Mental health is a hot topic these days - and for good reason. The strain and stress of occupations, school, and responsibilities pile up and are exacerbated by trauma and painful circumstances. Our kids are not exempt from this, and neither are we.

This is why we've invited LPC Breanne Stevens and LMHC Georgia Peckett to the podcast. In response to the need in our world, KidzMatter's KidMin Academy certification program is launching a new module on Mental Health. The goal of this course, and of today's podcast, is to increase your awareness and literacy in the mental health world. While you won't walk away an expert, we desire that you would feel more equipped for these serious conversations with your kids, your teen volunteers, and the parents you serve.

To learn more about KidMin Academy, visit kidminacademy.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen “Doc” Hunsley, the Executive Director and Founder of SOAR Special Needs Ministry, to explore how churches can better serve families impacted by disabilities. Doc shares his personal story, the vision behind SOAR, and practical ways ministries can create environments where every child feels valued and included.

Whether you’re a children’s pastor, volunteer, or church leader, you’ll walk away with encouragement, fresh ideas, and tangible tools to help your ministry embrace and empower individuals with special needs.

To access more resources from SOAR, visit https://soarspecialneeds.org or email info@SOARSpecialNeeds.org to set up your free consultation.

In this episode, we highlight the incredible global impact of Operation Christmas Child through the story of Alex Nsengimana, a shoebox recipient from Rwanda. Alex shares how a simple gift delivered through Operation Christmas Child brought hope during one of the darkest seasons of his life. His testimony reflects the heart of the ministry: reaching children in need with the love of Jesus Christ through the power of a shoebox.

You’ll hear how Operation Christmas Child not only provides tangible gifts but also opens doors for the Gospel, equips local churches around the world, and transforms lives for eternity. Alex’s journey is a powerful reminder of why every shoebox matters.

Learn more at samaritanspurse.org or by emailing occinfo@samaritan.org.

Have you ever felt like you can't stop the curve balls from coming? Are you a planner who is tired of having your plans, well, changed?

Today's conversation with KidzMatter Conference host Brandon Rushin and host Hannah Peckett Augustine is centered on staying flexible in ministry. The reality is that ministry changes faster than we'd like it to, and we are constantly being bombarded with new challenges, from volunteer cancellations to surprise church events. Learning how to navigate these changes with grace will give you greater confidence and patience with the people around you - and it will even open doors for God to use you in the midst of change.

Interested in our Bring One, Bless One Initiative? Give away three tickets to The KidzMatter Conference - visit kidzmatter.com/invite. You can purchase your own ticket at thekidzmatterconference.com.

Have you ever felt blindsided by transition? Have you found yourself uncertain whether to leave or to stay?

Ministry transitions are not easy. In response to several posts in our I Love KidMin Facebook group, host Hannah Peckett Augustine and KidzMatter Founder Ryan Frank sit down for a conversation on this difficult and often painful topic. Our desire is that this conversation will encourage and equip you for any transition you face.

Need prayer as you navigate transition? Email our team at support@kidzmatter.com.

Have you ever struggled to make space for prayer and fasting? Ever wondered how it fits into your life, or why it's so important? In today's conversation with Anvita Elder, host Hannah Peckett Augustine explores the importance of prayer and fasting in the life of a KidMin leader. These disciplines weren't just for Bible times - they're meant for us to participate in today!

Want to hear more from Anvita? Join us October 7-9 in Evansville, Indiana for The KidzMatter Conference. Learn more at thekidzmatterconference.com.

Looking to make your KidMin better? Planning Center may be your best next step! In today's episode, host Hannah Peckett Augustine and guest Scott Myers dive into the benefits of Planning Center for kidmin leaders. From check-ins and services to workflows and lists, this is an amazing tool to keep your families safe and cared for. Learn more at planningcenter.com.

Not sure why you should come to The KidzMatter Conference? Then this episode is for you! Join Hannah Peckett Augustine and Ryan Frank as they have an insightful conversation on why this conference is a must-attend for kidmin leaders. With powerful worship, practical breakouts, and interactive community, this is a conference (and an episode!) that you won't want to miss. Want to learn more? Visit thekidzmatterconference.com!