Episodes
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We had the chance to sit down with the Red Rocks Worship crew during their album recording week in Denver CO this summer. Hear from their crew what makes RRW tick, and how spreading their ministry outside of the 4 walls of their church has come with its own set of challenges, but is all ultimately rooted in home.
We just dropped FIVE courses with RRW! We'll link them below so you can check them out!
Playing Worship to a Click
Mastering "Kit Mix"
All-In-One Electric Guitar
Music Directing from Keys
Foundation of Worship Bass Guitar
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In this week’s episode of the MxU Podcast, we dive deep into the concept of authenticity within the church. What does it truly mean for a church to be authentic, and how can we discern the genuine from the performative? Join the guys as they explore the nuances of authenticity in worship and community life, discussing real-life examples and personal experiences along the way.
Instead of providing a checklist, we invite you to reflect on the qualities that contribute to an authentic church environment. From the heart of the worship experience to the transparency of leadership, we tackle the subtle signs that indicate whether a church is truly living out its values.
Whether you’re a worship leader, tech team member, or churchgoer, this conversation will inspire you to think critically about what authenticity looks like in your own community.
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Missing episodes?
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🎥 Demystifying Church Streaming 🌟
This is episode 183 of the MxU Podcast!
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of church streaming, comparing Resi’s premium streaming service with free alternatives. Is it worth the investment? Join us as we explore the unique features, benefits, and potential pitfalls of both options.
📈 What You'll Learn:
The key differences between paid and free streaming servicesHow Resi enhances your church’s streaming quality and reliabilityTips for maximizing viewer engagement and outreachReal-life testimonials from churches using both servicesWhether you’re a tech-savvy church leader or just getting started with streaming, this episode will provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions for your congregation. Don’t miss it!
LINKS:
MxU
Resi -
In this episode, we dive into the essential skills every audio engineer needs to elevate their mixing game. Join us as we break down the Triple Threat of Mixing, covering:
Gain Staging: Learn how to properly manage levels to achieve clarity and depth in your mixes.Filters: Discover the importance of high-pass and low-pass filters in shaping your sound.Volume Faders: Master the art of balancing your mix for a polished final product.Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these three techniques are crucial for creating professional-quality audio. Tune in for insights, tips, and practical advice that will help you mix like a pro in under 40 minutes!
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This is episode #181 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer are joined by Zach and Nick from d&b Audiotechnik.
Sound boards have grown vastly in technology, so why haven't we welcomed that innovation when it comes to our PA? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of immersive mixing and explore how this cutting-edge technology can revolutionize the way your congregation experiences sound.
Whether you're a sound engineer, worship leader, or a church tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into making your audio environment more engaging and impactful. Don’t miss out on discovering how immersive mixing could be the game-changer your church needs!
LinksMxU
MxU Pop-Ups
d&b -
This is episode #180 of the MxU Podcast! Spencer is joined by Max Williams and Cameron Fries from Summit Integrated in Denver Colorado.
Does your churches gear follow the vision laid out for your congregation? The guys dig into this, and ask some hard questions around the reasons we might feel inclined to get that new piece of gear, even if we don't really need it.
Thanks to the Summit Integrated crew for hosting us in this episode, you can find them at the link below.
LinksMxU
MxU Pop-Ups
Summit -
This is episode 179 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer are joined this week by Toby Walters and Blake Hodges from ChurchGear. They talk everything from the "joys" of running to enneagrams and history lessons. We did discover that Spencer and Blake are more alike than you might think... at least on paper. On a more serious note, the guys discuss whether or not the companies churches work with are really looking out for their best interests. Is your church just another business opportunity for them?
Service Review (04:46 - 12:49)
The guys review a service from North County Christ the King Church in Washington state this week. As far as the mix goes, it's killer for one console running FOH, monitors, and broadcast. Some of the static camera angles and occasional issues with the mix are areas to improve on when it comes to making online streams more engaging and less confusing. Otherwise, great job Jason & team!Upcoming Content (12:50 - 23:58)
You've asked, we've listened. Tomorrow, we're releasing a course all about the Blackmagic Ecosystem with our friend and MxU Ambassador Drake Kelch. If you currently use or have considered using any Blackmagic switchers, routers, cameras or anything else from their product lineup then this course is for you.If you're not already subscribed, head to getmxu.com and sign up for FREE today. Be on the lookout for an email with the course drop!
Church Goer or Profiteer? (23:59 - 48:11)
This question might hit home for those working in church worship and tech ministries. Have you ever felt a little exploited? Or perhaps unsure of where the money you're spending is actually going? It might be that the organization you're working with is just looking for a quick buck. Or, they do genuinely care about your church. There's some tell-tale signs that the guys discuss this week to know whether or not your church is just another business opportunity.Links
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups
ChurchGear -
This is episode 178 of the MxU Podcast! Michael Keith Lewis, FOH Engineer for Colony House, is at MxU HQ filming content on Allen & Heath's dLive series of consoles releasing on the MxU platform tomorrow. He joins Spencer and Nate to talk about all things volume in the church. Everyone's heard "it's too loud!" before on Sunday morning and chances are you didn't really think twice about it. This week, the guys discuss whether or not church really has gotten too loud and if so, what to do about it.
Service Review (19:59 - 28:07)
The team reviews a service from First Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas. Michael gives insider insight as he used to work at FBCA. They discuss the challenges of balancing an orchestra with a contemporary band and offer practical advice on how to integrate everything into a cohesive mix.Submit your service for review to [email protected] or reach out to us on any of our social media platforms.
Is Church Too Loud? (28:08 - 54:38)
There's always been an ongoing debate about volume levels in the church. Michael, Spencer, and Nate chat about their experiences in different church settings and how they've navigated this exact challenge. It's important to find a balance that serves the congregation without overwhelming them. Sometimes, the mix gets prioritized over the message and that's just not okay. Audio should enhance, not detract, from the service.Here's our recommendation: focus on serving the church community rather than pushing personal preferences.
Upcoming Content
Tomorrow, we're releasing "The Allen & Heath dLive" as a comprehensive walkthrough of Allen & Heath's dLive series of consoles. From a console overview to patching, routing, scenes, effects, and so much more. Michael covers everything there is to know about the dLive. And in a couple of weeks, we're releasing an entire course from Michael where he builds a mix on the console, stay tuned in for that.
Watch our social accounts and be on the lookout for an email with the course release tomorrow!
Links
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups
Michael Keith Lewis -
This is episode 177 of the MxU Podcast. Jeff and Spencer are joined by a familiar face and one of our MxU Ambassadors, Drake Kelch. Stemming from previous discussions and a post that was a tad controversial about Apple events and iPhones... the guys chat about value engineering in church and why sometimes, it's OK to get scrappy.
Service Review (13:57 - 22:59)
The guys review a service from Calvary Chapel in Knoxville, TN. From lighting to audio and the service as a whole, they offer feedback on how minor tweaks can make a significant impact on the overall worship experience. Spoiler: It's not about having the newest gear, it's about getting the most out of what you've got.Submit your service for review to [email protected] or reach out to us on any of our social media platforms.
Upcoming Content (23:00 - 25:34)
Tomorrow, we're releasing "Media Manipulation with Resolume" as the third course on MxU all about Resolume. From slice transforms to generators, advanced outputs, and more... this course takes things deeper into the entire feature set that Resolume has to offer.
Stay tuned in to our social accounts and be on the lookout for an email with the course release!Value Engineering for Smaller Budgets (25:35 - 55:34)
Creativity can be your greatest asset when budgets are tight. Drake shares his insight on how churches can make the most of what they already own and yes, the camera in your pocket might just be enough. It's about finding practical solutions that work for your church and fit in with your church's vision without breaking the bank.
Links
Drake Kelch
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups -
This is episode 176 of the MxU Podcast! Things look a little different for the podcast this week. Spencer is joined by Nick Kofhal and Max Williams from Summit Integrated Systems at their office in Colorado. The guys chat all things identity and discuss what it looks like to separate your role in your church from your identity.
Your Role Is Not Your Identity (05:47 - 59:15)
There's a delicate balance between one's calling and one's personal identity. It's common to get these confused and fuse your job with your identity. It's easy to lose yourself in the hustle of ministry and it's essential to ground your identity in the right things. The guys chat about how to focus more on what you're called to be rather than on what you're called to do.Upcoming Content
Tomorrow, on the MxU platform, we're releasing "The Complete Guide to Vista" with Tony Fransen. We've heard your requests and we're following through... everything you need to know about Vista is covered in this comprehensive and practical course. Tony walks through everything from controls to patching to presets to designing and so much more. Stay tuned in to our social accounts and be on the lookout for an email with the course release tomorrow.Links
MxUMxU Pop-Ups (Up Next: Dallas TX, August 20th)
Summit Integrated Systems
Nick Kofhal
Max Williams -
This is episode 175 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer are joined by two familiar faces, Josh Reeder-Esparza from the MxU crew and Dillan Howell from EVNT Ready. They chat all things experiences and answer this question… "Why are we Obsessed with 'Experiences' in Church?"
Service Review (02:09 - 20:54)
The crew review a service from AG Church of Willmar, MN. They dive into the mix, pointing out how the piano overpowers the guitars and the snare drum's sound. The consensus? Balance and subtle adjustments could make a significant difference. Thanks for the submission, Steve!
If you're interested in a service review, submit yours to [email protected] or DM us on our social accounts!
Why are we Obsessed with Building ‘Experiences’ in the Church? (20:55 - 01:06:54)Experience or service, whatever you call it, what's the true purpose behind them? Have we become too obsessed with the 'show' and not with genuine worship? In a larger sense, does our modern view of a church service align with the theological foundation of church in general? Take a listen as the guys dive into this topic and much more... Dillan even recounts his experience at a Cowboy Church.
Upcoming Content (01:06:55 - 01:10:24)
Tomorrow, on the MxU platform, we're releasing 'Mixing on an Analog Console' in response to the many... many... requests we've gotten over the years to film this course. Jeff used his "seasoned" expertise to craft a mix on an analog console and in doing so, he shared it all with you. Be on the lookout for the course drop tomorrow on our social accounts and via email.
Links
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups (Up Next: Dallas TX, August 20th)
Dillan Howell
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This is episode 174 of the MxU Podcast. Jeff, Spencer, and Nate are joined by a local worship leader and friend - Lance Asher! They chat about all things worship and the why behind churches writing their own worship songs. Here's the question... should you write your own songs? If you've wrestled with this before, you know there's no easy answer. Take a listen as the guys do their best to answer it.
Service Review (23:04 - 35:07)
This week, the team reviews a service from The Summit Church in Raleigh, NC. They give their thoughts on the mix overall and provide constructive feedback in terms of the balance of instruments, vocal presence, and more.Submit your service for review to [email protected] or reach out to us on any of our social media platforms.
Upcoming Content (35:08 - 37:04)
Tomorrow, we're releasing "Music Directing with Matt Gilder" on the MxU platform! Matt is a long time friend and is the MD for Chris Tomlin. He brings a wealth of knowledge about Ableton Live and music directing in general. In case you missed it, at the beginning of this month we released our first batch of worship content that we shot with Thrive Worship. We’ve filmed even more and we’re excited to continue releasing worship content this week.Stay tuned in to our social accounts and be on the lookout for an email with the course release!
Should Churches Write Their Own Worship Songs? (37:05 - 01:29:49)
Lance Asher is a local worship leader here in Knoxville, TN. He gives his why behind his church writing their own worship songs and explains the journey that brought them to write. In general, however, the question of whether or not churches should be writing their own worship songs still remains. Jeff, Spencer, Nate, and Lance all debate this topic and emphasize the importance of theological accuracy.Links
Lance Asher
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups -
This is episode 173 of the MxU Podcast... Tony Fransen is back! Jeff, Spencer, Tony, and Nate chat about Jeff's repeated Tesla stories and Spencer's demand for organization. Tony's been involved in some pretty cool things since we last talked, and has some advice to offer on what seems to always be a heated debate. Is church lighting essential or excess?
Service Review (20:47 - 27:01)
This week, the guys review a service from Grace City church. Tony provides insight on the overall look, highlighting the do's and don'ts of creating an engaging worship environment. Here's a tip: be intentional!Submit your service for review to [email protected] or reach out to us on any of our social media platforms.
Is Church Lighting Essential... or Excess? (40:20 - 01:03:39)
We seem to always get the most feedback when we talk about lighting. Everyone always has an opinion on whether or not it belongs in church and if it does, how it should be done etc... This week, we answer the question "Is church lighting essential or excess?" and if it is essential, what parts?Upcoming Content (01:03:40 - 01:07:59)
We're releasing "Resolume as a Media Server" tomorrow to the MxU platform! Using Resolume, and any form of a media server for that matter, requires a level of skill and thought put into it. Stay tuned into our socials and be on the lookout for an email tomorrow about the course drop!Links
Tony Fransen
MxU
MxU Pop-Ups -
This is episode 172 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer sit down with Nate Ellis and Josh Reeder-Esparza from the MxU team. They chat baseball, catch up on all things MxU and discuss a fairly hot topic. This one should get you thinking... spending money in the church should be difficult.
Service Review (10:26 - 19:32)
The guys review a service from Harvest Church in Riverside, CA. The energy in the room is incredible and there is powerful work being done through the ministry of Teen Challenge. The team offers some critique on guitar volume and vocal compression, just some minor changes to polish off what is already a great mix.Upcoming Content (19:33 - 23:49)
Tomorrow, we're releasing a course all about PreSonus's UC Metro product which is designed specifically for remote mixing. UC Metro is a game-changing tool that allows remote control mixing from anywhere in the world with minimal latency. Stay tuned in to our socials and be on the lookout for an email for the course drop tomorrow!Spending Money in the Church Should Be Difficult (23:50 - 52:34)
This might seem obvious... but we still hear from churches all the time "if I just had more money" or "if I could just get our new console approved" as if it will be the change they've always needed. And that might be true for some, but it's hard to believe that it's true for all. The guys give their take on this hot topic and discuss openly with their honest thoughts about financial stewardship in the church.Links
MxU Pop-Ups
MxU -
This is episode 171 of the MxU Podcast! The podcast is coming from Columbus, OH this week following our third MxU Pop-Up event. Jeff is joined by Jay Desai who's back for the first time in our new format. In addition to Jay, Jeff is also joined by Dillan Howell and Stephen Brewster who are two long time friends of the MxU community. The guys discuss a very special announcement from the MxU camp this week... worship specific content will now be available on the MxU platform!
Big News & Upcoming Content (05:30 - 18:32)
Tomorrow, MxU is releasing our first batch of worship content on the MxU platform! For years, we've said that worship & tech teams are one team. Now, we're finally putting action to our words. We're releasing 6 courses with our friends from Thrive Worship with much more to come. Stay tuned in to our social accounts and emails for more information on the release!Service Review (23:28 - 31:17)
Jeff recently visited a church in Romania who consistently pulls off a pretty impressive worship service. Despite some technical limitations, they're able to deliver an incredible broadcast mix that embodies the authenticity and engagement of the room. Their ability to do so should serve as inspiration for churches everywhere.Worship Hot Topics (31:18 - 55:42)
Should we still do "specials" on Sunday? Are "openers" even meant for churches? Is your worship set longer than your sermon? The guys discuss these hot topics and more... they deliver their raw and real responses to these common questions being asked in churches across the globe. Quick Insight: Don't overdo it. Focus on what matters most.Links:
Jay Desai
Stephen Brewster
Dillan Howell
MxU Platform
MxU Pop-Ups -
This is episode 170 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff is joined again by Nate Ellis from MxU, filling in as co-host in the absence of Spencer this week. Together, they’re joined by Joe Henson - System Engineer for Sam Hunt. They answer the age-old question “Do I really need that upgrade?” Or in other words… “Can I get by with what I have?”
Service Review (13:46-22:52)
The team reviews a submission from The Point Knox here in Knoxville, TN. Despite limited resources and an older console, Jeff and the guys commend the mix's clarity - specifically around the drums - and offer some tips for improvement. This does pose the question, however, do you really need to be broadcasting? It's important to balance existing resources with real needs.Do You Really Need a New PA? (22:53-37:29)
Speaking of balancing resources and needs... the guys discuss whether or not you really need that new PA. Whether it's a PA or another large upgrade, purchasing costly pieces of equipment should be a well thought out endeavor. Here's the key: maximize your existing infrastructure. Work with an integrator or other local expert to determine when is the right time to upgrade or if there's an alternative option available like replacing drivers etc...Upcoming Content (37:30-38:10)
We're releasing a new course tomorrow all about the basics of Resolume Arena! Caleb Shamblin walks through every aspect of the interface from basic navigation to more advanced features. This is just the first of three Resolume courses we'll be releasing over the next few months. Whether you’re manipulating media, creating effects, or just playing back audio & video content… Resolume Arena can do it all. -
This is episode 169 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff is joined in the co-host seat this week by Nate Ellis from the MxU team. We’re celebrating with Spencer and his family as they welcome their third child into the world! Together, Jeff and Nate are joined by Chad Rose from ReveLux and Corey Miller from Jeff’s home church. They question whether or not your church needs an LED wall.
Tip: There’s a difference between a want and a need. Think through where your current technology is in their life cycle and make an educated decision.
Service Review (05:05-15:54)
This week, the crew reviews a service from One Church in Columbus, Ohio. They balance modern worship with a bit of a gospel flair. The crew gives insights on the engaging vocal sound and dynamic energy and offer some constructive feedback on instrument clarity and lighting.Upcoming Content (15:55 - 22:11)
We’re releasing a new mixing course tomorrow all about Waves LV1! This is sort of a “part 2” to our previous release on Setting Up & Configuring Waves LV1. Jeff takes us through a full breakdown of his mix on some tracks from Chris Tomlin. We’re also giving away Jeff’s plugin presets for free. Stay tuned in to our social platforms for tomorrow’s release where you’ll be able to watch the new content and download those presets!About Grace Church (22:12 - 28:02)
Corey Miller is a returning guest to the MxU podcast. He talks through the mission and vision of Grace Church to not always focus on the best gear possible but rather to build an environment that works for their volunteers. A volunteer-focusedDo you need an LED wall? (28:03 - 39:41)
There’s a need for intentional, tasteful, design choices in church. This is especially true when you’re managing a giant canvas like an LED wall. Grace Church has just recently made the decision to invest in an LED wall from ReveLux. Take a listen to their journey from first asking the question “Do we need an LED wall?” to installation within the next few weeks. -
This is episode 168 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer sit down with two familiar faces to the MxU community, Jeremy Bagwell & Jeremy Lommori. a.k.a "the Jeremys" The crew discusses broadcasting and whether or not your church, and churches in general, need to do it. The overarching principle is this: we're in a new digital age and technology is changing rapidly, do what's best for your church.
Service Review (7:25 - 26:35)
Every week, the crew takes some time to review a church service. This week, Heart & Soul church in Knoxville TN is reviewed. Jeff & Spencer give their thoughts on the mix and the broadcast while the Jeremys give their insight on the video side. Set up & tear down is no joke and sometimes hard to make look good, props to the team at Heart & Soul!Upcoming Content (26:36 - 34:35)
Tomorrow, we're releasing another course with Todd Elliott, founder of FILO. This course is all around the idea that volunteers can be leaders too. The course encompasses the "Leadership 360" mentality to lead up, lead down, and lead laterally. No matter where you serve or in what position you serve in, you have the same capability to lead.Should You Be Broadcasting? (34:36 - 1:16:55)
Streaming has quickly become a part of most churches, fueled by the need for online services during the pandemic. The church can lead in technology while also staying true to its mission, and that is the most important thing to recognize. It's important to ask the right questions before you invest money into something that may come at the cost of your in-person services.
Links:Jeremy Bagwell
Jeremy LommoriMxU Pop-Ups
Send your service review submissions to ‘[email protected]’
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This is episode 167 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer are joined by a familiar face, Dillan Howell of WKND Ready & EVNT Ready. They give the lowdown on what’s been happening in Dillan’s life, including a tense interaction at a baseball game. Here’s the question for this week’s podcast: “Is the grass greener on the other side?” - the guys & Dillan give their take on whether or not the church down the road is a better option.
Service Review (04:30 - 14:41)
Dillan might not have much to offer when it comes to audio feedback but he along with Jeff and Spencer give their thoughts on a service from Christ Chapel Bible Church. They evaluate the mix, the energy, and provide insight on the importance of an engaging opening. Submit your services to ‘[email protected]’ or in our #peer-reviews channel on our slack community.
Upcoming Content (14:42 - 17:07)
Dillan might not know much about Waves LV1 but we’re in luck because Jeff does. Tomorrow, we’re releasing a course all about setting up and configuring Waves LV1 in your church. Stay tuned for the course release in your inbox as well as on our social platforms. We can’t wait to see how this course helps you and your church.Where Is The Grass Greener? (17:08 - 42:59)
“Should I leave my church?” “Am I being treated fairly?” “Where can I go that I will have more opportunities?” These might be some of the questions you’re asking yourself as you decide whether or not your church is right for you. Dillan, Jeff, and Spencer share their insight on whether or not the grass is typically greener on the other side.
MxU Pop-Ups (43:00 - 52:59)
We’ve been having a ton of fun at our live events for this year which we’re calling “MxU Pop-Ups” and we would love for you to join us. Dillan shares some of his thoughts on this year’s events and explains a little bit about his role within them. Our next Pop-Up is in Columbus, OH on June 11th. We can’t wait to see you there!
Links:
Dillan Howell
MxU Pop-Ups
Send your service review submissions to ‘[email protected]’
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This is episode 166 of the MxU Podcast! Jeff and Spencer sit down with Phil Bledsoe, FOH engineer for Sam Hunt and a returning guest from episode 15 of the podcast. The guys chat about mixing for broadcast, and whether or not your church needs a broadcast console.
Hint: You probably don’t.
Service Review (06:30 - 10:53)
There’s still debate around the MxU office on what to call this new segment, whether it’s “Turn up for MxU” or simply “Service Review.” Regardless - Jeff, Spencer, and Phil review a broadcast mix submitted by a member of the MxU community, Daniel. We’d love for you to submit a mix or service of your own for review, which you can do by emailing them to [email protected]. If you’re a member of our slack community, post yours in the #peer-reviews channel.
Upcoming Content (10:54 - 24:45)
Tomorrow, we’re releasing “Basic Effects” on the MxU platform. This is a course by Phil Bledsoe designed to help you and your teams understand reverb and delay. It all starts with the basics and effects could be your simplest way to improve your mix in minutes. Stay tuned in to our social accounts and emails for the course drop!
Broadcast Mixing (24:46 - 45:59)
Do you need a broadcast console? Do you even need to be broadcasting? Jeff, Spencer, and Phil share their thoughts and insights on what seems to have become a hot topic in the church community. Here’s a suggestion: do what’s best for your church, don’t look to other churches on social media for what yours should be doing.
MxU Pop-Ups (46:00 - 47:00)
We still have a few more live events this year that we’re calling “MxU Pop-Ups” and we’d love for you to join us. Our next event is in Columbus, Ohio on June 11th. Head to our website to get your tickets, they’re going quick!
Links:
Everything we mentioned in the podcast in one space.
Phil Bledsoe
Audience Mics Can Be Simple
MxU Pop-Ups
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