All Episodes - The True Tale Trail
Take your family on a Bible adventure on the True Tale Trail! In this Christian family podcast we will explore the big story of the Bible, learn how to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and walk closer with God every day. You can expect epic Bible stories, outdoor-themed devotions and lots of silliness as we journey through God's Word together. Join us for a new episode every True Tail Tuesday! Visit TrueTaleTrail.com for family discussion guides, activities, and coloring pages to help you talk more about the True Tale Trail at home.Sign up for the True Tale Trail newsletter for more resources to help your family grow closer to Jesus together.
View Podcast Details40 Episodes
S'more God - Psalm 34:8
In this week’s episode of the True Tale Trail, we invite kids and families to explore Psalm 34:8: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” Using the fun (and delicious!) picture of s’mores, this episode helps kids understand how they can discover God’s goodness for themselves.
The Wise & Foolish Builders
In this episode we'll head out on an animal expedition to learn all about God's furry construction worker, the beaver. Along the way we'll see what Jesus had to say about building our lives on His firm foundation. Today kids will discover what happens when we do more than just read the Bible but actually put God's word into action.
Jesus Shows Us How to Serve
In today's episode of the True Tale Trail we'll take a look at a Bible story that can change our hearts about who and how we serve. Today we’re talking about dirty feet, muddy roads, and the grossest job nobody wanted — and the surprising person who volunteered to do it. Jesus!
Crossing the Jordan
Today we're going to hear the amazing true story of what happened when Joshua and the Israelites were stuck on the wrong side of a flooded river. We'll see how God saved the day and gave His people a powerful reminder of His goodness. This story from Joshua 3-4 will teach your family that remembering God’s faithfulness in the past helps us to trust Him for the future, and points us to Jesus—the one who made an even greater way for us through the cross. Download today's Family Discussion Guide at TrueTaleTrail.com.
The Shepherds Hear the Good News of Christmas
Today we are wrapping up the Great Christmas Campout series with the story of the angels announcing Jesus' birth to the most unlikely group of people: humble shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem! This is story is a great reminder for kids (and grown-ups) that the good news of Jesus is for everyone! Download today's Family Discussion Guide at TrueTaleTrail.com.
Joseph's Christmas Adenture
This week in part three of the "The Great Christmas Campout" series we're going to meet Joseph, a faithful man who had to make a big decision about trusting God. Will Joseph join God on this big Christmas adventure or will he miss out on the amazing things God has planned? Find out today on the True Tale Trail. Download today's Family Discussion Guide at TrueTaleTrail.com.
Christmas: The Angel Visits Mary
In today's episode we're continuing with part 2 of our series, "The Great Christmas Campout," that's all about how God came to dwell among us at Christmas. Today we'll meet a young girl named Mary as she encounters a mysterious messenger with some surprising news. Will Mary choose to trust God even when she doesn't have all the answers? Find out today on the True Tale Trail! Download today's Family Discussion Guide at TrueTaleTrail.com.
Celebrating Christmas: God With Us
In this episode we're kicking of our Christmas series called "The Great Christmas Campout," where we'll be discovering how the God who created the universe came to live among us His people. Today, we’ll explore the story of the Tabernacle — the special tent where God dwelled with His people during their long hike to the Promised Land — and learn how it points to the greatest Christmas gift ever: Jesus, Emmanuel, God With Us.
Happy Thanksgiving
This special Thanksgiving episode of the True Tale Trail podcast is all about… turkeys! Discover how a turkey’s amazing eyesight helps us understand what it means to have “thankful eyes.” Just like turkeys can see things people often miss, we sometimes overlook God’s blessings in our lives. Join us as we learn how to spot God’s goodness everywhere and develop hearts full of gratitude this Thanksgiving!
One Thankful Man: Luke 17
In this Thanksgiving-themed episode we’ll explore the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17 and discover what real thankfulness looks like—not just on a holiday, but every day. Packed with kid-friendly fun, Bible truth, and our Backpack Bible Verse from Psalm 136:1, this episode helps families slow down, look around, and say, “Thank you, Jesus!”
Tracking Jesus
On this week’s adventure on the True Tale Trail, we’re exploring the trail looking for animal tracks and the critters that go with them. But even better than following animal tracks, we're learning what it means to follow Jesus! Just like we can follow animal tracks through the forest, the Bible says we can follow in Jesus’ steps—not by finding footprints in the mud, but by living the way He lived. In this episode, we unpack Matthew 4:19 and learn how Jesus invites each of us to follow Him, love others, and leave “tracks” that look like His. Grab your backpack—let’s hit the trail, learn together, and discover what it means to follow Jesus step by step!
Walking with God
Ever wondered what it really means to walk with God? Join us on today’s True Tale Trail adventure as we explore the story of Enoch—a man who chose to stay close to God when everyone else was walking the wrong way. We’ll unpack what it looks like to walk faithfully with God every day—trusting Him, talking with Him, and following His path even when the trail gets tough. Our Backpack Bible Verse this week is James 4:8: “Come near to God, and He will come near to you.” So grab your gear and get ready for a walk like no other on the True Tale Trail! Parents: Visit TrueTaleTrail.com for family discussion guides that go with each episode. Sign up for The True Tale Trail Newsletter to get the parenting resources sent straight to your inbox.
Light for the Trail: Psalm 119:105
Grab your flashlight, hikers—it’s time for a True Tale Trail gear talk! This week, Jason shines a light on one of the most important tools for every adventurer: the flashlight. But this isn’t just about hiking in the dark—it’s about learning how God’s Word lights the way for our hearts and our lives. Through Psalm 119:105, kids will discover that the Bible helps us see where to step, avoid the things that can trip us up, and follow Jesus, the Light of the World. So switch on your flashlight and get ready to see God’s truth shine bright! Parents: Visit TrueTaleTrail.com for family discussion guides that go with each episode. Sign up for the True Tale Trail newsletter to get the parenting resources sent straight to your inbox.
Jesus Calms the Storm
Grab your gear, hikers—we’re climbing up to Rescue Ridge where we'll a true story about when Jesus came to save the world! In this episode, Jason tells the thrilling story from Mark 4:35–41, when Jesus’ friends faced a wild storm on the Sea of Galilee. The waves were crashing, the wind was howling, and their boat was about to sink—until Jesus spoke, “Quiet! Be still!” and everything became calm. Kids will discover that Jesus is more powerful than any storm we face—and we can trust Him when we’re scared. Don’t miss today’s Backpack Bible Verse: “The Lord is my place of safety. Why should I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1, NIrV). Parents: Visit TrueTaleTrail.com for a free family discussion guide and more fun tools to help your family explore the Bible together!
Let's Hit the Trail!
Lace up your boots and grab your Bible—because we’re heading out on the very first adventure along the True Tale Trail! In this episode, Jason introduces the big idea behind the podcast: exploring the big story of the Bible, following in the footsteps of Jesus and learning how to walk with God more every day. Get ready for epic Bible stories, wild animal adventures, fun outdoor lessons, and a few campfire snacks along the way. The True Tale Trail is open—so let’s hit the trail together! Parents: Don’t forget to visit TrueTaleTrail.com for family guides, coloring sheets, and bonus activities that go with every episode
A New Adventure: From Simple Kidmin to True Tale Trail
This is the final Simple Kidmin episode! I'm launching The True Tale Trail, a Bible adventure podcast for kids and families. Visit TrueTaleTrail.com for family discussion guides and updates.
039: Rebuilding Children's Ministry
In this episode we will talk about vision and strategy for rebuilding your Children's Ministry in 2021 and beyond.
038: Navigating the Coronavirus in Children's Ministry
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is having a massive impact on how we minister to kids, parents and leaders. In this episode we will talk about how to get creative in serving families during this challenging season.
027: Kidmin Lessons from Christmas Movies
What can Christmas movies teach us about kidmin? Find out in this episode as we take a look at three classics: Elf, It's a Wonderful Life and A Charlie Brown Christmas and see what lessons we can learn about Children's Ministry, leadership and following Jesus. For more Christmas inspiration, check out Jason's book, Holiday Road: A Christmas Devotional on Amazon.
026: 3 Skills Small Group Leaders Need to Win with Kids
What skills do small group leaders and Sunday School teachers need to win with kids? Today we will talk about three essential skills you can use for training your leaders to make them more effective in Children's Ministry.
025: Is Children's Ministry Real Ministry?
Is Children's Ministry real ministry or just babysitting? The answer to that question is a no brainer, and in this episode we'll talk about how God uses the awesome world Children's Ministry to change the lives of kids, leaders and parents. If you're discouraged or wondering if your ministry to kids really matters, this is the episode you do not want to miss.
024: Building Healthy Teams Part 2
In this episode we will finish our conversation on building healthy teams. Today we will dive into the tough topics of how to help people think like a team and how to fight for team health.
023: Building Healthy Teams Part 1
The health of our Children's Ministry depends on the health of our teams. In today's episode we will talk about how to build healthy teams and how to help our teams thrive.
022: Storyteller Training Part 3 (12 Tips for Success)
In today's episode we will wrap up our three-part storyteller training by hitting 12 tips that will set communicators up for success. If you missed parts one and two, you can find those on episodes 18 & 20 of the podcast. For more storytelling tips and training, check out BibleStoryCoach.com.
021: Making Move Up Sunday Awesome
How do you make the Sunday you promote kids to the next age or grade level awesome for families? Whether you call it Move Up Sunday, Promotion Sunday or something else, there are some simple things you can do to be more intentional and set the families in your church up to win as they transition to a new room or grade.
Motivation Monday: God Sees You
Ever feel lonely, discouraged or misunderstood in Children's Ministry? Then this is the episode for you. In this mini episode of the Simple Kidmin podcast we will look at the story of Hagar from the Old Testament and be reminded that God sees what we're going through and cares about us even in the hardest ministry seasons.
020: Storyteller Training Part 2 (Facial Expressions, Gestures & Movement)
This is part two of a three-part series on training for Children's Ministry storytellers and teachers. Today we will look at how we can use our face, gestures and movement to bring the Bible to life. For more storytelling tips and training, check out BibleStoryCoach.com.
019: Are You Ready for Easter?
Easter Sunday is the biggest Sunday of the year in the life of the church. In this episode we will talk about 8 things you can do to get ready to celebrate and welcome guests in your Children's Ministry on Easter Sunday.
Monday Motivation: What You're Doing Matters
In this mini episode of Simple Kidmin, Jason shares an encouraging story to remind Children's Ministry leaders what we do really matters. Remember what Galatians 6:9 says. Don't give up!
018: Storyteller Training Part 1 (Using Your Voice)
This is the first of a three-part episode focused on training for Children's Ministry storytellers and large group teachers. Today we will look at the worst advice ever given to storytellers and several ways storytellers can use their voices to bring the Bible to life. For more storytelling tips and training, check out BibleStoryCoach.com.
Simple Kidmin is Back!
After a three month hiatus, the Simple Kidmin podcast is back. In this brief update Jason shares what he's been up to during this break and some of the awesome content you can look forward to in the coming months. Look for a brand new episode coming out in the next couple of days. Don't forget, you can sign up for the Simple Kidmin newsletter over at SimpleKidmin.com so you don't miss any of the new content. Also, check out Jason's other podcast (hmm, so that's where he's been), a weekly family devot...
017: Helping Leaders Grow
In this episode we'll talk about how we can adjust our leadership to help our leaders grow through each stage of their development. We'll be looking at a tool called the Leadership Square from the book Building a Discipling Culture and explore how we can replace ourselves in Children's Ministry. You can check out the show notes at SimpleKidmin.com and find family devotion resources at FamilyJetpack.com.
Family Devotions for Thanksgiving
Learn more about Turkey Busters, a set of free Thanksgiving devotions you can use with the families in your church, at SimpleKidmin.com.
016: How to Communicate Vision to Parents (and Why You Should)
Do the parents in your church know what your Children’s Ministry is all about? How do you communicate vision? If you want to get better at it then check this episode because we will be talking about five reasons you need to communicate vision to parents and seven vehicles to help you do it.
015: How to Create a Compelling Leader Training Experience
How do you equip Children's Ministry leaders? Today we're going to be talking about how we can create unforgettable training experiences for our volunteers that challenge them, inspire them and set them up to win.
014: Helping Parents Have An Awesome First Day In Children's Ministry
What do parents think of your Children's Ministry the first time they visit? Today we will be talking about how to serve parents and make sure they have the best experience possible.
Kidmin Coffee Break Episode 4: Percolators and Priorities
Welcome to another Kidmin Coffee Break. Today we're going to be talking about how to make time for the most important priorities in your ministry. If you're living under the tyranny of the urgent, then this is an episode you won't want to miss.
013: Helping Kids Have an Awesome First Day in Children's Ministry
What’s it like to be a new kid in your Children’s Ministry? Is it awesome or just okay? If you want to make sure that your guests have an amazing first experience, check out this episode where we will talk about eight things you can do help your first-time guests feel welcome.
Kidmin Coffee Break Episode 3 - Becoming the Smartest Version of Yourself
On today's coffee break we'll talk about three things to remember to help us become the smartest version of ourselves as Children's Ministry Leaders.
012: How to Be a More Creative Kidmin
Do you ever wish you could be more creative? In this episode we will take a look at how you can cultivate your God-given creativity to discover outside-the-box solutions for the challenges you face in Children's Ministry.