Shows
Great GroupsEvaluating Your Group with Laura Chramer (Episode 146, Part 2)In this episode, Jay and Chris are joined by Laura Chramer offering color commentary as we all discuss a set of questions used to evaluate your group. Jay discovered the questions in an article by Josh Hunt on the Small Group Network. We added a few from the staff and also asked AI, so the list of questions is immense. Don't feel overwhelmed by this. One comment on the podcast is that you'll have a great group if you teach for transformation, build community, and live on mission as a group. If you'd like to look through the questions...
2025-11-2534 minGreat GroupsEvaluating Your Group with Laura Chramer (Episode 145, Part 1)In this episode, Jay and Chris are joined by Laura Chramer offering color commentary as we all discuss a set of questions used to evaluate your group. Jay discovered the questions in an article by Josh Hunt on the Small Group Network. We added a few from the staff and also asked AI, so the list of questions is immense. Don't feel overwhelmed by this. One comment on the podcast is that you'll have a great group if you teach for transformation, build community, and live on mission as a group. If you'd like to look through the questions...
2025-11-1340 minGreat GroupsMaking Disciples & Random Conversations with Rick Howerton (Episode 141)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Rick Howerton, a nationally-known and respected leader in Small Group Ministry and Jay's favorite in that category. Rick is a consultant, author, and former groups pastor. His writings include A Different Kind of Tribe, and The Perpetually Growing Church. Tune in and hear discussions on disciple-making, on and off-campus group distinctions, and much more.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you...
2025-08-1946 minGreat GroupsTaking Steps in Our Three Priorities (Episode 133)In this episode, we’re revisiting the keynote message from our February Small Group Leader Gathering, featuring John Butterfield. John unpacks how people grow—one small, consistent step at a time—and why helping others take those steps is key to leading well. Tune in to hear practical insights on how we can guide growth in the three core priorities of our church. Small Groups Staff Book Reccomendations:Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect, by Will Guidera (John Butterfield)The Other Half of Church: Christian Communi...
2025-04-1521 minGreat GroupsAttendance Issues: Tips and Thoughts Part 2 (Episode 109)Our recent snapshots (feedback from leaders) indicate many groups are struggling with attendance issues. In this episode, Jay and Chris continue to discuss having the right perspective on these issues. They also share some tips and thoughts on ways to strengthen consistency.Jay referenced the document Small Group Essentials, which mentions faithfulness to attend. One option is to review this document with your group at the start of every ministry year (August).Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list...
2024-05-0115 minGreat GroupsAttendance Issues: Tips & Thoughts (Episode 108)Our recent snapshots (feedback from leaders) indicate many groups are struggling with attendance issues. In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss having the right perspective on these issues, and they also share some tips and thoughts on ways to strengthen consistency.Jay referenced the document Small Group Essentials, which mentions faithfulness to attend. One option is to review this document with your group at the start of every ministry year (August).Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of...
2024-04-2521 minGreat GroupsTaking Next Steps in Spiritual Growth (Episode 105)In this episode, Jay and Christ discuss challenging group members to identify and take some next steps toward growth in Christ. Next steps might be defined as small steps that lead to big change when taken consistently. Jay gets Chris' reaction to a list of ten areas where next steps may be needed. Listen in and get some ideas to help your group members grow spiritually.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our...
2024-03-1937 minGreat GroupsWorkplace Influence with James & Stacey Mintz, Part 1 (Episode 98)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with James and Stacy Mintz. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences as a spiritual influence at work and in other settings.Be sure to check out a Brook Hills document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism.Send us a textThanks for listening...
2024-01-2231 minGreat GroupsTake Your Group Overseas (Episode 97)Jay and Chris talk with Fox from our Global Disciple-making Team. Your Small Group can go on your own mission trip and his team will help facilitate that with our partners overseas. Going global helps make disciples of your group and those you go to serve. Listen to see how it can work for your group.See Short-Term Mission Trip Info.See a List of Short-Term trips.For more info, please email fox@brookhills.org.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit
2024-01-1537 minGreat GroupsGoing Strong: Evangelism @ Work with Seth Hagan (Episode 96)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Seth Hagan, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the tech industry. We take some time to get to know Seth and talk more in-depth about his personal experiences as a spiritual influence where he works. Be sure to check out a Brook Hills' document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism.Also, you are invited to see Seth's YouTube Channel, Theology with Seth.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit
2024-01-0832 minGreat GroupsBible Reading Journey: Plans Overview & Week 2 with David Graves (Episode 95)In this episode, Jay continues the discussion with David Graves about the new year's emphasis on Bible reading in 2024. We encourage group leaders to lead their group members to engage in a plan this year. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for both your personal reading and for promoting a Bible-reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week. For more information on Bible Reading Plans, please visit brookhills.org/bible. To see Jay's plan for 2024, visit gordonplace.com/bible.Send us a...
2024-01-0228 minGreat GroupsThe Best Tool for Disciple-making with David Graves (Episode 94)In this episode, Jay talks with David Graves about his Bible Reading Journey. That's the name we're giving to the end-of-year emphasis to help group leaders engage their members in a Bible reading plan for 2024. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for your personal reading and for promoting a Bible reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week. Now we appreciate him more! (Jay had to man the board.)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please...
2023-12-1830 minGreat GroupsWorkplace Influence with Margie Gunter, Part 2 (Episode 93)In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon i...
2023-12-1128 minGreat GroupsWorkplace Influence with Margie Gunter, Part 1 (Episode 92)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. J...
2023-12-0429 minGreat GroupsEquipping Group Members for Evangelism: Nine Ideas (Episode 91)In this episode, Jay presents nine ideas for equipping group members for evangelism. We'll refine the list over the course of the year, but we wanted to move ahead and give you some ideas to consider while it's fresh from the leader gathering. (Update: We recorded this over a month ago. Since then, we've updated the document with ideas. You can see the updated info at the first link below. And know that Chris did get his Snapshot in by the deadline!)Equipping Your Group to Go Strong (We have something now!)The Three Circles G...
2023-11-2734 minGreat GroupsLeader Gathering: Matt's Books & Going Strong Overview (Episode 89)In this episode Jay and Chris discuss the 2Strong Emphasis before listening to Pastor Matt's segment from Brook Hills' Fall 2023 Small Group Leader Gathering. Matt shares some books he has been reading that fit well with 2Strong, then gives an overview of 2Strong Year Two. Join us and hear the focus for Year 2.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay...
2023-10-1435 minGreat GroupsLaunch Your Year Well (Episode 86)In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ten tips for launching your group year well. They also discuss a couple of good documents to use that first week, Small Group Essentials and Great Conversations. Join us and get some help launching your group well.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church...
2023-08-0435 minGreat GroupsUsing Presentation Software in Groups (Episode 85)In this episode, Jay & Chris talk with David McKnight, a Small Group Leader at Brook Hills, about using presentation software (Keynote, Powerpoint, etc.) in group meetings. We'll get to know David and discover how his group is involved in service and we'll also discuss a men's breakout group he has done for a couple of years.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2023-07-1723 minGreat GroupsHelp! I'm Exhausted and Burned Out! (Epsiode 84)Jay and Chris discuss what to do when you are exhausted and burned out. We've all been there. Listen up and see if any of these tips help you. Some short and long-term solutions are included, as well as some discussion of balancing all of life.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small...
2023-07-0531 minGreat GroupsLeading Small Groups 4: Different Group Types (Episode 83)In this session, Jay and Chris discuss the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt. We're on Chapter 4, Group Type Trade-Offs. There is some discussion of closed groups, which is good to know, but Brook Hills opts for an open group model to help people remain outwardly oriented.If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of...
2023-06-1328 minGreat GroupsLeading Small Groups 3: New Group Options & Missions (Episode 82)In this episode, Jay and Chris review highlights from the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt with one of our own leaders, Jeremy Simpson. This week focuses on Chapter 3: Preparing for Your Small Group. The content here is probably what you should have heard before starting a small group, but there are useful tips scattered throughout. If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt.Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for...
2023-05-3126 minGreat GroupsWhat Frustrates Me About Leading My Small Group (Episode 81)In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what frustrates them about leading their Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts.See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook...
2023-04-2522 minGreat GroupsWhat I Love About Leading My Group (Episode 80)In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what they love about leading their respective Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts.See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister...
2023-04-1923 minGreat GroupsHelping People Take Next Steps, Part 2 (Episode 79)In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith.Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps1. Follow Christ and be baptized.2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis.3. Pray consistently and strategically.4. Become a member of the church.5. Actively participate in a Small Group.6. Find someone to mentor you.7. Talk about your faith with members.8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in...
2023-03-2724 minGreat GroupsHelping People Take Next Steps, Part 1 (Episode 78)In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith.Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps1. Follow Christ and be baptized.2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis.3. Pray consistently and strategically.4. Become a member of the church.5. Actively participate in a Small Group.6. Find someone to mentor you.7. Talk about your faith with members.8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in...
2023-03-1724 minGreat Groups2Strong Focus Study: Week 4: Saints, Sufferers, & Sinners (#77)In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. This episode covers 1) Encouraging the Saints, 2) Responding to Sufferers, and 3) Fighting Sin.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook...
2023-03-0341 minGreat Groups2Strong Focus Study: Week 3, Prayer (Episode 76)In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and...
2023-02-2431 minGreat Groups2Strong Focus Study: What the Church Does, Week 2 (Episode 75)In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and...
2023-02-1631 minGreat GroupsCreating Biblical Community - Leading Small Groups Book (Episode 74)In this episode, we continue discussing content from the book "Leading Small Groups" by Chris Surratt. We're scheduling various small group leaders to read a chapter and discuss it with us. This week Dale and Chris continue to talk with Jay and Chris about Chapter 2, Creating Biblical Community.If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for Leading Small Groups.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear...
2023-02-1330 minGreat Groups2Strong Focus Study: What the Church Does, Week 1 (Episode 73)In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and...
2023-02-1029 minGreat GroupsMeeting Leaders and Their Group: Robbins & Kendrick (72)In this episode, Jay and Chris chat with Chris Robbins and Dale Kendrick. We'll get to know them a little better and find out what makes their group tick.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves...
2023-01-3131 minGreat GroupsDave Halperin on Multi-Gen Groups (Episode 71)On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Dave Halperin, leader of a multi-gen, off-campus Small Group. We get to know Dave and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led Navy pilot talk, and also group multiplication, breakout groups, and handling prayer in groups.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here...
2023-01-1730 minGreat GroupsTodd Norton and Off-Campus Group Life ( Episode 69)On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Todd Norton, leader of an off-campus Small Group. We get to know Todd and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to various facets of group life and how Todd accomplishes those.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the...
2022-12-2022 minGreat GroupsMinistry in Times of Illness or Death of a Family Member (Episode 68)Tonight, Jay & Chris talk to Bill & Carol Brown about ministry to group members facing illness themselves or death in their family. We cover meals, visits, travel expectations for funerals, and do's and don'ts.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an...
2022-12-0632 minGreat GroupsElders' Role in Shepherding Small Group Leaders (Episode 67)In this episode, Zac Condie is back to discuss Elder shepherding with Jay & Chris. They review the Shepherding Best Practices found at brookhills.org/elderwork and share some practical tips and stories. Zac is now Jay's Elder after Jay rotated off the Elder Council at Brook Hills. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister a...
2022-11-2133 minGreat GroupsZac Condie & His Off-Campus Group: Curriculum, Childcare, & Breakouts (Episode 66)On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Zac Condie, leader of an off-campus BH Small Group and also one of our Elders. We ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to curriculum, childcare, men's and women's breakout groups, and more.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the...
2022-11-0824 minGreat GroupsJeff Kunard on Group Transparency, Testimonies, and Community. (Episode 65)On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with our good friend, Jeff Kunard, one of our Elders at Brook Hills. Jeff is an experienced Small Group leader and has recently started a new group. Hear his spiritual story and a conversation about transparency, testimonies, and community. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Sma...
2022-10-1729 minGreat GroupsEvangelism: Slovenia. Telling Your Story. Hearing Jay's Story. (Episode 64)Today, Jay and Chris talk about Slovenia and also discuss how to share differing length versions of your faith story. For much of the podcast, Jay shares his story and his "active testimony". Listen to learn what that's all about. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The C...
2022-09-2832 minGreat GroupsPrayer, Group Discussion, & Brook Hills' Pursuits (Episode 62)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about a few random items from the previous day's Small Group Leader Gathering at Brook Hills. The discussion leads to how we can accomplish those things in groups. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro i...
2022-08-3025 minGreat GroupsStart Strong: Beginning the Group Year (Episode 61)Today, Jay and Chris talk about launching the new year strong. You’ll hear tips and reminders about important things to do as your group starts the year. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Sm...
2022-08-1137 minGreat GroupsListed and Unlisted Groups: Best PracticesIn this episode, Jay and Chris explore the terms open and closed groups and why our church has chosen a different vernacular, listed and unlisted groups. There are more factors than meet the eye, and we talk about how important it is to keep your group open at all times, even when it may be unlisted "for a good reason and for only a season." (Episode: 60)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love...
2022-07-2734 minGreat GroupsGreat Conversations: Leading Your Group Discussions, Part 2In this episode, Jay and Chris review a document Jay created to guide groups in having great conversations. It is a document for group members that you may want to review with them once a year. There are tips that encourage some members to speak less and some to speak more, and other tips on listening and avoiding rabbit trails. (Episode 59)Copy: http://www.brookhills.org/files/uploads/SmallGroups_GreatDiscussions2019.pdfSend us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a l...
2022-07-1127 minGreat GroupsGreat Conversations: Leading Your Group Discussions, Part 1In this episode, Jay and Chris review a document Jay created to guide groups in having great conversations. It is a document for group members that you may want to review with them once a year. There are tips that encourage some members to speak less and some to speak more, and other tips on listening and avoiding rabbit trails. (Episode 58)See the document: http://www.brookhills.org/files/uploads/SmallGroups_GreatDiscussions2019.pdfSend us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a l...
2022-06-2823 minGreat GroupsLeader Tips on Evaluating Your Group and Hospitality (Episode 57)In this episode, Jay reviews some recent Leader Tips--a paragraph-length tip that is included in the Small Group News each week. After covering an unrecorded gem from Elisabeth Chramer and celebrating 5,000 downloads, Jay and Chris discuss evaluating overall progress in disciple-making and involving your group in hospitality. (Episode 57)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups...
2022-06-1329 minGreat GroupsAsking Questions, Staff Visits & Tiny Groups with Elisabeth Chramer 20s/30s Group (Episode 56)In this episode, Jay and Chris chat with Elisabeth Chramer who leads a Small Group for Young Women. She shares how they recently asked what questions group member wanted to ask, talked about having a staff member visit the group, and discusses "tiny groups", their term for break-out groups. (Episode 56)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the...
2022-05-3129 minGreat GroupsWelcoming Guests Well, Part 2 (Episode 55)In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the conversation about welcoming people into your group with Andy Noel. Andy has lots of ministry experience but is currently in Jay's group. You'll hear some "fails" they've experienced as well as some ways to have an action plan for guests. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups M...
2022-05-1626 minGreat GroupsWelcoming Guests Well, Part 1 (Episode 54)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about welcoming people into your group with Andy Noel. Andy has lots of ministry experience but is currently in Jay's group. You'll hear some "fails" they've experienced as well as some ways to have an action plan for guests.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at...
2022-05-0329 minGreat GroupsCurriculum is Only Part of Disciple-making (Episode 53)We cover 8 different curriculum options for Small Groups, but also point out that disciple-making is much more than just teaching and learning. Jay shares the DREAM of discipleship: five key components necessary for disciple-making. We also review the pros and cons of each curriculum type and discuss ways to make it better should you choose that option. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact fo...
2022-04-1839 minGreat GroupsGroup Multiplication: The How (Episode 52)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about multiplying your Small Group. You'll hear some important discussion points regarding HOW to multiply your group. Episode 51 ended up covering the WHY. They also included some thoughts and cautions for ministry leaders. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hi...
2022-04-0636 minGreat GroupsGroup Multiplication: The Why (Episode 51)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about multiplying your Small Group. You'll hear some important discussion points about the WHY. The following episode will cover HOW to multiply your group. Don't miss the book recommendation for church ministry leaders.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook H...
2022-03-3021 minGreat GroupsBible Study Basics with John Butterfield, Part 2In this episode, Jay and Chris interview John Butterfield, Brook Hills' Pastor of Local Disciple-making. John recently taught a class by this name at Brook Hills, and we thought it would be great to get a quick overview of this content out to all of you. Some highlights include a look at bad Bible study habits, six steps to Bible study, and more. Join us!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to...
2022-02-2826 minGreat GroupsBible Study Basics with John Butterfield, Part 1In this episode, Jay and Chris interview John Butterfield, Brook Hills' Pastor of Local Disciple-making. John recently taught a class by this name at Brook Hills, and we thought it would be great to get a quick overview of this content out to all of you. Some highlights include a look at bad Bible study habits, six steps to Bible study, and more. Join us!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to...
2022-02-2129 minGreat GroupsElders & Small Group LeadersIn this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Dennis Blythe, Brook Hills’ Executive Pastor, about Elders and Small Group Leaders. Elders often come from the ranks of our Small Group Leaders, so we thought it would be helpful to dig into the role, biblical qualifications, and process of becoming an Elder at Brook Hills. We'll also spend a little time talking about how our Elders support Small Groups. We hope this podcast will help our faith family better understand the role of Elder. (Season 2, Episode 48)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Gr...
2022-02-0652 minGreat GroupsWelcome, 2022! Annual Small Group Goals (#47)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about new year's resolutions and annual goals for Small Groups. They dive into a number of categories, encouraging you as Small Group leaders to consider goals in each category for leading your group this year.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook H...
2022-01-1031 minGreat GroupsThe Better Halves: A Visit with our wives, Liz & Wendy! (#46)On this episode of the Great Groups podcast, Jay's wife Liz & Chris's wife Wendy make a special visit and spend time with us. Listen in as they share a few funny stories and talk a bit of "inside baseball".Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham...
2021-11-1630 minGreat GroupsSmall Group Multiplication: Josh Lewis & Nathan Jackson (#45)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Josh Lewis & Nathan Jackson who are both Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Josh, Chris & Nathan all represent parts of a "Small Group Family Tree" where multiplication has flourished not just because of effective leadership, but through a magnitude of God's grace & mercy. (#45)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is...
2021-11-0236 minGreat GroupsBrook Hills Desert City Initiative (#44)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Chip Bugnar, the Global Pastor here at Brook Hills ,about the Desert City Initiative, a multi-year strategy to impact this unnamed hub city. If you're a Brook Hills person, consider how you can be involved. If not, as you listen, consider getting your group involved locally or globally. Short-term trips are one of the top disciple-making catalysts. (#44)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to...
2021-10-1835 minGreat GroupsDon't Lead Alone: Enlist Help From Within Your Group (#43)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about the importance of sharing some of the work of your Small Group. Doing so helps others grow, gives them ownership in the group, and allows you to give more attention to your leadership role. (#43)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook...
2021-10-0529 minGreat GroupsEvangelism Basics 2.0In this episode, Jay & Chris continue a discussion of evangelism with Jeremy Simpson, a topic that Jeremy is very passionate about. Jay had engaged with Jeremy in a random discussion and decided to bring Jeremy in to record it for your benefit as well. Our hope is that God will use this to give you some ideas about reaching your neighbor, co-worker, or friend. (#42)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear...
2021-09-2031 minGreat GroupsEvangelism BasicsIn this episode, Jay and Chris have a discussion with Jeremy Simpson about evangelism, a topic that Jeremy is very passionate about. Jay had engaged with Jeremy in a random discussion and decided to bring Jeremy in to record it for your benefit as well. Our hope is that God will use this to give you some ideas about reaching your neighbor, co-worker, or friend. (#43, Season 2, Episode 18)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd...
2021-09-0832 minGreat GroupsSmall Group EssentialsThis week, Jay and Chris walk through Small Group Essentials, a document designed to help create a healthy group environment through which people grow in their relationships with one another and with Christ. Because these are things for everyone in the group, the start of the year is a great time to review Small Group Essentials with your group. They include items like a commitment to love, attendance, spiritual health, prayer, ministry, confidentiality, authenticity, multiplication, and unity.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org...
2021-08-1833 minGreat GroupsGetting Ready for a Great YearIn this episode, Jay and Chris discuss eight things to consider as you prepare for leading your group to have a great year. Examples from the list are 1) having a plan for welcoming new people into the group and 2) making contacts with all your members prior to your first meeting of the year. (#41: Season 2, Episode 16)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-07-3029 minGreat GroupsMust-Have Apps: Using Technology to Strengthen Spiritual DisciplinesIn this episode, Jay and Chris discuss apps that they have used to strengthen their spiritual disciplines and multiply their time. As a leader, being a mature and maturing disciple is so important in disciple-making. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." Why not learn and use technology to help! (Episode 40, Season 2, Episode 15)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here...
2021-07-0236 minGreat GroupsCaring Well: Responding to AbuseIn this episode, Jay and Chris welcome Brian Munnings and Holly Deemer to discuss Brook Hills' Caring Well Emphasis. Pastor Matt Mason focused on this in the June 6 Worship Gatherings. Caring Well is an emphasis to help our church become informed about abuse in order to prevent abuse, respond appropriately to abuse, and to build healthy environments and families. Brian serves as the Biblical Counselor at Brook Hills and Holly is a Clinical Psychologist at Grayson and Associates. (#39 - Season 2, Episode 14).Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit
2021-06-0731 minGreat GroupsCaring Well IntroductionIn this episode, Jay and Chris welcome Brian Munnings and Holly Deemer to discuss Brook Hills' Caring Well Emphasis. Pastor Matt Mason will focus on this in the June 6 Worship Gatherings. Caring Well is an emphasis to help our church become informed about abuse in order to prevent abuse, respond appropriately to abuse, and to build healthy environments and families. Brian serves as the Biblical Counselor at Brook Hills and Holly is a Clinical Psychologist at Grayson and Associates. (#38 - Season 2, Episode 13).Send us a textThanks for listening to...
2021-06-0233 minGreat GroupsCurriculum Selection: Pros and Cons of Each TypeIn this episode, Jay & Chris overview the pros and cons of each type of curriculum: Sermon-based Guides, Book of the Bible Study, Topical Studies, Reading Plan Study, Quarterlies, & Combination Plans. (#38 - Season 2, Episode 12)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an I...
2021-05-3128 minGreat GroupsChoosing CurriculumIn this episode, Jay & Chris begin a discussion of curriculum, but setting it up with a discussion of curriculum mapping, teaching style, getting people to talk, and much more. Week 2 of this two part series will give the pros and cons of each type of curriculum: Sermon-based Guides, Book of the Bible Study, Topical Studies, Reading Plan Study, Quarterlies, & Combination Plans. (#37 - Season 2, Episode 11)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear f...
2021-05-2624 minGreat GroupsTen Ways To Be A Great Group Member (Part 2)In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss Ten Ways to be a Great Group member. Special color commentary guest is Alan Chappell, one of our Small Group Leaders and an Elder at BH. We will learn ways to encourage our members to be ALL IN with their Small Groups. (Part 2, Episode 34)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-05-1027 minGreat GroupsTen Ways To Be A Great Group Member (Part 1)In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss Ten Ways to be a Great Group member. Special color commentary guest is Alan Chappell, one of our Small Group Leaders and an Elder at BH. We will learn ways to encourage our members to be ALL IN with their Small Groups. (Part 1 of 2, Episode 33)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-05-0625 minGreat GroupsPreschool & Adult Groups: Serving Each Other, Part 2(Part 2) In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss preschool ministry with special guest, Allison Foster, who serves as the Preschool Minister at Brook Hills. Allison is also part of an adult Small Group at Brook Hills. We will learn ways preschool and adult ministry can connect to strengthen each other as we make disciples of all ages.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-04-1933 minGreat GroupsPreschool & Adult Groups: Serving Each Other, Part 1In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss preschool ministry with special guest, Allison Foster, who serves as the Preschool Minister at Brook Hills. Allison is also part of an adult Small Group at Brook Hills. We will learn ways preschool and adult ministry can connect to strengthen each other as we make disciples of all ages.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-04-1233 minGreat Groups"Seeing People" Encourages Them (Season 2 Episode 6)In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ways we can "see" people, letting them know that they matter to us and they matter to God. Covid has been rough on us individually and on our Small Groups. Let's make sure we do things to let people know we see them.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the...
2021-04-0723 minGreat GroupsDon't Assume People in the Room Know Christ (Season 2, Episode 5)In this episode, Chris listens and nods as Jay discusses the dangers of assuming people know Jesus just because they seek to be involved in a group. You'll hear a couple of stories and also learn some great ideas to keep the gospel and evangelism equipping at the center of your group.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon...
2021-03-3027 minGreat GroupsNew Role & A Great Story (Season 2, Episode 4)In this episode, Jay and Nate talk with repeat guest, Nate Farrow. Nate has a new, expanded role at Brook Hills that includes Pastoral Care and Young Adults. You don't want to miss Nate's testimony about how God used Auburn football, injury, and a faithful brother to redirect Nate's heart and life-priorities.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon...
2021-03-0532 minGreat GroupsHandling Rapid Growth (Season 2, Episode 3)What do you do when your group faces rapid growth? In this episode, Jay helps Chris think through some questions he has about his group growing rapidly. Don't we all wish we had that problem? We'll discuss listed and unlisted groups, raising up leaders, preparing a group for multiplication, and ways to make the group feel small.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact...
2021-02-1028 minGreat GroupsLeading During YOUR Personal Crisis (Season 2, Episode 2)In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Dawn Wingard, who leads a Small Group with her husband, Jared. Dawn discusses one of her own times of crisis and how she dealt with being in need while also leading. Jay and Chris add some tips as well. Visit us online at GreatGroups.org.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact...
2021-01-1525 minGreat GroupsEncouraging Bible Engagement (Season 2, Episode 1)In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss the importance of Bible engagement in the spiritual growth of every believer. You'll also hear some tips and learn what we are doing individually. The bottom line is this--to make disciples, we need to encourage and equip our small group members to develop consistent time in the Word!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
2021-01-0432 minGreat GroupsPreparing to Lead a Bible Study with Ashley Chesnut, Part 2 (Season 1, Episode 23)In this episode, Jay and Chris continue a dialogue with Ashley Chesnut, Associate Singles 20s/30s Minister at Brook Hills. Part 2 digs deeper into context and knowing your audience. Go back and catch Part 1 to learn more about choosing a study, beginning with the end in mind, your personal study, commentaries and resources, context, and using good questions.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our...
2020-12-1730 minGreat GroupsPreparing to Lead a Bible Study with Ashley Chesnut, Part 1 (Season 1, Episode 22)In this episode, Jay and Chris dialogue with Ashley Chesnut, Associate Singles 20s/30s Minister at Brook Hills. Topics include choosing a study, beginning with the end in mind, your personal study, commentaries and resources, context, and using good questions.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in...
2020-12-1027 minGreat GroupsWelcoming, Love, & Group Communication (Season 1, Episode 21)In this episode, Jay & Chris talk with Dale Kendrick & Chris Robbins, co-leaders along with their wives, Courtney & Erin, of a Wednesday night group at Brook Hills. The group does some things really well and we wanted you to hear about it. Also, Dale is a really encouraging guy, quick to tell a brother, "I love you." We wanted to dig into that a little also. Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our e...
2020-11-3033 minGreat GroupsEpisode 20 Free-for-All!In this episode, Jay & Chris celebrate the 20th episode and talk about whatever is on their minds. It’s a ritual for every 10th episode. Listen in as they discuss how mature God wants us to be, proper pronunciation of foreign cities, the election, recording a podcast while the lights go out, and many, many other random thoughts (not necessarily in that order).Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from yo...
2020-11-1627 minGreat GroupsChallenge & Accountability Change LivesIn this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to issue specific growth challenges to your group based on the biblical content you cover & actually following up a week later. Don't miss out on this key ingredient to transformative lives!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama...
2020-10-1934 minGreat GroupsSharing Your Spiritual StoryIn this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to share your spiritual story (testimony) in a short(er) amount of time. Listen in as Chris shares his abridged story and reduces it from 8 to 10 minutes down to 20 seconds.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA...
2020-10-1227 minGreat GroupsMaking the Most of Limited TimeIn this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to have a great group meeting on limited time. Our schedule at Brook Hills is changing so that we have to do more with less, but at time all Small Groups face time crunches due to late arrivals, long prayer requests, or virtual tech issues. Here are some tips on how to make the most of limited time.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to...
2020-09-2530 minGreat GroupsHybrid Meeting Tips - How to Balance Live & Virtual (Episode 15)In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to make hybrid meetings work. As groups start meeting live again, many are not ready to come back. We need to do a little extra work to keep everyone connected to the group. Here’s how.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Br...
2020-09-0726 minGreat GroupsTips for New Small Group Leaders w/ Nate Farrow (Part 2)(Part 2) In this episode, Jay & Chris continue to discuss new leader tips with Nate Farrow, Young Singles Minister at The Church at Brook Hills. This session should be good for new and old leaders alike. You may have missed one of these early as a group leadership, so catch them all now.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon...
2020-08-2426 minGreat GroupsTips for New Small Group Leaders w/ Nate FarrowIn this episode, Jay & Chris discuss new leader tips with Nate Farrow, Young Singles Minister at The Church at Brook Hills. This session should be good for new and old leaders alike. You may have missed one of these early as a group leadership, so catch them all now.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small...
2020-08-1725 minGreat GroupsTen Pillars of Small Groups Ministry (Part 2)In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss major categories of leadership in small groups and invite you to evaluate your own effectiveness in these areas. We cover pillars 6 through 10 on this episode, for pillars 1 through 5, check out Ten Pillars of Small Groups Ministry (Part 1)!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at...
2020-08-0329 minGreat GroupsTen Pillars of Small Groups Ministry (Part 1)In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss major categories of leadership in small groups and invite you to evaluate your own effectiveness in these areas...The first 5 are discussed here, 6 through 10 are in Part 2.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an...
2020-07-2722 minGreat Groups#10 Celebration & DiscussionIn this episode, Jay & Chris celebrate the tenth episode, and just share some things on their hearts. The discussion includes what we've learned podcasting, happenings in our lives, favorite fans, t-shirts, reviews of first 10 episodes, stats, what's happening at Brook Hills, and finally, appreciating you for leading a group.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small...
2020-07-2028 minGreat GroupsRacial Tension: Be Part of the Solution (Michael Mickens)In this episode, Jay & Chris sit down for a discussion with Michael Mickens, an African-American man who serves as an Elder at The Church at Brook Hills. Michael is a former adult small group leader. We discuss where we go from here and how your small group can be a part of the solution. Here's a hint: it involves loving one another.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love...
2020-07-0629 minGreat GroupsGreat Groups Multiply - Jim & Betty Warren, Part 2In this episode, Jay & Chris continue an interview with Jim and Betty Warren. In this part, we discuss how the Warrens have started 17 groups in 14 years at Brook Hills. One secret ingredient is love.If you like what you hear, please subscribe! If you really like what you hear, please rate us!To learn more about the Great Groups podcast, please visit us at greatgroups.org!Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
2020-06-1528 minGreat GroupsCharacteristics of a Great Group - Jim & Betty WarrenIn this episode, Jay & Chris interview Jim and Betty Warren who create a great environment for disciple-making with love, transparency, mission, and a reliance on God’s word. What makes this episode fun is that Jay secretly emailed the group for their thoughts about their small group and of Jim and Betty before the podcast.Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. ...
2020-06-0828 min
Great GroupsTogether Again: When & How to Bring Groups BackIn this episode, Jay & Chris walk through the many challenges of bringing groups back together again! Listen in as we discuss the different responses, unique levels of readiness and overall general concerns involved with the return to in-person meetings.Also - We will touch on a unique topic - ZOOM FATIGUE! (Yes, it's a real thing and you may be totally unaware of it affecting YOU!)Send us a textThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes....
2020-05-2629 minGreat GroupsA Passion for Disciple-Making - Nathan and Wendi, Part 2This week, Jay and Chris resume and conclude a conversation with Nathan and Wendi* who are Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Jay shares a passion for discipleship with them, partly because overseas discipleship strategies and experiences strongly influenced all three. On the podcast, we want to look at Biblical principles used overseas and ask, "Why not here?"Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. The podcast is hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook...
2020-05-1830 minGreat GroupsA Passion for Disciple-Making - Nathan and Wendi, Part 1This week, we talk with Nathan and Wendi who are Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Jay shares a passion for discipleship with them, partly because overseas discipleship strategies and experiences strongly influenced all three. On the podcast, we want to look at Biblical principles used there and ask, "Why not here?"Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. The podcast is hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, where Chris...
2020-05-1133 minGreat Groups10 Ways Group Members Can Kill an Online Meeting!In this episode, Jay and Chris share some wacky things that have happened in their online group experiences. But we don't just laugh at what happened, we give you solutions. Of course, a lot of the solutions have to do with the mute button.The funny video we reference is on the front page of our site, greatgroups.org. And you can also grad a pdf version with all these tips under the resource link at the website.The goal of Great Groups is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to...
2020-04-3022 minGreat GroupsLeader Priorities During the Pandemic (Season 1, Episode 1)The Coronavirus Pandemic has forced us all to think differently about how we do small groups. What are the immediate needs during this crisis? We'll take a look at some priorities for leading through this pandemic.Welcome to the Great Groups Podcast! Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. Both of us want to inspire you to...
2020-04-0826 minGreat GroupsResources for Online Meetings (Season 1, Episode 2)In this episode, we cover the many resources available for connecting with your group online & remotely. We'll also walk through a few tips & helpful suggestions, as well as discuss our roadmap for future episodes.Welcome to the Great Groups Podcast! Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. We want to inspire you to make your group great.
2020-04-0827 minGreat GroupsTrial Run for Friends & Family (Season 1, Episode 0)For those who are interested, we take this episode to introduce ourselves and to answer the question, "Why do a podcast for Small Group Leaders?"Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. Both of us want to inspire you to make your group great!This is our "Friends & Family" episode where we test the...
2020-04-0823 min