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Episodes
The Developing Leaders, Discipling Kids Podcast shares practical ideas, leadership insights, and discipleship strategies to help children’s ministry leaders and families influence the next generation for Christ.
Episodes

Aug 13, 2026
Aug 13, 2026
33 min
What if kids didn’t just know the Bible—but actually loved it?
Jonathan Olavarria sits down with Joy Rivas, International Children’s Ministry Director, to explore how parents, grandparents, and church leaders can help children treasure God’s Word and build their lives on its truth.
Discover practical ways to make Scripture come alive through everyday rhythms, music, imagination, questions, and play—while helping kids see the Bible as one connected story pointing to Jesus.
Because resilient faith isn’t built on simply knowing Bible stories. We want to raise a generation that knows, loves, trusts, and lives God’s Word.

Jun 1, 2026
Jun 1, 2026
50 min
Most parents and church leaders are racing to equip children with faith but often miss the crucial depth needed to withstand today’s cultural challenges. Dr. Josh Mulvihill exposes how the next generation’s faith is under attack and reveals simple, effective strategies to build a rooted, confident faith that endures. If you're serious about helping your kids and congregation defend their beliefs and develop biblical worldview skills, this episode is your blueprint for transformation.

May 1, 2025
May 1, 2025
47 min
What does ministry look like for the most digitally connected, socially aware generation ever?
Hint: Gen Alpha doesn’t need perfection. They need presence.
In this episode, we're joined by Andy Kirk—OneHope Global Kids Ambassador and National Leader of Children’s Ministry for the ACC (Australian Christian Churches)—as we unpack what it means to reach Gen Alpha and their families with authenticity, relationship, and real faith.

Mar 20, 2025
Mar 20, 2025
45 min
In this episode, we dive deep into how tough questions are a natural part of the faith journey. Dr. Roberts shares why it's so important for children to feel safe asking those big, tough questions as they grow in their walk with Christ. Faith isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about seeking truth—and for kids to become disciples of Christ, they need the space to explore, question, and learn. Tune in to hear why asking hard questions is an essential part of spiritual growth.

Feb 20, 2025
Feb 20, 2025
41 min
In this episode, we sit down with Hunter Williams to discuss How to Teach Kids Theology. While the word "theology" may sound overwhelming or intimidating, Hunter breaks down how to make complex spiritual concepts accessible and engaging for children. Whether you’re a children's minister, pastor, or parent, this conversation will equip you to confidently guide kids in their spiritual growth and understanding of God’s Word.

Feb 12, 2025
Feb 12, 2025
34 min
Kids are naturally egocentric; this means they easily think about themselves first. This may sound negative, but it has to do with how their brains aren’t fully developed. As children age, they begin to notice the people around them and develop compassion and empathy. This is why it is so important that we come alongside children when they are young so that they can be exposed to what it means to serve others as Jesus did.
Join host Joy Hensley and special guest Moriah Frederick, the newly appointed KidServe Coordinator, as they dive into the power of involving kids in missions. Discover practical tips and inspiring stories on how to empower the next generation to make a difference!

Sep 13, 2024
Sep 13, 2024
42 min
Larry Fowler shares on the importance and Biblical mandate to intentionally be involved in the discipleship process of grandchildren.

Jun 27, 2024
Jun 27, 2024
37 min
Join us as we discuss how to successfully transition kids from children's ministry to youth ministry. This month, we welcome Children's Pastor Cathy Baggerly and Youth Pastor Josh Brown of the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland, Tennessee, as they discuss what has worked well for them.

Mar 19, 2024
Mar 19, 2024
1 hr 14 sec
Children’s ministry leaders have been plagued by burnout, waning volunteer commitment, denominational discord, and outdated approaches that fall short of addressing the shifting cultural standards of today’s children and families. But all is not lost. Children’s ministries can thrive, but only when courageous leaders lay aside all that prevents them from serving with a spirit of excellence.
In this month’s episode, special guest Esther Moreno shares insights, wisdom, and strategies to address our challenges head-on, ensuring every child has access to nurturing and impactful ministry leadership.

Feb 21, 2024
Feb 21, 2024
29 min
Camping ministry is more than a week full of fun activities for our youth and children. Camping ministry is an extension of the local church. In this month's podcast, Alabama Camping Ministries Director Denise Junkin shares about the importance of camping ministry and the local church working together to raise disciples for the kingdom.
