In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh Denhart talks with Christen Clark, a seasoned children’s ministry leader and host of The Collide Kids Podcast, about transforming “crowd-control” volunteers into front-line disciple-makers. Together they unpack practical ways to train, position, and encourage these often-overlooked team members so that every large-group experience thrives.
If you’ve ever felt your program unravel during transitions or wished adults in the room would engage before things go sideways, this episode gives you a simple framework to elevate the whole experience.
Key Topics Covered
• Define the role: presence + engagement, not “warm bodies.”
• Why engagement is contagious — adults model the room’s posture.
• The A-C-E framework: Affirm, Coach, Equip your volunteers every time.
Key Quote
“They’re not the backup. They are the front line.” — Christen Clark
Scripture References
2 Peter 1 : 12-13 – “Stir them up by way of reminder.”
Philippians 2 : 3-4 – Serving others with humble, attentive presence.
Takeaway
Recast “crowd control” as discipleship. Assign zones, learn names, close the distance, and model engagement. Then, weekly A-C-E your team: affirm their purpose, coach for the plan, equip with simple behaviors (proximity, participation, gentle prompts). The result is a calmer room, a clearer message, and better retention.
Call to Action
We hope this episode encourages and equips you. Share it with a friend and stay tuned for more resources each week.
Christen Clark is a Christian speaker, worship leader, and children’s ministry veteran with over 17 years of experience serving in the local church. She is the creator and host of The Collide Kids Podcast — a fun, faith-filled weekly show for kids and families launched in 2020 that helps parents and leaders spark spiritual conversations at home.
Christen has served as a children’s ministry leader, worship leader, and now works as a ministry consultant helping churches engage the next generation in faith. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary (2024), she lives in Cumming, Georgia, with her husband Richard and their two children.
Her warm, creative style and gospel-centered approach make her a trusted voice for parents, pastors, and volunteers alike.
Connect with Christen Clark
🔗 Podcast: collidekidspodcast.buzzsprout.com
🌐 Website: christenclark.org
🎧 Apple Podcasts: The Collide Kids Podcast
📸 Instagram: @christenclark | @collidekidspod
About Christen Clark