Social Media Church Podcast

DK Hammonds and Dr. Justin Lester reunite to discuss the latest AI technology and tools, and their relevance to the church. DK reflects on the importance of understanding AI's future and impact to the society. Justin explores recent AI developments, including Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Pulpit AI, and their potential applications in church and discipleship. Both emphasize the need for churches to adapt to new technologies and make sense of available tech. Tune in to learn how the newest AI technologies can aid churches in discipling and reaching the next generation.   Show Notes: Connect with Dr. Justin Lester  Dr. Justin Lester LinkedIn  Dr. Justin Lester Instagram Dr. Justin Lester Website    Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube  Social Media Church Discord   This episode is brought to you by: Donorbox MinistryMatters Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to increase tithes and offerings. With comprehen

Nils Smith and Jay Kranda reunite to discuss Jay's new book, "Online Church Is Not The Answer."  Nils reflects on their early days in online ministry and commends Jay for his extensive work. Jay Kranda shares fresh insights into digital ministry, emphasizing the importance of integrating digital tools and strategies beyond live streaming. Tune in to also learn more about Saddleback's online ministry and the changes under its new leadership.   Show Notes: Connect with Jay Kranda and Saddleback Church  Jay Kranda LinkedIn  Jay Kranda YouTube Jay Kranda Instagram Jay Kranda Twitter Jay Kranda Website Saddleback Church Facebook  Saddleback Church YouTube  Saddleback Church Instagram  Saddleback Church Twitter  Saddleback Church Website    Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode

Nils Smith and DK Hammonds discuss what they believe is the greatest social network of all time—YouTube. Nils talks about how YouTube is prioritizing Shorts and competing for attention against TikTok. DK shares his success on YouTube and explains how a full video can serve as both a sales opportunity and an invitation to church. Both agree that YouTube is the platform that will help churches and brands achieve the best engagement today. Tune in and be inspired to continue leveraging YouTube as a platform and watch your efforts pay off. Show Notes: Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Donorbox Ministry

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 taking over from Nils and outlines his plans to provide stronger leadership and direction to further the company’s growth. Amplify’s goal has always been to serve more effectively. Nils and DK will continue to collaborate, offering high-quality services that allow churches and ministries to concentrate on their core missions. Along with the entire Amplify team, they are committed to delivering excellent customer service and quick turnaround with a Christian-led approach. Tune in to hear about their commitment to amplifying the work and message of the Gospel.    Show Notes: Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Ha

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 Kingdom. They also talk about why church marketing strategies should align with their mission and ministry priorities.    Tune in to hear their thoughts on the significance of geofencing as a tool where it can be good for churches and organizations.     Show Notes: Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Connect with Justin Nava: Nava Church Marketing Justin Nava Website Justin Nava Facebook Justin Nava InstagramJustin Nava TwitterJustin Nava LinkedInJustin Nava TikTokJustin Nava YouTube Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolvin

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 maintaining unity. Tune in to hear their thoughts on the importance of developing clear social media policies for church staff and volunteers, especially during election seasons.    Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to inc

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 videos featuring him!  Tune in to learn more about AI, the next big trend in AI, and how churches can become hubs for teaching AI skills and upskilling their communities.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Connect with Kenny Jahng: Kenny Jahng Website Kenny Jahng FacebookKenny Jahng Instagram Kenny Jahng Twitter Kenny Jahng LinkedIn Kenny Jahng YouTube  Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Do

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 he's used personally, for clients, and in church settings. Tune in to learn more about software and technology you can use to empower your church or organization.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to increase tithes a

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 church's website optimized for better Google search results and the value of using Google Analytics.    Tune in to hear their tips on optimizing church websites and explore with them the potential impact of AI on future SEO practices.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox.

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 can streamline tasks and free up pastors to focus on spiritual leadership.  Discover resources for training and tools through Dr. Lester's website. An inspiring conversation on embracing technology while staying rooted in God's vision.   Show Notes: Connect with Dr. Justin Lester  Dr. Justin Lester LinkedIn  Dr. Justin Lester Instagram Dr. Justin Lester Website    Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.   This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Th

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, and consistency features.  Discover how to find God in creativity through songwriting and enhance audience engagement using automation tools like MiniChat.  Whether you're a designer or part of a ministry, this episode is packed with valuable tips and insights to elevate your social media presence. –Credits to Bobby L. Roberts Library of Arkansas History & Art, Central Arkansas Library System– Show Notes: Connect with Roger Coles: Roger Coles LinkedIn  Roger Coles Instagram  Roger Coles TikTok  Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube  Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your

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 emphasizes continually improving quality over time. They encourage prioritizing YouTube as a platform with unique opportunities for online and offline engagement.  Learn practical tips you can implement to grow your ministry on the world's largest video platform.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn   Connect with DK Hammonds:  DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.   This episode is br

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 views, and concerns about jobs. Insights are provided on AI's potential to expedite Bible translation and how organizations like ABS are cautiously exploring responsible AI integration.  Listeners are encouraged to download the free State of the Bible resource to learn more about understanding various audience segments for effective outreach.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn   Connect with John Plake: John Plake LinkedIn  John Plake Twitter   American Bible Society  Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolvi

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 distractions. On the other hand, Nils emphasizes stewarding engagement well and protecting pastors' well-being.  Learn practical strategies for navigating online haters and building trust with potential church attendees through your digital presence, only here at the Social Media Church Podcast.    Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn       Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social med

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 can save churches significant time and money on content creation while expanding their message's reach online.  Listen to find out how your church can start using Sermon Shots to maximize your sermon's impact this week! Show Notes: Connect with Corey Alderin: Corey  Alderin LinkedIn Sermon Shots Website  Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube  Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.   This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to increase ti

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 Program, and their marketplace of resources aimed at helping churches connect with seekers in today's digital age.  Drawing from his own experiences, Nils shares anecdotes from his previous church's digital ministry endeavors. Together, they emphasize the importance of maintaining an online presence and being responsive to messages.  If you're looking for practical insights on how to harness technology for ministry, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now!    Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn   Connect with Brad Hill: Brad Hill Facebook Brad Hill Twitter Brad Hill LinkedIn Gloo   S

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 X or intrigued by Threads' specialized approach, join us as we explore which platform reigns supreme in the digital realm–only here on the Social Media Church Podcast with Nils Smith and DK Hammonds.    Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn   Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.   This episode is brought to you by Donorbox. Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryM

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, and spirituality.  What does it mean for a modern church to prioritize in-person connections over digital reach?  Join us as we unravel the story of Bridgetown Church's journey toward a more intentional, embodied experience of faith in the 21st century.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn   Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube    Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing. This episode is brought to you by Donorbox.

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 advice for churches in utilizing TikTok for ministry engagement.  Discover key strategies for adapting content with other platforms and maximizing opportunities on TikTok while it remains available.  Don't miss this insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of social media and its impact on faith communities.   Show Notes: Connect with Nils Smith:  Nils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitter DK Hammonds YouTube  Social Media Church Discord Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social m

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' years of experience editing sermons.  From the importance of investing in technology for ministry to preserving church history through media archives, this episode explores the fascinating intersection of faith, storytelling, and technology, offering valuable insights for pastors and anyone interested in reaching audiences through online platforms. Hop into the conversation here at the Social Media Church podcast.    Show Notes: Connect with Brotha Rollins: Brotha Rollins Instagram Brotha Rollins Facebook  Brotha Rollins TikTok Brotha Rollins YouTube    Videos 4 Christ Website   Connect with DK Hammonds: DK Hammonds Instagram DK Hammonds Facebook  DK Hammonds Twitt