Todd Miechiels is a story advocate, shepherd, midwife, and missionary. For more than 15 years, he has walked alongside others to help uncover, unlock, and unleash stories of God’s work—especially among those who feel stuck, hesitant, or unsure how to begin.

He lives with his wife Kim, and sometimes hosts his three adult sons, north of Atlanta, Georgia, and is waiting on the Lord, while co-laboring on Steps of Courage—a guided path and set of practices for spiritually open leaders who long to know and share their story wholeheartedly.

Todd shares his passion for helping people tell their story of how Jesus has transformed their lives on today’s 95Podcast. He hopes to help others move out of their comfort zone in order to share the Gospel with the world.

Description

A practical conversation between Dale Sellers and guest Todd Michaels about why many Christians hesitate to share their story, how churches can cultivate a culture of testimony, and simple ways to capture and steward stories without big budgets. Todd shares his journey from internet marketing to story ministry, insights from a large survey on willingness to share testimonies, and next steps for leaders in small and midsize churches.

Key Points In Brief

• Many believers feel “story poverty” in the Church despite abundant technology.
• Common blockers: time, fear of the camera, not knowing what to say, perfectionism, and brand/production concerns.
• Survey signal: roughly 20% say “no,” 60% “maybe,” 20% “yes” to recording a testimony.
• Pastors often lack capacity, not conviction, to scale story capture.
• Small churches can start with iPhones and a simple, regular rhythm of short testimonies.
• Authentic, concise videos resonate with younger generations seeking real faith.
• Focus on being willing, able, and ready on both sides: storytellers and story-capturers.

Key Takeaways

• Start small and consistent. A quarterly or monthly testimony outpaces doing nothing.
• Authentic beats slick. Aim for clarity, brevity, and sincerity over high production.
• Reduce friction. Provide prompts, a time limit, and a simple setup to calm fears.
• Disciple through the process. Preparing a testimony is spiritual formation, not just content production.
• Capacity gap is solvable. Recruit lay leaders to host “story sessions” using phones and simple stands.

Notable Quotes

• “We have everything we need to steward stories and technology.”
• “Most people haven’t been asked two simple questions: Would you share? Why or why not?”
• “Churches often lack readiness and capacity, not desire.”
• “Authenticity is the brand. Jesus changed my life.”
• “Move from the frozen chosen to humble evangelists.”

Next Steps

1. Run a 2‑minute story willingness survey in your church and read the candid reasons people give.
2. Schedule a pilot “Story Night” this month with a simple iPhone setup and 3 prepared storytellers.
3. Provide a one‑page prep guide: 3 prompts, 2–3 minutes each, one clear gospel thread.
4. Share one testimony in Sunday service or email each month. Keep it under 3 minutes.
5. Recruit and train two lay facilitators to host ongoing quarterly recordings.

Link To Podcast Audio: 95Podcast 313

 

Link To Podcast YouTube:

• Q & A Transcript

  • Q: Why don’t more Christians record their story?A: Top blockers are time, camera fear, uncertainty about what to say, and perfectionism. Some worry a recorded testimony sets a standard they must “live up to.”
  • Q: What do pastors say about testimony videos?A: Many agree in principle, but lack capacity and processes to do it consistently. It’s usually a readiness issue, not a conviction issue.
  • Q: How can small churches start without big budgets?A: Use an iPhone on a tripod, natural light, and a lav mic if possible. Record 2–3 minute authentic stories. Consistency beats complexity.
  • Q: What format works well in service?A: One concise story tied to the day’s theme or an upcoming ministry (e.g., women’s group). Let inspiration lead information.
  • Q: How do you help people prepare?A: Give three prompts: My life before Jesus, how I met Jesus, what’s changed. Encourage 300–500 words total, conversational tone.
  • Q: What did the survey reveal?A: Roughly 20% wouldn’t, 60% might, and 20% would share on video. The “maybe” group is largest and can be discipled toward readiness.