Disciple-making in Community with Ken Braddy

In episode five of Disciple Making in Community, Ken Braddy talks with Chad Higgins about the vital role student ministry plays in shaping a culture of evangelism. Together, they explore what it looks like to create natural, pressure-free environments where students can encounter the gospel through relationships—not programs.

Chad shares insights on current trends in student ministry, how social media is shaping the way students think and connect, and why modeling evangelism through real, present-day stories matters so much for the next generation. The conversation also highlights the powerful partnership between parents and the church when it comes to discipling teenagers.

You’ll hear Chad talk about his new book, Define the Relationship, and the heart behind helping families and churches work together to guide students toward lasting faith. If you care about reaching students, supporting parents, and building groups that engage the next generation with intention, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical wisdom.

Check out Chad Higgins and Zac Workun on the Youth Ministry Booster Podcast HERE. 

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy speaks with Danielle Bell, a children's minister at Bell Air Baptist Church. They discuss the vital role of kids ministry in evangelism, innovative strategies for outreach, and the importance of empowering children to share their faith. Danielle shares insights on how to engage parents in the process and offers practical advice for ministry leaders to prioritize the gospel in their programs.

Here’s a friendly, personal, and encouraging summary that keeps the tone conversational and relatable:

In episode three of Disciple Making in Community, Ken Braddy welcomes Nathan Miller for a refreshing conversation that clears away some of the biggest misconceptions about evangelism in Bible study groups.

Together, they tackle a few common myths many believers quietly carry—like the fear that no one really wants to hear our story, the pressure to have all the right answers, or the idea that sharing the gospel is mainly the pastor’s job. Through honest stories and real-life experiences, Nathan reminds us that God often uses simple obedience and personal testimony far more than polished explanations.

This episode encourages group members to see evangelism as something that grows with practice, not perfection—and as a shared calling, not a solo assignment. If you’ve ever felt hesitant, underqualified, or unsure where to start, this conversation offers both relief and motivation to take the next faithful step.

It’s a timely reminder that when ordinary believers step in together, God does extraordinary work through community.

In episode two of Disciple Making in Community, Ken Braddy connects with Kris Dolberry, Groups and Missions Pastor at Thompson Station Church, for a practical and encouraging conversation about keeping evangelism at the heart of Bible study groups.

Kris shares stories from his own ministry experience and reminds us that healthy groups don’t have to choose between deep relationships and an outward focus—they’re called to hold both together. The conversation leans into the often-overlooked importance of pre-conversion discipleship and why helping people belong before they believe can be a powerful step toward faith.

Drawing from Jesus’ habit of eating with sinners and tax collectors, Ken and Kris explore how simple, relational rhythms can open meaningful doors for gospel conversations. You’ll also hear practical ideas for connecting new people into groups in ways that feel natural, welcoming, and mission-minded.

If you’ve ever wondered how to balance authentic community with living on mission, this episode offers both clarity and encouragement for leaders and group members alike.

In episode one, Ken Braddy connects with Scott Sullivan for a candid conversation about evangelism in today’s Bible study groups. They explore eye-opening survey results that reveal a growing gap between what groups say they value and how often evangelism actually shows up in their lives.

The conversation digs into generational shifts, why many believers feel unprepared or hesitant to share their faith, and how that uncertainty didn’t happen overnight. Scott challenges leaders to see Bible study groups not just as places for discussion, but as powerful training grounds for relational, everyday evangelism.

Instead of pressure or programs, this episode points toward building a culture where gospel conversations feel normal, supported, and deeply connected to real relationships. You’ll also hear about the Spark Conference
and how it’s equipping church leaders and group members to live on mission with greater confidence.

If you’re ready to help your group move beyond the circle and re-engage the mission, this episode is a strong place to start.

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy speaks with Robbie Perkins, pastor of Fountain Run First Baptist Church in Kentucky. They discuss the concept of normative sized churches, defined as those with 50 to 150 members, and the importance of financial stewardship within these communities. Perkins shares insights on cultivating a culture of generosity, the significance of modeling stewardship as church leaders, and practical strategies for managing limited resources. The conversation emphasizes the value of community engagement and the impact of faithful giving on church ministries.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, host Ken Braddy and guest Dr. Todd Tanner discuss the dynamics of normative-sized churches, particularly focusing on the influence of matriarchs and patriarchs. They explore the challenges faced by interim pastors, the importance of discernment in leadership, and strategies for building trust with new leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for integrity and wisdom in navigating church politics and the significance of fostering a collaborative leadership style.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, Ken Braddy speaks with Dr. Whit Chapman about the exciting changes at Covenant Baptist Church, including a church name change and a focus on community engagement. They discuss the importance of recognizing and addressing volunteer burnout, creating a sustainable volunteer culture, and the significance of affirming and appreciating volunteers. Whit shares insights on developing new leaders through apprenticeship and fostering intergenerational relationships within the church.

In this episode, Ken Braddy and Dr. Stan Waffler discuss the importance of understanding and supporting bivocational pastors within the normative church context. They explore the unique challenges these pastors face, including geographical constraints, financial pressures, and the need for personal and spiritual support. The conversation emphasizes the value of relationships and community engagement in sustaining these leaders, as well as the critical role of their families in ministry. The episode concludes with advice for those considering bivocational ministry, highlighting the importance of self-care and maintaining spiritual health.

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy speaks with Pastor Mark Turner of Redemption Heights Church in Philadelphia. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of serving in a normative-sized church, particularly in an urban context. Mark shares insights on understanding community needs, building trust, creative outreach strategies, the importance of listening, avoiding burnout, and the significance of partnerships with local organizations. The conversation emphasizes the need for churches to think like missionaries and to celebrate spiritual wins while maintaining a focus on the gospel.