WELSTech Audio https://welstech.wels.net WELSTech explores the use of technology to further the spread of the gospel. This show is sponsored by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:37:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 WELS no episodic 2016 Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod Request permission at welstech@wels.net podcast WELSTech Audio https://welstech.wels.net/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/iTunes-1400x1400-WELSTechaudio.jpg https://welstech.wels.net TV-G Weekly 9ebc0f0f-6b1e-556c-b6a7-13fd6b79533c welstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blogWELSTech is a conversation about how technology can be used to assist the work of the church. It is part of Streams - the media network of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod.Where Ministry Meets Technologywelstechpodcast@wels.netWELS 773 – Give It a Desk https://welstech.wels.net/2026/04/02/773-give-it-a-desk/ Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:26:27 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26519 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/04/02/773-give-it-a-desk/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/04/02/773-give-it-a-desk/feed/ 0

What if your AI assistant already knew your school handbook, your church’s mission statement, your newsletter archives — and you never had to explain any of it again? That’s the promise of AI workspaces, and in this episode Martin and Sallie break down how to put them to work in a ministry setting.

The discussion

AI workspaces – Gone are the days when you have to start every AI prompt with a lengthy list of background information to ensure proper context in your results. Martin and Sallie compare four AI companions and consider uses in ministry settings.

Ministry Resource

WELSTech AI resources – welstech.wels.net/ai

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Get involved

]]> WELS full 40:08 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWhat if your AI assistant already knew your school handbook, your church’s mission statement, your newsletter archives — and you never had to explain any of it again? That’s the promise of AI workspaces, and in this episode Martin and Sallie break down how to put them to work in a ministry setting. The discussion AI workspaces – Gone are the days when you have to start every AI prompt with a lengthy list of background information to ensure proper context in your results. Martin and Sallie compare four AI companions and consider uses in ministry settings. Anthropic Claude Projects (Help) OpenAI ChatGPT Projects (Help) Google Gemini Gems (Get started) Microsoft 365 Copilot Notebooks and Agents Tool Comparison Ministry Resource WELSTech AI resources – welstech.wels.net/ai AI Ethical Framework (PDF | Google Docs) AI Risk Matrix (PDF | Google Docs) Share your feedback Picks of the week Epson EcoTank series EcoTank 2800 CEEBOO 522 Markdown Viewer Chrome extension (also available for Edge) Community feedback 2026 Apologetics and Worldview Conference Topic: Artificial Intelligence Bethany Lutheran College June 24-25 Free Admission Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWhat if your AI assistant already knew your school handbook, your church’s mission statement, your newsletter archives — and you never had to explain any of it again? That’s the promise of AI workspaces, and in this episode Martin and Sallie break down how to put them to work in a ministry setting. The discussion AI workspaces – Gone are the days when you have to start every AI prompt with a lengthy list of background information to ensure proper context in your results. Martin and Sallie compare four AI companions and consider uses in ministry settings. Anthropic Claude Projects (Help) OpenAI ChatGPT Projects (Help) Google Gemini Gems (Get started) Microsoft 365 Copilot Notebooks and Agents Tool Comparison Ministry Resource WELSTech AI resources – welstech.wels.net/ai AI Ethical Framework (PDF | Google Docs) AI Risk Matrix (PDF | Google Docs) Share your feedback Picks of the week Epson EcoTank series EcoTank 2800 CEEBOO 522 Markdown Viewer Chrome extension (also available for Edge) Community feedback 2026 Apologetics and Worldview Conference Topic: Artificial Intelligence Bethany Lutheran College June 24-25 Free Admission Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 772 – The Pendulum Swings: EdTech’s Reckoning https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/19/772-the-pendulum-swings/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:28:24 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26491 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/19/772-the-pendulum-swings/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/19/772-the-pendulum-swings/feed/ 0

Tune in to this episode of WELSTech for a lively discussion on right-sizing technology for the classroom. Our friends Jason and Rachel are back with a rubric utility, Adobe free education resources, and a sprinkling of AI as well. You’ll be shouting “BINGO!” before you know it!

The discussion

Has education gone too far with technology?  Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno from Martin Luther College and Jason Schmidt from Oshkosh ISD to discuss the growing backlash against over-digitization in classrooms. Drawing on Jared Cooney Horvath’s The Digital Delusion, we explore how COVID accelerated tech adoption and why some are now calling for a return to fundamentals.

Ministry resource

National Teen Bible Study – Sunday, March 29 at 6:00 pm Central

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Get involved

]]> WELS full 46:57 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTune in to this episode of WELSTech for a lively discussion on right-sizing technology for the classroom. Our friends Jason and Rachel are back with a rubric utility, Adobe free education resources, and a sprinkling of AI as well. You’ll be shouting “BINGO!” before you know it! The discussion Has education gone too far with technology?  Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno from Martin Luther College and Jason Schmidt from Oshkosh ISD to discuss the growing backlash against over-digitization in classrooms. Drawing on Jared Cooney Horvath’s The Digital Delusion, we explore how COVID accelerated tech adoption and why some are now calling for a return to fundamentals. Ministry resource National Teen Bible Study – Sunday, March 29 at 6:00 pm Central Picks of the week BestRubrics.com Adobe Podcast Part of Adobe Express which is free for education BingoBaker.com How To Take Smart Notes by Sonke Ahrens Summary by Claude AI Community feedback Hot off the press … Matt Miller’s newest book, AI Literacy in Any Class Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTune in to this episode of WELSTech for a lively discussion on right-sizing technology for the classroom. Our friends Jason and Rachel are back with a rubric utility, Adobe free education resources, and a sprinkling of AI as well. You’ll be shouting “BINGO!” before you know it! The discussion Has education gone too far with technology?  Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno from Martin Luther College and Jason Schmidt from Oshkosh ISD to discuss the growing backlash against over-digitization in classrooms. Drawing on Jared Cooney Horvath’s The Digital Delusion, we explore how COVID accelerated tech adoption and why some are now calling for a return to fundamentals. Ministry resource National Teen Bible Study – Sunday, March 29 at 6:00 pm Central Picks of the week BestRubrics.com Adobe Podcast Part of Adobe Express which is free for education BingoBaker.com How To Take Smart Notes by Sonke Ahrens Summary by Claude AI Community feedback Hot off the press … Matt Miller’s newest book, AI Literacy in Any Class Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 771 – Human Connection in a Digital Age https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/05/771-human-connection-in-a-digital-age/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:09:24 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26467 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/05/771-human-connection-in-a-digital-age/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/03/05/771-human-connection-in-a-digital-age/feed/ 0

Welcome back to WELSTech, a conversation at the intersection of ministry and technology for over 18 years! Today we look at the newly released Artificial Intelligence Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix. Martin has a free diagramming tool while Sallie shares an affordable new Apple laptop. Plus the community feedback segment includes news of Gen Z returning to religion.

The discussion

AI Support – Martin shares a preliminary look at the latest releases from WELS AI Task Force – the AI Ethical Framework (PDF | Google Docs) and AI Risk Matrix (PDF | Google Docs) documents. Find these resources and more on the WELSTech AI page – welstech.wels.net/ai.

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Next time

Tune in for a timely edtech discussion with Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:32 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcome back to WELSTech, a conversation at the intersection of ministry and technology for over 18 years! Today we look at the newly released Artificial Intelligence Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix. Martin has a free diagramming tool while Sallie shares an affordable new Apple laptop. Plus the community feedback segment includes news of Gen Z returning to religion. The discussion AI Support – Martin shares a preliminary look at the latest releases from WELS AI Task Force – the AI Ethical Framework (PDF | Google Docs) and AI Risk Matrix (PDF | Google Docs) documents. Find these resources and more on the WELSTech AI page – welstech.wels.net/ai. Share your feedback Picks of the week Apple MacBook Neo Excalidraw (GitHub) Community feedback Grace Ungemach’s “Brand Direction” Canva template Why Gen Z is returning to religion Church 360 Ledger end of like is 6/1/2026 Next time Tune in for a timely edtech discussion with Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcome back to WELSTech, a conversation at the intersection of ministry and technology for over 18 years! Today we look at the newly released Artificial Intelligence Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix. Martin has a free diagramming tool while Sallie shares an affordable new Apple laptop. Plus the community feedback segment includes news of Gen Z returning to religion. The discussion AI Support – Martin shares a preliminary look at the latest releases from WELS AI Task Force – the AI Ethical Framework (PDF | Google Docs) and AI Risk Matrix (PDF | Google Docs) documents. Find these resources and more on the WELSTech AI page – welstech.wels.net/ai. Share your feedback Picks of the week Apple MacBook Neo Excalidraw (GitHub) Community feedback Grace Ungemach’s “Brand Direction” Canva template Why Gen Z is returning to religion Church 360 Ledger end of like is 6/1/2026 Next time Tune in for a timely edtech discussion with Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 770 – Your Strategic Plan Deserves More Than a PDF https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/19/770-your-strategic-plan/ Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:56:44 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26442 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/19/770-your-strategic-plan/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/19/770-your-strategic-plan/feed/ 0

It’s time for WELSTech 770, your bi-weekly dive into ministry and technology topics of the day. And today the conversation centers around tech to assist with managing a strategic plan. Also in this episode, learn more about the upcoming Taste of Missions event and a helpful new iOS app. Plus, get the “skinny” on Sallie’s hardware pick of the week.

The discussion

Working the Plan – Explore how Trello supports managing and communicating progress on a strategic plan. Martin shares WELS strategic plan in Trello, showing how color‑coded cards and cross‑linked resource boards enable clear, visual tracking of key objectives.

Ministry resource

Taste of Missions – June 13 at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Ryan Kirchoff’s latest blog post at Blueprint Schools is a great follow up to our recent interview

Next time

Hear an update from WELS AI Task Force regarding their work on an AI Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:52 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noIt’s time for WELSTech 770, your bi-weekly dive into ministry and technology topics of the day. And today the conversation centers around tech to assist with managing a strategic plan. Also in this episode, learn more about the upcoming Taste of Missions event and a helpful new iOS app. Plus, get the “skinny” on Sallie’s hardware pick of the week. The discussion Working the Plan – Explore how Trello supports managing and communicating progress on a strategic plan. Martin shares WELS strategic plan in Trello, showing how color‑coded cards and cross‑linked resource boards enable clear, visual tracking of key objectives. Christ Through Us, WELS Strategic Plan Trello for non-profits Details Apply WELSTech sample Trello board Ministry resource Taste of Missions – June 13 at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary School Challenge Poster Contest Picks of the week iPhone Air iOS Preview app Community feedback Ryan Kirchoff’s latest blog post at Blueprint Schools is a great follow up to our recent interview Next time Hear an update from WELS AI Task Force regarding their work on an AI Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechIt’s time for WELSTech 770, your bi-weekly dive into ministry and technology topics of the day. And today the conversation centers around tech to assist with managing a strategic plan. Also in this episode, learn more about the upcoming Taste of Missions event and a helpful new iOS app. Plus, get the “skinny” on Sallie’s hardware pick of the week. The discussion Working the Plan – Explore how Trello supports managing and communicating progress on a strategic plan. Martin shares WELS strategic plan in Trello, showing how color‑coded cards and cross‑linked resource boards enable clear, visual tracking of key objectives. Christ Through Us, WELS Strategic Plan Trello for non-profits Details Apply WELSTech sample Trello board Ministry resource Taste of Missions – June 13 at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary School Challenge Poster Contest Picks of the week iPhone Air iOS Preview app Community feedback Ryan Kirchoff’s latest blog post at Blueprint Schools is a great follow up to our recent interview Next time Hear an update from WELS AI Task Force regarding their work on an AI Ethical Framework and Risk Matrix Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 769 – AI for the Assist https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/05/769-ai-for-the-assist/ Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:00:02 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26419 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/05/769-ai-for-the-assist/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/02/05/769-ai-for-the-assist/feed/ 0

This episode of WELSTech features an interview with Ryan Kirchoff where he shares an overview of his recent Leadership Conference presentation on our favorite topic – Artificial Intelligence. Are You an Influencer is the topic of an upcoming webinar. Sallie has a new favorite song, and Martin has a new favorite gadget. Which one will be your favorite?

The discussion

Assist versus lead – Instructional coordinator and consultant Ryan Kirchoff shares highlights from his recent WELS Leadership Conference session on AI and the Church (presentation resource). Since late-2022 when AI was first shared, Ryan’s work at Fox Valley Lutheran High School and with Blueprint-Schools.com has taken on an element of educating others about what and how AI can serve ministry.

  • Ryan’s latest course, AI for Impact, is specially priced at $99 per school during February

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Next time

Managing a strategic plan with Trello

Get involved

]]> WELS full 43:31 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThis episode of WELSTech features an interview with Ryan Kirchoff where he shares an overview of his recent Leadership Conference presentation on our favorite topic – Artificial Intelligence. Are You an Influencer is the topic of an upcoming webinar. Sallie has a new favorite song, and Martin has a new favorite gadget. Which one will be your favorite? The discussion Assist versus lead – Instructional coordinator and consultant Ryan Kirchoff shares highlights from his recent WELS Leadership Conference session on AI and the Church (presentation resource). Since late-2022 when AI was first shared, Ryan’s work at Fox Valley Lutheran High School and with Blueprint-Schools.com has taken on an element of educating others about what and how AI can serve ministry. Ryan’s latest course, AI for Impact, is specially priced at $99 per school during February Ministry resource You Are an Influencer webinar February 19 – 7 to 8 pm Central Hosted by WELS Women’s Ministry Christmas coloring revisited Shout out to the upper grades at St. John Lutheran School in Fox Lake, WI and Principal Tom Rosenow Download their AI generated Christmas coloring book Picks of the week Now Rest Beneath Night’s Shadow – Melody and chorus by Pastor Caleb Schmiege and Melanie Bourman KeySmart SmartCard Community feedback PBX is all the talk in the WELSTech Google Group Next time Managing a strategic plan with Trello Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThis episode of WELSTech features an interview with Ryan Kirchoff where he shares an overview of his recent Leadership Conference presentation on our favorite topic – Artificial Intelligence. Are You an Influencer is the topic of an upcoming webinar. Sallie has a new favorite song, and Martin has a new favorite gadget. Which one will be your favorite? The discussion Assist versus lead – Instructional coordinator and consultant Ryan Kirchoff shares highlights from his recent WELS Leadership Conference session on AI and the Church (presentation resource). Since late-2022 when AI was first shared, Ryan’s work at Fox Valley Lutheran High School and with Blueprint-Schools.com has taken on an element of educating others about what and how AI can serve ministry. Ryan’s latest course, AI for Impact, is specially priced at $99 per school during February Ministry resource You Are an Influencer webinar February 19 – 7 to 8 pm Central Hosted by WELS Women’s Ministry Christmas coloring revisited Shout out to the upper grades at St. John Lutheran School in Fox Lake, WI and Principal Tom Rosenow Download their AI generated Christmas coloring book Picks of the week Now Rest Beneath Night’s Shadow – Melody and chorus by Pastor Caleb Schmiege and Melanie Bourman KeySmart SmartCard Community feedback PBX is all the talk in the WELSTech Google Group Next time Managing a strategic plan with Trello Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 768 – Many Hats, Many Cats https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/22/768-many-hats-many-cats/ Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:00:43 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26324 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/22/768-many-hats-many-cats/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/22/768-many-hats-many-cats/feed/ 0

Tune into this episode of WELSTech for a master class in herding cats as we navigate a lively discussion of the MLC degree and certificate offerings for technology directors. There’s also a broad range of picks of the week, Martin’s Screens and Souls presentation from Leadership Conference, and some free Google training to discuss.

The discussion

Technology director – Martin and Sallie welcome our semi-regular edtech co-hosts, Dr. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt, along with yet another friend in the ed tech space, Dr. Bob Martens, Martin Luther College (MLC) Director of Information Technology. The discussion centers on the MLC Technology Director graduate degree program (a 30 credit MS Education Administration program) as well as two new certifications also offered by MLC in Education Technology Leadership and Technology Integration, each requiring 9 credits.

Summed up as learning to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, the three share how the program teaches edtech leadership skills needed to manage the many facets of the ever-changing edtech learning environment.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

  • Free Google Certifications – Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 as well as Gemini Certified Educator and Gemini Certified student

Get involved

]]> WELS full 53:17 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTune into this episode of WELSTech for a master class in herding cats as we navigate a lively discussion of the MLC degree and certificate offerings for technology directors. There’s also a broad range of picks of the week, Martin’s Screens and Souls presentation from Leadership Conference, and some free Google training to discuss. The discussion Technology director – Martin and Sallie welcome our semi-regular edtech co-hosts, Dr. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt, along with yet another friend in the ed tech space, Dr. Bob Martens, Martin Luther College (MLC) Director of Information Technology. The discussion centers on the MLC Technology Director graduate degree program (a 30 credit MS Education Administration program) as well as two new certifications also offered by MLC in Education Technology Leadership and Technology Integration, each requiring 9 credits. Summed up as learning to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, the three share how the program teaches edtech leadership skills needed to manage the many facets of the ever-changing edtech learning environment. Ministry resource CoSN K-12 Innovation Notebook LM summary – Infographic, Audio, Video Martin’s Leadership Conference presentation on Screens and Souls Picks of the week 100G LR4 Single-Mode Optical Module Water Reminder Smart Light Google Chrome Split View Pirate Ship Book of Concord Community feedback Free Google Certifications – Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 as well as Gemini Certified Educator and Gemini Certified student Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTune into this episode of WELSTech for a master class in herding cats as we navigate a lively discussion of the MLC degree and certificate offerings for technology directors. There’s also a broad range of picks of the week, Martin’s Screens and Souls presentation from Leadership Conference, and some free Google training to discuss. The discussion Technology director – Martin and Sallie welcome our semi-regular edtech co-hosts, Dr. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt, along with yet another friend in the ed tech space, Dr. Bob Martens, Martin Luther College (MLC) Director of Information Technology. The discussion centers on the MLC Technology Director graduate degree program (a 30 credit MS Education Administration program) as well as two new certifications also offered by MLC in Education Technology Leadership and Technology Integration, each requiring 9 credits. Summed up as learning to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, the three share how the program teaches edtech leadership skills needed to manage the many facets of the ever-changing edtech learning environment. Ministry resource CoSN K-12 Innovation Notebook LM summary – Infographic, Audio, Video Martin’s Leadership Conference presentation on Screens and Souls Picks of the week 100G LR4 Single-Mode Optical Module Water Reminder Smart Light Google Chrome Split View Pirate Ship Book of Concord Community feedback Free Google Certifications – Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 as well as Gemini Certified Educator and Gemini Certified student Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 767 – Best of 2025 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/08/767-best-of-2025/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:00:26 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26304 https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/08/767-best-of-2025/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2026/01/08/767-best-of-2025/feed/ 0

Take a look back at 2025 with Martin and Sallie as they share highlights, memories, and favorites from year 18 of the WELSTech Podcast.

Events

Ministry resources

Interviews

Picks of the year

Next time

Year 19 of WELSTech is ahead of us. What will it hold for tech-in-ministry?

Get involved

]]> WELS full 50:08 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTake a look back at 2025 with Martin and Sallie as they share highlights, memories, and favorites from year 18 of the WELSTech Podcast. Events WELSTech AI Summit AI Focus Ministry resources Grace Ungemach’s weekly newsletter on digital marketing – learn.lutheran.marketing Check out this week’s 2026 Brand Direction message WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership 2025 Ministry Resources Interviews Lori Ehlke – 748 – Lori Ehlke Art Dr. Kristi Meyer – 761 – Comms and Cardigans 2025 Interviews Picks of the year Notebook LM – Sallie’s WELSTech 2025 infographic example Christ Begins by Prof. Luke Thompson, in Christian Worship, hymn 385 – Lyric video The updated WELS Call Report Pitaka Phone Cases Wispr Flow Plaud The real number 1 – co-hosts Dr. Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt 2025 Picks of the Week Next time Year 19 of WELSTech is ahead of us. What will it hold for tech-in-ministry? Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTake a look back at 2025 with Martin and Sallie as they share highlights, memories, and favorites from year 18 of the WELSTech Podcast. Events WELSTech AI Summit AI Focus Ministry resources Grace Ungemach’s weekly newsletter on digital marketing – learn.lutheran.marketing Check out this week’s 2026 Brand Direction message WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership 2025 Ministry Resources Interviews Lori Ehlke – 748 – Lori Ehlke Art Dr. Kristi Meyer – 761 – Comms and Cardigans 2025 Interviews Picks of the year Notebook LM – Sallie’s WELSTech 2025 infographic example Christ Begins by Prof. Luke Thompson, in Christian Worship, hymn 385 – Lyric video The updated WELS Call Report Pitaka Phone Cases Wispr Flow Plaud The real number 1 – co-hosts Dr. Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt 2025 Picks of the Week Next time Year 19 of WELSTech is ahead of us. What will it hold for tech-in-ministry? Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 766 – Christmas Conversation with Melanie https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/24/766-christmas-conversation-with-melanie/ Wed, 24 Dec 2025 15:00:25 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26283 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/24/766-christmas-conversation-with-melanie/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/24/766-christmas-conversation-with-melanie/feed/ 0
Merry Christmas from WELSTech! We’re continuing our holiday tradition of sharing a special Christmas interview with our listeners. This year, we’re excited to welcome Melanie Giddings from the Lutheran Schools Office to talk about the important work underway to develop a new religion curriculum.

The interview

A new curriculum in development – Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from WELS Lutheran Schools, joins Martin and Sallie to share an inside look at the work being shared by many hands on a new Pre-K to 12 religion curriculum being developed to succeed Christ Light.

Christmas Coloring Book Collab

There’s still time to submit your AI-generated Christmas coloring page for inclusion in a WELSTech crowd-sourced coloring book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag!

Try this prompt:

A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style.

Next time

Join us in January for our look back at WELSTech 2025!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 24:21 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noMerry Christmas from WELSTech! We’re continuing our holiday tradition of sharing a special Christmas interview with our listeners. This year, we’re excited to welcome Melanie Giddings from the Lutheran Schools Office to talk about the important work underway to develop a new religion curriculum. The interview A new curriculum in development – Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from WELS Lutheran Schools, joins Martin and Sallie to share an inside look at the work being shared by many hands on a new Pre-K to 12 religion curriculum being developed to succeed Christ Light. Christmas Coloring Book Collab There’s still time to submit your AI-generated Christmas coloring page for inclusion in a WELSTech crowd-sourced coloring book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag! Try this prompt: A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style. Microsoft Designer Adobe Express Coloring Page Generator ColorBliss.art Crayola Color Camera Next time Join us in January for our look back at WELSTech 2025! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechMerry Christmas from WELSTech! We’re continuing our holiday tradition of sharing a special Christmas interview with our listeners. This year, we’re excited to welcome Melanie Giddings from the Lutheran Schools Office to talk about the important work underway to develop a new religion curriculum. The interview A new curriculum in development – Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from WELS Lutheran Schools, joins Martin and Sallie to share an inside look at the work being shared by many hands on a new Pre-K to 12 religion curriculum being developed to succeed Christ Light. Christmas Coloring Book Collab There’s still time to submit your AI-generated Christmas coloring page for inclusion in a WELSTech crowd-sourced coloring book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag! Try this prompt: A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style. Microsoft Designer Adobe Express Coloring Page Generator ColorBliss.art Crayola Color Camera Next time Join us in January for our look back at WELSTech 2025! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 765 – Christmas Coloring https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/11/765-christmas-coloring/ Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:34:34 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26254 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/11/765-christmas-coloring/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/12/11/765-christmas-coloring/feed/ 0

‘Tis the WELSTech Christmas season! Join us for a giveaway announcement that involves the good news of Christmas, coloring books, and AI. You could win a fun WELS item while you exercise your AI skills. Christmas concerts, anniversary offerings, travel apps, managing your smart home, and free EDU GPT round out this episode. Let’s goooo!

The discussion

Celebrating in color – Martin and Sallie are collocated, Christmas-color coordinated, and collaborating on a coloring project. Everyone is invited to participate in an AI experiment, creating Christmas-related coloring pages which we’ll compile into a sharable book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag!

Try this prompt:

A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Chat GPT is free for teachers until June 2027

Next time

Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from the Lutheran Schools office, shares details on this important work.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 25:13 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)no‘Tis the WELSTech Christmas season! Join us for a giveaway announcement that involves the good news of Christmas, coloring books, and AI. You could win a fun WELS item while you exercise your AI skills. Christmas concerts, anniversary offerings, travel apps, managing your smart home, and free EDU GPT round out this episode. Let’s goooo! The discussion Celebrating in color – Martin and Sallie are collocated, Christmas-color coordinated, and collaborating on a coloring project. Everyone is invited to participate in an AI experiment, creating Christmas-related coloring pages which we’ll compile into a sharable book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag! Try this prompt: A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style. Microsoft Designer Adobe Express Coloring Page Generator ColorBliss.art Crayola Color Camera Ministry resource WELS Christmas Concert details – wels.net/events WELS 175th Anniversary – Special Offering Picks of the week iExit Hubitat Community feedback Chat GPT is free for teachers until June 2027 Learn more from Tom’s Guide Next time Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from the Lutheran Schools office, shares details on this important work. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstech‘Tis the WELSTech Christmas season! Join us for a giveaway announcement that involves the good news of Christmas, coloring books, and AI. You could win a fun WELS item while you exercise your AI skills. Christmas concerts, anniversary offerings, travel apps, managing your smart home, and free EDU GPT round out this episode. Let’s goooo! The discussion Celebrating in color – Martin and Sallie are collocated, Christmas-color coordinated, and collaborating on a coloring project. Everyone is invited to participate in an AI experiment, creating Christmas-related coloring pages which we’ll compile into a sharable book. Send your entries to welstech@wels.net, and we’ll choose a random contributor to receive some sweet WELS swag! Try this prompt: A black and white coloring page for kids of [YOUR TOPIC], thick lines, white background, no shading, no grey scale, simple vector style. Microsoft Designer Adobe Express Coloring Page Generator ColorBliss.art Crayola Color Camera Ministry resource WELS Christmas Concert details – wels.net/events WELS 175th Anniversary – Special Offering Picks of the week iExit Hubitat Community feedback Chat GPT is free for teachers until June 2027 Learn more from Tom’s Guide Next time Melanie Giddings, Curriculum Coordinator from the Lutheran Schools office, shares details on this important work. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 764 – NotebookLM: The Godzilla of AI https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/25/764-notebooklm/ Tue, 25 Nov 2025 15:42:04 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26227 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/25/764-notebooklm/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/25/764-notebooklm/feed/ 0

This week on WELSTech we take a deep dive into Google’s NotebookLM. Discover how this AI tool uses only your uploaded documents to create everything from video and audio overviews, flashcards, and summary documents, plus learn about other innovative AI tools like Hume Voice AI and the Plaud audio recorder that are changing the way we work and communicate.

The discussion

I wonder …. – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss Google’s NotebookLM and how it leverages AI only on the documents you upload. Use NotebookLM to generate video and audio overviews of your content as well as summary documents, flashcards, and quizzes. Plus, it integrates easily into Google Classroom!

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Get involved

]]> WELS full 58:32 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThis week on WELSTech we take a deep dive into Google’s NotebookLM. Discover how this AI tool uses only your uploaded documents to create everything from video and audio overviews, flashcards, and summary documents, plus learn about other innovative AI tools like Hume Voice AI and the Plaud audio recorder that are changing the way we work and communicate. The discussion I wonder …. – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss Google’s NotebookLM and how it leverages AI only on the documents you upload. Use NotebookLM to generate video and audio overviews of your content as well as summary documents, flashcards, and quizzes. Plus, it integrates easily into Google Classroom! Sample NotebookLM – WELSTech SAMR Season Overview Video overview Audio overview Ministry resource 10 Ways A Pastor Can Use Google NotebookLM for Work, Ministry and Beyond Picks of the week Hume – Voice AI Plaud – AI audio recorder Auctria online auctions – Sample auction by Risen Savior Lutheran School, Mankato, MN Nomadic Travel Pack Community feedback iCloud and Google Drive are NOT Backups from Kim Komando HubSpot Specialist needed in WELS Technology From WELS Intersections on Facebook Thanksgiving Social Media post ideas Church Technology in 2025 and beyond from Tithe.ly Nextdoor – local community communication Reach app – group email and text Apple Business Connect – control your church or school display on Apple Maps and more Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThis week on WELSTech we take a deep dive into Google’s NotebookLM. Discover how this AI tool uses only your uploaded documents to create everything from video and audio overviews, flashcards, and summary documents, plus learn about other innovative AI tools like Hume Voice AI and the Plaud audio recorder that are changing the way we work and communicate. The discussion I wonder …. – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss Google’s NotebookLM and how it leverages AI only on the documents you upload. Use NotebookLM to generate video and audio overviews of your content as well as summary documents, flashcards, and quizzes. Plus, it integrates easily into Google Classroom! Sample NotebookLM – WELSTech SAMR Season Overview Video overview Audio overview Ministry resource 10 Ways A Pastor Can Use Google NotebookLM for Work, Ministry and Beyond Picks of the week Hume – Voice AI Plaud – AI audio recorder Auctria online auctions – Sample auction by Risen Savior Lutheran School, Mankato, MN Nomadic Travel Pack Community feedback iCloud and Google Drive are NOT Backups from Kim Komando HubSpot Specialist needed in WELS Technology From WELS Intersections on Facebook Thanksgiving Social Media post ideas Church Technology in 2025 and beyond from Tithe.ly Nextdoor – local community communication Reach app – group email and text Apple Business Connect – control your church or school display on Apple Maps and more Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 763 – Planning That Works https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/13/763-planning-that-works/ Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:00:42 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26209 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/13/763-planning-that-works/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/11/13/763-planning-that-works/feed/ 0

On this episode of WELSTech, we take a closer look at one of the standout offerings from the upcoming WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership. We also revisit the WELS Strategic Plan, with a special focus on the Calling pillar. Plus, we’ve got our usual lineup of helpful Picks of the week and the latest Community Feedback. Ready to dive in? Simply press Play!

The interview and discussion

Church Planning – Martin chats with John Rathje, Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Kent State University, about his upcoming breakout session at the WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership titled Planning That Works.

Ministry resource

WELS Strategic Plan – Christ Through Us

Picks of the week

Community feedback

From the WELSTech Google Group

Next time

Jason and Rachel return for some educational technology goodness!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 38:39 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn this episode of WELSTech, we take a closer look at one of the standout offerings from the upcoming WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership. We also revisit the WELS Strategic Plan, with a special focus on the Calling pillar. Plus, we’ve got our usual lineup of helpful Picks of the week and the latest Community Feedback. Ready to dive in? Simply press Play! The interview and discussion Church Planning – Martin chats with John Rathje, Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Kent State University, about his upcoming breakout session at the WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership titled Planning That Works. January 19-21, 2026 at the Chicago Hilton 4 Keynotes & 69 Breakouts Register now for early bird pricing – $299 Reserve your hotel room Ministry resource WELS Strategic Plan – Christ Through Us Calling pillar Conect Picks of the week Daily cyber security tips from Total Defense via their Facebook page WhatsApp Community feedback From the WELSTech Google Group A call for and Information Security Committee Member Looking for a Chromebook policy Next time Jason and Rachel return for some educational technology goodness! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn this episode of WELSTech, we take a closer look at one of the standout offerings from the upcoming WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership. We also revisit the WELS Strategic Plan, with a special focus on the Calling pillar. Plus, we’ve got our usual lineup of helpful Picks of the week and the latest Community Feedback. Ready to dive in? Simply press Play! The interview and discussion Church Planning – Martin chats with John Rathje, Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Kent State University, about his upcoming breakout session at the WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership titled Planning That Works. January 19-21, 2026 at the Chicago Hilton 4 Keynotes & 69 Breakouts Register now for early bird pricing – $299 Reserve your hotel room Ministry resource WELS Strategic Plan – Christ Through Us Calling pillar Conect Picks of the week Daily cyber security tips from Total Defense via their Facebook page WhatsApp Community feedback From the WELSTech Google Group A call for and Information Security Committee Member Looking for a Chromebook policy Next time Jason and Rachel return for some educational technology goodness! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 762 – Llamas in the Machine https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/30/762-llamas-in-the-machine/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:38:55 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26187 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/30/762-llamas-in-the-machine/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/30/762-llamas-in-the-machine/feed/ 0

This episode of WELSTech opens with an overview of the recent WELS Artificial Intelligence (AI) survey. The AI theme continues throughout the show, featuring details on the new Hour of AI initiative, a powerful prompt designed to help organize scattered thoughts, a WELS-centric GPT tool, and the latest edition of the TAAFT (There’s an AI for That) newsletter. And yes—watch out for AI llamas!

The discussion

The survey says – Martin shares preliminary insights from the recent AI survey distributed to WELS called and lay workers. While analysis is ongoing, the results will guide and prioritize the efforts of the AI Task Force. Notably, information on ethical considerations and ministry-specific use cases of AI emerged as top desired resources.

Ministry Resource

Updated Google Calendar lectionaries for

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

John Rathje shares a bit about his Lutheran Leadership Conference session on planning that works. Register early to secure your spot and take advantage of discounted pricing.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 53:04 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThis episode of WELSTech opens with an overview of the recent WELS Artificial Intelligence (AI) survey. The AI theme continues throughout the show, featuring details on the new Hour of AI initiative, a powerful prompt designed to help organize scattered thoughts, a WELS-centric GPT tool, and the latest edition of the TAAFT (There’s an AI for That) newsletter. And yes—watch out for AI llamas! The discussion The survey says – Martin shares preliminary insights from the recent AI survey distributed to WELS called and lay workers. While analysis is ongoing, the results will guide and prioritize the efforts of the AI Task Force. Notably, information on ethical considerations and ministry-specific use cases of AI emerged as top desired resources. Ministry Resource Updated Google Calendar lectionaries for Christian Worship 2021 Christian Worship 1993 Picks of the week Hour of AI The Prompt that Organizes Your Chaos – featured in Jeff Su’s Workplace Essentials newsletter (Subscribe) Community feedback & events WELS GPT by Mark Salzwedel from Christ Lutheran Church in Eden Prairie, MN – Shared in the WELSTech Google Group TAAFT (There’s an AI for That) newsletter – Sample | Subscribe Next time John Rathje shares a bit about his Lutheran Leadership Conference session on planning that works. Register early to secure your spot and take advantage of discounted pricing. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThis episode of WELSTech opens with an overview of the recent WELS Artificial Intelligence (AI) survey. The AI theme continues throughout the show, featuring details on the new Hour of AI initiative, a powerful prompt designed to help organize scattered thoughts, a WELS-centric GPT tool, and the latest edition of the TAAFT (There’s an AI for That) newsletter. And yes—watch out for AI llamas! The discussion The survey says – Martin shares preliminary insights from the recent AI survey distributed to WELS called and lay workers. While analysis is ongoing, the results will guide and prioritize the efforts of the AI Task Force. Notably, information on ethical considerations and ministry-specific use cases of AI emerged as top desired resources. Ministry Resource Updated Google Calendar lectionaries for Christian Worship 2021 Christian Worship 1993 Picks of the week Hour of AI The Prompt that Organizes Your Chaos – featured in Jeff Su’s Workplace Essentials newsletter (Subscribe) Community feedback & events WELS GPT by Mark Salzwedel from Christ Lutheran Church in Eden Prairie, MN – Shared in the WELSTech Google Group TAAFT (There’s an AI for That) newsletter – Sample | Subscribe Next time John Rathje shares a bit about his Lutheran Leadership Conference session on planning that works. Register early to secure your spot and take advantage of discounted pricing. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 761 – Comms and Cardigans https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/16/761-comms-and-cardigans/ Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:00:31 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26171 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/16/761-comms-and-cardigans/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/16/761-comms-and-cardigans/feed/ 0

Fall has arrived on WELSTech, and we’re reminiscing about childhood sweater weather.  We share a church communication focused interview as well as details on all the happenings at January’s Lutheran Leadership Conference. The picks of the week include worksheet alternatives for teachers as well as a great place to keep things. It’s time to press play!

The interview and discussion

Modernizing Church Communication – Martin and Sallie talk with Dr Kristi Meyer, Prof. of Mathematics at Wisconsin Lutheran College, and part-time communications coordinator at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, WI. She and Pastor Kyle Bitter are teaming up to present a breakout on the topic of church communication at the upcoming Lutheran Leadership Conference. Kristi shares a preview of their breakout content, including one of her game-changing tools for improving communication.

Ministry resource

WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership

  • January 19-21 at the Chicago Hilton
  • 4 Keynotes & 69 Breakouts
  • Register now for early bird pricing – $299

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Get involved

]]> WELS full 44:22 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noFall has arrived on WELSTech, and we’re reminiscing about childhood sweater weather.  We share a church communication focused interview as well as details on all the happenings at January’s Lutheran Leadership Conference. The picks of the week include worksheet alternatives for teachers as well as a great place to keep things. It’s time to press play! The interview and discussion Modernizing Church Communication – Martin and Sallie talk with Dr Kristi Meyer, Prof. of Mathematics at Wisconsin Lutheran College, and part-time communications coordinator at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, WI. She and Pastor Kyle Bitter are teaming up to present a breakout on the topic of church communication at the upcoming Lutheran Leadership Conference. Kristi shares a preview of their breakout content, including one of her game-changing tools for improving communication. Ministry resource WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership January 19-21 at the Chicago Hilton 4 Keynotes & 69 Breakouts Register now for early bird pricing – $299 Picks of the week Worksheets to WOW! from Ditch That Textbook Google Keep Community feedback Check out WELS Intersections on Facebook Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechFall has arrived on WELSTech, and we’re reminiscing about childhood sweater weather.  We share a church communication focused interview as well as details on all the happenings at January’s Lutheran Leadership Conference. The picks of the week include worksheet alternatives for teachers as well as a great place to keep things. It’s time to press play! The interview and discussion Modernizing Church Communication – Martin and Sallie talk with Dr Kristi Meyer, Prof. of Mathematics at Wisconsin Lutheran College, and part-time communications coordinator at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, WI. She and Pastor Kyle Bitter are teaming up to present a breakout on the topic of church communication at the upcoming Lutheran Leadership Conference. Kristi shares a preview of their breakout content, including one of her game-changing tools for improving communication. Ministry resource WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership January 19-21 at the Chicago Hilton 4 Keynotes & 69 Breakouts Register now for early bird pricing – $299 Picks of the week Worksheets to WOW! from Ditch That Textbook Google Keep Community feedback Check out WELS Intersections on Facebook Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 760 – Listening to Your Flock https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/02/760-listening-to-your-flock/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:00:01 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26152 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/02/760-listening-to-your-flock/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/10/02/760-listening-to-your-flock/feed/ 0

For the 760th time, welcome to WELSTech, a podcast at the intersection of technology and ministry. This episode features a discussion of the dos and don’ts of church and school surveys. Also included is a new source for liturgical art, a deep dive into “Smart” Health, and a new vocabulary word – workslop! Eek!

The interview and discussion

Survey Best Practices – Martin and Sallie welcome Alycia Cameron, and she shares her experience with conducting surveys and how that applies to churches and schools. Listen for guidelines on whether you need a survey and the suggested length of a survey, plus much more.

Ministry resource

Part 1 of Christ Through Us, WELS strategic plan: Culture

Picks of the week

Community feedback

Get involved

]]> WELS full 48:56 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noFor the 760th time, welcome to WELSTech, a podcast at the intersection of technology and ministry. This episode features a discussion of the dos and don’ts of church and school surveys. Also included is a new source for liturgical art, a deep dive into “Smart” Health, and a new vocabulary word – workslop! Eek! The interview and discussion Survey Best Practices – Martin and Sallie welcome Alycia Cameron, and she shares her experience with conducting surveys and how that applies to churches and schools. Listen for guidelines on whether you need a survey and the suggested length of a survey, plus much more. WELS AI Survey Survey Monkey Gamma Presentation Maker Fathom AI Notetaker Ministry resource Part 1 of Christ Through Us, WELS strategic plan: Culture Learn more from Forward in Christ Explore resources Picks of the week ELS Liturgical Year Artwork Smart Health Comparison using Gemini Deep research Community feedback Sora 2 is here – from OpenAI AI is creating ‘workslop’ and hindering productivity Generate the perfect headshot with Google Gemini – The full prompt Sallie and Mia gave it a try Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechFor the 760th time, welcome to WELSTech, a podcast at the intersection of technology and ministry. This episode features a discussion of the dos and don’ts of church and school surveys. Also included is a new source for liturgical art, a deep dive into “Smart” Health, and a new vocabulary word – workslop! Eek! The interview and discussion Survey Best Practices – Martin and Sallie welcome Alycia Cameron, and she shares her experience with conducting surveys and how that applies to churches and schools. Listen for guidelines on whether you need a survey and the suggested length of a survey, plus much more. WELS AI Survey Survey Monkey Gamma Presentation Maker Fathom AI Notetaker Ministry resource Part 1 of Christ Through Us, WELS strategic plan: Culture Learn more from Forward in Christ Explore resources Picks of the week ELS Liturgical Year Artwork Smart Health Comparison using Gemini Deep research Community feedback Sora 2 is here – from OpenAI AI is creating ‘workslop’ and hindering productivity Generate the perfect headshot with Google Gemini – The full prompt Sallie and Mia gave it a try Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 759 – Academic Integrity https://welstech.wels.net/2025/09/19/759-academic-integrity/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:00:59 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26125 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/09/19/759-academic-integrity/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/09/19/759-academic-integrity/feed/ 0

WELSTech is back with an unexpected AI buzz word discussion that’s a hot topic in schools right now – Academic Integrity. Jason and Rachel return bringing videos, gems, and flow to the podcast. Plus, there’s a new tech-enabled look at WELS 10-year strategic plan. Your earbuds are waiting!

The discussion

AI using AI – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss the other “AI,” academic integrity in an artificial intelligence world.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

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]]> WELS full 52:53 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is back with an unexpected AI buzz word discussion that’s a hot topic in schools right now – Academic Integrity. Jason and Rachel return bringing videos, gems, and flow to the podcast. Plus, there’s a new tech-enabled look at WELS 10-year strategic plan. Your earbuds are waiting! The discussion AI using AI – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss the other “AI,” academic integrity in an artificial intelligence world. Teachers got mad about a cheat button in Chrome. Now Google’s pausing it. Pangram Grammarly’s Authorship Sample Student AI usage policy for WELS Lutheran schools MLC AI Usage Guidelines Faculty Student Ministry resource Bible Lessons Media Resources Picks of the week Notebook LM Video Overview – Example Google Gemini Storybook Gem – Example – featuring anime Jason & Rachel What’s new in K-2 Recent newsletter issue Canva Teacher Planner Templates by Teach Cheat Subscribe Wispr Flow Community feedback ChristThroughUs.net – Learn more about WELS 10-year strategic plan Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is back with an unexpected AI buzz word discussion that’s a hot topic in schools right now – Academic Integrity. Jason and Rachel return bringing videos, gems, and flow to the podcast. Plus, there’s a new tech-enabled look at WELS 10-year strategic plan. Your earbuds are waiting! The discussion AI using AI – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss the other “AI,” academic integrity in an artificial intelligence world. Teachers got mad about a cheat button in Chrome. Now Google’s pausing it. Pangram Grammarly’s Authorship Sample Student AI usage policy for WELS Lutheran schools MLC AI Usage Guidelines Faculty Student Ministry resource Bible Lessons Media Resources Picks of the week Notebook LM Video Overview – Example Google Gemini Storybook Gem – Example – featuring anime Jason & Rachel What’s new in K-2 Recent newsletter issue Canva Teacher Planner Templates by Teach Cheat Subscribe Wispr Flow Community feedback ChristThroughUs.net – Learn more about WELS 10-year strategic plan Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 758 – A Season of AI https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/29/758-a-season-of-ai/ Fri, 29 Aug 2025 15:00:49 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26076 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/29/758-a-season-of-ai/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/29/758-a-season-of-ai/feed/ 0

 

The first episode of the 2025-26 season of WELSTech is unlocked! Martin and Sallie kick off with a Lutheran-flavored AI theme for the season and share resources to assist with school AI policies. Sallie has a random pick of the week, and Martin shared Gmail keyboard shortcuts. All this and more. Let’s go!

The discussion

A place of AI – Martin and Sallie kick off a new season of WELSTech under the theme AI: What does this mean? First up is a look at school guidelines and policies around AI. Feel free to make copies of the shared resource documents and edit them to meet the needs of your school.

Ministry Resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

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]]> WELS full 31:07 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)no  The first episode of the 2025-26 season of WELSTech is unlocked! Martin and Sallie kick off with a Lutheran-flavored AI theme for the season and share resources to assist with school AI policies. Sallie has a random pick of the week, and Martin shared Gmail keyboard shortcuts. All this and more. Let’s go! The discussion A place of AI – Martin and Sallie kick off a new season of WELSTech under the theme AI: What does this mean? First up is a look at school guidelines and policies around AI. Feel free to make copies of the shared resource documents and edit them to meet the needs of your school. New AI resource page New shared Google Drive WELSTech Google Group AI label Ministry Resource Save the shortcut link to our WELSTech AI series – welstech.wels.net/ai Picks of the week RandomQuestionMaker.com Gmail Keyboard Shortcuts Community feedback & events Solutions for managing multiple announcement screens – from the WELSTech Google Group Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstech  The first episode of the 2025-26 season of WELSTech is unlocked! Martin and Sallie kick off with a Lutheran-flavored AI theme for the season and share resources to assist with school AI policies. Sallie has a random pick of the week, and Martin shared Gmail keyboard shortcuts. All this and more. Let’s go! The discussion A place of AI – Martin and Sallie kick off a new season of WELSTech under the theme AI: What does this mean? First up is a look at school guidelines and policies around AI. Feel free to make copies of the shared resource documents and edit them to meet the needs of your school. New AI resource page New shared Google Drive WELSTech Google Group AI label Ministry Resource Save the shortcut link to our WELSTech AI series – welstech.wels.net/ai Picks of the week RandomQuestionMaker.com Gmail Keyboard Shortcuts Community feedback & events Solutions for managing multiple announcement screens – from the WELSTech Google Group Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 757 – Cybersecurity Tips https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/22/757-cybersecurity-tips/ Fri, 22 Aug 2025 15:00:36 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26038 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/22/757-cybersecurity-tips/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/22/757-cybersecurity-tips/feed/ 0

How vulnerable is your church or school to hacking? On this episode of WELSTech learn why vigilant training on threat avoidance is important in ministry settings and find links to available (and many times free) resources to assist with those efforts. Sallie shares a family friendly YouTube channel and Martin has some hardware to detect those pesky leaks.

The discussion

“The single most hackable piece of any computer system is, unfortunately, the people.” – Cybersecurity Basics for Churches from Concordia Technology Solutions

The weakest link – Martin and Sallie share ideas regarding church and school digital security and ongoing training.

Picks of the week

Next time

A new season of WELSTech begins

Get involved

]]> WELS full 39:54 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noHow vulnerable is your church or school to hacking? On this episode of WELSTech learn why vigilant training on threat avoidance is important in ministry settings and find links to available (and many times free) resources to assist with those efforts. Sallie shares a family friendly YouTube channel and Martin has some hardware to detect those pesky leaks. The discussion “The single most hackable piece of any computer system is, unfortunately, the people.” – Cybersecurity Basics for Churches from Concordia Technology Solutions The weakest link – Martin and Sallie share ideas regarding church and school digital security and ongoing training. WELSTech Google Group discussion KnowBe4 Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE) SANS Institute National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – free content Infosec CyberNut Identity Theft Sermon Introduction Picks of the week Ryan Trahan’s 50 States in 50 Days family-friendly YouTube series Third Reality Water Leak Sensor Next time A new season of WELSTech begins Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechHow vulnerable is your church or school to hacking? On this episode of WELSTech learn why vigilant training on threat avoidance is important in ministry settings and find links to available (and many times free) resources to assist with those efforts. Sallie shares a family friendly YouTube channel and Martin has some hardware to detect those pesky leaks. The discussion “The single most hackable piece of any computer system is, unfortunately, the people.” – Cybersecurity Basics for Churches from Concordia Technology Solutions The weakest link – Martin and Sallie share ideas regarding church and school digital security and ongoing training. WELSTech Google Group discussion KnowBe4 Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE) SANS Institute National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – free content Infosec CyberNut Identity Theft Sermon Introduction Picks of the week Ryan Trahan’s 50 States in 50 Days family-friendly YouTube series Third Reality Water Leak Sensor Next time A new season of WELSTech begins Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 756 – 10 SMART Goals https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/07/756-10-smart-goals/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:10:44 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=26019 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/07/756-10-smart-goals/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/08/07/756-10-smart-goals/feed/ 0

The WELSTech summer tips and tricks keep coming with this week’s rundown of church marketing ideas courtesy of Grace Ungemach. Set a goal and see what changes may take place in your outreach efforts. Sallie’s got new hardware, Martin has a new Inbox, and WELS Intersections is talking about church communication guidelines. You don’t want to miss this jam-packed episode!

The discussion

Get SMART – Martin and Sallie’s discussion springboards off of a recent newsletter article titled 10 SMART goals for church marketing by Grace Ungemach at lutheran.marketing. From avatars to Instagram, email opens to runways, you are sure to find at least one goal to adopt, personalize for your church or school, and learn from.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Out tips & tricks summer series wrap-up

Get involved

]]> WELS full 38:36 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThe WELSTech summer tips and tricks keep coming with this week’s rundown of church marketing ideas courtesy of Grace Ungemach. Set a goal and see what changes may take place in your outreach efforts. Sallie’s got new hardware, Martin has a new Inbox, and WELS Intersections is talking about church communication guidelines. You don’t want to miss this jam-packed episode! The discussion Get SMART – Martin and Sallie’s discussion springboards off of a recent newsletter article titled 10 SMART goals for church marketing by Grace Ungemach at lutheran.marketing. From avatars to Instagram, email opens to runways, you are sure to find at least one goal to adopt, personalize for your church or school, and learn from. Picks of the week Square payment processing and Square Reader  Trello Inbox Community feedback & events Sample Church Communication Guide (WOW!) ELS video series Do You Have a Pastor? Next time Out tips & tricks summer series wrap-up Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThe WELSTech summer tips and tricks keep coming with this week’s rundown of church marketing ideas courtesy of Grace Ungemach. Set a goal and see what changes may take place in your outreach efforts. Sallie’s got new hardware, Martin has a new Inbox, and WELS Intersections is talking about church communication guidelines. You don’t want to miss this jam-packed episode! The discussion Get SMART – Martin and Sallie’s discussion springboards off of a recent newsletter article titled 10 SMART goals for church marketing by Grace Ungemach at lutheran.marketing. From avatars to Instagram, email opens to runways, you are sure to find at least one goal to adopt, personalize for your church or school, and learn from. Picks of the week Square payment processing and Square Reader  Trello Inbox Community feedback & events Sample Church Communication Guide (WOW!) ELS video series Do You Have a Pastor? Next time Out tips & tricks summer series wrap-up Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 755 – Social Media Graphics That Matter https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/24/7550-social-media-graphics-that-matter/ Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:37:37 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25901 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/24/7550-social-media-graphics-that-matter/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/24/7550-social-media-graphics-that-matter/feed/ 0

Tune in to WELSTech 755 for a discussion on church social media graphics, including examples and templates to follow. Martin shares his latest gadget pick, plus we talk about a Facebook guide on branding your digital community.

The discussion

Why Social Media Graphics Matter – Martin and Sallie discuss the ins and outs of social media graphics, including keeping it simple, being consistent, using branding, and templating the designs.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

See you in August for more tips & tricks!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 28:50 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTune in to WELSTech 755 for a discussion on church social media graphics, including examples and templates to follow. Martin shares his latest gadget pick, plus we talk about a Facebook guide on branding your digital community. The discussion Why Social Media Graphics Matter – Martin and Sallie discuss the ins and outs of social media graphics, including keeping it simple, being consistent, using branding, and templating the designs. Designing Church Social Media Graphics 101 from Concordia Technology Solutions Example Instagram account from Illume Church (WELS), Seattle, WA How to create your own set of social media templates from Grace Ungemach’s lutheran.marketing weekly newsletter Example Canva template Picks of the week Canva Templates for Churches Anker USB C Adapters Community feedback & events WELS Intersections on Facebook Branding Your Community from Facebook Next time See you in August for more tips & tricks! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTune in to WELSTech 755 for a discussion on church social media graphics, including examples and templates to follow. Martin shares his latest gadget pick, plus we talk about a Facebook guide on branding your digital community. The discussion Why Social Media Graphics Matter – Martin and Sallie discuss the ins and outs of social media graphics, including keeping it simple, being consistent, using branding, and templating the designs. Designing Church Social Media Graphics 101 from Concordia Technology Solutions Example Instagram account from Illume Church (WELS), Seattle, WA How to create your own set of social media templates from Grace Ungemach’s lutheran.marketing weekly newsletter Example Canva template Picks of the week Canva Templates for Churches Anker USB C Adapters Community feedback & events WELS Intersections on Facebook Branding Your Community from Facebook Next time See you in August for more tips & tricks! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 754 – Photos That Matter https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/10/754-photos-that-matter-2/ Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:32:24 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25880 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/10/754-photos-that-matter-2/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/07/10/754-photos-that-matter-2/feed/ 0

Tune in to WELSTech 754 for tips and tricks related to church photography. There’s also discussion regarding finding an icon for any need and the effect of AI on mission outreach. Plus the WELSTech Google Group is in the spotlight with lots of great input on the topic of cyber security training.

The discussion

Click, click, click – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent blog post from Concordia Technology Solutions titled 10 Tips for Capturing Impactful Photos of Church Activities.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Recent conversations in the WELSTech Google Group

Next time

More tips & tricks to come!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 30:23 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTune in to WELSTech 754 for tips and tricks related to church photography. There’s also discussion regarding finding an icon for any need and the effect of AI on mission outreach. Plus the WELSTech Google Group is in the spotlight with lots of great input on the topic of cyber security training. The discussion Click, click, click – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent blog post from Concordia Technology Solutions titled 10 Tips for Capturing Impactful Photos of Church Activities. From Microsoft Copilot AI – Sample Church Photo Release Form (PDF) Picks of the week The Noun Project The Impact of AI on Missions Community feedback & events Recent conversations in the WELSTech Google Group Cyber Security training recommendations KnowBe4 National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS) InfoSec CyberNut Tech policy around a Called Working exit Next time More tips & tricks to come! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTune in to WELSTech 754 for tips and tricks related to church photography. There’s also discussion regarding finding an icon for any need and the effect of AI on mission outreach. Plus the WELSTech Google Group is in the spotlight with lots of great input on the topic of cyber security training. The discussion Click, click, click – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent blog post from Concordia Technology Solutions titled 10 Tips for Capturing Impactful Photos of Church Activities. From Microsoft Copilot AI – Sample Church Photo Release Form (PDF) Picks of the week The Noun Project The Impact of AI on Missions Community feedback & events Recent conversations in the WELSTech Google Group Cyber Security training recommendations KnowBe4 National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS) InfoSec CyberNut Tech policy around a Called Working exit Next time More tips & tricks to come! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 753 – Make Announcements Matter https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/26/753-announcing/ Thu, 26 Jun 2025 14:35:30 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25863 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/26/753-announcing/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/26/753-announcing/feed/ 0

This week on WELSTech we reveal ways to write church announcements which get the word out on needed topics without being ignored by those you’re trying to reach. AI weaves itself throughout the conversation from personalized AI in picks of the week, an overview of the AI for Education site, and new rules around AI for Google students of all ages. Plus, Android users will be happy to interact with their text messages from their computer.

The discussion

Announcing … – Martin and Sallie discuss challenges that crop up when writing church announcements and guidelines that keep your announcements concise and action driven.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment

Get involved

]]> WELS full 28:14 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThis week on WELSTech we reveal ways to write church announcements which get the word out on needed topics without being ignored by those you’re trying to reach. AI weaves itself throughout the conversation from personalized AI in picks of the week, an overview of the AI for Education site, and new rules around AI for Google students of all ages. Plus, Android users will be happy to interact with their text messages from their computer. The discussion Announcing … – Martin and Sallie discuss challenges that crop up when writing church announcements and guidelines that keep your announcements concise and action driven. Writing Church Announcements People Actually Read from Concordia Technology Solutions Sample weekly announcements from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in North Mankato, MN Picks of the week ‘Saved Info’ is Gemini’s Hidden Superpower Google Messages on the Web Community feedback & events AI for Education Google Gemini and Notebook LM for all ages Should your school enable them? Here’s how that could look Next time Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThis week on WELSTech we reveal ways to write church announcements which get the word out on needed topics without being ignored by those you’re trying to reach. AI weaves itself throughout the conversation from personalized AI in picks of the week, an overview of the AI for Education site, and new rules around AI for Google students of all ages. Plus, Android users will be happy to interact with their text messages from their computer. The discussion Announcing … – Martin and Sallie discuss challenges that crop up when writing church announcements and guidelines that keep your announcements concise and action driven. Writing Church Announcements People Actually Read from Concordia Technology Solutions Sample weekly announcements from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in North Mankato, MN Picks of the week ‘Saved Info’ is Gemini’s Hidden Superpower Google Messages on the Web Community feedback & events AI for Education Google Gemini and Notebook LM for all ages Should your school enable them? Here’s how that could look Next time Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 752 – Healthy Church Staff Communication https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/12/752-healthy-church-staff-communication/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:18:35 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25821 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/12/752-healthy-church-staff-communication/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/06/12/752-healthy-church-staff-communication/feed/ 0

Welcome to WELSTech summer series 2025! Join us as we talk about practical tips and tricks to make public and personal ministry efficient and effective. The series kickoff focus is church office communication. Martin and Sallie share AI picks of the week, and there’s a Chromebook discussion thread in the WELSTech Google group.

The discussion

Church Staff Communication – Martin and Sallie chat about tools, etiquette, and standards around church staff communication. In-person or digital, response expectations, and collaboration are all pieces of the communication puzzle. Having best practices in place makes for smooth office operations.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

From the WELSTech Google group – Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN asked about Chromebook repurposing after

Next time

Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:57 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcome to WELSTech summer series 2025! Join us as we talk about practical tips and tricks to make public and personal ministry efficient and effective. The series kickoff focus is church office communication. Martin and Sallie share AI picks of the week, and there’s a Chromebook discussion thread in the WELSTech Google group. The discussion Church Staff Communication – Martin and Sallie chat about tools, etiquette, and standards around church staff communication. In-person or digital, response expectations, and collaboration are all pieces of the communication puzzle. Having best practices in place makes for smooth office operations. Maintaining Healthy Church Staff Communication with Technology from Concordia Technology Solutions Picks of the week AI Toolkit for Schools from Common Sense Media Education Week article – Putting AI to work in schools is difficult. A new toolkit outlines how to do it. Notebook LM App Google AI mode Community feedback & events From the WELSTech Google group – Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN asked about Chromebook repurposing after Next time Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcome to WELSTech summer series 2025! Join us as we talk about practical tips and tricks to make public and personal ministry efficient and effective. The series kickoff focus is church office communication. Martin and Sallie share AI picks of the week, and there’s a Chromebook discussion thread in the WELSTech Google group. The discussion Church Staff Communication – Martin and Sallie chat about tools, etiquette, and standards around church staff communication. In-person or digital, response expectations, and collaboration are all pieces of the communication puzzle. Having best practices in place makes for smooth office operations. Maintaining Healthy Church Staff Communication with Technology from Concordia Technology Solutions Picks of the week AI Toolkit for Schools from Common Sense Media Education Week article – Putting AI to work in schools is difficult. A new toolkit outlines how to do it. Notebook LM App Google AI mode Community feedback & events From the WELSTech Google group – Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN asked about Chromebook repurposing after Next time Come back for our next tips & tricks summer installment Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 751 – Making Music with AI https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/28/751-making-music-with-ai/ Wed, 28 May 2025 15:17:36 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25728 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/28/751-making-music-with-ai/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/28/751-making-music-with-ai/feed/ 0

This episode of WELSTech features an interview with Pastor Nate Seiltz who recently creating 3 albums of music without singing or playing a note himself. With AI at his fingertips, he transformed his ideas for gospel outreach music into reality, and you can to! We also share survey results regarding church use of AI, a handy (AI-generated) summary of recent tech news with an emphasis on its impact on the church, and ideas for using AI to extend the impact of your weekly sermon.

The discussion

Music for outreach – Pastor Nate Seiltz, Director of WELS Multi-Language Publications, talked with Martin and Sallie about his recent AI-assisted production of 3 albums of songs geared toward sharing the good news of salvation in Christ. His artist name is Freetide. “Free” because grace is free, and he is free from sin and eternal death in Christ. “Tide” signifies movement, the Holy Spirit’s work in him through His Word and movement in his life as he lives by grace.

  • Made New (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These songs walk through the darkness of doubt, the fire of trials, and the ache of waiting—but they lead to grace, healing, and freedom. With honest lyrics and uplifting melodies, Made New is a declaration of what God does with the broken: He restores. He renews. He makes us new.
  • Fruits of the Spirit (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These nine songs walk through each fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23, reflecting on how they each take root in real life. 
  • Living Proof (Spotify | Amazon Music) – From first steps into grace to standing fearless in Christ, these songs tell a true story — of scars healed, chains broken, hope renewed. We are not who we were. We are living proof that mercy is real, and grace still wins.
  • Suno.com

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback

  • Sign up for Concordia Technology Solutions webinar series – Tuesday, June 3, 2025
    • Church Members 360 – 10 am CT
    • Church Ledger 360 – 11:30 am CT
    • Church Unite 360 – 1 pm CT
  • Turn one sermon into a week of discipleship – Facebook post from WELS Intersections

Next time

  • Our 2025 Summer series – Tips & Tricks – kicks off.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 44:44 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThis episode of WELSTech features an interview with Pastor Nate Seiltz who recently creating 3 albums of music without singing or playing a note himself. With AI at his fingertips, he transformed his ideas for gospel outreach music into reality, and you can to! We also share survey results regarding church use of AI, a handy (AI-generated) summary of recent tech news with an emphasis on its impact on the church, and ideas for using AI to extend the impact of your weekly sermon. The discussion Music for outreach – Pastor Nate Seiltz, Director of WELS Multi-Language Publications, talked with Martin and Sallie about his recent AI-assisted production of 3 albums of songs geared toward sharing the good news of salvation in Christ. His artist name is Freetide. “Free” because grace is free, and he is free from sin and eternal death in Christ. “Tide” signifies movement, the Holy Spirit’s work in him through His Word and movement in his life as he lives by grace. Made New (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These songs walk through the darkness of doubt, the fire of trials, and the ache of waiting—but they lead to grace, healing, and freedom. With honest lyrics and uplifting melodies, Made New is a declaration of what God does with the broken: He restores. He renews. He makes us new. Fruits of the Spirit (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These nine songs walk through each fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23, reflecting on how they each take root in real life.  Living Proof (Spotify | Amazon Music) – From first steps into grace to standing fearless in Christ, these songs tell a true story — of scars healed, chains broken, hope renewed. We are not who we were. We are living proof that mercy is real, and grace still wins. Suno.com Ministry resource Key insights from the 2024 National State of AI in the Church survey results by Church Tech Today Picks of the week Recent church tech ideas from Kim Komando, summarized by Google Gemini Sun Seeker app – iOS | Android Community feedback Sign up for Concordia Technology Solutions webinar series – Tuesday, June 3, 2025 Church Members 360 – 10 am CT Church Ledger 360 – 11:30 am CT Church Unite 360 – 1 pm CT Turn one sermon into a week of discipleship – Facebook post from WELS Intersections Next time Our 2025 Summer series – Tips & Tricks – kicks off. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThis episode of WELSTech features an interview with Pastor Nate Seiltz who recently creating 3 albums of music without singing or playing a note himself. With AI at his fingertips, he transformed his ideas for gospel outreach music into reality, and you can to! We also share survey results regarding church use of AI, a handy (AI-generated) summary of recent tech news with an emphasis on its impact on the church, and ideas for using AI to extend the impact of your weekly sermon. The discussion Music for outreach – Pastor Nate Seiltz, Director of WELS Multi-Language Publications, talked with Martin and Sallie about his recent AI-assisted production of 3 albums of songs geared toward sharing the good news of salvation in Christ. His artist name is Freetide. “Free” because grace is free, and he is free from sin and eternal death in Christ. “Tide” signifies movement, the Holy Spirit’s work in him through His Word and movement in his life as he lives by grace. Made New (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These songs walk through the darkness of doubt, the fire of trials, and the ache of waiting—but they lead to grace, healing, and freedom. With honest lyrics and uplifting melodies, Made New is a declaration of what God does with the broken: He restores. He renews. He makes us new. Fruits of the Spirit (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These nine songs walk through each fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23, reflecting on how they each take root in real life.  Living Proof (Spotify | Amazon Music) – From first steps into grace to standing fearless in Christ, these songs tell a true story — of scars healed, chains broken, hope renewed. We are not who we were. We are living proof that mercy is real, and grace still wins. Suno.com Ministry resource Key insights from the 2024 National State of AI in the Church survey results by Church Tech Today Picks of the week Recent church tech ideas from Kim Komando, summarized by Google Gemini Sun Seeker app – iOS | Android Community feedback Sign up for Concordia Technology Solutions webinar series – Tuesday, June 3, 2025 Church Members 360 – 10 am CT Church Ledger 360 – 11:30 am CT Church Unite 360 – 1 pm CT Turn one sermon into a week of discipleship – Facebook post from WELS Intersections Next time Our 2025 Summer series – Tips & Tricks – kicks off. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 750 – A Season of SAMR https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/17/750-a-season-of-samr/ Sat, 17 May 2025 15:28:06 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25671 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/17/750-a-season-of-samr/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/17/750-a-season-of-samr/feed/ 0 A Season of SAMR - final podcast of the school year. Focuses include SAMR and Leadership, AIAS, earphones, implementation software

The WELSTech co-hosts for all things edtech are driving this episode as we wrap up our SAMR focus with how it assists education leaders. We also introduce the AI Assessment Scale, a tool for clearly stating acceptable levels of AI use. Rachel has new headphones for “weird” ears that don’t like earbuds, and Jason shares a tool that uses AI to create individual student feedback. Bonus: It’s also a time-saver for teachers.

A Season of SAMR - final podcast of the school year. Focuses include SAMR and Leadership, AIAS, earphones, implementation softwareThe discussion

SAMR and Leadership – We close out our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration with our favorite edtech gurus, Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. School leaders may find policy creation and maintenance challenging, but policies are definitely worth the effort as they provide needed structure to make decision making easier. And while a dedicated AI policy may not be needed, incorporating AI guidelines into standard policies – Acceptable Use, Academic Integrity, Data Privacy, etc. – is wise.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

  • Shokz – Bone conduction open-ear headphones
  • Snorkl – AI student feedback

Next time

  • Pastor Nate Seiltz from WELS Multi-Language Productions shares stories of AI music creation.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 37:02 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThe WELSTech co-hosts for all things edtech are driving this episode as we wrap up our SAMR focus with how it assists education leaders. We also introduce the AI Assessment Scale, a tool for clearly stating acceptable levels of AI use. Rachel has new headphones for “weird” ears that don’t like earbuds, and Jason shares a tool that uses AI to create individual student feedback. Bonus: It’s also a time-saver for teachers. The discussion SAMR and Leadership – We close out our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration with our favorite edtech gurus, Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. School leaders may find policy creation and maintenance challenging, but policies are definitely worth the effort as they provide needed structure to make decision making easier. And while a dedicated AI policy may not be needed, incorporating AI guidelines into standard policies – Acceptable Use, Academic Integrity, Data Privacy, etc. – is wise. Advancing AI Education for American Youth Executive Orders – April 23, 2025 Jason’s Google Deep research results on AI in WELS Schools AI Assessment Scale – Build transparency around the use of AI Ministry resource Free AI Assessment Scale eBook by Leon Fruze – Over 50 assessment ideas Picks of the week Shokz – Bone conduction open-ear headphones Snorkl – AI student feedback Next time Pastor Nate Seiltz from WELS Multi-Language Productions shares stories of AI music creation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThe WELSTech co-hosts for all things edtech are driving this episode as we wrap up our SAMR focus with how it assists education leaders. We also introduce the AI Assessment Scale, a tool for clearly stating acceptable levels of AI use. Rachel has new headphones for “weird” ears that don’t like earbuds, and Jason shares a tool that uses AI to create individual student feedback. Bonus: It’s also a time-saver for teachers. The discussion SAMR and Leadership – We close out our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration with our favorite edtech gurus, Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. School leaders may find policy creation and maintenance challenging, but policies are definitely worth the effort as they provide needed structure to make decision making easier. And while a dedicated AI policy may not be needed, incorporating AI guidelines into standard policies – Acceptable Use, Academic Integrity, Data Privacy, etc. – is wise. Advancing AI Education for American Youth Executive Orders – April 23, 2025 Jason’s Google Deep research results on AI in WELS Schools AI Assessment Scale – Build transparency around the use of AI Ministry resource Free AI Assessment Scale eBook by Leon Fruze – Over 50 assessment ideas Picks of the week Shokz – Bone conduction open-ear headphones Snorkl – AI student feedback Next time Pastor Nate Seiltz from WELS Multi-Language Productions shares stories of AI music creation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 749 – Welcome to our Church https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/01/749-welcome-to-our-church/ Thu, 01 May 2025 15:31:34 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25649 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/01/749-welcome-to-our-church/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/05/01/749-welcome-to-our-church/feed/ 0

Welcoming visitors and tracking attendance are the topics of the day on WELSTech 749. We’ve got an interview on a kiosk worship check in system which is guaranteed to make you smile, plus examples of paper attendance tracking and guest welcome stations. We also kick the tires on the recently updated WELS Call Report, share free AI prompt training, and highlight an enjoyable read on all things domain name related.

The interview & discussion

Attendance tracking and visitor welcome – Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor Clark Schultz from Shepherd of the Hills, West Bend, WI about their digital check in process. The discussion continues with a look at examples of Connection cards and

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Jason and Rachel finish out our school year SAMR focus with a discussion of Leadership and EdTech.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 52:53 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcoming visitors and tracking attendance are the topics of the day on WELSTech 749. We’ve got an interview on a kiosk worship check in system which is guaranteed to make you smile, plus examples of paper attendance tracking and guest welcome stations. We also kick the tires on the recently updated WELS Call Report, share free AI prompt training, and highlight an enjoyable read on all things domain name related. The interview & discussion Attendance tracking and visitor welcome – Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor Clark Schultz from Shepherd of the Hills, West Bend, WI about their digital check in process. The discussion continues with a look at examples of Connection cards and Planning Center > Check Ins Brother QL820NWB Label Printer Divine Savior, Doral, FL Connect Card St Paul’s, North Mankato Connect Card Online Connection “Card” Google Form Online Worship Attendance Google Form St Paul’s, North Mankato welcome table photos Ministry resources Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS) Resource Center CTS on Facebook WELS partnership with CTS Picks of the week The new WELS Call Report Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT | Coursera Community feedback & events A crash course in domain setting from the lutheran.marketing weekly e-newsletter by Grace Ungemach (subscribe) Next time Jason and Rachel finish out our school year SAMR focus with a discussion of Leadership and EdTech. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcoming visitors and tracking attendance are the topics of the day on WELSTech 749. We’ve got an interview on a kiosk worship check in system which is guaranteed to make you smile, plus examples of paper attendance tracking and guest welcome stations. We also kick the tires on the recently updated WELS Call Report, share free AI prompt training, and highlight an enjoyable read on all things domain name related. The interview & discussion Attendance tracking and visitor welcome – Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor Clark Schultz from Shepherd of the Hills, West Bend, WI about their digital check in process. The discussion continues with a look at examples of Connection cards and Planning Center > Check Ins Brother QL820NWB Label Printer Divine Savior, Doral, FL Connect Card St Paul’s, North Mankato Connect Card Online Connection “Card” Google Form Online Worship Attendance Google Form St Paul’s, North Mankato welcome table photos Ministry resources Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS) Resource Center CTS on Facebook WELS partnership with CTS Picks of the week The new WELS Call Report Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT | Coursera Community feedback & events A crash course in domain setting from the lutheran.marketing weekly e-newsletter by Grace Ungemach (subscribe) Next time Jason and Rachel finish out our school year SAMR focus with a discussion of Leadership and EdTech. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 748 – Lori Ehlke Art https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/17/748-lori-ehlke-art/ Thu, 17 Apr 2025 16:28:39 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25625 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/17/748-lori-ehlke-art/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/17/748-lori-ehlke-art/feed/ 0

Welcome to Holy Week 2025, and a warm WELSTech welcome to art educator Lori Ehlke. Lori shares her path from art and Spanish teacher through Covid shutdown to YouTube fame, and how she benefitted from learning as she went and being consistent with her work. BONUS: Lori’s work isn’t confined to the K-12 classroom. We have a ministry resource idea that may resonate with adults in your community and congregation. Grab your brush, and tune in.

The discussion

Dude Perfect and art collide – Art educator Lori Ehlke chatted with Martin and Sallie about how she, with her easy-to-follow art tutorials, became a YouTube star with 560+ videos and over 11,000 subscribers, and her best advice for your similar efforts.

Follow Lori at …

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Next time

Attendance tracking

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:36 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcome to Holy Week 2025, and a warm WELSTech welcome to art educator Lori Ehlke. Lori shares her path from art and Spanish teacher through Covid shutdown to YouTube fame, and how she benefitted from learning as she went and being consistent with her work. BONUS: Lori’s work isn’t confined to the K-12 classroom. We have a ministry resource idea that may resonate with adults in your community and congregation. Grab your brush, and tune in. The discussion Dude Perfect and art collide – Art educator Lori Ehlke chatted with Martin and Sallie about how she, with her easy-to-follow art tutorials, became a YouTube star with 560+ videos and over 11,000 subscribers, and her best advice for your similar efforts. Follow Lori at … Website – EhlkeArt.com YouTube – youtube.com/EhlkeArt Facebook – facebook.com/loriehlkeart Ministry resources Fellowship/Outreach event idea Peace in North Mankato, MN (ELS) hosted a Painting to Gogh class featuring Lori Ehlke’s Wildflower Meadow PaintingToGogh.com Picks of the week 10 Highlights from Canva Create AI for meeting notes, summary, and action items Otter.ai Fireflies.ai Comparing the two Next time Attendance tracking Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcome to Holy Week 2025, and a warm WELSTech welcome to art educator Lori Ehlke. Lori shares her path from art and Spanish teacher through Covid shutdown to YouTube fame, and how she benefitted from learning as she went and being consistent with her work. BONUS: Lori’s work isn’t confined to the K-12 classroom. We have a ministry resource idea that may resonate with adults in your community and congregation. Grab your brush, and tune in. The discussion Dude Perfect and art collide – Art educator Lori Ehlke chatted with Martin and Sallie about how she, with her easy-to-follow art tutorials, became a YouTube star with 560+ videos and over 11,000 subscribers, and her best advice for your similar efforts. Follow Lori at … Website – EhlkeArt.com YouTube – youtube.com/EhlkeArt Facebook – facebook.com/loriehlkeart Ministry resources Fellowship/Outreach event idea Peace in North Mankato, MN (ELS) hosted a Painting to Gogh class featuring Lori Ehlke’s Wildflower Meadow PaintingToGogh.com Picks of the week 10 Highlights from Canva Create AI for meeting notes, summary, and action items Otter.ai Fireflies.ai Comparing the two Next time Attendance tracking Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 747 – Canva for Ministry https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/03/747-canva-for-ministry/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:00:40 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25601 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/03/747-canva-for-ministry/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/04/03/747-canva-for-ministry/feed/ 0

WELSTech is back with a deep dive into Canva waters and the terrific capabilities it has for churches and schools. The toolset is easy and intuitive, even if you’ve never used it before. This episode may be all you need to get started! Martin shares his phone case pick and there’s some AI-generated coding for the classroom happening. See you on the inside!

The discussion

Behind the scenes with Canva – Sallie takes viewers to the design table using Canva and demos design templates and elements, text tools, color palettes, brand kits, and apps while Martin tries to stump her with questions. With the robust feature set and variety of formats which Canva can produce, it’s well worth the price of admission. The amazing news is churches and schools don’t pay a penny!

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

  • Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN shared programmed resources for the classroom which he created with the help of ChatGPT and Canva. Reach out to Michael if you’d like to learn more or get a copy.
    • Eraser Game (Video)
      • Users enter text, and the application creates an exercise where clicking on a word makes it disappear. For longer passages, this helps with memorization by gradually removing words rather than requiring students to recall an entire section at once.
    • Banned Words Checker (Video)
      • Our writing series includes specific banned word lists for each lesson, but students and I occasionally overlook these during the review process. This tool allows users to input a list of banned words and their text, and provides a count of each banned word’s occurrence within the document which can be printed.
    • Cloze Generator (Video)
      • This enables teachers to create a cloze activity or a fill-in-the-blank memory work worksheet. Simply type the passage name or reference and paste or type the desired text, choose the difficulty level and font size, and click “Generate.” The application then produces a printable worksheet with a set number of words removed based on the selected difficulty. Works great for longer selections
  • From the WELSTech Google group

Next time

Digital art lessons and social sharing from someone doing both!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 50:14 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is back with a deep dive into Canva waters and the terrific capabilities it has for churches and schools. The toolset is easy and intuitive, even if you’ve never used it before. This episode may be all you need to get started! Martin shares his phone case pick and there’s some AI-generated coding for the classroom happening. See you on the inside! The discussion Behind the scenes with Canva – Sallie takes viewers to the design table using Canva and demos design templates and elements, text tools, color palettes, brand kits, and apps while Martin tries to stump her with questions. With the robust feature set and variety of formats which Canva can produce, it’s well worth the price of admission. The amazing news is churches and schools don’t pay a penny! Pricing & Features Canva for Education Canva for Non-Profits Ministry resources Canva for churches Free church presentation software  Canva’s church templates How to make the most out of Canva for Churches Canva for Churches: 5 Ingenious Uses (Video) Picks of the week Canva Bulk Create add on – How To Pitaka Phone Cases Community feedback & events Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN shared programmed resources for the classroom which he created with the help of ChatGPT and Canva. Reach out to Michael if you’d like to learn more or get a copy. Eraser Game (Video) Users enter text, and the application creates an exercise where clicking on a word makes it disappear. For longer passages, this helps with memorization by gradually removing words rather than requiring students to recall an entire section at once. Banned Words Checker (Video) Our writing series includes specific banned word lists for each lesson, but students and I occasionally overlook these during the review process. This tool allows users to input a list of banned words and their text, and provides a count of each banned word’s occurrence within the document which can be printed. Cloze Generator (Video) This enables teachers to create a cloze activity or a fill-in-the-blank memory work worksheet. Simply type the passage name or reference and paste or type the desired text, choose the difficulty level and font size, and click “Generate.” The application then produces a printable worksheet with a set number of words removed based on the selected difficulty. Works great for longer selections From the WELSTech Google group Pre-ACT accommodation challenges Sharing school AI Policies Next time Digital art lessons and social sharing from someone doing both! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is back with a deep dive into Canva waters and the terrific capabilities it has for churches and schools. The toolset is easy and intuitive, even if you’ve never used it before. This episode may be all you need to get started! Martin shares his phone case pick and there’s some AI-generated coding for the classroom happening. See you on the inside! The discussion Behind the scenes with Canva – Sallie takes viewers to the design table using Canva and demos design templates and elements, text tools, color palettes, brand kits, and apps while Martin tries to stump her with questions. With the robust feature set and variety of formats which Canva can produce, it’s well worth the price of admission. The amazing news is churches and schools don’t pay a penny! Pricing & Features Canva for Education Canva for Non-Profits Ministry resources Canva for churches Free church presentation software  Canva’s church templates How to make the most out of Canva for Churches Canva for Churches: 5 Ingenious Uses (Video) Picks of the week Canva Bulk Create add on – How To Pitaka Phone Cases Community feedback & events Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN shared programmed resources for the classroom which he created with the help of ChatGPT and Canva. Reach out to Michael if you’d like to learn more or get a copy. Eraser Game (Video) Users enter text, and the application creates an exercise where clicking on a word makes it disappear. For longer passages, this helps with memorization by gradually removing words rather than requiring students to recall an entire section at once. Banned Words Checker (Video) Our writing series includes specific banned word lists for each lesson, but students and I occasionally overlook these during the review process. This tool allows users to input a list of banned words and their text, and provides a count of each banned word’s occurrence within the document which can be printed. Cloze Generator (Video) This enables teachers to create a cloze activity or a fill-in-the-blank memory work worksheet. Simply type the passage name or reference and paste or type the desired text, choose the difficulty level and font size, and click “Generate.” The application then produces a printable worksheet with a set number of words removed based on the selected difficulty. Works great for longer selections From the WELSTech Google group Pre-ACT accommodation challenges Sharing school AI Policies Next time Digital art lessons and social sharing from someone doing both! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 746 – Doctors and Suits https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/20/746-doctors-and-suits/ Thu, 20 Mar 2025 20:50:57 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25585 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/20/746-doctors-and-suits/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/20/746-doctors-and-suits/feed/ 0

WELSTech is back with so much to discuss regarding SAMR in Secondary Ed, so much brain-power from our newly awarded doctor guest host, so many picks of the week (including a bonus pick that is so tasty), so many e-newsletters on church marketing, so much trade-in value on MacBook Air computers, and so much more that you won’t want to miss! So, turn it up!

The discussion

Secondary SAMR – The edtech discussion resumes as WELSTech welcomes back Doctor Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. Today’s topic, secondary tech integration, relates to our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration, as we consider how best to engage and differentiate secondary education to prepare students at this level for the project-based demands of the working world.

Spoiler alert: the “C” word (change) is part of the solution.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

  • A look at all that Canva can do for you!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 47:05 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is back with so much to discuss regarding SAMR in Secondary Ed, so much brain-power from our newly awarded doctor guest host, so many picks of the week (including a bonus pick that is so tasty), so many e-newsletters on church marketing, so much trade-in value on MacBook Air computers, and so much more that you won’t want to miss! So, turn it up! The discussion Secondary SAMR – The edtech discussion resumes as WELSTech welcomes back Doctor Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. Today’s topic, secondary tech integration, relates to our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration, as we consider how best to engage and differentiate secondary education to prepare students at this level for the project-based demands of the working world. Spoiler alert: the “C” word (change) is part of the solution. Ministry resource Check out Grace Ungemach’s weekly newsletter on Digital Marketing for churches at learn.lutheran.marketing Picks of the week Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with M4 chip Logitech Zone Learn Headset MindMup 2 for Google Drive Boil-the-Bag Peanuts Davinci Resolve Community feedback & events From Matt Miller’s AI for Admins newsletter – Teaching human thinking before AI Next time A look at all that Canva can do for you! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is back with so much to discuss regarding SAMR in Secondary Ed, so much brain-power from our newly awarded doctor guest host, so many picks of the week (including a bonus pick that is so tasty), so many e-newsletters on church marketing, so much trade-in value on MacBook Air computers, and so much more that you won’t want to miss! So, turn it up! The discussion Secondary SAMR – The edtech discussion resumes as WELSTech welcomes back Doctor Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. Today’s topic, secondary tech integration, relates to our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration, as we consider how best to engage and differentiate secondary education to prepare students at this level for the project-based demands of the working world. Spoiler alert: the “C” word (change) is part of the solution. Ministry resource Check out Grace Ungemach’s weekly newsletter on Digital Marketing for churches at learn.lutheran.marketing Picks of the week Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with M4 chip Logitech Zone Learn Headset MindMup 2 for Google Drive Boil-the-Bag Peanuts Davinci Resolve Community feedback & events From Matt Miller’s AI for Admins newsletter – Teaching human thinking before AI Next time A look at all that Canva can do for you! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 745 – WELSTech AI Summit Review https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/05/745-welstech-ai-summit-review/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:00:21 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25563 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/05/745-welstech-ai-summit-review/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/03/05/745-welstech-ai-summit-review/feed/ 0

Wednesday and WELSTech, an unlikely pairing, but so worth it! Join us for a recap of the recent WELSTech AI Summit plus discussion of an AI classroom tool/powerhouse, Lent and Easter resources, and browser tips to enhance your day. Blessings on this Ash Wednesday!

The discussion

There and back again – The WELSTech AI Summit was held February 21-23, 2025, at Divine Savior Church and Academy in Doral, FL. Martin and Sallie share details on the event format and the top AI-related ideas which emerged from the weekend.

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Secondary school tech integration will be the SAMR infused topic of the day as we welcome our resident EDU gurus, Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 37:15 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWednesday and WELSTech, an unlikely pairing, but so worth it! Join us for a recap of the recent WELSTech AI Summit plus discussion of an AI classroom tool/powerhouse, Lent and Easter resources, and browser tips to enhance your day. Blessings on this Ash Wednesday! The discussion There and back again – The WELSTech AI Summit was held February 21-23, 2025, at Divine Savior Church and Academy in Doral, FL. Martin and Sallie share details on the event format and the top AI-related ideas which emerged from the weekend. Voice Notes Ministry resources BriskTeaching.com Picks of the week Get free Lent and Easter resources from Concordia Technology Solutions Chrome updates Manage Google Accounts Like a PRO (video) Community feedback & events Facebook now has a 30-day storage limit on Facebook Live videos Next time Secondary school tech integration will be the SAMR infused topic of the day as we welcome our resident EDU gurus, Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWednesday and WELSTech, an unlikely pairing, but so worth it! Join us for a recap of the recent WELSTech AI Summit plus discussion of an AI classroom tool/powerhouse, Lent and Easter resources, and browser tips to enhance your day. Blessings on this Ash Wednesday! The discussion There and back again – The WELSTech AI Summit was held February 21-23, 2025, at Divine Savior Church and Academy in Doral, FL. Martin and Sallie share details on the event format and the top AI-related ideas which emerged from the weekend. Voice Notes Ministry resources BriskTeaching.com Picks of the week Get free Lent and Easter resources from Concordia Technology Solutions Chrome updates Manage Google Accounts Like a PRO (video) Community feedback & events Facebook now has a 30-day storage limit on Facebook Live videos Next time Secondary school tech integration will be the SAMR infused topic of the day as we welcome our resident EDU gurus, Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 744 – Smarty Pants AI https://welstech.wels.net/2025/02/13/744-smarty-pants-ai/ Thu, 13 Feb 2025 17:22:05 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25493 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/02/13/744-smarty-pants-ai/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/02/13/744-smarty-pants-ai/feed/ 0

WELSTech is back and talking AI (Artificial Intelligence) from the perspective of a pastor-in-training. Senior seminarian Jon Pederson shares insights from his thesis work on the topic. A teen online Bible study opportunity is coming up soon, and WELS is celebrating a special anniversary with a new online interactive timeline which details WELS history since the beginning.

The interview and discussion

AI and the public ministry – Martin and Sallie talk with Jon Pederson, a senior at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, about his thesis topic, AI Associate: Examining Artificial Intelligence and its Potential Impact on the Pastoral Ministry.

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

It will be a bit longer wait for our next episode, but totally worth it as we’ll be sharing all the WELSTech AI Summit goodness!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 48:42 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is back and talking AI (Artificial Intelligence) from the perspective of a pastor-in-training. Senior seminarian Jon Pederson shares insights from his thesis work on the topic. A teen online Bible study opportunity is coming up soon, and WELS is celebrating a special anniversary with a new online interactive timeline which details WELS history since the beginning. The interview and discussion AI and the public ministry – Martin and Sallie talk with Jon Pederson, a senior at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, about his thesis topic, AI Associate: Examining Artificial Intelligence and its Potential Impact on the Pastoral Ministry. Ministry resources Check out the details and sign up for the Online Teen Bible Study on February 16 @ 6 pm CST Picks of the week Optimize you Google Business Profile from Blueprint Schools Readwise Community feedback & events A History of 175 Years of WELS from WELS Historical Institue Next time It will be a bit longer wait for our next episode, but totally worth it as we’ll be sharing all the WELSTech AI Summit goodness! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is back and talking AI (Artificial Intelligence) from the perspective of a pastor-in-training. Senior seminarian Jon Pederson shares insights from his thesis work on the topic. A teen online Bible study opportunity is coming up soon, and WELS is celebrating a special anniversary with a new online interactive timeline which details WELS history since the beginning. The interview and discussion AI and the public ministry – Martin and Sallie talk with Jon Pederson, a senior at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, about his thesis topic, AI Associate: Examining Artificial Intelligence and its Potential Impact on the Pastoral Ministry. Ministry resources Check out the details and sign up for the Online Teen Bible Study on February 16 @ 6 pm CST Picks of the week Optimize you Google Business Profile from Blueprint Schools Readwise Community feedback & events A History of 175 Years of WELS from WELS Historical Institue Next time It will be a bit longer wait for our next episode, but totally worth it as we’ll be sharing all the WELSTech AI Summit goodness! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 743 – The Anxious Generation https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/30/743-the-anxious-generation/ Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:00:54 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25465 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/30/743-the-anxious-generation/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/30/743-the-anxious-generation/feed/ 0

On this episode of WELSTech, the edtech guest hosts are back with more SAMR and how it supports budget and procurement decisions. Should 1:1 computing continue in all classrooms?  Plus, there’s lots more covered in the ministry resources, picks, and community feedback sections of the show.

The discussion

Remember that haircutting game? – WELSTech welcomes back Prof. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. This season our edtech discussions are in terms of the SAMR framework for education technology integration, and the important topics of budgeting and procurement have a tie to SAMR as well. Five-years post Covid and the necessity to adopt the 1:1 computing which ensued, decisions today are supported by the progression (or lack of progression) up the SAMR scale.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

  • Register for Church360° webinars from Concordia Technology Soulutions, scheduled for February 4
  • Christ Hunt at BDJ Tech can supply church and school interactive panels

Next time

  • Thoughts regarding Artificial Intelligence in ministry from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Jon Pederson

Get involved

]]> WELS full 45:33 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn this episode of WELSTech, the edtech guest hosts are back with more SAMR and how it supports budget and procurement decisions. Should 1:1 computing continue in all classrooms?  Plus, there’s lots more covered in the ministry resources, picks, and community feedback sections of the show. The discussion Remember that haircutting game? – WELSTech welcomes back Prof. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. This season our edtech discussions are in terms of the SAMR framework for education technology integration, and the important topics of budgeting and procurement have a tie to SAMR as well. Five-years post Covid and the necessity to adopt the 1:1 computing which ensued, decisions today are supported by the progression (or lack of progression) up the SAMR scale. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Ministry resource Guidance for the Federal E-Rate Program Picks of the week Elevating Educational Design with AI by Catlin Tucker and Katie Novak Google Learn About Christ Begins by Luke Thompson – Christian Worship Hymn 385 Lyric video from Mount Lebanon Lutheran Church Daily Refresh in the Bible App How To Take Smart Notes by Sonke Ahrens Community feedback & events Register for Church360° webinars from Concordia Technology Soulutions, scheduled for February 4 Members Ledger Unite Christ Hunt at BDJ Tech can supply church and school interactive panels Next time Thoughts regarding Artificial Intelligence in ministry from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Jon Pederson Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn this episode of WELSTech, the edtech guest hosts are back with more SAMR and how it supports budget and procurement decisions. Should 1:1 computing continue in all classrooms?  Plus, there’s lots more covered in the ministry resources, picks, and community feedback sections of the show. The discussion Remember that haircutting game? – WELSTech welcomes back Prof. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. This season our edtech discussions are in terms of the SAMR framework for education technology integration, and the important topics of budgeting and procurement have a tie to SAMR as well. Five-years post Covid and the necessity to adopt the 1:1 computing which ensued, decisions today are supported by the progression (or lack of progression) up the SAMR scale. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Ministry resource Guidance for the Federal E-Rate Program Picks of the week Elevating Educational Design with AI by Catlin Tucker and Katie Novak Google Learn About Christ Begins by Luke Thompson – Christian Worship Hymn 385 Lyric video from Mount Lebanon Lutheran Church Daily Refresh in the Bible App How To Take Smart Notes by Sonke Ahrens Community feedback & events Register for Church360° webinars from Concordia Technology Soulutions, scheduled for February 4 Members Ledger Unite Christ Hunt at BDJ Tech can supply church and school interactive panels Next time Thoughts regarding Artificial Intelligence in ministry from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Jon Pederson Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 742 – Everything Is A Nail https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/18/742-everything-is-a-nail/ Sat, 18 Jan 2025 19:05:19 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25382 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/18/742-everything-is-a-nail/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/18/742-everything-is-a-nail/feed/ 0 Everything is a nail

What’s that? WELSTech goes “anti-tech” this episode? Say it isn’t so!! But it is somewhat true, and for a very good reason. Corralling church tech use can lead to more tech adoption and more satisfied members when tech is done well verses overdone. Seeing straight is another challenge tackled, with a little help from AI. Plus, there’s more. Turn it up!

Everything is a nailThe discussion

Too much tech?? – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent article from Church Leader, Is Your Technology Use Hurting Your Church? Right-sizing technology use in the church and taking the slow road to tech adoption can help ensure success as well as curtail the potential of leaving some people out of the communication. It’s also very important to bake training & support into any tech initiative.

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Jason and Rachel are back and the edtech topic is budgeting and procurement, SAMR-style!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:45 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWhat’s that? WELSTech goes “anti-tech” this episode? Say it isn’t so!! But it is somewhat true, and for a very good reason. Corralling church tech use can lead to more tech adoption and more satisfied members when tech is done well verses overdone. Seeing straight is another challenge tackled, with a little help from AI. Plus, there’s more. Turn it up! The discussion Too much tech?? – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent article from Church Leader, Is Your Technology Use Hurting Your Church? Right-sizing technology use in the church and taking the slow road to tech adoption can help ensure success as well as curtail the potential of leaving some people out of the communication. It’s also very important to bake training & support into any tech initiative. Sample weekly e-news from St Paul’s in North Mankato, MN Ministry resources ForwardInChrist.net Picks of the week Edge image magic Perplexity AI weighs in on eye strain Community feedback & events 17 Super Chrome Extensions WELSWare Cell Phone Policies Next time Jason and Rachel are back and the edtech topic is budgeting and procurement, SAMR-style! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWhat’s that? WELSTech goes “anti-tech” this episode? Say it isn’t so!! But it is somewhat true, and for a very good reason. Corralling church tech use can lead to more tech adoption and more satisfied members when tech is done well verses overdone. Seeing straight is another challenge tackled, with a little help from AI. Plus, there’s more. Turn it up! The discussion Too much tech?? – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent article from Church Leader, Is Your Technology Use Hurting Your Church? Right-sizing technology use in the church and taking the slow road to tech adoption can help ensure success as well as curtail the potential of leaving some people out of the communication. It’s also very important to bake training & support into any tech initiative. Sample weekly e-news from St Paul’s in North Mankato, MN Ministry resources ForwardInChrist.net Picks of the week Edge image magic Perplexity AI weighs in on eye strain Community feedback & events 17 Super Chrome Extensions WELSWare Cell Phone Policies Next time Jason and Rachel are back and the edtech topic is budgeting and procurement, SAMR-style! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 741 – 2024 Year In Review https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/02/741-2024-year-in-review/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 16:00:43 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25354 https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/02/741-2024-year-in-review/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2025/01/02/741-2024-year-in-review/feed/ 0

WELSTech starts 2025 with a look back at 2024, our 17th year of podcasting! Listeners will likely agree that the theme of the year was AI, and Artificial Intelligence weaves its way into many of Martin and Sallie’s “best of” picks for the year.

Events

Ministry resources

Interviews

Picks of the year

Next time

Join us in a few weeks as we dive into our 18th year of tech-in-ministry conversations.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 42:33 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech starts 2025 with a look back at 2024, our 17th year of podcasting! Listeners will likely agree that the theme of the year was AI, and Artificial Intelligence weaves its way into many of Martin and Sallie’s “best of” picks for the year. Events Summer Tech Talks series Best Show title – 733 – Silent Mice – Bonus: AI graph The WELSTech song from Suno AI Ministry resources Printify AI Tool Repository 2024 Ministry Resources Interviews Pastor Silas Dose – 725 – Here Be Dragons Sarah Krause & Eileen Rosenow – 730 – Summer Tech Talks 2024 Interviews Picks of the year Midjourney Apple Air Pods Pro The 2-Hour Cocktail Party by Nick Gray Givebutter Canva Pro – Free for Non-Profits & Education Perplexity AI Honorable Mention: Notebook LM from Google (especially the podcasts!) 2024 Picks of the Week Next time Join us in a few weeks as we dive into our 18th year of tech-in-ministry conversations. Get involved Add a comment Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstech Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Google+ WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on InstagramWELSTech starts 2025 with a look back at 2024, our 17th year of podcasting! Listeners will likely agree that the theme of the year was AI, and Artificial Intelligence weaves its way into many of Martin and Sallie’s “best of” picks for the year. Events Summer Tech Talks series Best Show title – 733 – Silent Mice – Bonus: AI graph The WELSTech song from Suno AI Ministry resources Printify AI Tool Repository 2024 Ministry Resources Interviews Pastor Silas Dose – 725 – Here Be Dragons Sarah Krause & Eileen Rosenow – 730 – Summer Tech Talks 2024 Interviews Picks of the year Midjourney Apple Air Pods Pro The 2-Hour Cocktail Party by Nick Gray Givebutter Canva Pro – Free for Non-Profits & Education Perplexity AI Honorable Mention: Notebook LM from Google (especially the podcasts!) 2024 Picks of the Week Next time Join us in a few weeks as we dive into our 18th year of tech-in-ministry conversations. Get involved Add a comment Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstech Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Google+ WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagramwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 740 – Chatting with Josh Peterman https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/19/740-chatting-with-josh-peterman/ Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:40:22 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25345 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/19/740-chatting-with-josh-peterman/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/19/740-chatting-with-josh-peterman/feed/ 0

The WELSTech Christmas tradition continues as we bring you an interview with a synod administrator. This year the microphone is pointed at WELS Benefit Plans Office and Director Josh Peterman. We also send our best wishes to you and yours for a wonderful Christmas celebration!

The interview

All things benefits – Get an inside look at the work of WELS Benefit Plans (BPO) as Director Josh Peterman visits with Martin. From health insurance and prescription coverage to pension and defined contribution benefits, BPO is the central hub for WELS benefit administration for those covered across the country and worldwide.

Next time

Our annual “best of” look back at all things WELSTech in 2024.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 16:05 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThe WELSTech Christmas tradition continues as we bring you an interview with a synod administrator. This year the microphone is pointed at WELS Benefit Plans Office and Director Josh Peterman. We also send our best wishes to you and yours for a wonderful Christmas celebration! The interview All things benefits – Get an inside look at the work of WELS Benefit Plans (BPO) as Director Josh Peterman visits with Martin. From health insurance and prescription coverage to pension and defined contribution benefits, BPO is the central hub for WELS benefit administration for those covered across the country and worldwide. WELSBPO.net Next time Our annual “best of” look back at all things WELSTech in 2024. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThe WELSTech Christmas tradition continues as we bring you an interview with a synod administrator. This year the microphone is pointed at WELS Benefit Plans Office and Director Josh Peterman. We also send our best wishes to you and yours for a wonderful Christmas celebration! The interview All things benefits – Get an inside look at the work of WELS Benefit Plans (BPO) as Director Josh Peterman visits with Martin. From health insurance and prescription coverage to pension and defined contribution benefits, BPO is the central hub for WELS benefit administration for those covered across the country and worldwide. WELSBPO.net Next time Our annual “best of” look back at all things WELSTech in 2024. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 739 – Building Better Forms https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/04/739-building-better-forms/ Wed, 04 Dec 2024 20:24:34 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25313 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/04/739-building-better-forms/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/12/04/739-building-better-forms/feed/ 0

WELSTech this week features a discussion of the online form creation process. There’s also mention of WELS Youth Night resources, a free online edtech conference, and a nifty set of bits that could make the perfect Christmas gift. Plus, the listener mailbag is full of interesting items. Time to tune in!

The discussion

It all starts with a plan – Martin and Sallie discuss best practices when designing forms for online data collection, including understanding the goals before you start designing, keeping questions consistent, and security and privacy of the data collected.

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Joshua Peterman from WELS Benefit Plans joins the Christmas conversation.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 42:06 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech this week features a discussion of the online form creation process. There’s also mention of WELS Youth Night resources, a free online edtech conference, and a nifty set of bits that could make the perfect Christmas gift. Plus, the listener mailbag is full of interesting items. Time to tune in! The discussion It all starts with a plan – Martin and Sallie discuss best practices when designing forms for online data collection, including understanding the goals before you start designing, keeping questions consistent, and security and privacy of the data collected. Ministry resources WELS Youth Night Picks of the week Sign up for the (FREE) Ditch Summit – December 16 to January 10 Join AI for Admins 64 precision bits from iFixIt.com Community feedback & events How do you streamline church attendance data entry? Share your experience! Beware of “porch pirates” from Kim Komando EANS funded device management, a WELSTech Google Group discussion Next time Joshua Peterman from WELS Benefit Plans joins the Christmas conversation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech this week features a discussion of the online form creation process. There’s also mention of WELS Youth Night resources, a free online edtech conference, and a nifty set of bits that could make the perfect Christmas gift. Plus, the listener mailbag is full of interesting items. Time to tune in! The discussion It all starts with a plan – Martin and Sallie discuss best practices when designing forms for online data collection, including understanding the goals before you start designing, keeping questions consistent, and security and privacy of the data collected. Ministry resources WELS Youth Night Picks of the week Sign up for the (FREE) Ditch Summit – December 16 to January 10 Join AI for Admins 64 precision bits from iFixIt.com Community feedback & events How do you streamline church attendance data entry? Share your experience! Beware of “porch pirates” from Kim Komando EANS funded device management, a WELSTech Google Group discussion Next time Joshua Peterman from WELS Benefit Plans joins the Christmas conversation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 738 – Aviation & Overalls https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/21/738-aviation-overalls/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:25:14 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25282 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/21/738-aviation-overalls/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/21/738-aviation-overalls/feed/ 0

We’re back at the intersection of technology and ministry with another episode of WELSTech. The topic of the day is elementary tech integration, and it features a lively conversation with WELSTech semi-regular co-hosts, Jason & Rachel.  We also pack in news of an Advent devotional resource, transcription where you least expect it, and the new and improved Call Report. Don’t miss it!

The discussion

Elementary tech integration – Joining Martin and Sallie for an education-focused discussion are Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season we’re letting the tech integration framework SAMR be our guide as we look at various edtech topics, and that leads to some interesting points when we consider the early elementary students who thrive on routine. Spoiler alert: They do best when the tech is boring! And don’t even bring up their need to learn typing. :-)

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Get involved

]]> WELS full 49:45 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWe’re back at the intersection of technology and ministry with another episode of WELSTech. The topic of the day is elementary tech integration, and it features a lively conversation with WELSTech semi-regular co-hosts, Jason & Rachel.  We also pack in news of an Advent devotional resource, transcription where you least expect it, and the new and improved Call Report. Don’t miss it! The discussion Elementary tech integration – Joining Martin and Sallie for an education-focused discussion are Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season we’re letting the tech integration framework SAMR be our guide as we look at various edtech topics, and that leads to some interesting points when we consider the early elementary students who thrive on routine. Spoiler alert: They do best when the tech is boring! And don’t even bring up their need to learn typing. :-) Ministry resource Martin Luther College (MLC) Advent Devotional Tune in – or better yet, attend – one of these special Christmas concerts …. Martin Luther College December 7 at 7:30 pm December 8 at 4:00 pm Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary December 8 at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm Picks of the week Apple Notes audio recording and transcribe Google Vids Ditch That Textbook eBooks Dell XPS9425 Community feedback & events Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) Faith Footnotes Podcast featuring Pastor Andy Schroer discussing his book, 364 Days of Thanksgiving Check out the new and improved WELS Call Report Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWe’re back at the intersection of technology and ministry with another episode of WELSTech. The topic of the day is elementary tech integration, and it features a lively conversation with WELSTech semi-regular co-hosts, Jason & Rachel.  We also pack in news of an Advent devotional resource, transcription where you least expect it, and the new and improved Call Report. Don’t miss it! The discussion Elementary tech integration – Joining Martin and Sallie for an education-focused discussion are Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season we’re letting the tech integration framework SAMR be our guide as we look at various edtech topics, and that leads to some interesting points when we consider the early elementary students who thrive on routine. Spoiler alert: They do best when the tech is boring! And don’t even bring up their need to learn typing. :-) Ministry resource Martin Luther College (MLC) Advent Devotional Tune in – or better yet, attend – one of these special Christmas concerts …. Martin Luther College December 7 at 7:30 pm December 8 at 4:00 pm Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary December 8 at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm Picks of the week Apple Notes audio recording and transcribe Google Vids Ditch That Textbook eBooks Dell XPS9425 Community feedback & events Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) Faith Footnotes Podcast featuring Pastor Andy Schroer discussing his book, 364 Days of Thanksgiving Check out the new and improved WELS Call Report Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 737 – AI Talk with Dr James https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/07/737-ai-talk-with-dr-james/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:00:37 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25259 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/07/737-ai-talk-with-dr-james/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/11/07/737-ai-talk-with-dr-james/feed/ 0

WELSTech welcomes MLC’s Dr. James Carlovsky for a look at Artificial Intelligence from his research and presentations to various audiences. The rest of the show includes thoughts on giving thanks, the AI prompts industry, AI YouTube resources, texting your congregation, and evaluating your worship live stream.

The discussion

Pros and Cons of AI – Dr James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College chats with Martin and Sallie about what may be the biggest disruptor in education. Does it make you more or less creative? Does it do the thinking for you or getting you thinking? The more you learn, the more there is to learn about AI.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

We talk elementary tech integration, SAMR-style, with Rachel and Jason.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 49:12 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech welcomes MLC’s Dr. James Carlovsky for a look at Artificial Intelligence from his research and presentations to various audiences. The rest of the show includes thoughts on giving thanks, the AI prompts industry, AI YouTube resources, texting your congregation, and evaluating your worship live stream. The discussion Pros and Cons of AI – Dr James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College chats with Martin and Sallie about what may be the biggest disruptor in education. Does it make you more or less creative? Does it do the thinking for you or getting you thinking? The more you learn, the more there is to learn about AI. AI Power Hour resources from OpenLearning@MLC Brave New World: How AI Revolutionized Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing) by Sal Khan Ministry resource 364 Days of Thanksgiving Bible Study Best AI Tools for Enhancing Productivity Picks of the week PromptBase.com Professional AI Prompt Whisperers Skill Leap AI YouTube channel Community feedback & events Congregation texts Next time We talk elementary tech integration, SAMR-style, with Rachel and Jason. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech welcomes MLC’s Dr. James Carlovsky for a look at Artificial Intelligence from his research and presentations to various audiences. The rest of the show includes thoughts on giving thanks, the AI prompts industry, AI YouTube resources, texting your congregation, and evaluating your worship live stream. The discussion Pros and Cons of AI – Dr James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College chats with Martin and Sallie about what may be the biggest disruptor in education. Does it make you more or less creative? Does it do the thinking for you or getting you thinking? The more you learn, the more there is to learn about AI. AI Power Hour resources from OpenLearning@MLC Brave New World: How AI Revolutionized Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing) by Sal Khan Ministry resource 364 Days of Thanksgiving Bible Study Best AI Tools for Enhancing Productivity Picks of the week PromptBase.com Professional AI Prompt Whisperers Skill Leap AI YouTube channel Community feedback & events Congregation texts Next time We talk elementary tech integration, SAMR-style, with Rachel and Jason. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 736 – Desk Talk https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/25/736-desk-talk/ Fri, 25 Oct 2024 14:58:06 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25213 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/25/736-desk-talk/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/25/736-desk-talk/feed/ 0

On WELSTech this week we talk about the tech at our fingertips as we reveal our office setups. Additionally, we share gift ideas for welcoming church visitors and new members, an overview of the latest version of Logos which introduces AI into the Bible software, and where to find that wonderful smell of leather.

The discussion

Desk setup – Martin and Sallie share their workspaces and highlight their favorite tools for getting work done.

Martin’s work desk

Sallie’s work-from-hone desk

Martin’s work-from-home desk

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Dr. James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College joins the AI conversation.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 42:12 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn WELSTech this week we talk about the tech at our fingertips as we reveal our office setups. Additionally, we share gift ideas for welcoming church visitors and new members, an overview of the latest version of Logos which introduces AI into the Bible software, and where to find that wonderful smell of leather. The discussion Desk setup – Martin and Sallie share their workspaces and highlight their favorite tools for getting work done. Martin’s work desk Standing desk SSD backup Apple Magic Trackpad Logitech G915 keyboard Dell monitor Magnetic cord holder Lamp Sallie’s work-from-hone desk Logitech K380 keyboard Logitech M340 silent mouse Laptop stand Purple Royal seat cushion Martin’s work-from-home desk Monitor Webcam Moniter arm Desk lamp Drawers Desktop Computer stand Chair & chair wheels Cable management Microphone & microphone arm Keyboard Ministry resources 16 Unique and Thoughtful Church Welcome Gifts Guest gift table at St Paul’s, North Mankato, MN Picks of the week Windows/Start + V for Copy history on PCs Pandora background music for your workday Nomad Magnetic Leather Back for iPhone Community feedback & events WELS National Teen Bible Study The latest iteration of Logos Bible Software Next time Dr. James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College joins the AI conversation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn WELSTech this week we talk about the tech at our fingertips as we reveal our office setups. Additionally, we share gift ideas for welcoming church visitors and new members, an overview of the latest version of Logos which introduces AI into the Bible software, and where to find that wonderful smell of leather. The discussion Desk setup – Martin and Sallie share their workspaces and highlight their favorite tools for getting work done. Martin’s work desk Standing desk SSD backup Apple Magic Trackpad Logitech G915 keyboard Dell monitor Magnetic cord holder Lamp Sallie’s work-from-hone desk Logitech K380 keyboard Logitech M340 silent mouse Laptop stand Purple Royal seat cushion Martin’s work-from-home desk Monitor Webcam Moniter arm Desk lamp Drawers Desktop Computer stand Chair & chair wheels Cable management Microphone & microphone arm Keyboard Ministry resources 16 Unique and Thoughtful Church Welcome Gifts Guest gift table at St Paul’s, North Mankato, MN Picks of the week Windows/Start + V for Copy history on PCs Pandora background music for your workday Nomad Magnetic Leather Back for iPhone Community feedback & events WELS National Teen Bible Study The latest iteration of Logos Bible Software Next time Dr. James Carlovsky from Martin Luther College joins the AI conversation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 735 – Digital Ministry https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/10/735-digital-ministry/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:00:59 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25140 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/10/735-digital-ministry/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/10/10/735-digital-ministry/feed/ 0

We’re 15 years past episode 100 of WELSTech and back once again with your 735th dose of WELSTech goodness! Joining us is the first “Director of Digital Ministry” ever to appear on WELSTech. Listen and learn about the work behind that unique job title. Our picks have a gaming theme, and we share a great resource on church text messaging … for FREE!!!

The discussion

Online outreach – Joining Martin and Sallie is Michael Babler, Director of Digital Ministry at Victory of the Lamb in Franklin, WI. Michaels unique job title is intriguing and makes for an interesting conversation about the ministry efforts he is involved with. He emphasizes making intentional choices when it comes to content delivery platforms. He also discusses some of the behind-the-scenes software in use at Victory of the Lamb to create and share content to the digital world.

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Join us for WELSTech 736 where we’ll discuss our desktop setups.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 41:18 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWe’re 15 years past episode 100 of WELSTech and back once again with your 735th dose of WELSTech goodness! Joining us is the first “Director of Digital Ministry” ever to appear on WELSTech. Listen and learn about the work behind that unique job title. Our picks have a gaming theme, and we share a great resource on church text messaging … for FREE!!! The discussion Online outreach – Joining Martin and Sallie is Michael Babler, Director of Digital Ministry at Victory of the Lamb in Franklin, WI. Michaels unique job title is intriguing and makes for an interesting conversation about the ministry efforts he is involved with. He emphasizes making intentional choices when it comes to content delivery platforms. He also discusses some of the behind-the-scenes software in use at Victory of the Lamb to create and share content to the digital world. Pathwright Canva Vista Social iMovie Adobe Premier Ministry resource WELS Women’s Ministry Reflections on Our Unique Callings devotions Picks of the week Let’s Play Bingo Logitech G502 Hero Gaming Mouse Community feedback & events Gloo offers FREE text messaging for churches. Check out Pastor Dan Sprain’s (Shepherd of the Valley, West Fargo, ND) experience and tips (PDF). The newest podcast in town is from Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) titled Faith Footsteps Pre-order Christ Through Us, celebrating 175 years of WELS and at a 20% discount until October 15 Recommended by Alycia Cameron – Hubspot’s Marketing Against the Grain podcast #268 featuring a discussion of NotebookLM from Google Next time Join us for WELSTech 736 where we’ll discuss our desktop setups. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWe’re 15 years past episode 100 of WELSTech and back once again with your 735th dose of WELSTech goodness! Joining us is the first “Director of Digital Ministry” ever to appear on WELSTech. Listen and learn about the work behind that unique job title. Our picks have a gaming theme, and we share a great resource on church text messaging … for FREE!!! The discussion Online outreach – Joining Martin and Sallie is Michael Babler, Director of Digital Ministry at Victory of the Lamb in Franklin, WI. Michaels unique job title is intriguing and makes for an interesting conversation about the ministry efforts he is involved with. He emphasizes making intentional choices when it comes to content delivery platforms. He also discusses some of the behind-the-scenes software in use at Victory of the Lamb to create and share content to the digital world. Pathwright Canva Vista Social iMovie Adobe Premier Ministry resource WELS Women’s Ministry Reflections on Our Unique Callings devotions Picks of the week Let’s Play Bingo Logitech G502 Hero Gaming Mouse Community feedback & events Gloo offers FREE text messaging for churches. Check out Pastor Dan Sprain’s (Shepherd of the Valley, West Fargo, ND) experience and tips (PDF). The newest podcast in town is from Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) titled Faith Footsteps Pre-order Christ Through Us, celebrating 175 years of WELS and at a 20% discount until October 15 Recommended by Alycia Cameron – Hubspot’s Marketing Against the Grain podcast #268 featuring a discussion of NotebookLM from Google Next time Join us for WELSTech 736 where we’ll discuss our desktop setups. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 734 – Frameworks, Leaves & Llamas https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/26/734-frameworks-leaves-llamas/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:30:05 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25108 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/26/734-frameworks-leaves-llamas/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/26/734-frameworks-leaves-llamas/feed/ 0

WELSTech meets edtech meets ministry this week as we talk tech integration steps for learning and building the infrastructure to support it. We also include details on upcoming classes and webinars of interest, AI image generation, and a surprise new DIY podcast method that gives AI a voice!

The discussion

Framing it with SAMR – We welcome back to WELSTech Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season our episodes with Jason and Rachel will include references to the technology integration framework SAMR, which stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. After a bit of a SAMR crash course, we learn more about how the basics of tech infrastructure in a school affect the implementation of SAMR.

Ministry resource

  • Coming Soon from MLC
    • Enhancing Ministry with Technology taught by Martin Spriggs – Spring 2025
    • Open Learning webinar presented by Dr. James Carlovsky – AI Power Hour: Boost Your Productivity with Creative Tools – November 4 at 7 pm Central
  • There’s still time to nominate for the WELSTech AI Summit

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

 

Next time

WELSTech will be back in a few weeks, and we’ll all be surprised by the discussion topic!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 51:42 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech meets edtech meets ministry this week as we talk tech integration steps for learning and building the infrastructure to support it. We also include details on upcoming classes and webinars of interest, AI image generation, and a surprise new DIY podcast method that gives AI a voice! The discussion Framing it with SAMR – We welcome back to WELSTech Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season our episodes with Jason and Rachel will include references to the technology integration framework SAMR, which stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. After a bit of a SAMR crash course, we learn more about how the basics of tech infrastructure in a school affect the implementation of SAMR. Ministry resource Coming Soon from MLC Enhancing Ministry with Technology taught by Martin Spriggs – Spring 2025 Open Learning webinar presented by Dr. James Carlovsky – AI Power Hour: Boost Your Productivity with Creative Tools – November 4 at 7 pm Central There’s still time to nominate for the WELSTech AI Summit Picks of the week The Teachers Guide to Tech 2024 Padlet MidJourney Miro Community feedback & events MyLens AI creates teaching visuals   NotebookLM from Google can generate a podcast Upcoming Women’s Ministry Webinar: Little Lives with Jesus – October 10 at 7 pm Central FCC Cyber Security Pilot Program Next time WELSTech will be back in a few weeks, and we’ll all be surprised by the discussion topic! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech meets edtech meets ministry this week as we talk tech integration steps for learning and building the infrastructure to support it. We also include details on upcoming classes and webinars of interest, AI image generation, and a surprise new DIY podcast method that gives AI a voice! The discussion Framing it with SAMR – We welcome back to WELSTech Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season our episodes with Jason and Rachel will include references to the technology integration framework SAMR, which stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. After a bit of a SAMR crash course, we learn more about how the basics of tech infrastructure in a school affect the implementation of SAMR. Ministry resource Coming Soon from MLC Enhancing Ministry with Technology taught by Martin Spriggs – Spring 2025 Open Learning webinar presented by Dr. James Carlovsky – AI Power Hour: Boost Your Productivity with Creative Tools – November 4 at 7 pm Central There’s still time to nominate for the WELSTech AI Summit Picks of the week The Teachers Guide to Tech 2024 Padlet MidJourney Miro Community feedback & events MyLens AI creates teaching visuals   NotebookLM from Google can generate a podcast Upcoming Women’s Ministry Webinar: Little Lives with Jesus – October 10 at 7 pm Central FCC Cyber Security Pilot Program Next time WELSTech will be back in a few weeks, and we’ll all be surprised by the discussion topic! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 733 – Silent Mice https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/12/733-silent-mice/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:54:11 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25093 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/12/733-silent-mice/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/09/12/733-silent-mice/feed/ 0

On this episode of WELSTech, Martin and Sallie continue their discussion on ministry volunteers, with a look at the challenges of communication and showing appreciation. You’ll also hear about creating your own online store for branded merchandise from your church or school, learning the ins and outs of church speaker placement, and nominating someone for the WELSTech AI Summit. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for those stealthy mice!

The discussion & interview

Communicating & appreciating – Martin and Sallie return to the topic of volunteers, focusing on establishing and maintaining communication channels as well as ways to show appreciation to volunteers.

Ministry resources

Create an online store for your church and school (and perhaps gift your volunteers some swag)

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

They’re baaaack! Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt co-host and the ed tech goodness abounds!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 35:42 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn this episode of WELSTech, Martin and Sallie continue their discussion on ministry volunteers, with a look at the challenges of communication and showing appreciation. You’ll also hear about creating your own online store for branded merchandise from your church or school, learning the ins and outs of church speaker placement, and nominating someone for the WELSTech AI Summit. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for those stealthy mice! The discussion & interview Communicating & appreciating – Martin and Sallie return to the topic of volunteers, focusing on establishing and maintaining communication channels as well as ways to show appreciation to volunteers. Text from your computer using iCloud and iMessage Turn to Pinterest for ideas on thanking volunteers Ministry resources Create an online store for your church and school (and perhaps gift your volunteers some swag) WELSStore.net Online Company Stores from Sky High Marketing (Mention you are WELS) Printify Picks of the week Logitech M340 silent mouse Church Speaker Placement 101 – Everything You Need to Know from ChurchLeaders.com Community feedback & events Diffit has new templates Copyright for live streaming Canva Teams price increase Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL Next time They’re baaaack! Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt co-host and the ed tech goodness abounds! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn this episode of WELSTech, Martin and Sallie continue their discussion on ministry volunteers, with a look at the challenges of communication and showing appreciation. You’ll also hear about creating your own online store for branded merchandise from your church or school, learning the ins and outs of church speaker placement, and nominating someone for the WELSTech AI Summit. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for those stealthy mice! The discussion & interview Communicating & appreciating – Martin and Sallie return to the topic of volunteers, focusing on establishing and maintaining communication channels as well as ways to show appreciation to volunteers. Text from your computer using iCloud and iMessage Turn to Pinterest for ideas on thanking volunteers Ministry resources Create an online store for your church and school (and perhaps gift your volunteers some swag) WELSStore.net Online Company Stores from Sky High Marketing (Mention you are WELS) Printify Picks of the week Logitech M340 silent mouse Church Speaker Placement 101 – Everything You Need to Know from ChurchLeaders.com Community feedback & events Diffit has new templates Copyright for live streaming Canva Teams price increase Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL Next time They’re baaaack! Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt co-host and the ed tech goodness abounds! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 732 – Volunteer Onboarding https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/29/732-volunteer-onboarding/ Thu, 29 Aug 2024 18:32:56 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25064 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/29/732-volunteer-onboarding/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/29/732-volunteer-onboarding/feed/ 0

WELSTech is in the groove! The regular season groove, that is. Join Martin and Sallie as we kick off a new season of the show and bring back a favorite show segment, Ministry Resources, that was missed over the summer. The show focus today is adding new volunteers to your team using tools and ideas aimed at giving them the knowledge and resources to carry out their responsibilities with confidence and joy.

The discussion & interview

Volunteers for the win – Martin and Sallie take a deep dive into working with volunteers in church or school. There are tech tools to assist with finding the right people and then orienting them to their new responsibilities.

Ministry resources

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

We’ve got more to share on working with volunteers, including communication and appreciation.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 41:51 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is in the groove! The regular season groove, that is. Join Martin and Sallie as we kick off a new season of the show and bring back a favorite show segment, Ministry Resources, that was missed over the summer. The show focus today is adding new volunteers to your team using tools and ideas aimed at giving them the knowledge and resources to carry out their responsibilities with confidence and joy. The discussion & interview Volunteers for the win – Martin and Sallie take a deep dive into working with volunteers in church or school. There are tech tools to assist with finding the right people and then orienting them to their new responsibilities. Time and talent surveys – example 1 and example 2 WELS Spiritual Growth survey Email ideas for welcoming new volunteers Free volunteer training videos Why You Need a Volunteer Onboarding Process Ministry resources 6 Types of Working Genius: Discover Your Gifts At the Table Podcast Picks of the week Click-N-Ship from the U.S. Post Office Loom Community feedback & events Canva Pro is free for educators and non-profits ChatGPT for Parents online course from Blueprint Schools Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL Next time We’ve got more to share on working with volunteers, including communication and appreciation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is in the groove! The regular season groove, that is. Join Martin and Sallie as we kick off a new season of the show and bring back a favorite show segment, Ministry Resources, that was missed over the summer. The show focus today is adding new volunteers to your team using tools and ideas aimed at giving them the knowledge and resources to carry out their responsibilities with confidence and joy. The discussion & interview Volunteers for the win – Martin and Sallie take a deep dive into working with volunteers in church or school. There are tech tools to assist with finding the right people and then orienting them to their new responsibilities. Time and talent surveys – example 1 and example 2 WELS Spiritual Growth survey Email ideas for welcoming new volunteers Free volunteer training videos Why You Need a Volunteer Onboarding Process Ministry resources 6 Types of Working Genius: Discover Your Gifts At the Table Podcast Picks of the week Click-N-Ship from the U.S. Post Office Loom Community feedback & events Canva Pro is free for educators and non-profits ChatGPT for Parents online course from Blueprint Schools Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL Next time We’ve got more to share on working with volunteers, including communication and appreciation. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 731 – Summer Tech Talks – Joel Zank https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/15/731-summer-tech-talks-joel-zank/ Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:14:15 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=25006 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/15/731-summer-tech-talks-joel-zank/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/15/731-summer-tech-talks-joel-zank/feed/ 0

On this episode of WELSTech … we conclude our Summer Tech Talks series with an interesting interview of District President Joel Zank about the technology in use by WELS Conference of Presidents. We also share image editing, student reflection, browser, robotics, and transcription tools to make your days easier and more efficient. Join us today at the intersection of ministry and technology!

The discussion & interview

The finale – Wrapping up the WELSTech Summer Tech Talks series is Northern Wisconsin District President Pastor Joel Zank from Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI. He and Martin discuss the technology that assists the work of WELS Conference of Presidents as they oversee the call process for pastors, teachers, and staff ministers.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

We start a new season with volunteer management ideas.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 49:41 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn this episode of WELSTech … we conclude our Summer Tech Talks series with an interesting interview of District President Joel Zank about the technology in use by WELS Conference of Presidents. We also share image editing, student reflection, browser, robotics, and transcription tools to make your days easier and more efficient. Join us today at the intersection of ministry and technology! The discussion & interview The finale – Wrapping up the WELSTech Summer Tech Talks series is Northern Wisconsin District President Pastor Joel Zank from Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI. He and Martin discuss the technology that assists the work of WELS Conference of Presidents as they oversee the call process for pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. Picks of the week BINGO – Sallie’s summer of professional development is complete Canva Pro Mirror Microsoft Edge Community feedback & events First Robotics – New robotics curriculum for grades 7-12 Vibe! – AI for transcription Overview video Check out the results of Vibe! transcribing and AI summarizing this episode of WELSTech Next time We start a new season with volunteer management ideas. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn this episode of WELSTech … we conclude our Summer Tech Talks series with an interesting interview of District President Joel Zank about the technology in use by WELS Conference of Presidents. We also share image editing, student reflection, browser, robotics, and transcription tools to make your days easier and more efficient. Join us today at the intersection of ministry and technology! The discussion & interview The finale – Wrapping up the WELSTech Summer Tech Talks series is Northern Wisconsin District President Pastor Joel Zank from Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI. He and Martin discuss the technology that assists the work of WELS Conference of Presidents as they oversee the call process for pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. Picks of the week BINGO – Sallie’s summer of professional development is complete Canva Pro Mirror Microsoft Edge Community feedback & events First Robotics – New robotics curriculum for grades 7-12 Vibe! – AI for transcription Overview video Check out the results of Vibe! transcribing and AI summarizing this episode of WELSTech Next time We start a new season with volunteer management ideas. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 730 – Summer Tech Talks – Sarah Krause & Eileen Rosenow https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/01/730-summer-tech-talks-sarah-krause-eileen-rosenow/ Thu, 01 Aug 2024 16:11:39 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24978 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/01/730-summer-tech-talks-sarah-krause-eileen-rosenow/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/08/01/730-summer-tech-talks-sarah-krause-eileen-rosenow/feed/ 0

It’s almost time for back-to-school, and this episode of WELSTech will introduce listeners to helpful Lutheran Schools personnel who many will recognize. They shed light on school statistics and products as well as give us a sneak peek at next summer’s WELS Education Conference, currently in the planning stages. Sallie is “certified” and can’t wait to show you how to differentiate your lesson resources. Martin has a pick so good he needs to share it a second time. Plus, we talk church worship live streaming, and there’s an infographic involved!

The discussion & interview

The brains – Sarah Krause and Eileen Rosenow from WELS Lutheran Schools join Martin and Sallie to share a behind-the-scenes look at the important work happening in preparation for a new school year. These ladies just can’t wait for you to get those school stats and product subscriptions taken care of!

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Considerations for live streaming worship

Click image to view the full Infographic10 Live Streaming Consideration for Church services

Next time

Our Summer Tech Talks series finale features a conversation with Northern Wisconsin District President, Pastor Joel Zank.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 50:07 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noIt’s almost time for back-to-school, and this episode of WELSTech will introduce listeners to helpful Lutheran Schools personnel who many will recognize. They shed light on school statistics and products as well as give us a sneak peek at next summer’s WELS Education Conference, currently in the planning stages. Sallie is “certified” and can’t wait to show you how to differentiate your lesson resources. Martin has a pick so good he needs to share it a second time. Plus, we talk church worship live streaming, and there’s an infographic involved! The discussion & interview The brains – Sarah Krause and Eileen Rosenow from WELS Lutheran Schools join Martin and Sallie to share a behind-the-scenes look at the important work happening in preparation for a new school year. These ladies just can’t wait for you to get those school stats and product subscriptions taken care of! WELS Education Conference – June 23-25, 2025, Green Bay, WI Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Diffit for Teachers Diffit overview video Diffit Certification in 20 minutes! Diffit Wakelet Diffit is free for first year teachers Raindrop.io Browser Extension Consider going Pro! Community feedback & events Considerations for live streaming worship Bridgetown Church Cancels Live Streaming Church Online Services from Church Tech Today 10 Live Streaming Consideration for Church Services[Infographic] Click image to view the full Infographic Next time Our Summer Tech Talks series finale features a conversation with Northern Wisconsin District President, Pastor Joel Zank. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechIt’s almost time for back-to-school, and this episode of WELSTech will introduce listeners to helpful Lutheran Schools personnel who many will recognize. They shed light on school statistics and products as well as give us a sneak peek at next summer’s WELS Education Conference, currently in the planning stages. Sallie is “certified” and can’t wait to show you how to differentiate your lesson resources. Martin has a pick so good he needs to share it a second time. Plus, we talk church worship live streaming, and there’s an infographic involved! The discussion & interview The brains – Sarah Krause and Eileen Rosenow from WELS Lutheran Schools join Martin and Sallie to share a behind-the-scenes look at the important work happening in preparation for a new school year. These ladies just can’t wait for you to get those school stats and product subscriptions taken care of! WELS Education Conference – June 23-25, 2025, Green Bay, WI Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Diffit for Teachers Diffit overview video Diffit Certification in 20 minutes! Diffit Wakelet Diffit is free for first year teachers Raindrop.io Browser Extension Consider going Pro! Community feedback & events Considerations for live streaming worship Bridgetown Church Cancels Live Streaming Church Online Services from Church Tech Today 10 Live Streaming Consideration for Church Services[Infographic] Click image to view the full Infographic Next time Our Summer Tech Talks series finale features a conversation with Northern Wisconsin District President, Pastor Joel Zank. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 729 – Summer Tech Talks – Ben Workentine https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/18/729-summer-tech-talks-ben-workentine/ Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:00:01 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24955 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/18/729-summer-tech-talks-ben-workentine/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/18/729-summer-tech-talks-ben-workentine/feed/ 0

Welcome to WELSTech! This episode focuses on our triple citizenship, in heaven, on this earth, and now, in a digital world. Pastor Ben Workentine shares thoughts for the Christian living in an increasingly opinionated and unfiltered digital world. We also report details on our latest hardware, print on demand, and church texting finds.

The discussion & interview

The mic is live – Joining Martin and Sallie this week is Pastor Ben Workentine from St. Mark Lutheran Church in Green Bay and De Pere, WI. Pastor Workentine presented a paper on the topic of digital citizenship at the recent Northern Wisconsin District Convention and shares highlights from the paper with the WELSTech audience. Spoiler alert: Your audience is the world while you live your digital life as Christ’s ambassador.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Were back with more of our Summer Tech Talks series. What ministry tech goodness will we uncover next?

Get involved

]]> WELS full 43:28 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcome to WELSTech! This episode focuses on our triple citizenship, in heaven, on this earth, and now, in a digital world. Pastor Ben Workentine shares thoughts for the Christian living in an increasingly opinionated and unfiltered digital world. We also report details on our latest hardware, print on demand, and church texting finds. The discussion & interview The mic is live – Joining Martin and Sallie this week is Pastor Ben Workentine from St. Mark Lutheran Church in Green Bay and De Pere, WI. Pastor Workentine presented a paper on the topic of digital citizenship at the recent Northern Wisconsin District Convention and shares highlights from the paper with the WELSTech audience. Spoiler alert: Your audience is the world while you live your digital life as Christ’s ambassador. Digital Citizenship (PDF) – by Pastor Ben Workentine Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Printify Apple Air Pods Pro Community feedback & events Pastor Dan Sprain from Shepherd of the Valley in West Fargo, North Dakota shared Gloo – Free texting for churches Next time Were back with more of our Summer Tech Talks series. What ministry tech goodness will we uncover next? Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcome to WELSTech! This episode focuses on our triple citizenship, in heaven, on this earth, and now, in a digital world. Pastor Ben Workentine shares thoughts for the Christian living in an increasingly opinionated and unfiltered digital world. We also report details on our latest hardware, print on demand, and church texting finds. The discussion & interview The mic is live – Joining Martin and Sallie this week is Pastor Ben Workentine from St. Mark Lutheran Church in Green Bay and De Pere, WI. Pastor Workentine presented a paper on the topic of digital citizenship at the recent Northern Wisconsin District Convention and shares highlights from the paper with the WELSTech audience. Spoiler alert: Your audience is the world while you live your digital life as Christ’s ambassador. Digital Citizenship (PDF) – by Pastor Ben Workentine Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Printify Apple Air Pods Pro Community feedback & events Pastor Dan Sprain from Shepherd of the Valley in West Fargo, North Dakota shared Gloo – Free texting for churches Next time Were back with more of our Summer Tech Talks series. What ministry tech goodness will we uncover next? Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 728 – Summer Tech Talks – Joel Prange https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/01/728-summer-tech-talks-joel-prange/ Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:50:24 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24926 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/01/728-summer-tech-talks-joel-prange/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/07/01/728-summer-tech-talks-joel-prange/feed/ 0

WELSTech is celebrating summer with a series of tech-in-ministry interviews called “Summer Tech Talks.” This week we head west to the oil country of western North Dakota to talk with Pastor Joel Prange about starting a home mission church. Turn up the audio as Martin and Sallie both have sound-related picks of the week. In addition, there’s an opportunity to support a missions-centric videography effort.

The discussion & interview

Getting to know North Dakota – Home Missions Pastor Joel Prange talks with Martin and Sallie about his two-year journey starting a new congregation in Dickinson, North Dakota. Amazing Grace Lutheran Church is worshipping in their own space and reaching out to the people in the area.

Picks of the week

 

Community feedback & events

  • We have an opportunity to support “Christ in media” through support of videographer Colin Neville as he spends two years in Thailand with Friends Network, telling the stories of various missions through video. Learn more and support Colin’s work.
  • gamma.app

Next time

Summer Tech Talks continue, but mums the word on who will be behind the extra mic. Tune in to find out!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 36:11 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWELSTech is celebrating summer with a series of tech-in-ministry interviews called “Summer Tech Talks.” This week we head west to the oil country of western North Dakota to talk with Pastor Joel Prange about starting a home mission church. Turn up the audio as Martin and Sallie both have sound-related picks of the week. In addition, there’s an opportunity to support a missions-centric videography effort. The discussion & interview Getting to know North Dakota – Home Missions Pastor Joel Prange talks with Martin and Sallie about his two-year journey starting a new congregation in Dickinson, North Dakota. Amazing Grace Lutheran Church is worshipping in their own space and reaching out to the people in the area. Planning Center & Church Center Stripe DJI Mic2 Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Suno – AI song composer Suno Teacher’s Program Check out the two versions of the WELSTech Radio song it generated. Which is your favorite? https://welstech.blob.core.windows.net/audio/Videos/WELSTech-Radio1.mp4   https://welstech.blob.core.windows.net/audio/Videos/WELSTech-Radio2.mp4 Epidemic Sound Community feedback & events We have an opportunity to support “Christ in media” through support of videographer Colin Neville as he spends two years in Thailand with Friends Network, telling the stories of various missions through video. Learn more and support Colin’s work. gamma.app Next time Summer Tech Talks continue, but mums the word on who will be behind the extra mic. Tune in to find out! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWELSTech is celebrating summer with a series of tech-in-ministry interviews called “Summer Tech Talks.” This week we head west to the oil country of western North Dakota to talk with Pastor Joel Prange about starting a home mission church. Turn up the audio as Martin and Sallie both have sound-related picks of the week. In addition, there’s an opportunity to support a missions-centric videography effort. The discussion & interview Getting to know North Dakota – Home Missions Pastor Joel Prange talks with Martin and Sallie about his two-year journey starting a new congregation in Dickinson, North Dakota. Amazing Grace Lutheran Church is worshipping in their own space and reaching out to the people in the area. Planning Center & Church Center Stripe DJI Mic2 Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook Suno – AI song composer Suno Teacher’s Program Check out the two versions of the WELSTech Radio song it generated. Which is your favorite? https://welstech.blob.core.windows.net/audio/Videos/WELSTech-Radio1.mp4   https://welstech.blob.core.windows.net/audio/Videos/WELSTech-Radio2.mp4 Epidemic Sound Community feedback & events We have an opportunity to support “Christ in media” through support of videographer Colin Neville as he spends two years in Thailand with Friends Network, telling the stories of various missions through video. Learn more and support Colin’s work. gamma.app Next time Summer Tech Talks continue, but mums the word on who will be behind the extra mic. Tune in to find out! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 727 – Summer Tech Talks – Jeremy Seeger https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/20/727-summer-tech-talks-jeremy-seeger/ Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:15:48 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24897 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/20/727-summer-tech-talks-jeremy-seeger/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/20/727-summer-tech-talks-jeremy-seeger/feed/ 0

The WELSTech “Summer Tech Talks” interview series continues with a trip to the other side of the world as we learn about the technology at work on WELS World Missions Asia One team. Sallie shares tips from the recent OpenLearning@MLC conference, and Martin has a new browser pick. Plus, we have the inside scoop on online professional development that not only includes college credit, but also has our favorite price tag – FREE!!

The discussion & interview

Asia One – Teacher Jeremy Seeger, who wears multiple hats on WELS Asia One outreach team, shares blessings and challenges around the efforts to share the good news. In addition to his duties for Asia Lutheran Seminary, where he serves as Dean of the English Certificate Program, he coordinates technology for the entire team. In the land of prolific 5G cellular, tech coordination doesn’t look much different than in the U.S.A.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Summer Tech Talks continue as we head west to check out a new Home Mission in North Dakota.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 43:04 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noThe WELSTech “Summer Tech Talks” interview series continues with a trip to the other side of the world as we learn about the technology at work on WELS World Missions Asia One team. Sallie shares tips from the recent OpenLearning@MLC conference, and Martin has a new browser pick. Plus, we have the inside scoop on online professional development that not only includes college credit, but also has our favorite price tag – FREE!! The discussion & interview Asia One – Teacher Jeremy Seeger, who wears multiple hats on WELS Asia One outreach team, shares blessings and challenges around the efforts to share the good news. In addition to his duties for Asia Lutheran Seminary, where he serves as Dean of the English Certificate Program, he coordinates technology for the entire team. In the land of prolific 5G cellular, tech coordination doesn’t look much different than in the U.S.A. TELL Network Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook MLC Open Learning recap (spoiler: Teamwork required!) Telling the Next Generation Arc browser Community feedback & events Idaho State University’s Self-Paced Professional Development Get a $200 credit to cover your first 3-credit course The New Grading Standard from Blueprint Schools Next time Summer Tech Talks continue as we head west to check out a new Home Mission in North Dakota. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechThe WELSTech “Summer Tech Talks” interview series continues with a trip to the other side of the world as we learn about the technology at work on WELS World Missions Asia One team. Sallie shares tips from the recent OpenLearning@MLC conference, and Martin has a new browser pick. Plus, we have the inside scoop on online professional development that not only includes college credit, but also has our favorite price tag – FREE!! The discussion & interview Asia One – Teacher Jeremy Seeger, who wears multiple hats on WELS Asia One outreach team, shares blessings and challenges around the efforts to share the good news. In addition to his duties for Asia Lutheran Seminary, where he serves as Dean of the English Certificate Program, he coordinates technology for the entire team. In the land of prolific 5G cellular, tech coordination doesn’t look much different than in the U.S.A. TELL Network Picks of the week Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook MLC Open Learning recap (spoiler: Teamwork required!) Telling the Next Generation Arc browser Community feedback & events Idaho State University’s Self-Paced Professional Development Get a $200 credit to cover your first 3-credit course The New Grading Standard from Blueprint Schools Next time Summer Tech Talks continue as we head west to check out a new Home Mission in North Dakota. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 726 – Summer Tech Talks – Rob Davidson https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/06/726-summer-tech-talks-rob-davidson/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:30:24 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24867 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/06/726-summer-tech-talks-rob-davidson/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/06/06/726-summer-tech-talks-rob-davidson/feed/ 0

Welcome to the good ole summertime on WELSTech! Our “Summer Tech Talks” interview series will feature technology from around the synod and across the world. This week we start in St. Louis, MO, home of Concordia Technology Solutions. The back half of the show includes Sallie sharing teacher professional development resources and Martin divulging his new favorite AI chatbot.

The discussion & interview

Concordia Technology Solutions – Joining Martin and Sallie is Manager of Sales and Marketing for Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), Rob Davidson. Rob shares the latest news about CTS products including Church 360°, Christian Worship Service Builder, and Shepherd’s Staff.

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Next time

Summer Tech Talks continue with a (virtual) trip to Thailand to learn more about technology at Asia Lutheran Seminary.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 44:03 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWelcome to the good ole summertime on WELSTech! Our “Summer Tech Talks” interview series will feature technology from around the synod and across the world. This week we start in St. Louis, MO, home of Concordia Technology Solutions. The back half of the show includes Sallie sharing teacher professional development resources and Martin divulging his new favorite AI chatbot. The discussion & interview Concordia Technology Solutions – Joining Martin and Sallie is Manager of Sales and Marketing for Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), Rob Davidson. Rob shares the latest news about CTS products including Church 360°, Christian Worship Service Builder, and Shepherd’s Staff. Request a Free Church Office Technology Assessment Recent update to Christian Worship Service Builder provides multiple Bible translations – Learn how to change translations Picks of the week Summer Professional Development MLC Open Learning – June 18 & 19 Summer PD Bingo Choice Board from Ditch That Textbook Wakelet Community Week Perplexity.ai Perplexity AI: How does it stack up against ChatGPT? from Android Authority 5 reasons why I prefer Perplexity over every other AI chatbot from ZDNET Community feedback & events 6 AI Tools Recommended By Teachers That Aren’t ChatGPT from Forbes Brisk Teaching SchoolAI Diffit Curipod Skybox by Blockade Labs in ThingLink Ideogram Generative AI in a Nutshell – how to survive and thrive in the age of AI Next time Summer Tech Talks continue with a (virtual) trip to Thailand to learn more about technology at Asia Lutheran Seminary. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWelcome to the good ole summertime on WELSTech! Our “Summer Tech Talks” interview series will feature technology from around the synod and across the world. This week we start in St. Louis, MO, home of Concordia Technology Solutions. The back half of the show includes Sallie sharing teacher professional development resources and Martin divulging his new favorite AI chatbot. The discussion & interview Concordia Technology Solutions – Joining Martin and Sallie is Manager of Sales and Marketing for Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), Rob Davidson. Rob shares the latest news about CTS products including Church 360°, Christian Worship Service Builder, and Shepherd’s Staff. Request a Free Church Office Technology Assessment Recent update to Christian Worship Service Builder provides multiple Bible translations – Learn how to change translations Picks of the week Summer Professional Development MLC Open Learning – June 18 & 19 Summer PD Bingo Choice Board from Ditch That Textbook Wakelet Community Week Perplexity.ai Perplexity AI: How does it stack up against ChatGPT? from Android Authority 5 reasons why I prefer Perplexity over every other AI chatbot from ZDNET Community feedback & events 6 AI Tools Recommended By Teachers That Aren’t ChatGPT from Forbes Brisk Teaching SchoolAI Diffit Curipod Skybox by Blockade Labs in ThingLink Ideogram Generative AI in a Nutshell – how to survive and thrive in the age of AI Next time Summer Tech Talks continue with a (virtual) trip to Thailand to learn more about technology at Asia Lutheran Seminary. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 725 – Here Be Dragons https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/23/725-here-be-dragons/ Thu, 23 May 2024 15:00:28 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=24833 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/23/725-here-be-dragons/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/23/725-here-be-dragons/feed/ 0

Turn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College.

Pastor-elect Silas Dose and his wife Laurel Dose

The discussion & interview

Fig leaves and pelts – Senior seminarian and now Pastor-elect Silas Dose joins Martin and Sallie to discuss his master’s thesis at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, titled Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response.

Congratulations and God’s blessings to Silas and his wife Laurel as they prepare to move and Silas prepares to serve God’s people in his assigned congregation, Hope Lutheran Church in Chino Valley and Prescott, Az.

A PRAYER BEFORE FANTASY
from Here Be Dragons, Appendix, p. 44.

Dear Heavenly Father, you call us to glorify you in everything we do, and all good things point to you. With your blessing, Lord, I would enjoy this gift of fantasy as a blessing from your hand. Help me avoid irresponsibility and temptation as I venture into a world not your own, but let it still be a blessing to me as a tiny fractal of your creative majesty. Help me to escape into it, find rest, enjoying it fully. Help me to escape from it, full of wonder, returning joyfully. Amen

Ministry resources

Books mentioned in Silas’ research

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Enjoy this happy WELS Together Martin Luther College Graduation recap video created by WELSTech friend, Philip Wels.

Next time

We kick off a summer series of interviews on ministry technology usage around the world. First up, we talk with Rob Davidson from Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), the group behind Shepherd’s Staff, Church 360°, and Christian Worship Service Builder. Join WELSTech in the good old summertime!

Get involved

]]> WELS full 42:08 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noTurn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College. Pastor-elect Silas Dose and his wife Laurel Dose The discussion & interview Fig leaves and pelts – Senior seminarian and now Pastor-elect Silas Dose joins Martin and Sallie to discuss his master’s thesis at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, titled Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response. Congratulations and God’s blessings to Silas and his wife Laurel as they prepare to move and Silas prepares to serve God’s people in his assigned congregation, Hope Lutheran Church in Chino Valley and Prescott, Az. A PRAYER BEFORE FANTASY from Here Be Dragons, Appendix, p. 44. Dear Heavenly Father, you call us to glorify you in everything we do, and all good things point to you. With your blessing, Lord, I would enjoy this gift of fantasy as a blessing from your hand. Help me avoid irresponsibility and temptation as I venture into a world not your own, but let it still be a blessing to me as a tiny fractal of your creative majesty. Help me to escape into it, find rest, enjoying it fully. Help me to escape from it, full of wonder, returning joyfully. Amen Ministry resources Books mentioned in Silas’ research Escapism by Yi-Fu Tuan Tree and Leaf: Including ‘Mythopoeia’ by J.R.R. Tolkein On Fairy Stories – essay by J.R.R. Tolkien (free PDF) Picks of the week Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Digital Library Apple Magic Trackpad Three Finger Drag setting PC trackpad alternatives Community feedback & events Enjoy this happy WELS Together Martin Luther College Graduation recap video created by WELSTech friend, Philip Wels. Next time We kick off a summer series of interviews on ministry technology usage around the world. First up, we talk with Rob Davidson from Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), the group behind Shepherd’s Staff, Church 360°, and Christian Worship Service Builder. Join WELSTech in the good old summertime! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechTurn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College. Pastor-elect Silas Dose and his wife Laurel Dose The discussion & interview Fig leaves and pelts – Senior seminarian and now Pastor-elect Silas Dose joins Martin and Sallie to discuss his master’s thesis at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, titled Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response. Congratulations and God’s blessings to Silas and his wife Laurel as they prepare to move and Silas prepares to serve God’s people in his assigned congregation, Hope Lutheran Church in Chino Valley and Prescott, Az. A PRAYER BEFORE FANTASY from Here Be Dragons, Appendix, p. 44. Dear Heavenly Father, you call us to glorify you in everything we do, and all good things point to you. With your blessing, Lord, I would enjoy this gift of fantasy as a blessing from your hand. Help me avoid irresponsibility and temptation as I venture into a world not your own, but let it still be a blessing to me as a tiny fractal of your creative majesty. Help me to escape into it, find rest, enjoying it fully. Help me to escape from it, full of wonder, returning joyfully. Amen Ministry resources Books mentioned in Silas’ research Escapism by Yi-Fu Tuan Tree and Leaf: Including ‘Mythopoeia’ by J.R.R. Tolkein On Fairy Stories – essay by J.R.R. Tolkien (free PDF) Picks of the week Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Digital Library Apple Magic Trackpad Three Finger Drag setting PC trackpad alternatives Community feedback & events Enjoy this happy WELS Together Martin Luther College Graduation recap video created by WELSTech friend, Philip Wels. Next time We kick off a summer series of interviews on ministry technology usage around the world. First up, we talk with Rob Davidson from Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), the group behind Shepherd’s Staff, Church 360°, and Christian Worship Service Builder. Join WELSTech in the good old summertime! Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech X conversation Follow us on X – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 724 – Getting Started with AI https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/09/724-getting-started-with-ai/ Thu, 09 May 2024 16:00:59 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=20435 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/09/724-getting-started-with-ai/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/05/09/724-getting-started-with-ai/feed/ 0

On this episode of WELSTech we finish our book discussion of The AI Classroom with a focus on school leadership’s role in shaping AI policy, curriculum, and usage. Along with edtech gurus Rachel and Jason, we share oodles of AI tools, events, and news, plus some non-AI tech topics including cybersecurity, end of school-year activities, and iPads.

The discussion

Leading School AI – We wrap up this season’s WELSTech book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education, looking at Part 4 of the book – The AI Horizon. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt join the conversation and agree on way more than normal!

Ministry resource

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

Recent AI in Education headlines

Next time

We’ll celebrate Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Assignment Day with Senior Seminarian Silas Dose discussing his thesis topic – Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 55:07 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noOn this episode of WELSTech we finish our book discussion of The AI Classroom with a focus on school leadership’s role in shaping AI policy, curriculum, and usage. Along with edtech gurus Rachel and Jason, we share oodles of AI tools, events, and news, plus some non-AI tech topics including cybersecurity, end of school-year activities, and iPads. The discussion Leading School AI – We wrap up this season’s WELSTech book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education, looking at Part 4 of the book – The AI Horizon. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt join the conversation and agree on way more than normal! Ministry resource AI Guidance For Schools Toolkit from TeachAI.org Should K-12 Leaders Make AI Education Mandatory in Schools? Bringing AI To School: Tips for School Leaders from ISTE Picks of the week SchoolAI.com Assistants CyberSecurityRubric.org Monday, May 13 is DayOfAI.org End of the Year THRIVE-al (Not Survival) Guide – from Ditch That Textbook Apple iPad Press and hold YouTube for 2x speed Community feedback & events Recent AI in Education headlines Is It Fair and Accurate for AI to Grade Standardized Tests? – from EdSurge Newark Public School awards $12M contract for new AI camera system aimed at keeping schools safe – from Chalkbeat Los Angeles School District Launched a Splashy AI Chatbot. What Exactly Does It Do? – from EdSurge Why AI celebrities are teaching kids math and physics – from Freethink Next time We’ll celebrate Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Assignment Day with Senior Seminarian Silas Dose discussing his thesis topic – Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechOn this episode of WELSTech we finish our book discussion of The AI Classroom with a focus on school leadership’s role in shaping AI policy, curriculum, and usage. Along with edtech gurus Rachel and Jason, we share oodles of AI tools, events, and news, plus some non-AI tech topics including cybersecurity, end of school-year activities, and iPads. The discussion Leading School AI – We wrap up this season’s WELSTech book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education, looking at Part 4 of the book – The AI Horizon. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt join the conversation and agree on way more than normal! Ministry resource AI Guidance For Schools Toolkit from TeachAI.org Should K-12 Leaders Make AI Education Mandatory in Schools? Bringing AI To School: Tips for School Leaders from ISTE Picks of the week SchoolAI.com Assistants CyberSecurityRubric.org Monday, May 13 is DayOfAI.org End of the Year THRIVE-al (Not Survival) Guide – from Ditch That Textbook Apple iPad Press and hold YouTube for 2x speed Community feedback & events Recent AI in Education headlines Is It Fair and Accurate for AI to Grade Standardized Tests? – from EdSurge Newark Public School awards $12M contract for new AI camera system aimed at keeping schools safe – from Chalkbeat Los Angeles School District Launched a Splashy AI Chatbot. What Exactly Does It Do? – from EdSurge Why AI celebrities are teaching kids math and physics – from Freethink Next time We’ll celebrate Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Assignment Day with Senior Seminarian Silas Dose discussing his thesis topic – Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog 723 – Time Blocking https://welstech.wels.net/2024/04/25/723-time-blocking/ Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:00:53 +0000 https://welstech.wels.net/?p=20254 https://welstech.wels.net/2024/04/25/723-time-blocking/#respond https://welstech.wels.net/2024/04/25/723-time-blocking/feed/ 0

We’re back with another episode of WELSTech starring your handy, dandy calendar. Learn all about time blocking and how it can boost your productivity. We discuss an interactive book creation tool that looks like fun for the classroom and a simple but effective task manager which might be in your pocket right now. We also celebrate a new grandson for one of your “Awesome” WELSTech hosts!

The discussion

Work Your Calendar – Martin and Sallie discuss a key tool for productivity, your calendar. Specifically, the topic is using your calendar to set up blocks of time to focus on specific tasks you need to accomplish. Mix in a bit of self-discipline, and this method could be a ticket to more productive days!

Ministry resources

Calendar Management Wakelet

Picks of the week

Community feedback & events

The topic which never goes out of style: I need advice on my church and/or school website.

Next time

Just like that we’ve reached the end of another school year and another year of edtech discussions with Rachel and Jason. Tune in for the wrap up of The AI Classroom.

Get involved

]]> WELS full 33:38 welstechpodcast@wels.net (WELS)noWe’re back with another episode of WELSTech starring your handy, dandy calendar. Learn all about time blocking and how it can boost your productivity. We discuss an interactive book creation tool that looks like fun for the classroom and a simple but effective task manager which might be in your pocket right now. We also celebrate a new grandson for one of your “Awesome” WELSTech hosts! The discussion Work Your Calendar – Martin and Sallie discuss a key tool for productivity, your calendar. Specifically, the topic is using your calendar to set up blocks of time to focus on specific tasks you need to accomplish. Mix in a bit of self-discipline, and this method could be a ticket to more productive days! The Complete Guide to Time Blocking – todoist 3 time blocking methods to boost productivity – Zapier Simple Time Management – Bullet Journal Eat That Frog WELSTech series Ministry resources Calendar Management Wakelet Picks of the week Book Creator Monthly Activity Journals Apple Reminders – Overview | Help Community feedback & events The topic which never goes out of style: I need advice on my church and/or school website. WELSTech 665 – Web Design Principles WELSTech Google Group Finalweb Next time Just like that we’ve reached the end of another school year and another year of edtech discussions with Rachel and Jason. Tune in for the wrap up of The AI Classroom. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechWe’re back with another episode of WELSTech starring your handy, dandy calendar. Learn all about time blocking and how it can boost your productivity. We discuss an interactive book creation tool that looks like fun for the classroom and a simple but effective task manager which might be in your pocket right now. We also celebrate a new grandson for one of your “Awesome” WELSTech hosts! The discussion Work Your Calendar – Martin and Sallie discuss a key tool for productivity, your calendar. Specifically, the topic is using your calendar to set up blocks of time to focus on specific tasks you need to accomplish. Mix in a bit of self-discipline, and this method could be a ticket to more productive days! The Complete Guide to Time Blocking – todoist 3 time blocking methods to boost productivity – Zapier Simple Time Management – Bullet Journal Eat That Frog WELSTech series Ministry resources Calendar Management Wakelet Picks of the week Book Creator Monthly Activity Journals Apple Reminders – Overview | Help Community feedback & events The topic which never goes out of style: I need advice on my church and/or school website. WELSTech 665 – Web Design Principles WELSTech Google Group Finalweb Next time Just like that we’ve reached the end of another school year and another year of edtech discussions with Rachel and Jason. Tune in for the wrap up of The AI Classroom. Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstechwelstech,podcast,wels,technology,lutheran,synod,wisconsin,spriggs,draper,CMM,ministry,jesus,god,trinity,rss,wordpress,wpmu,episode,wels,net,welsnet,blog