Helps For HOSTs: Saddleback Small Groups Dream Now Series

Dream Now: Equipping Hosts to Pursue God-Sized DreamsIn this introductory episode of the 'Dream Now' podcast series, co-hosts James Browning and Bradley Soendlin, the engagement pastor at Saddleback Irvine South, welcome small group hosts to a journey of pursuing God-sized dreams. Bradley shares his fun, long-time dream of starting a diner that could serve as a community gathering place, while James emphasizes the importance of shared dreams in Christian life. The episode discusses the framework for the series, which includes weekly sermons, video discussions, and daily devotionals designed to equip and inspire small group hosts. Listeners are encouraged to integrate this material into their daily lives and share their feedback and stories of life change.And don't forget to share your story, suggestions, or even questions to us at smallgroups@saddleback.com00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:51 Bradley's Dream: Starting a Diner02:02 The Importance of Shared Dreams03:03 Biblical Examples of Dreaming Together03:47 Saddleback's Dream and Small Groups04:24 DreamNow Series Overview05:37 Encouragement and Resources for Small Group Hosts06:52 Conclusion and Weekly Podcast Announcement

Dream Now Series: Setting the Stage for Successful Small GroupsIn the first episode of the 'Help for Hosts' podcast for the Dream Now series, hosts James Browning and Bradley introduce the concept of 'dreaming now' and discuss practical ways small group hosts can facilitate engaging and meaningful discussions. The conversation touches on Biblical dreamers like Joseph, practical tips for running both online and on-campus groups, and emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable environment for participants. They also stress the significance of prayer and being prepared with thoughtful questions rather than answers. Throughout the podcast, group hosts are encouraged to make people feel heard and appreciated, and to respect the diverse comfort levels and participation styles of their group members.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:38 Dreaming Now for Your Life02:05 Practical Tips for Group Hosts03:55 Creating a Comfortable Environment06:50 Engaging Group Discussions08:29 Praying and Supporting Dreams11:39 Tips for Online and On-Campus Groups13:17 Sharing Your Stories and Dreams14:29 Conclusion and Next Steps

Dream Now: Integrating Kids into Your Small GroupIn this episode, Early Childhood Pastor Hannah from Lake Forest campus joins us to discuss how families can dream together as part of the 'Dream Now' series at Saddleback Church. She shares her excitement for week two, highlighting the importance of family involvement in small groups. Hannah and her husband provide practical tips for hosting small groups with children, emphasizing the value of preparation, patience, and adaptability. They also share a heartwarming story of legacy through volunteering, featuring the Reedy family’s long-term dedication to serving in the kindergarten classroom. The episode serves as a guide to integrating kids into small groups, fostering a collaborative family environment, and dreaming for future generations.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:20 Dream Now for Your Family01:13 Tips for Hosting Small Groups with Kids04:09 The Importance of Snacks and Preparation05:12 Patience, Forgiveness, and Time Management07:02 Legacy and Stronger Homes Initiative08:47 Conclusion and Call for Stories

Enhancing Small Group Ministry: Tips and Insights with Steve GladenIn this week's episode of the Help for Host podcast for the Dream Now initiative, hosted by James, the focus is on Dreaming Now for your church. Special guest Steve Gladen, pastor of Dream Now Groups and an elder at Saddleback Church, joins the discussion to offer advice and resources for hosts as they move into the second half of the series. Key topics include curricula recommendations for both new and existing small groups, strategies for effective small group meetings, and tips for staying connected between sessions. Steve and James also touch on the importance of prayer and celebrating group milestones. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the powerful impact of small group interaction on personal and community growth.00:00 Welcome to Week Three of Help for Host Podcast00:13 Special Guest: Pastor Steve Gladen00:21 Halfway Point Reflections01:50 Curriculum Recommendations for Small Groups02:54 Tips for New and Existing Groups05:46 Preparing for Your Meetings07:41 During the Meeting: Best Practices10:43 Subgrouping and Prayer Time12:15 Staying Connected Between Meetings14:00 Conclusion and Encouragement

Dreaming for Your Community: Tips and Insights for Small Group HostsIn this episode of the Help for Host Podcast, James Browning and German Perez discuss week four of the Dream Now series. The focus is on how small groups can dream for their communities. The episode covers tips on concluding the series successfully, such as planning celebrations and preparing for future studies. German Perez, a small groups expert from Saddleback, shares practical advice on previewing content, praying for group members, and engaging with the community through events like book clubs. The episode also highlights the importance of reviewing previous weeks' discussions and ends with actionable steps for hosts to pray over their neighborhoods.00:00 Introduction to Week Four00:14 Meet German Perez01:10 Tips for Wrapping Up the Series02:41 Planning Your Next Study03:40 Preparing for Your Group Meeting06:22 Dreaming for Your Community07:29 Closing Your Group Effectively09:11 Final Thoughts and Contact Information