You Explained It. Why Can’t Your Volunteers Do It?

You explained the job. They nodded. Then Sunday came, and they still weren't sure what to do. That doesn't necessarily mean your volunteers weren't listening. It may mean they haven't had a chance to practice. In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh Denhart and Bill Van Kirk introduce the practice loop: show the standard, let someone try, coach one improvement, and give them another attempt. They explain why hearing instructions isn't the same as being ready—and why slowing down now can save you from repeating the same corrections later. Through everyday examples, Josh and Bill show how to make room for mistakes without making a volunteer feel small. They also identify three signs that training is taking hold: the person can explain the task, perform it, and coach someone else through it. Key Topics Covered The assumptions leaders make when they explain a familiar task Why a demonstration needs to include a slower, step-by-step walkthrough Creating safe practice before Sunday pressure arrives Coaching one improvement at a time, followed by another attempt Correcting the task while encouraging the person Knowing whether a volunteer can explain, perform, and teach the skill Key Quote “If you're only talking to your people, they are not trained. They've just been talked to.” Takeaway Choose one manageable Sunday task where confusion creates a real cost. Schedule two safe practice attempts, coach one improvement, and ask the volunteer to explain the process back to you. Call to Action We hope this episode encourages and equips you. Share it with a friend and stay tuned for more resources each week. Stay Connected for More Resources Visit our website: http://leadministry.com Follow us on Facebook:   / leadvolunteers   Find us on Instagram:   / leadvolunteers   Episode 351