Groups Matter Podcast

Hey friends! We are excited to start a new season of Group Answers starting next week! You are not going to want to miss the incredible conversations with guests J.T. English, Jen Wilkin, Coleman Ford, and so many more! If you have caught up on last season, we encourage you to go do that now! Join us back next week to kick off a season you're not going to want to miss!Take the Group Answers Survey and Enter to win the BIG giveaway HERE. 

In this episode of the Group Answers podcast, Mary Wiley and Ashley Gorman discuss the value of reading lists and their approach to curating and consuming books. They explore the impact of reading on discipleship, leadership, and group ministry, as well as the role of reading in forming relationships and fostering curiosity. The conversation delves into the significance of books in shaping character, knowledge, and relational connections within a group setting.Mary Wiley holds a Bachelors in Theology and a Masters in Theological Studies at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She serves as the Associate Publisher at B&H Publishing Group, and teaches and writes for women. She is passionate about teaching the importance of having a strong understanding of what you believe, why you believe it, and why it matters.Ashley Gorman serves as a senior acquisitions editor at B&H Publishing Group. She holds a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Theological Seminary and has been trained under The Charles Simeon

Host of His Glory, Her Good, Amanda Mejias, joins Haley Malone and Brian Daniel to discuss a much needed topic! Amanda discusses the significance of relationships in discipleship, the challenges and needs of teen girls, and the evolving role of women in ministry. It also delves into the impact of technology on youth and the importance of creating space for young women in church. Amanda Mejias serves on the Lifeway Student team as the Specialist for Girls Ministry and Women who lead in Student Ministry. She is passionate about equipping church leaders as they minister to and disciple students. Amanda shares insights on effective discipleship and the changing dynamics of ministry for the next generation. We know you'll love this episode! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:-His Glory, Her Good-This is Girls Ministry-Connect with Lifeway Girls Ministry Take the Group Answers Survey and Enter to win the BIG giveaway HERE. 

On today's show we are diving into the intersection of creativyt and discipleship! Brain Daniel and Haley. Malone are joined by Heather Zemple to cover a range of topics including leadership, discipleship, creativity, and generational dynamics within the church. Heather Zemple is passionate about making disciples, cultivating community, and curating experiences that expand the horizons of possibility. With a background in biological engineering, she brings a unique perspective to ministry leadership.   Heather leads NCC’s Dream Collective community of pastors, artists, and entrepreneurs who explore the intersection of gospel and culture.  Heather wrote a few books, including Community is Messy, Amazed and Confused, and Big Change, Small Groups.  She loves watching football, finding the best BBQ joints, and trekking through National Parks with her husband Ryan and energetic daughter Sawyer Elizabeth.Heather shares insights on the association between creativity and leadership, the role of creativity in dis

Hosts Brian Daniel and Haley Malone sit down with Dr. Katie McCoy to discuss her new book, 'To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity and How Christians Can Respond'. Katie provides insights on engaging in conversations about gender confusion and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the issue and the individual. Katie McCoy serves as Director Women's Ministry at Texas Baptists. She holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from Southwestern Seminary (TX), where she served on faculty for five years. Katie's research includes the patterns of justice for women in Old Testament laws as well as the intersection of theology, gender, and women's studies. She is the author of To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity and How Christians Can Respond and co-author of Humanity, part of the Theology for the People of God series. Katie is a political news junkie and a frequent contributor to WORLD Radio’s Culture Friday.Throughout this conversation, Katie shares how Christi

On today's episode of Group Answers, Daniel Im discusses the changing landscape of the church in a post-everything world. He highlights the increased hunger for spiritual things and the recognition that the world's promises don't deliver. Daniel emphasizes the need to move beyond assumptions and focus on the interested individuals in our churches and communities. He introduces the concept of sleepers, seekers, consumers, and disciples, and encourages small group leaders to create an open and non-judgmental space where people can ask the questions they are wrestling with. Daniel also emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in group discussions.Daniel Im is a pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. He is the lead pastor of Beulah Alliance Church and the author of No Silver Bullets, Planting Missional Churches, and You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, and Love. He lives in Edmonton, Alberta with his wife Christin

Our theology can never be divorced from biblical theology! On today's show Brian Daniel and Haley Malone discuss the importance of theology in group life with guest and theologian Mary Wiley. Mary Wiley is the author of Everyday Theology, an eight-week Bible study exploring essential doctrines and why they matter in our everyday lives. She holds an MA in Theological Studies from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and works in publishing, She and her husband, John, have two children and live near Nashville. She loves tacos, Survivor, good books, and good coffee. You can follow her on Instagram.Today's conversation emphasizes that theology is the starting point and foundation for understanding God and His Word. They highlight the need to worship the God of the Bible rather than creating a God in our own image. Mary discusses the integration of theology into group life and the importance of discernment in navigating false teachings. Theology is a personal discipline that should be grounded in p

Have you ever asked your spouse a simple question, like, "whats for dinner?" and all of a sudden they're making a snarky comment back to you? Have you ever found yourself responding out of irritation and frustration when your spouse or kids simply ask you a question? On today's show we're highlighting an episode from The Glass House Podcast where Nicole Zasowski describes to us what happens when we are operating in our pain cycle, how we can regulate our emotions, and why the simplest of questions can push us over the edge.Many group leaders and their families live in a "glass house" - an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about.  Nicole Zasowski is a marriage and family therapist outside of New York City. She

On today's show, groups expert Ken Braddy joins Haley and Brian on a great conversation about groups ministry! As Ken travels all over the country to support churches and their groups ministry, he shares with us the positive and negative trends churches across the nation are experiencing. Ken also shares how we can do groups better than ever despite challenges, how to connect various generations, and the trend of a shepherd teacher.  Ken Braddy is an author of 10 books on groups/group ministry. Ken blogs, is the host of Discipleship in Community Podcast, trains group ministry leaders, and leads a webinar about groups. I've led two churches to become fastest-growing group ministries in two states. I'd rather be golfing or eating some good Tex-Mex.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Ken Braddy-Connect with Brian DanielTake the Group Answers Survey and Enter to win the BIG giveaway HERE. 

Hey friends! Filmmakers Alex and Stephen Kendrick have an incredible discussion with Brian Daniel about their latest movie, The Forge. This film focuses on discipleship and following Jesus, and Alex and Stephen share their hearts behind making this film. They emphasize the importance of having a strong foundation in Christ and prioritizing Him above all else.  Alex Kendrick has dedicated his life to following Jesus Christ and making His truth and love known among the nations. After serving in church ministry for 20 years, he now writes, speaks, and produces Christian films with his brothers Stephen and Shannon. Alex directed and co-wrote the movies OVERCOMER, WAR ROOM, COURAGEOUS, FIREPROOF, FACING THE GIANTS,  FLYWHEEL, COURAGEOUS Legacy Edition, SHOW ME THE FATHER, and LIFEMARK. Alex co-wrote the New York Times bestselling books The Love Dare, The Resolution for Men, and The Battle Plan for Prayer. Alex and his wife, Christina, live in Albany, Ga. with their six children and are active members at Sherwood C

Have you ever been talking to a teenager and find yourself in a situation where you don't know what to say? Sometimes it can feel like there is a huge wall between you and the teens in your life. Today on Group Answers Zac Workun and Brian Daniel dive into how we can effectively engage with the next generation in small groups. Zac currently serves as the Student Ministry Specialist for Lifeway Students. Zac is also the co-founder and network lead for Youth Ministry Booster. Zac is a voracious reader, avid gamer, car-camper, folk musician, black coffee-drinker, beard aficionado. He loves to eat breakfast food at new places with his wife Karen and two wild boys Isaiah & Gideon.  For 15+ years, Zac has served on staff at local churches in Oklahoma and North Carolina to oversee middle school, high school and college-aged ministries. Zac received his undergraduate education from Oklahoma Baptist University and his Master’s of Divinity from Duke University.Zac emphasizes the importance of effective communi

Hey friends! Welcome back to another great season of Group Answers! We have soem incredible guests lined up for this season and we can't wait to dive into all things students, adults, women, and men, small groups! Today on the show Josh Smith joins Joel and Brian to discuss his ministry to men and the importance of investing in men in the church. Josh begin serving as senior pastor of Prince Avenue Baptist church in 2018. He has ministered in more than 30 countries, worked with international students at Duke University, and served as a missionary in central Europe. He and his wife Andrea, share four daughters and one son and he's passionate about the advancement of Christ's kigndom to the ends of the earth through the ministry of the local church.Josh discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of men's minstry and shares his insights on the importance of building relationships and creating a culture of investment in men. He also discusses the legacy he hopes to leave—a generation of

We are wrapping up another great season of Group Answers with Brian Daniel. If you haven't listened to the entire season, we encourage you to go back and check out the amazing guests we've had on the show! On today's show Brian and Haley discuss the attributes of compelling community with Jared Osselaer. Jared is the Pastor of Story City Church in Burbank, California. He received the calling of ministry when he was eight years old and since then his ministry path has taken him to so many unexpected places. From time in the marines, to a church planter, police chaplain, and even the founding father of a motorcycle club, Jared's ministry over the years has been extremely diverse. Pastor Jared loves spending time with his wife of 28 years, Monique, and their two children.  This conversation covers the concept of missional community and the importance of belonging before believing. They explore the book 'The Celtic Way of Evangelism' and its emphasis on accepting people into the comm

Hy friends! Welcome to another great episode of Group Answers! Discipleship can play out in a variety of ways in depending on the context: big churches vs. small churches, or  rural areas vs. urban areas. On today's show Rebi Varghese, Community Groups Pastor at Church of the City in New York, shares his passion for discipleship and the challenges and opportunities of ministry in a city like Manhattan. He discusses the unique rhythms of New York City and the importance of community in the discipleship process. Rebi emphasizes the universal principles of disciple making, such as the need for relational equity and a hunger for God. He also highlights the importance of resourcing and caring for leaders, as well as the value of cohorts and mentoring in building sustainable ministries. Rebi's vision is to see discipleship impact the entire city of New York and beyond.Rebi Varghese has served as the Community Groups Pastor at Church of the City (COTC) New York for almost 2 years. Born and raised in Michig

Churches all over the world will be embarking on Vacation Bible School this summer! Besides it being a fun-filled week for kids, VBS has an amazing potential for discipling the next generation and reaching families. On today's show Melita Thomas shares with us the history of VBS, the "how", and the "why"! Melita Thomas serves as Lifeway’s VBS and Kids Ministry Specialist. Melita holds a masters degree in Childhood Ministry from Dallas Baptist University. A passionate advocate for kids ministry in the local church, Melita enjoys teaching kindergartners and preteens at Nashville First Baptist Church. She also enjoys cheering on Nashville's hockey team and spending time with her two nephews.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Lifeway VBSConnect with HaleyConnect with Brian Take the Group Answers Survey and Enter to win the BIG giveaway HERE. 

Jesus' parting words were to "go and make disciples," yet the Church tends to plan thier programming like those words were more of a suggestion than a commission. On today's show Brian Daniels, along with Haley Malone and Scott Sullivan, discuss what discipleship is and isn't and what Scott sees is and isn't working for churches.Scott is married to the love of his life, Elizabeth. They have four children: Erika, Austin, Caleb, and Noah. He serves as the Discipleship Catalyst for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board representing 3400 churches and 1.4 million Georgia Baptists. Scott is an author, think leader, national discipleship consultant, personal disciple-maker, and speaker. He is passionate about Jesus, family, and the outdoors.Scott shares with us negative and postive trends he's seeing in discipleship throughout the churches, and shares applicable practices to think through when implementing programs in ministry.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend

Each episode we cover the different complexities, trends, methods and resources for  group life in churches all over the world. On today's show, Brian Daniel and Haley Malone discuss women's ministry with Kelly King.  Kelly is the Women's Minister at Quail Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, OK. Recently, she served as the manager of Magazines/Devotional Publishing and Women’s Ministry Training for Lifeway Christian Resources. She is the author of Ministry to Women: The Essential Guide to Leading Women in the Local Church. She is a contributor to the Lifeway Women’s Bible, as well as several Lifeway Women Bible studies. In addition, she spent four years as a cohost of the MARKED podcast for Lifeway Women. She has a Master of Theology degree from Gateway Seminary as well as a Doctorate in Ministry degree.Kelly shares with us why gender specific groups are important, what to look for in emerging leaders, and how to help guide women in their next best step! Thanks for listening and sharing th

Welcome back to another great episode on Group Answers with Brian Daniels. Today Brian discusses how to manage group time with Haley Malone. Haley Malone is the managing Director of Adult Groups at First Baptist Church of Orlando in Florida. She grew up in South Florida and attended Florida State University. After a few years in Tallahassee, Haley moved to Orlando and spent 5 years in the classroom and on the volleyball sidelines before stepping into full time student ministry. Most importantly,  Haley is a wife and mom of three and is daily trying to find balance between life, liturgy, and laundry!Managing group time can take some strategy, but it doesn't have to be impossible. Haley and Brian discuss the benefits of preparing for the small group time, the importance of being aware of body language, and how to set up a warm and inviting environment. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! Show Links:-Connect with Brian Daniel-Connect with Haley MaloneTake the Group Answers Survey an

Welcome back to another episode of Group Answers with Brian Daniel. Today on the show we have Joel Polk and Aram Babasin to discuss how to overcome culture in order to disciple. Aram Babasin is the small groups pastor of Crossroads Community Church in the Portland Metro Area.  Aram has a history of working in a variety of church settings. He is skilled in teaching, public speaking, coaching, and music. Aram is a graduate of Western Seminary with a Master's Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies. Aram does a great job in explaining to us the context of discipleship in the Portland Metro area, a predominately post-christian, or non-churched population. You'll hear the wise advice his boss gave him when he came into the role, the freedom they give their leaders to lead, and the opportunities Aram sees everyday to show people the love of Jesus! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:The Nateland Podcast  Film Spotting  Political Gabfest  The Emotionally Healthy Leade

Welcome back to another episode of Group Answers with Brian Daniel. Today on the show we have Jana Magruder and Chuck Peters to talk about next generation ministry. Jana Magruder serves as the Strategic Initiatives Director of Lifeway Kids. With a background in education, publishing, and ministry, she loves championing the local church to help families disciple kids of all ages. She is the author of Nothing Less: Engaging Kids in a Lifetime of Faith. Jana and her husband, Michael, are native Texans planted in Tennessee and love to explore both states with their three teenagers.Chuck Peters is Director of Lifeway Kids. Before his role at Lifeway, Chuck had a prolific career in television and video production. He is a 3-time Emmy Award Winning producer, director, writer and on-screen talent. A graduate of Columbia Bible College, Chuck, and his wife, Cris, have served in Student and Children’s Ministry for many years.For too long we've approached ministry with the same assumptions that we've had from o