MyCom Church Communications and Marketing

[97] YouTube tools and strategies for churches

In this episode, host Rev. Ryan Dunn chats with guests Nathan Webb and Shane Russo about their innovative strategies for utilizing YouTube to grow their digital church communities. They dive deep into the tools, challenges, and unique approaches they leverage for successful content creation and audience engagement.
Rev. Shane Russo is the founder and lead architect of GoBe.church–an all-digital expression of church. He also is currently the lead pastor of Niles First United Methodist Church in Niles, Ohio. Check out the YouTube ministry @GoBeChurch
Rev. Nathan Webb, AKA “Nerd Pastor Nate”, is the founding pastor of Checkpoint Church–an all-digital ministry for nerds, geeks and gamers. He posts regularly on YouTube at @CheckpointChurch
The Checkpoint Church viral video Nathan and Shane referred to is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZUpgTMhNJc&t=5s
In this episode:
(00:00) Introducing Rev. Ryan Dunn, the new host
(05:40) Juggling physical church with online ministry growth.
(08:03) Transition from Twitch to YouTube reshaped outreach.
(11:44) Elements of organic virality, phenomena, Christian controversy.
(15:38) Experimenting with shorts to build online community.
(19:31) Strategize content and platform usage with purpose.
(22:35) Strategy for using YouTube in growing audience.
(25:30) Pastor discusses controversial topics, aims to inspire.
(28:36) Reluctant to engage online, but considering it.
(36:19) Dealing with toxic comments as vandalism.
(39:40) Channel strives for inclusion, not doormat behavior.
(42:39) Better timing and more strategic content choices.
(44:43) Creating and scheduling content efficiently across platforms.
(48:07) Effortlessly segment and create phenomenal clips.
(51:58) Video optimization and analytics.
(55:03) UMC podcast highlights digital storytelling and leadership.
For more episodes and episode notes: www.resourceumc.org/mycom-podcast

MyCom Podcast 096 | Understanding AI with Rev. James Lee

AI remains a hot topic online, in the news, and in the church. UMCommunications recently hosted a webinar on AI, and hundreds of people like you signed up. We have seen an explosion of AI tools – from standalone or customized apps (like PulpitAI, which we discussed earlier this year) to AI integrations in apps you are likely already using. The next generation of phones, tablets, and computers are being developed with AI built right in. So, as AI becomes even more integrated in our daily lives, we wanted to continue the conversation here on the podcast. Joining us today to help with that is Rev. James Lee, Director of Communications for the Eastern Pennsylvania and Greater New Jersey Conferences of the United Methodist Church.

Digital Storytelling with Sabrina Joy Stevens

Communications expert, Sabrina Joy Stevens will be hosting a MyCom Webinar on May 15th at 12pm (CST) to help our leaders with Clarity over Confusion post General Conference. Register here: https://umcom.zoom.us/webinar/register/7317103461585/WN_lIZSl3OmRcO8ykOHW356UA
Subscribe to MyCom Podcasts on YouTube here: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we are joined by someone who is an adept speaker, teacher, and all-around communications expert, Sabring Joy Stevens. Sabrina is not only our podcast guest today, but she’s also leading a webinar in May 2024 that is going to be a huge help to all of us as we respond to the General Conference both locally and online. Take some time today to learn how you can be a better digital storyteller for your church, or ministry, or even improve your personal communication using her strategies.
This MyCom Podcast is brought to you by UMC News, visit www.umnews.org to get today’s current news and sign up to get it daily in your inbox!
Looking for the BeUMC Leader Kit mentioned in the podcast? Find it here: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/people-of-god-campaign-new
To see & hear more MyCom content, visit https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/mycom

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Enhancing Sermon Videos with Kathryn Price

We spoke with UMCOM Video Producer, Kathryn Price, several years ago as we were all navigating the pandemic. On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we’re checking back in with her both for a refresher on creating sermon videos and to see what new tools and features we could all be using!
This MyCom Podcast is brought to you by EO Tours, to learn more about their customized tours visit here: https://www.eo.travelwithus.com/tours/sl24092924n#eotours
To see & hear more MyCom content, visit https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/mycom

Extending the Sermon (with AI)

Last year, we dipped our toes in the water of AI with an excellent primer from Kenny Jahng on what generative AI is, some ministry uses, and how to get started. Since then, I have personally used AI tools to help me refine and clarify my thoughts and writing, as a brainstorming partner in sermon prep, and I have even generated a few images for sermon series and church events.
Then, late last year, I ran across a new AI tool specifically tuned for ministry that seemed to offer many of the benefits AI offers – like saving time and bringing clarity – while also avoiding some of the potential pitfalls – like the AI just making things up. And for those of us specifically doing the work of church communications, this type of AI tool can help us streamline the repurposing of content your church is already generating week-in and week-out.
On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we are talking about extending the sermon with the help of artificial intelligence. And we have the privilege of welcome the creator of one of these tools as well as a UMC pastor who is all in on discovering ways to use tech like this to make disciples.
Our guests today are Michael Whittle, the Founder and CEO of PulpitAI, as well as Rev. Chad Brooks, a UMC elder who wears many hats – from local church pastor to Conference Congregational Vitality Strategist to the guy behind the Productive Pastor extended universe.
Subscribe to MyCom and get additional information at: www.resourceumc.org/mycom

Connecting with the Disabled Community with Rev. Melissa Pisco

On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we welcome Rev. Melissa Pisco to talk about how a ministry that is intentionally inclusive of people with disabilities can offer a way to connect with those who are not yet a part of your church.
For more info about Dan Wunderlich go to:
https://www.defininggrace.com/
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For over 80 years, United Methodist Communications has been leading the church in telling inspirational stories of God’s work in the world through The United Methodist Church, reaching new people, supporting local churches in vibrant communications ministry, equipping leaders and delivering messages of hope and healing.
This essential work requires financial support. If you believe in our mission, consider a tax-deductible donation to the work of United Methodist Communications through its Foundation.
https://www.resourceumc.org/giveUMCom​​
Get MONTHLY church marketing tips – https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
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MyCom Church Marketing Articles: https://www.resourceumc.org/mycom
Sign up for MyCom e-Newsletter sent twice monthly: Subscribe Now!
We’d love your input! Send ideas to podcast@umcom.org

MyCom podcast Ep. 089: The Written Word is Dead, Right?

“The king is dead! Long live the king!” On today’s episode of the MyCom Church Marketing podcast, Dan takes us on a journey to revisit the relevance of the written word. Reports of the written word’s death have been greatly exaggerated.
For more info about Dan Wunderlich go to:
https://www.defininggrace.com/
This episode of the MyCom Podcast is sponsored by United Methodist Higher Education Foundation. To learn more go to: https://umhef.org/
It is also sponsored by Discipleship Ministries – Creating a Narrative Budget – The Story Behind the Numbers. Find out more at:
https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/articles/creating-a-narrative-budget-the-story-behind-the-numbers
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For over 80 years, United Methodist Communications has been leading the church in telling inspirational stories of God’s work in the world through The United Methodist Church, reaching new people, supporting local churches in vibrant communications ministry, equipping leaders and delivering messages of hope and healing.
This essential work requires financial support. If you believe in our mission, consider a tax-deductible donation to the work of United Methodist Communications through its Foundation.
https://www.resourceumc.org/giveUMCom​​
Get MONTHLY church marketing tips + FREE Downloadable resources – https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
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MyCom Church Marketing Articles: https://www.resourceumc.org/mycom
Sign up for MyCom e-Newsletter sent twice monthly: Subscribe Now!
We’d love your input! Send ideas to podcast@umcom.org

MyCom podcast Ep. 088: Should I Join that New Social Media Network?

In the middle of the summer, seemingly out of nowhere, there was suddenly a new social media network: Threads – the Twitter competitor from Instagram.
Whether it is a brand new network that appears in the middle of the night, or there’s a platform on the rise, or simply one your church hasn’t been a part of but you’re thinking about it – there are some questions you should consider before making the jump. And those are the questions we are tackling on this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast.
For more info about Dan Wunderlich go to: https://www.defininggrace.com/
This episode of the MyCom Podcast is sponsored by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. To learn more go to: https://www.pts.edu/henderson-2324
It is also sponsored by The Source eNewsletter. The Source highlights the latest, most helpful content from ResourceUMC.org. United Methodist leaders — both clergy and laypeople – rely on the site’s comprehensive ministry information and inspiration. Subscribe at: The Source
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For over 80 years, United Methodist Communications has been leading the church in telling inspirational stories of God’s work in the world through The United Methodist Church, reaching new people, supporting local churches in vibrant communications ministry, equipping leaders and delivering messages of hope and healing.
This essential work requires financial support. If you believe in our mission, consider a tax-deductible donation to the work of United Methodist Communications through its Foundation.
https://www.resourceumc.org/giveUMCom​​
Get MONTHLY church marketing tips + FREE Downloadable resources – https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
===============
Good reviews help other church leaders find us. Help support the cause!
MyCom Church Marketing Articles: https://www.resourceumc.org/mycom
Sign up for MyCom e-Newsletter sent twice monthly: Subscribe Now!
We’d love your input! Send ideas to podcast@umcom.org

MyCom podcast Ep. 087: Basics of Logo Design

Have you ever looked at your church logo and thought, “It might be time for a change.”? On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we welcome back graphic designer and YouTuber Will Paterson to help walk us through the basics of logo design.
For more info about Will Paterson go to:
https://www.willpaterson.design/
https://www.youtube.com/@willpatersondesign
https://linktr.ee/willpaterson
This episode of the MyCom Podcast is sponsored by Safer Sanctuaries: Safer Sanctuaries resources are endorsed by the Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church for use when developing an abuse prevention program. To learn more go to https://www.SaferSanctuaries.org or call 800-972-0433
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For over 80 years, United Methodist Communications has been leading the church in telling inspirational stories of God’s work in the world through The United Methodist Church, reaching new people, supporting local churches in vibrant communications ministry, equipping leaders and delivering messages of hope and healing.
This essential work requires financial support. If you believe in our mission, consider a tax-deductible donation to the work of United Methodist Communications through its Foundation.
https://www.resourceumc.org/giveUMCom​​
Get MONTHLY church marketing tips + FREE Downloadable resources – https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
===============
Good reviews help other church leaders find us. Help support the cause!
MyCom Church Marketing Articles: https://www.resourceumc.org/mycom
Sign up for MyCom e-Newsletter sent twice monthly: Subscribe Now!
We’d love your input! Send ideas to podcast@umcom.org

MyCom podcast Ep. 086: 5 Graphic Design Hacks

On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, Dan hops over the pond (digitally) and talks to professional graphic designer Will Paterson, resident of the United Kingdom, about 5 graphic design hacks that will help you get started with your own creations, and will help no matter which side of the street you drive on.
For more info about Will Paterson go to::
https://www.willpaterson.design/
https://www.youtube.com/@willpatersondesign
https://linktr.ee/willpaterson
This episode of the MyCom Podcast is sponsored by Safer Sanctuaries: Safer Sanctuaries resources are endorsed by the Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church for use when developing an abuse prevention program. To learn more go to https://www.SaferSanctuaries.org or call 800-972-0433
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For over 80 years, United Methodist Communications has been leading the church in telling inspirational stories of God’s work in the world through The United Methodist Church, reaching new people, supporting local churches in vibrant communications ministry, equipping leaders and delivering messages of hope and healing.
This essential work requires financial support. If you believe in our mission, consider a tax-deductible donation to the work of United Methodist Communications through its Foundation.
https://www.resourceumc.org/giveUMCom​​
Get MONTHLY church marketing tips + FREE Downloadable resources – https://www.resourceumc.org/en/agencies/communications/church-and-conference-resources/newsletters-and-podcasts/mycom-newsletter-subscribe
===============
Good reviews help other church leaders find us. Help support the cause!
MyCom Church Marketing Articles: https://www.resourceumc.org/mycom
Sign up for MyCom e-Newsletter sent twice monthly: Subscribe Now!
We’d love your input! Send ideas to podcast@umcom.org