Watch the Simply Youth Ministry Conference LIVE!
1 Comments Published by Terrace Crawford on 3/2/12 at 7:56 AM.
If you can't join us in Louisville this weekend, I encourage you to watch the LIVE stream of the conference, beginning at 4:30PM later today. You can catch all general sessions plus some action going on between 1-6PM on Saturday and Sunday!
If you're at the conference, I'd love to meet you. I'm doing a few workshops also and would love to see your face. Just look for my name on the infamous "yellow sheet" to get the times and locations.
Labels: Conferences, Media, Resources, social media, Youth Pastors, Youth workers
I loved Josh Griffin's "Facebook Hack" game idea that he shared on his blog a few months ago. It inspired me to not only play that game with students but I ended up creating another game as well... "The Facebook Stalker" game.
The idea I had behind this game was really two-fold. I wanted to leverage Social Media a little bit more and encourage students to share with their friends via mobile updates to their Facebooks that they were at church (at our event), but I also wanted to have a fun (and engaging) crowd game to play during our time together. We encouraged our students early in the evening to update their statuses saying they were at our event (you could do this with a simple slide on the screen too) and then later in the evening we had our media tech pull up random Facebook accounts (from random students we selected ahead of time) on the screen LIVE during our event!
If the student had updated their status (prior to our playing the game) to reflect that they were at our church event they won a prize. If they didn't they were a big fat loser!
This Facebook game was a win... and students loved it!
Labels: Creative, Media, Resources, Youth Pastors, Youth workers
Recently ran across this video courtesy of the creative minds at 12StoneChurch. This is not only a great video but reminds me to tell you that we should be connected on Facebook... just don't break my Facebook.
Labels: Creative, Media, Resources, social media, Straight Up Funny, Videos, Youth Pastors
The Brand-New Simply Youth Ministry Show!
0 Comments Published by Terrace Crawford on 7/27/11 at 12:31 PM.
I'm pretty stoked to announce my friends, Kurt Johnston & Jake Rutenbar, are starting a brand-new Youth Ministry podcast on August 1st. Awesomesauce.On Monday there was a live taping of the premiere, which you'll be able to download in iTunes soon & can catch at www.simplyyouthministry.tv. I got to listen in from the waiting room as I was interviewed in a taping for the 2nd show, which will air on August 9th (I think).
Labels: Creative, Media, Resources, Site Shout, Technology, Youth Pastors
I feel like I've become a part-time student of social media... and I like it. I do a lot of research (particularly these days) on the subject and because of current projects I'm working on I'll suspect that I'll be blogging more and more on social media.
Recently 2 corporations (Arbitron & Edison Research) decided to collaborate and study how Americans are using Social Media. At Blogworld 2011 Tom Webster ( VP of Edison) released some preliminary data in his talk and I wanted to share with you 8 findings on how Americans use social media that you might find interesting:
1. Social Media's Reach: More than 51% of Americans (ages 12 & up) are on one or more social media platforms today. Over 46 million of those Americans use their social media platforms at least once daily.
2. Demographics: The typical social media user is apparently a 35 year old white (caucasian) woman. Only 43% of men use social media. Other numbers: 64% of caucasians use social media, while only 28% of African American & hispanics combined use it and only 8 percent make up other minorities.
3. Mobile users fueling growth: More than half of social media users are using their smartphones to update their accounts. In fact, 64% of those who use social media use their (smart)phones to update their statuses.
4. Twitter vs. Facebook - 8% of those recently surveyed say they use Twitter, while 51% of users said they had a Facebook. Don't count twitter out... that 8% translates to over 20 million Americans too. Are you on twitter?
5. Location-based services & apps: Only about one third of social media users actually know what location-based services are. You know... Foursquare, GoWalla and the like. The number of users is expected to grow exponentially over the next couple years though!
6. Broadband users: 6 out of 7 American homes have broadband internet access, while 9 out of 10 are online. Wonder how many of those connect (or will connect) through social mediums over the next few years? How are you reaching people who aren't connected through social media?
7. Brands on Social Media: Social Media has really put brands on the map. Because of platforms like Facebook and Twitter, companies have made a ton of money! The question is, how will you leverage it? Recent research shows that 1 in 4 users are following a brand on social media.
8. Facebook is influential: There is research to show that marketing via Facebook (whether business, church, organization) is profitable; however, its not enough. Webster mentioned in his talk that even though Facebook is influential its not enough to persuade the consumer to trust your product or offerings. You must use other social platforms and mediums to connect with your audience.
Labels: Issues, Media, social media
If you don't follow me on twitter you've missed a few things in recent days. Here's some highlights for you: - I chatted online with Ashton Kutcher
- Linked to hilarious videos
- I took pictures and posted them for your enjoyment
- Shared news stories
- quotes
- commentary
- and more!
Facebook Will Crush You Like a Little Grape.
2 Comments Published by Terrace Crawford on 5/6/10 at 2:49 PM.
Facebook trumps all other social networking platforms according to a research
study from Business Insider. The platform still crushes Twitter and MySpace, with over 350 million users saying they visit the page at least once a month.
Perhaps the success could be pinned on the Farmville community as we learned this week that the creator is now worth 4 billion dollars? Or maybe its chaulked up to all the ministries that now rely on it for their communication. I recently conducted a poll among youth workers across the US and 90% of them said that Facebook was their primary means of communication with their students.
So what's your preferred platform?
study from Business Insider. The platform still crushes Twitter and MySpace, with over 350 million users saying they visit the page at least once a month.
Perhaps the success could be pinned on the Farmville community as we learned this week that the creator is now worth 4 billion dollars? Or maybe its chaulked up to all the ministries that now rely on it for their communication. I recently conducted a poll among youth workers across the US and 90% of them said that Facebook was their primary means of communication with their students.So what's your preferred platform?
Labels: communication, Culture, Media, social media, Technology, Youth Pastors
Got to play with a new SMART board today. This interactive whiteboard is really cool and cost way to much for a guy who doesn't have a budget to work with... but I had fun writing this important message to you with my fingertips.
Labels: Creative, Media, Resources, Technology, WhiteBoard Sessions
I'm glad somebody finally called it out. Had to be Jon Stewart from the Daily Show. On the subject of stats, which we all like to quote, why in the heavens don't the numbers sometimes add up???
Ok, math majors... put down your #2 pencils and chime in.
Labels: Celebrities, Hot Topics, Issues, Media, Research, Television
On January 22 a new indie movie "To Save a Life" written by seasoned youth worker, Jim Britts, hits select theatres. This movie is about real life challenges that teens face and the response from students who have seen the film has been incredible. There is a grassroots effort underway in my area to have the film shown in multiple theatres, although its only scheduled for one. I'd encourage you to check out the trailer, log on to the movie site and get some resources to help support this work.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts?
Labels: Culture, Hot Topics, Media, Movies, Youth Pastors
New Interactive Web Series for Teens
0 Comments Published by Terrace Crawford on 12/7/09 at 12:44 PM.
A friend of a friend (twice removed - JK) sent me an email to tell me that his son (Trent) is starring in a new interactive web series called, "Sweety High." This new series' is targeted for 11-17 year old girls (mostly) & boys. Sweety High is a 'G' rated series similar to 90210.
I'm told this series will be pushing more positive content to teens - which is good news to my ears. What currently sets this series a part is that its interactive. Viewers can visit the website and comment on what they like or dislike and their ideas may translate into changes to the characters or even the storylines.
The cast and crew have shot 9 episodes so far and if the response from the online community is good a network may pick up the show! Check out the trailer, feel free to leave feedback... and see Trent's ("Charlie" - the taller brodude in the series) work.
I'm told this series will be pushing more positive content to teens - which is good news to my ears. What currently sets this series a part is that its interactive. Viewers can visit the website and comment on what they like or dislike and their ideas may translate into changes to the characters or even the storylines.
The cast and crew have shot 9 episodes so far and if the response from the online community is good a network may pick up the show! Check out the trailer, feel free to leave feedback... and see Trent's ("Charlie" - the taller brodude in the series) work.Labels: Celebrities, Culture, Media, Television, Youth Pastors
What the heck is all this hype about Google Wave? I'm still in the early stages of learning about this tool but I don't quite get the hype... yet.
The geek in me was very excited to be part of what is essentially a beta program. You know most of us love to be included in a beta or preview for just about anything simply to say we saw it or experienced it first. The same is true for the Google Wave. I had no idea what it was, what it was for, or why I need it. All I know is, when there are invitations sent out I wanna be on the list!
For those of you who have no clue about Google Wave, let’s get the official introductory quote out of the way:
I had no clue what I was seeing or doing. At first glimpse the window looks like a clean email screen. You’ve got your Navigation box on the left, Contact box underneath (everyone’s lovely profile pic displayed) and a middle window with your open inbox, yet this inbox has nothing to do with your gmail inbox? I was kind of at a loss. I already had gmail, which I couldn’t see here. I could already gchat, when in gmail. I thought, “How the in the world do I use this thing?!” I decided to watch the presentation video. Then it started to make a little more sense.
And, dear reader, I have 8 (count 'em - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) invitations left. Drop me an email or tweet me to secure yours. =)
RSS Subscribers: there is video [here]
The geek in me was very excited to be part of what is essentially a beta program. You know most of us love to be included in a beta or preview for just about anything simply to say we saw it or experienced it first. The same is true for the Google Wave. I had no idea what it was, what it was for, or why I need it. All I know is, when there are invitations sent out I wanna be on the list!
For those of you who have no clue about Google Wave, let’s get the official introductory quote out of the way:
"Google Wave is a product that helps users communicate and collaborate on the web. A “wave” is equal parts conversation and document, where users can almost instantly communicate and work together with richly formatted text, photos, videos, maps, and more. Google Wave is also a platform with a rich set of open APIs that allow developers to embed waves in other web services and to build extensions that work inside waves."In plain English: Wave is a new email/talk to each other right now/social/work thingy we can use to say we’re being productive.
I had no clue what I was seeing or doing. At first glimpse the window looks like a clean email screen. You’ve got your Navigation box on the left, Contact box underneath (everyone’s lovely profile pic displayed) and a middle window with your open inbox, yet this inbox has nothing to do with your gmail inbox? I was kind of at a loss. I already had gmail, which I couldn’t see here. I could already gchat, when in gmail. I thought, “How the in the world do I use this thing?!” I decided to watch the presentation video. Then it started to make a little more sense.
Labels: Creative, Marketing, Media, Technology
Ran across this amazing resource called Glo. It's the Bible for the digital age and it's available October 15. Glo provides simple, intuitive ways to browse through biblical content through 5 main lenses. Check the following video for a brief overview.
RSS Subscribers: There is video [here]
Labels: Church, Creative, Marketing, Media, Resources, Site Shout, Students Only, Youth Pastors
John Saddington interviews Tony Steward about YouVersion LIVE - announced by LiveChurch.tv earlier today.
I'm curious... anyone using this in their corporate services or meetings? If so, how?
RSS Subscribers: There is video [here]
I'm curious... anyone using this in their corporate services or meetings? If so, how?
RSS Subscribers: There is video [here]
Labels: Church, Media, Resources, Site Shout, Technology, Youth Pastors
Loved this David Crowder Band Rockumentary (on Twitter). Hilarious! and so true.
Follow me on twitter [here]
RSS Subscribers: There is video here.
Follow me on twitter [here]
RSS Subscribers: There is video here.
Labels: Culture, Marketing, Media, Music, Straight Up Funny, Students Only, Technology, Videos, Youth Pastors
Ok, not really... but it definitely was a tremendous asset to me yesterday. My car broke down on the interstate just after I traveled through a tunnel. I pulled off on the shoulder while still on the bridge and soon discovered that a hose had busted. I immediately took action and tweeted about it! If you don't follow me on twitter take a look at what you missed in 2 hours time yesterday.
Soon after I tweeted about the car being disabled a friend of mine called me to see if I needed help. Actually, I started getting replies on Facebook and on twitter, not to mention texts to my phone. This one instance could prove the power of social media... and certainly made my day a little easier yesterday.
Here is a little timeline I made up for fun...
Soon after I tweeted about the car being disabled a friend of mine called me to see if I needed help. Actually, I started getting replies on Facebook and on twitter, not to mention texts to my phone. This one instance could prove the power of social media... and certainly made my day a little easier yesterday.Here is a little timeline I made up for fun...
(click on graphics to enlarge)
Labels: Culture, Hot Topics, Media, Personal, Technology
Reasons: Why People Don't Come to Church
1 Comments Published by Terrace Crawford on 5/11/09 at 2:20 PM.
Love this clip from Central Christian Church in Vegas. I just may contact them to see if I can steal it. :=)
RSS Subscribers: There is video here.
RSS Subscribers: There is video here.
Labels: Church, Creative, Culture, Hot Topics, Issues, Leadership, Media, Videos
TWILIGHT: WITH CHEESEBURGERS
For all the Twilight Fans (or Cheeseburger fans) who are readers of TerraceCrawford.com
RSS Subscribers: There is video here.
For all the Twilight Fans (or Cheeseburger fans) who are readers of TerraceCrawford.com
Labels: Creative, Culture, Hot Topics, Media, Movies, Straight Up Funny, Students Only, Videos, Youth Pastors
The Simply Youth Ministry Media Store launched today. It is a place where lots of goodness is obtained. Go check it out now.Labels: Church, Media, Resources, Site Shout, Technology, Youth Pastors
So I'm totally sucked into this new season of American Idol. I haven't really been sucked in at all since Season 2 when Clay Aiken was totally robbed of the title. We all know he won. This season I've even been voting. Who did I vote for last night you ask? Where have you been? I've been talking about it for weeks now on twitter and here on my site. GOKEY. I cast at least 50 votes his way last night. 50 is about all I can stand. After that I just feel like I'm wasting my time or begin to feel like the most awkward of teenagers. After last night's performances I'm predicting that Michael Sarver and Megan Joy Corkrey are going to be sent home. I would have said Jorge Nunez but we all know the entire island of Puerto Rico will vote for him. At least, that is what I predict if America's votes determine things. There is a buzz today that a "new rule" will be revealed tonight on American Idol... and word has it that as part of the new rule the judges will have the power to veto America's vote -- should America get it wrong. The executive producer of the show even hinted at this new rule in an interview earlier today with Ryan Seacrest.
What will the new rule be? Who will go home? We'll see tonight...Drop me some comments and let me know your thoughts.
(photo courtesy, Joshua Treece)
Labels: Celebrities, Culture, Media, Music, Television
