging debate, they weigh the likelihood of a ban and contemplate what the future may hold for the platform. Amidst the uncertainty, the hosts also provide valuable a…
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Viral Church Content and Effective Ministry with Brotha Rollins
46:41
46:41
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Join DK Hammonds for an insightful conversation with Brother Rollins, a pioneer in online preaching and social media ministry, as they dive into the world of viral church content and effective storytelling. Discover how authentic stories, intertwined with the gospel message, can deeply engage audiences and gain practical tips from Brother Rollins' …
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A Conversation on Digital Discipleship and Preaching with Reverend Janiece Williams
39:04
39:04
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In today’s episode, DK Hammonds sits down with Reverend Janiece Williams for a rich discussion on digital discipleship and preaching. Rev. Williams shares insights from her experience in creating Christian education resources and a new sermon development workbook. They explore how churches can effectively engage in digital discipleship and the impo…
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In today’s episode, Nils Smith and DK Hammonds dive into the world of social media for churches and ministries. Together, they explored the power of TikTok as a tool for reaching new audiences. DK reveals his secrets in unlocking viral growth on TikTok, from clever hashtag strategies to engaging duets and livestreaming while Nils introduces the int…
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Episode 1- Meeting the People Where They Are- Dr. Stacy Spencer, New Direction Christian Church, Memphis TN
27:40
27:40
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Send us a Text Message. Join us as we talk to Dr. Stacy Spencer of New Direction Christian Church about how he navigated the pandemic using his already blossoming media ministry. He also talks about the challenges and blessings of having virtual members, how he had to re-wire the way he conducts service to accommodate a virtual audience and how he …
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In today’s episode, hosts Nils Smith and DK Hammonds explore the future of technology through the lens of spatial computing devices like Apple's new VR headset, the Apple VR Pro. From potential use cases in productivity, education, and gaming to its implications for churches and ministries, this discussion offers insights into the capabilities of c…
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Send us a Text Message. Before you begin listening to the actual podcast, find out the reasoning for this podcast's existence. Learn why a podcast about religion, livestreaming and social media in a post-pandemic world is truly fascinating!By Ryan M. Dearbone
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Apple Vision Pro & Social Media Church: Future-Proofing Faith
47:06
47:06
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DK Hammonds and Aaron Magnuson reunite with excitement on the Social Media Church podcast to talk about new beginnings and their thriving online community. They dive into the revolutionary world of virtual reality glasses and the captivating experiences they offer. Contemplating on the future, they speculate on the potential of AR/VR to replace tra…
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Bridging Faith and Technology: Navigating Digital Ministry Convo with Krys McDonald
46:53
46:53
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Join Pastors DK Hammonds and Krys McDonald as they navigate the dynamic intersection of theology and technology in today's digital landscape. In this episode, Krys shares her journey in ministry and her passion for digital discipleship. Pastor DK also emphasizes the importance of fostering online community and relationships through social media. To…
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God in the Grid: Uniting Theology, Tech, Culture, and Social Church with Dr. John Dyer
36:30
36:30
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In today’s episode, we're joined by Dr. John Dyer, a distinguished expert at the forefront of bridging faith and technology in today’s digital age. Together, let’s navigate the intricate interplay between ancient theology and contemporary tech, unraveling the impact on our spiritual journey and the evolving landscape of the Church. In this conversa…
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2024 Social Media Predictions with Kenny Jahng
44:35
44:35
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44:35
Step into the future of social media with our latest episode featuring Kenny Jahng, a leading expert in digital communication and social media strategy. Join us as Kenny shares his predictions for the social media landscape in 2024, offering insights into emerging platforms, evolving content strategies, and the changing dynamics of influencer marke…
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How Nick Vujicic is Bringing Your Ministry to All Nations
27:17
27:17
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27:17
Join us in this compelling episode as we delve into an inspiring conversation with the remarkable Nick Vujicic–renowned evangelist, motivational speaker, and author. It’s likely that you’ve seen Nick V on social media whether you knew his name or not. Discover the incredible journey of how Nick tirelessly works to bring the message of faith and hop…
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The Impact of AI on the Future of Ministry with Drew Dickens
42:26
42:26
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42:26
Join us for a captivating discussion with the insightful Drew Dickens as we explore the impact of AI on the future of ministry. In this episode, Drew, a visionary at the intersection of technology and spirituality, shares his perspectives on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of ministry. Dive into the ethical considerations, op…
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The State of Online Ministry in 2024 with Jay Kranda
51:56
51:56
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Step into the digital pulpit with us as we sit down with Jay Kranda in this episode of the Social Media Podcast. Together, let’s navigate the intricate landscape of online ministry in 2024, exploring the latest trends, challenges, and innovations. Drawing from his extensive expertise, Jay discusses the evolution of virtual worship services, the rol…
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Virtual Reality Church with Stuart McPherson of Lakeland Church
55:39
55:39
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Step into the virtual sanctuary with Stuart McPherson, a ministry pioneer from Lakeland Church. Join us for an intriguing discussion on the emergence of Virtual Reality Church as Stuart provides a firsthand experience of Lakeland Church's journey into the realm of VR in exploring the fusion of ministry and technology. Whether you're a tech enthusia…
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Technology, Theology, and Digital discipleship with Dr. Stacy Dandrige
43:25
43:25
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43:25
In today’s episode, Dr. Stacy Dandrige, a leading expert in the intersection of technology and theology, guides us through the transformative impact of digital advancements on spiritual practices and discipleship. From ethical considerations in AI to the potential of digital platforms for religious outreach, we explore the dynamic relationship betw…
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Church Copywriting Like a Pro with Holly Crawshaw
1:02:32
1:02:32
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From sermon series descriptions to social media posts, seasoned expert in church communications, Holly Crawshaw, joins us as she unveils the secrets of church copywriting, providing invaluable insights on crafting compelling messages that will resonate with your congregation. Tune in for more practical tips to help you communicate with impact and f…
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Pastors and Personal Branding with Angie White
46:39
46:39
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Join us in the latest episode of the Social Media Church Podcast as we sit down with Angie White of Rock Church to explore the tension that comes around pastors and personal branding. In this conversation, Angie shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities pastors face in developing their personal brand. From navigating social m…
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Are you a Christian leader or ministry enthusiast looking for inspiration and connection? Tune in as we get to know Alicia Lee and Danny Yoo who founded the heart and soul of a Christian social network, Faithly. Join us on this insightful journey to explore the intersection of faith and ministry, gain valuable insights, and how this platform can he…
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A Neural Network for Sermons with Michael Whittle
31:05
31:05
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Prepare to embark on a spiritual and technological journey like no other, as we unveil a groundbreaking fusion of faith and innovation with Michael Whittle. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of spirituality and cutting-edge technology, guided by Michael's expertise. We explore how neural networks and AI are transforming the…
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The words “data” and “analytics” have been thrown around a lot in the digital and social media world. But do we really know what they mean and why they're important? And why does it matter for our church? Join us for this captivating conversation as Amber Smart, founder of SmartMetrix, shares her expertise on how we can connect these dots and help …
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Social Media Management for Multisite Churches with Kent Richardson
36:56
36:56
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Uncover invaluable insights and strategies tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities multisite churches face when navigating social media management. Tune in as special guest Kent Richardson, the Director of Communications for New Life Community Church in Chicago, shares his wisdom on crafting compelling content, optimizing platform manag…
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Digital Evangelism Strategies with Mark Appleton of BGEA
32:41
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In today's episode, we dive into the world of digital evangelism with Mark Appleton, where he shares invaluable insights into how evangelism evolved in the digital age. Additionally, we explore the challenges and opportunities faced, along with the power of storytelling in sharing faith, and gain a glimpse into the future of digital evangelism. Mar…
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The Social Media Strategy You Didn't Know You Needed with Marle Mae
44:26
44:26
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Join us for an insightful podcast episode as we sit down with Marle Mae, a distinguished social media strategist from the Philippines, to unveil the untapped potential of "The Social Media Strategy You Didn't Know You Needed." Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just dipping your toes into the digital waters, Marle's insights will transform the w…
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