In this episode of the Teach Equip Podcast, Kelly and Lindsay dive into one of the most practical and personal aspects of Bible teaching: notes. From manuscripts to outlines to no-notes teaching, they explore how your note style can either help you connect deeply with your audience or unintentionally create a barrier.

Kelly opens up about her own journey, sharing the struggles she faced when her carefully written manuscripts left her sounding polished but distant. Though the content was solid, the version of herself her audience saw didn’t reflect the vibrant, relational communicator her friends knew outside of the teaching stage. Through years of trial, error, and prayer, Kelly discovered the surprising freedom of teaching without notes and how it allowed her to bring her truest self to the platform while still honoring the hard work of preparation.

Together, Kelly and Lindsay unpack the process of preparing without notes, including how to group messages into “buckets” or keywords that anchor your memory, ensuring you don’t lose important content while staying fully present with your listeners. They also highlight the importance of practice, labs, and risk-taking in order to grow as a teacher, encouraging listeners not to be discouraged if they’re still finding their rhythm.

Whether you’re a seasoned Bible teacher or just beginning, this episode offers both encouragement and practical insight. You’ll walk away with fresh ideas for preparing your next message and maybe even the courage to try teaching without notes yourself.

A few episode takeaways: 

• Your note style impacts not just your content but also how authentically your audience experiences you.
• Teaching without notes doesn’t mean skipping preparation - it requires just as much (if not more) study, planning, and practice.
• Teaching is about more than delivering information; it’s about bringing your transformed presence to the stage.
• Growth takes practice, risk, and feedback. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new note styles in safe spaces.

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who’s on their own teaching journey, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Teach Equip Podcast so you never miss an episode.

Additional Resources:

• “Preaching Without Notes” by Joseph M. Webb:
• Bible-Teaching Strategies from Women Leaders
• Kelly's Short Outline for Teaching Without Notes
• Watch Kelly Teaching Without Notes

Looking for a safe place to try teaching without notes? Book a lab with Kelly and Lindsay. 

Interested in joining Teach Equip as a student? Applications are open now through October 31, 2025. Space is limited to just 12 participants, so early applicants are prioritized. 

Want to bring Teach Equip to your church? Learn how to license our program and equip your teachers at teachequip.com/churches.

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