Best Willow Creek Community Church Podcasts (2025)

1
Find A Leader You Can Follow [MxU's Spencer De Young] 57:51

7d ago57:51

57:51

How can you fast track your development as church production leader? Spencer De Young, CEO of MxU, joins us to talk about leadership, the value of mentorship, and how MxU is equipping church tech leaders through intentional training. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 – ChurchGear’s Worst Church Visit 6:00 – MxU's CEO Spencer Visits the Podcast 16:1…

1
Easter at Willow 2025 | Shawn Williams (Full Service) 1:13:25

8d ago1:13:25

1:13:25

Have you ever tried talking about math with parents of elementary or middle school kids? You’ll likely hear things like, “It’s like a foreign language!” It’s funny, but also kind of frustrating. The truth is, math hasn’t really changed—one plus one is still two. Similarly, have we overcomplicated the Gospel? Pastor Shawn Williams and our creative t…

1
Keep it Simple [ChurchFront's Jake Gosselin] 52:48

14d ago52:48

52:48

Gear vs. Talent. Simple Tech vs. Fancy Tech. Murder Mountain vs. a Warehouse. Jake Gosselin joins us for our second 5 Year Anniversary episode to discuss all of this and more! In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Murder Mountain aka “The ChurchGear Barn” 5:15 ChurchFront’s Jake Gosselin joins us! 11:15 How did Jake get into church production? 26:15 Ch…

1
“The End of Selfishness” | Megan Marshman 35:30

15d ago35:30

35:30

It’s easy to get caught up in the culture of “Me, Myself, and I,” where self-help and self-care often take center stage. But for followers of Jesus, this self-centered mindset isn’t the answer—He calls us to humility and service. When we shift our focus from ourselves to others, using our gifts to serve and bless those around us, we live out the lo…

1
7 Wildest Moments in CG History [5 Yr Anniversary Celebration] 52:28

21d ago52:28

52:28

We’re celebrating our 5 year anniversary with a crazy story round up! 2 Gas mishaps. 2 Lighting strikes. And our favorite pastor knows who we are?! Join us on the ChurchGear podcast to hear the 7 wildest moments that have happened over the past 5 years. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Can we fix Blake? 6:45 “Five Truths and a Lie” about ChurchGea…

1
“The End of Loneliness” | Dave Dummitt 30:47

22d ago30:47

30:47

Loneliness is something we all experience, but true hospitality—offering warmth and genuine presence—can help create a place of connection. When we create spaces like this, our church and community becomes a place where no one is left feeling alone, and real, meaningful relationships can flourish!

1
Healthy, Responsible Teams [Elevation’s Jared Olson] 43:30

28d ago43:30

43:30

How do you keep services on schedule while still keeping your team healthy and energized? Jared Olson, Production Director at Elevation Church, joins the ChurchGear podcast to share how Elevation Church upholds both a high standard of excellence and a healthy team culture In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 – Super Bowl Halftime Show: Production & AV…

1
“The End of Hate” | Dave Dummitt 36:27

29d ago36:27

36:27

When you scroll through social media or watch the news, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the negativity and hate around you—whether it's the latest conflict, violence, or tragedy. It’s a reminder that our world is often shaped by personal feelings of powerlessness, mistreatment, or fear. But there’s hope! Pastor Dave Dummitt highlights Peter’s antido…

1
Honoring Volunteers & the Sabbath [Ryan Wenzel CCV] 56:32

1M ago56:32

56:32

How can you care for your volunteers well? Ryan Wenzel joins us this week to tell us how they honor their volunteers at Christ Church of the Valley. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Church Tech Fail: The “Butt Smack” Incident 4:15 Ryan Wenzel (Christ’s Church of the Valley) Joins the Show 13:20 Ryan’s Journey into Church Production 25:00 First Ste…

1
Weekend Service, March 23 | Senior Pastor Update 44:19

1M ago44:19

44:19

Dave Dummitt, Willow's Elders, and Shawn Williams share an update on our senior pastor transition. You can learn more at https://www.willowcreek.org/updates/

1
“Open Your Hands” | Shawn Williams 37:22

1M ago37:22

37:22

Imagine the moments leading up to the feeding of the 5,000. Why was the boy so close to Jesus with five loaves and two fish when no one else had food? In our own lives, we often face moments where we can choose to give what little we have, and watch God multiply it in miraculous ways. In this story from John 6:1-15, Pastor Shawn Williams explores t…

1
Community Builds Production [Grove Church’s Christina Pendleton] 48:30

1M ago48:30

48:30

How do you build a strong production team? Christina Pendleton joins us to discuss how we can build strong production teams by focusing on the community we are building in our teams. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 – Nonsense Opening 5:45 – Meet Christina Pendleton from Grove Church 15:45 – Christina’s Journey into Church Production 19:00 – Findi…

1
DiGiCo Download: Coming Gear & Best Soft Skills [Ryan Shelton] 54:39

2M ago54:39

54:39

After more than 150+ episodes, the ChurchGear podcast finally landed a pod with the most elusive guest we've ever had: DiGiCo's Ryan Shelton! Come for the heck the hosts give him for finally recording with them. Stay for the expertise Ryan shares on essential soft skills, top AVL mistakes he is seeing and a fun update on all things DiGiCo. In this …

1
“Be Curious” | Dave Dummitt 33:09

2M ago33:09

33:09

Stories help us make sense of the world around us. But in doing so, we often make assumptions—about people, situations, or circumstances—only to realize later that we were completely misguided. Pastor Dave Dummitt explores how hope gets curious, shatters assumptions, and breaks down barriers to restore what’s broken! The story of the blind man in J…

1
Is Live Streaming Essential for Church Services in 2025? [Tyler Kerpsack] 57:58

2M ago57:58

57:58

Is live streaming still a must for churches in 2025? In this episode, we sit down with AVL pro Tyler Kerpsack to tackle the big questions. Who should stream their services? How can your church stream on a budget? Could remote mixing be in the future church tech toolbox? In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Crazy ChurchGear driving adventures 5:00 Meet…

1
“Get Close” | Shawn Williams 36:10

2M ago36:10

36:10

What was it like to be the leper in Matthew 8? How long had he suffered, isolated from others? What gave him the courage to approach Jesus? We explore the powerful story of the leper from Matthew 8:1-4 and Mark 1:40-45, where Jesus shows us that He is our source of hope—expressed in tangible, personal ways. Just as Jesus reached out to heal the lep…

1
Parenthood/Childhood | Dave Dummitt 35:54

2M ago35:54

35:54

Life stages are inevitable as we age and make our way closer to eternity. We come into the world needing those around us to care for, nurture, lead, teach, and love us. As we near the end of life, we often find we need similar things: care, nurturing, guidance, and love as our minds and bodies decline. The full-circle nature of life is inevitable. …

1
From Willow Creek to CCV: A Church Production Veteran’s Insights 50:53

2M ago50:53

50:53

Touring Life + Willow Creek Production + Christ's Church of the Valley = A Production Pro. Ivan Talamantes (Christ’s Church of the Valley, Willow Creek) shares his journey from touring pro to church tech leader. He gives us insights on volunteers, gear, and the best (and worst) audio consoles in church production! In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 …

1
Don't Do Church Production Alone [FILO's Todd Elliott] 55:52

2M ago55:52

55:52

How can you connect with fellow church production friends to navigate the journey of church tech together? Todd Elliott joins us to share church tech disaster stories, tips for effectively communicating with leadership, and how to build meaningful friendships in the church production space—so you never have to walk the journey alone. In this episod…

1
Manhood/Womanhood | Megan Marshman and Shawn Williams 47:05

2M ago47:05

47:05

Trad wives. Toxic masculinity. Fourth-wave feminism. The “manosphere.” Egalitarianism. Complementarianism. What do all these terms have in common? They represent ways to view or interpret what it means to be a woman or man. They have helped shape our culture both within and outside of the church. Pastors Megan Marshman and Shawn Williams unpack Gen…

1
From Mixing to Marriage: A Church Production Love Story [Fellowship Church] 50:31

3M ago50:31

50:31

"What’s it like to marry someone from your church production team—and then keep working side by side every Sunday? Let’s talk about it!" Alexa and Daniel join us for a special Valentine’s Day episode! Hear how their shared passion for church production led them to find love—not just in their work, but in each other. Plus, all the unique challenges …

1
Where we find our identity | Dave Dummitt 35:25

3M ago35:25

35:25

We all have multiple roles we play in life, whether that be a son or daughter, friend, parent, or spouse. From the moment we are born, expectations are placed on us that seep into the identities we take on. Sometimes, these identities fit, and other times, they feel like clothing three sizes too big—they weigh us down. We are products of our famili…

1
Central Church's Production Approach [Ryan Fuller] 52:22

3M ago52:22

52:22

How do you do church production in Las Vegas? Ryan Fuller joins us this week to discuss Central Church's gear setup, approach to production and sources for inspiration. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Toby’s first Vegas trip 6:20 Ryan Fuller joins us from Central Church in Vegas 12:20 How did Ryan get into church production at Central Church? 15:…

1
The Conflict Far From You | Shawn Williams 38:01

3M ago38:01

38:01

There are real and major conflicts constantly going on throughout the world. When the conflict feels far, it can feel overwhelming to the point of paralysis. How could I possibly help? We might also tune it out because, after all, it doesn’t affect our day-to-day lives. In this message, we look to 2 Samuel 19:9-15, where David builds a bridge with …

1
Maximizing Gear, Not Budgets [Red Rocks Church's Chase Donald] 49:22

3M ago49:22

49:22

How do you balance expectations and budgets simultaneously? Chase Donald works in production at Red Rocks church and he joins us to discuss balancing expectations, maximizing gear, and focusing on your church's unique production goals. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 What games did ChurchGear play at the annual retreat? 4:15 Chase Donald joins us…

1
The Conflict Because of You | Dave Dummitt 36:05

3M ago36:05

36:05

You make choices that impact those around you every day. But what happens when the internal conflict you are dealing with hurts others? How do you deal with the conflict you have caused? Pastor Dave dives into 2 Samuel 12 and narrows in on a moment in King David’s life where he mismanaged things in a way that deeply and tragically impacted the live…

1
What Conferences Should You Consider in 2025? [Jerod Togger] 47:33

3M ago47:33

47:33

How do you pick the perfect conference to further your skills and networking? We run through the list of conferences to consider in 2025, the various reasons to go and end on some tips to pitch for budget to attend. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Toby causing chaos at SALT and the Amplio Golf Tournament 10:45 How did Jerod get into church produc…

1
The Conflict Around You | Dave Dummitt 36:12

3M ago36:12

36:12

The earliest conflict between people in the Bible occurs between two brothers, Cain and Abel. All the way back in the beginning of humanity, rivalry and dissension were present—everything from sibling rivalry, failed marriages, broken friendships, arguments in the workplace, conflicts in neighborhoods, wars, and much more. Pastor Dave Dummitt uses …

1
Elevating Without Imitating [Elevation Church's Shep] 54:39

3M ago54:39

54:39

How do you draw inspiration from other churches without also bringing expectations to make your church service be just like theirs? Stephen Sheppard is the Broadcast Engineer for Elevation Church and he joins us this week to discuss gear, live streams and the importance of staying true to your church's vision. In this episode you'll hear: 0:30 Toby…

1
The Conflict Within You | Megan Marshman 39:06

4M ago39:06

39:06

We want to eat healthy, but we grab the donut. We want to stay focused, but we grab the phone and mindlessly scroll. We commit to prioritizing our friends and family, yet work obligations continuously win out. We experience trauma or grief, but avoid it instead of healing from it. We pictured our life one way, but we’re living another reality. Our …

1
“It’s all worship” | Thomas Anderson Jr. 48:48

4M ago48:48

48:48

What is worship? We often think of singing, the worship band, or worship artists that lead us through songs praising God. That is a part of worship–but not all of it! Worship can be a much larger part of our lives than we might think. It can be extended into our prayers, our service, and even through Christian meditation. Put simply, worship is a w…

1
Navigating Career Transitions in Church Production [Slingshot Group] 46:48

4M ago46:48

46:48

What factors should you consider when deciding whether to stay or leave a church tech job? Slingshot helps churches with their talent searches. They joined us on the podcast to give their advice on the nuances of staying or leaving a church production job and the factors influencing that decision. We discuss self-awareness, effective resume buildin…

1
Will AI Change Church Production? [Kenny Jahng] 33:21

4M ago33:21

33:21

How will AI change church production jobs? Kenny Jahng joins us to discuss how AI will help, change and shape church production. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Podcast editing failure & Toby cheats on Blake 3:00 Kenny Jahng joins us from SALT Conference 8:30 How can AI help church production people do work easier? 16:30 What church production jo…

1
“Prince of Peace” | Shawn Williams 26:15

4M ago26:15

26:15

Christmas might not always be “the most wonderful time of the year.” For some, it really is wonderful. But for others, it can be the hardest time of the year. Mourning of the life we thought we’d have or experiencing the first holiday without a loved one—Christmas can be filled with more anxiety than joy. In the midst of the challenge, Luke 1:46–55…

1
Church Techs Confess [2024 Recap, Reactions & Winners] 1:04:44

4M ago1:04:44

1:04:44

What were the best Church Tech Confessionals in 2024? Listen to all of 2024's Church Tech Confessionals in a single episode and then hang with us as we give our reactions and crown a winner for the best Church Tech Confessional of the 2024 year. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Blake confesses: Where is the camera card? 4:50 Blake confesses: Vehic…

1
“Everlasting Father” | Dave Dummitt 33:17

4M ago33:17

33:17

We learn through imitation well into childhood. We acquire so much from our parents—for better or worse—and often view God through the lenses of those experiences. In Matthew 19:13–14, we see Jesus rebuking His disciples as they turn away eager parents longing for Jesus to pray for their children. Pastor Dave Dummitt reminds us that no matter our e…

1
45 Years of Production Wisdom [Sweetwater's Kent Morris] 52:45

4M ago52:45

52:45

What church production history and wisdom do you pick up when you've been in the game for 45 years? Kent Morris joins the ChurchGear podcast this week to discuss the changes he has seen over the years, the lessons he has picked up along the way and he ends on some very encouraging words for those currently in the tech trenches. In this episode you'…

1
“Mighty God” | Shawn Williams 33:55

4M ago33:55

33:55

When we think of the Christmas narrative, we don’t typically think of John the Apostle. Open to Chapter 1 of John’s Gospel; you won’t find any details about Mary and Joseph, shepherds, innkeepers, or a manger. Instead, John reminds us of God’s mighty power that brought the world into existence. This is a very different Christmas narrative, but it’s…

1
Good & Bad Reasons to Change Jobs [Dennis Choy] 50:15

5M ago50:15

50:15

How do you know when it is time to change churches and take a new church production job? Dennis Choy joins us this week to discuss his new job and the process he went through to make the decision. If you're looking for real life insight into the good and bad reasons to change church production jobs, this is your episode. In this episode you'll hear…

1
“Wonderful Counselor” | Megan Marshman 38:13

5M ago38:13

38:13

Where do you turn for advice? To your friends? Your family? Do you turn to the Internet or your therapist? There is a source greater than the sum of all the people and search engines we may turn to: Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor! Psalm 119:105 tells us how Jesus is the word and the lamp unto our feet. Megan Marshman focuses on Jesus as our Wonderf…

1
“Unto Us A Child Is Born” | Dave Dummitt 35:34

5M ago35:34

35:34

Have you ever experienced moments that have made you think, “Nothing will ever be the same again”? The greatest “nothing will ever be the same again” moment in history began with the most mundane of events—the cry of a newborn baby, delivered in an obscure setting to two ordinary humans. And yet, the announcement of Jesus’ arrival was anything but …

1
Being the Church Post Hurricane Helene [Biltmore Church's Tyler Flores] 47:29

5M ago47:29

47:29

How do you lead your production team after a devastating hurricane hits? Tyler Flores is the Central Production Minister of Biltmore Church, and he joins the podcast to discuss how the church is helping the community in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Funny observations of celebrity golf tournaments 5:30 Tyler F…

1
Lee Fields on Church Hurt 1:22:24

5M ago1:22:24

1:22:24

How do you recover from Church Hurt? Lee Fields joins us this week to discuss Church Hurt. We get into his journey to recover and the reflections he has had now that some time and counseling have happened. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Speculating about the Mike Tyson & Jake Paul fight 3:15 Lee Fields joins 8:00 Lee’s UFC fight story 10:00 What…

1
“For God So Loves Your Enemy” | Dave Dummit and Fabian Garza 26:50

5M ago26:50

26:50

Have you ever struggled to love someone who was different from you? What about loving someone who is in opposition with your really important beliefs and values? Luke 10:25–37 tells the story of a very unlikely stranger loving another very unlikely neighbor in need. Pastor Dave Dummit and Pastor Fabian Garza dive into the story of the Good Samarita…

1
Preparing for Christmas [Mannahouse Church's Peter Zatsepin] 52:05

5M ago52:05

52:05

What are Christmas services like in Portland, Oregon? Peter Zatsepin is a Production Technician at Mannahouse Church and he joins us this week to discuss preparing for Christmas. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 How much does the weather impact your mood? 4:30 Peter Zatsepin joins us from Mannahouse Church! 14:00 How did you get into church produc…

1
“For God So Loves the Vulnerable” | Megan Marshman 31:35

5M ago31:35

31:35

We often think we have to go somewhere far to help those in need, but what about those facing challenges in our own communities? Matthew 25:31–46 shows us how much God cares for the vulnerable and calls us to love them, too. This week Megan Marshman reminds us that the opportunity to love the vulnerable is closer than we think!…

1
Becoming a System Integrator on the Fly [Dream City Church's Eric Mooney] 56:53

6M ago56:53

56:53

Your church needs you as their church tech to be their integrator. Now what? Eric Mooney is the Audio Director at Dream City Church and he joins us to tell us his journey of going from youth pastor, to audio director, to integration work for his church. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 Toby meeting Blake for the first time 3:45 Eric Mooney joins u…

1
“For God So Loves All People” | Shawn Williams 46:23

6M ago46:23

46:23

Does God love all people? Matthew 25:15–30 gives us a glimpse of His heart. Pastor Shawn Williams kicks off For God So Loves and shares how God’s plan for our lives includes loving those within our reach with God’s love and playing an active part in bringing tangible hope and peace to our friends, family, and neighbors in all spaces!…

1
Battle Royale: Audio Consoles [Jeff Sandstrom & Drew Hester] 54:05

6M ago54:05

54:05

What happens when you pit two audio experts against one another in a mixing Battle Royale conversation? Drew Hester and Jeff Sandstrom are too polite to fully fight it out in a Battle Royale, but they both join us for our first "fight it out" episode in the church production space. Join us for takes on what matters most in audio, the best consoles …

1
Lead as Servant, Elisha | Dave Dummitt 37:07

6M ago37:07

37:07

What would the world look like if the dominant leadership style was servant leadership? What would the country look like if the main interest of those in leadership positions—government, municipalities, schools, churches—were to out-serve one another and their constituents? Can you imagine it? The heart of servant leadership is putting the needs of…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Willow Creek Community Church Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen