XtianNinja's "Of Interest"
165 episodes - English - Latest episode: 22 days ago - ★★★★★ - 1 ratingXtianNinja's "Of Interest" podcast is full of personal reflections, interesting articles, helpful resources, and a leisurely study of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress.
Updates weekly.
Al Descheneau (XtianNinja) has Masters of Divinity and 20 years of experience as a teacher, pastor, writer, counsellor, blogger, podcaster, and digital media nerd.
Check out his livestreams at www.Twitch.tv/XtianNinja
For more content visit: www.ArtoftheChristianNinja.com
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Episodes
Season Finale: The Unexpected Secret to Success as a Content Creator
June 18, 2024 19:27 - 28 minutes - 29.5 MBIn this season finale of TACO Talks, I dive into a profound section of J. Oswald Sanders' book, "Spiritual Maturity," focusing on the power of weakness as described in 2 Corinthians 12:9. I share reflections and personal anecdotes on how this message resonates with my journey as a content creator. Discover how God uses our inadequacies to achieve His purposes and the importance of relying on Him rather than our talents. Learn how embracing weakness can transform your content creation and spi...
Navigating A.I. in Content Creation - Does it Enhance or Hinder Creativity?
June 11, 2024 10:00 - 33 minutes - 36.9 MBTitle: The Irony of AI: Enhancing and Hindering Creativity Description: In this episode of TACO Talks, ChatGPT and Ninja dive into the world of AI in content creation. They discuss the pros and cons of using AI, exploring how it can be both a powerful tool and a potential pitfall. From the misuse of AI in creating low-quality content to the dangers of over-reliance, they cover it all. Ninja shares personal anecdotes and biblical wisdom to provide a balanced perspective. Tune in to learn h...
Self-Care for Busy Creators
June 04, 2024 23:09 - 40 minutes - 43.7 MBIn this episode, we conclude our series on preventing burnout by exploring the vital practice of self-care for content creators. Learn how spiritual nourishment and practical self-care strategies can help you maintain your mental, physical, and spiritual health while continuing your passion for content creation. Key Takeaways: Spiritual Nourishment: Importance of daily Bible reading, prayer, worship, and meditation. Biblical Rest: Understanding the theological concept of Sabbath rest. R...
Creating a Realistic Weekly Schedule
May 28, 2024 15:24 - 38 minutes - 56.2 MBIn this follow-up episode, we dive deeper into the reality check exercise from last week. If you haven't listened to that episode, be sure to catch up first! Today, we'll explore how to create a manageable and realistic weekly schedule by categorizing tasks, prioritizing commitments, and ensuring self-care. This step-by-step guide is designed to help you prevent overcommitment, protect your mental health, and maintain a balanced life. Key Takeaways: Awareness and Reality Check: Understand ...
Pokimane, Burnout, and You: Essential Lessons for Content Creators
May 22, 2024 00:41 - 36 minutes - 51.3 MBThis episode breaks down Pokimane's recent struggles with mental health and provides valuable lessons for content creators on avoiding burnout. We discuss the impact of being a high-profile creator, how online harassment can take a toll on mental health, and offer practical advice on managing stress and creating a sustainable content schedule. Main Points: The stress of being a high-profile content creator Pokimane's journey and the impact of online harassment Practical advice for managi...
Battling Insecurity (Part 2)
May 14, 2024 15:22 - 34 minutes - 49.5 MBContent creation isn’t just about algorithms and platforms—it’s a battle within ourselves. In Part 1, we explore the pitfalls of comparison, compensation, and competition. The hunger for approval can lead to burnout, and the pressure to please our audience can distort our authenticity. In Part 2, we confront condemnation—the harsh inner critic that magnifies flaws and minimizes strengths. We’re reminded that our worth isn’t tied to external judgments but to God’s love. The “Love Chapter” (...
The Art of Chat Moderation: Cultivating Safe and Supportive Christian Twitch Communities
April 23, 2024 13:52 - 39 minutes - 59.7 MBIn this episode, we delve into the crucial role of moderators in live-stream Christian content creation. We discuss how moderators provide more than just chat management; they offer encouragement to the streamer and a sanctuary for individuals dealing with personal struggles. Key discussion points include: Supporting the Streamer’s Vision: How moderators align with the streamer’s mission, vision, and goals, and promote them within the community. Active Engagement: The importance of modera...
Battling Insecurity (Part 1)
April 16, 2024 23:34 - 33 minutes - 48.4 MBContent creation isn’t just about algorithms and platforms—it’s a battle within ourselves. In Part 1 of this 2 Part series, we explore the pitfalls of comparison, compensation, and competition. The hunger for approval can lead to burnout, and the pressure to please our audience can distort our authenticity. We address a topic that touches every Christian Content Creator: the battle with insecurities. While our mission is to inspire and equip through our creations, we often face internal s...
How Insecure Are You? Take This Test!
April 16, 2024 23:34 - 33 minutes - 48.4 MBIn this thought-provoking episode of “TACO Talks,” we address a topic that touches every Christian Content Creator: the battle with insecurities. While our mission is to inspire and equip through our creations, we often face internal struggles that can hinder our impact. Join us as we explore the emotional undercurrents of content creation, offering biblical wisdom and practical tools to overcome self-doubt and build a resilient, faith-driven approach to our craft. Three Tests: “The Comp...
How to Go From Idea to Reality (6 Ways to Get Things Done)
April 08, 2024 10:00 - 31 minutes - 44.5 MBIn this episode, we delve into the journey from concept to reality in content creation. We reflect on the Fyre Festival as a cautionary tale and discuss the common hurdles creators face. Learn how to apply six transformative principles to ensure your ideas materialize into meaningful content: What You Talk About Gets Done: Keep sharing your idea to move it from imagination to reality. What Gets Trained For Gets Done: Invest time in learning and honing skills for yourself and your team. Wh...
Women in Content Creation: Struggles, Resilience, and 7 Tips from Other Female Creators
April 02, 2024 16:05 - 30 minutes - 45.6 MBIn this episode, XtianNinja delves into the multifaceted world of female content creators to shed light on the unique challenges they face, from online harassment to the struggle for privacy in an ever-connected digital landscape. XtianNinja works through interviews he's had with female creators and explores the resilience required to thrive amidst scrutiny and the strength it takes to navigate the complexities of gender dynamics in content creation. Listen to heartfelt anecdotes from creato...
Is Content Creation a Real Job? (In Defense of Digital Pioneers)
March 19, 2024 15:25 - 31 minutes - 34.3 MBThis episode is a deep dive into what it truly means to be a content creator and poses the question: Is content creation a real job or not? Using the recent viral clip about HasanAbi, a streamer on Twitch that faced immense scrutiny and harassment, this episode delves into the world of content creation and streaming. We explore the challenges, risks, and emotional toll that creators like HasanAbi endure. Despite having millions of followers, they face immense pressure and often work in iso...
Special Episode: Who Me? A Creator? (TACO Talks Creator Class - Session 1)
March 11, 2024 11:00 - 1 hour - 85.1 MBOn this special episode of TACO Talks, because the TACO Network has recently announced that their Content Creator Training Class is starting up again on April 6th, we're sharing a recording of the entire first session, enitled 'Created to Create!'. It challenges the notion that only a select few are meant to take on the role of Christian creators because the human ability to influence through creativity is an intrinsically biblical concept available to everyone. We are designed to reflect G...
How to Change Content Without Losing Your Audience - (Are they ready?) - 6 Transformative Questions Series
March 05, 2024 12:00 - 23 minutes - 29.7 MBEffective communication is all about timing, context, and approach. In this episode, we explore how to gauge your audience’s readiness to receive your content. Just as a farmer prepares the soil before sowing seeds, you might need to do some groundwork to prepare your audience for the impact you intend to make. Here are the points: Avoid Sudden Changes: Introduce changes gradually to maintain audience engagement. Introduce Gradually: Weave spiritual elements subtly into your existing cont...
What's God's Answer to MY Audience? - 6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content
February 27, 2024 12:00 - 31 minutes - 33.1 MBIn this episode, we make a deliberate choice to NOT help our audience before asking the question, "What's God's answer?" Let's continue our journey in the content creation series by exploring the next crucial step after identifying your audience and understanding their needs. Key Points: Cautionary Tale: A story about a Christian content creator who missed out on humility, patience, and faith during an interaction with a viewer. Facing Fear: Addressing the fear many Christian content cre...
What's Most Important to MY Audience Right Now? - 6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content
February 20, 2024 12:00 - 34 minutes - 37.1 MBWelcome back to the third installment of our series, "6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content." This episode delves into the question: "What needs to be accomplished most?" and talks about the challenges faced by online community leaders, particularly those in Christian content creation. We discuss how leaders often find themselves dealing with sensitive issues within their communities, and how these experiences can impact them personally. We explore five common pitfalls to avoid when ...
What Does MY Audience Need? - 6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content
February 14, 2024 01:03 - 24 minutes - 28 MBWelcome back to the second installment of our transformative series, "6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content." In this episode, we delve into the vital question: What are your audience's questions and needs right now? Gain valuable insights to align your content purposefully. Join us on this journey of content creation with impact. Gain insights into the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of your audience in content creation. Learn about the Christian principle of lov...
Who is MY Audience? - 6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content!
January 30, 2024 21:31 - 34 minutes - 39 MBIn this six-part series, embark on a transformative journey of purposeful Christian content creation. This is part one, where we delve into the foundational question: 'Who is My Audience?' Uncover the secrets of tailoring your content to resonate with a specific group, the power of specificity, and learn how to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Join us as we unravel the keys to impactful storytelling, positive community building, and aligning your content with God's vision. S...
Who is MY Audience? - The 6 Questions That'll Transform Your Content!
January 30, 2024 21:31 - 34 minutes - 39 MBIn this six-part series, embark on a transformative journey of purposeful Christian content creation. This is part one, where we delve into the foundational question: 'Who is My Audience?' Uncover the secrets of tailoring your content to resonate with a specific group, the power of specificity, and learn how to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Join us as we unravel the keys to impactful storytelling, positive community building, and aligning your content with God's vision. S...
Ten Alarms Every Christian Creator Should Heed
January 23, 2024 15:48 - 33 minutes - 38.3 MBIn this episode, we explore the ten crucial alarm signals for Christian content creators that serve as indicators for potential pitfalls in a creator’s journey, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and community support. Here they are: Inconsistent Daily Walk with God Misaligned Priorities Avoidance of Self-Reflection Lack of Accountability Failure to Engage with the Broader Christian Community Excessive Concern with Image Sensitivity to Criticism or Flattery...
10 Essential Questions to Help You Create Amazing Content in 2024
January 17, 2024 15:47 - 50 minutes - 56 MBAs a Christian content creator, you have a unique opportunity to connect your faith to your talents and share your message with the world. But to do that effectively, you need to have a clear plan, a strategy, and a way to measure your progress. In this episode, we’ll help you create your plan by asking you 10 essential questions that will guide your Christian content creation for 2024. These questions will help you align your content with your personal faith, values, and goals, as well as ...
Six Reasons to Find and Build Your Tribe
January 09, 2024 15:10 - 30 minutes - 34.6 MBDo you feel lonely or isolated as a Christian Content Creator? Wish you had more people to collaborate with, support you, and hold you accountable? In this episode of TACO Talks, XtianNinja discuss the importance of community for Christian Content Creators with six reasons why you need to include others in your life and content, and how to do it effectively. Whether you are a blogger, podcaster, vlogger, or artist, you will learn how to grow in your craft, your community, and your faith by ...
Five Ways to Fight the Grindset and Keep Your Joy as a Christian Content Creator
January 02, 2024 21:05 - 45 minutes - 51.5 MBIn this episode, XtianNinja, a full-time twitch streamer and executive director of TACO: The Alliance for Creative Outreach, explores the sneaky nature of negative attitudes that can creep up on us as Christian content creators. We discuss how the constant hustle, the pressure to conform, the criticism from others, and the challenges of being authentic and compassionate can affect our mental and spiritual health. We also share some practical tips on how to combat the grindset mindset, find b...
Six Lies Content Creators Believe
December 15, 2023 19:47 - 40 minutes - 39.5 MBIn this episode, XtianNinja, a full-time twitch streamer and executive director of TACO, shares his insights on how to find joy as a Christian Content Creator. He challenges some of the common lies that content creators might believe, such as: More likes, comments, shares, and subscribers equals more happiness Investing in the latest equipment will make my content excellent Continuous growth is the measure of success and happiness Financial success through content is the ultimate solutio...
TACO Talks Trailer - A Podcast For Content Creators with Passion and Purpose
December 14, 2023 19:47 - 59 seconds - 1.74 MBTACO Talks offers valuable tips and tools to help create better content, build a stronger online community, and remain a faithful believer within the digital environment. It’s hosted by fellow creator BornAgainGamer and features talks by Al ‘XtianNinja’ Descheneau, the Executive Director of The Alliance for Creative Outreach (TACO). Recent episodes include topics like “Five Ways to Fight the Grindset and Keep Your Joy as a Christian Content Creator” and “Six Lies Content Creators Believe,” wh...
Punching Bag Preacher: My Testimony
January 07, 2023 19:43 - 1 hour - 108 MBContent Warning: I cover some serious topics including bullying and church abuse. I've been talking a lot about my personal story on Twitch, in the TACO Training classes, and to folks in the community, so I thought that, in this episode, I'd share a seven-part testimony series I released in early 2021. As I edited these together I realized just how transitional my life was then. My time as pastor of my previous church had come to a close and I was seeking God's will for what I was to do n...
What is Christian Meditation? (and How to Get More Out of Your Daily Devos)
December 07, 2022 00:30 - 27 minutes - 25.3 MBEvery Christian pastor, preacher, small group leader, author, and friend will tell you how important it is to be consistent in your daily quite times with God. If you're struggling to be consistent or just understand how to get the most out of your time, here are some helpful considerations: -- 📺 Livestreams: http://www.twitch.tv/XtianNinja ☕ Support Link and My Books: https://ko-fi.com/xtianninja
A Heart Full of Paradoxes
November 30, 2022 00:39 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MB"Under the conviction of thy Spirit I learn that the more I do, the worse I am, the more I know, the less I know, the more holiness I have, the more sinful I am, the more I love, the more there is to love...." Let's talk about what it's like to be a faithful Christian with a heart that keeps pulling us away from God.
When Everything You Need to Do is Too Much For You
November 18, 2022 01:36 - 14 minutes - 14.3 MBEveryone is busy and everyone has responsibilities - but sometimes the list gets so long, the time so short, and the opposition so large, that life feels absolutely impossible. What can we do then? How do we keep from giving up? Philippians 1:6 might help.
"I'm Struggling with EVERYTHING..." (A Twitch Chat Counselling Moment)
October 20, 2022 23:06 - 25 minutes - 25.8 MBA viewer came into my chat a few minutes into the stream with some struggles and looking for prayer. It led to some interesting discussions, open hearts, a bunch of sharing, and some (hopefully) helpful pastoral advice. I Need Your Support I’m doing this full-time and the only way I can keep it up is through support from folks like you – so please consider supporting me on Patreon or Ko-Fi (doesn’t use PayPal). There are lots of great goals and incentives on Patreon, ministry updates, and ...
Don't Go Alone! (BIG CHAT with a short devo)
October 14, 2022 17:46 - 49 minutes - 49.4 MBIt started with a quick devo on 1 Corinthians 12:26 (suffering and rejoicing together) and quickly turned into a long chat about the troubles and wonders of living life together (and alone). You should join us during the next stream!
The Productivity Trap
October 08, 2022 14:55 - 30 minutes - 29.6 MBWe, as friends, partners, workers, content creators, and ministry leaders, want to do things in service to God and others, right? We want to be God's hands and feet in the world so that we can be used to "bear fruit". But, did you know that a productivity-focused mindset, even one focused on loving God and others, can actually be detrimental to your spiritual health?
9 Ways to Build Confidence
September 02, 2022 17:40 - 38 minutes - 37 MBEveryone who creates has times when they struggle with motivation and confidence - sometimes so debilitating that it causes them to stop creating altogether! Whether you are a Twitch Streamer, YouTuber, Digital Artist, Musician, Cook, or any other type of creative, here are 9 practical ways to boost your confidence so you can get out there and make the world a better place!
A Very Personal Episode - Why Streaming is So Important to Me (I've Never Shared This Before)
August 20, 2022 22:05 - 42 minutes - 40.2 MBIn this very personal video, Al (XtianNinja) Descheneau shares his heart, story, and reason for working so hard to bring the gospel to people who can only be reached through online ministry. You will learn why he has such a special concern for the lost, lonely, and disenfranchised on Twitch and what you can do to help him reach them.
The Difference Between Devotions and Bible Study
July 16, 2022 21:29 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MBThere is a huge difference in approach between your personal devotional time and doing a personal Bible study, and knowing that difference is going to change everything about how you connect with God. XtianNinja explains the difference and then gives an example of what it looks like.
How long do you need to wait between sinning and praying?
July 12, 2022 22:19 - 23 minutes - 26.3 MBWhat does it mean that we are "Free in Christ"? How free? Does that mean we can do whatever we want? Is there anything we can do to lose that freedom?
How to be MAXIMUM Christian!
June 30, 2022 23:34 - 21 minutes - 25.3 MBWhat's the secret to living for God - for REAL? What steps do we need to take in order to discover God's plan for our lives and how to live it out in an effective and fruitful way? This message might help.
Where is God Anyway? And What Does it Mean that God is With You?
June 28, 2022 23:32 - 12 minutes - 15.7 MBEach day on stream we take time to go through a Verse of the Day, explain its meaning, and find an application. This verse is a very encouraging one on the surface, but what does it mean, really?
Jesus is....
June 23, 2022 22:34 - 17 minutes - 21.5 MBWhat does it mean that Jesus had the "fullness of God" and why is that such a big deal to Christians? What does it mean that Jesus is Preeminent? Join in as XtianNinja (Pastor Al) talks through Colossians 1:15-20 and answers those questions.
Christians: God Is NOT ANGRY at you when you sin!
June 09, 2022 22:19 - 15 minutes - 18.2 MBSometimes God has the reputation of being angry all the time - and a lot of people who grew up in the church were told that when they do something wrong God is disappointed and will come down on them hard if they don't behave. Is that true?
When God Asks the Impossible
June 01, 2022 20:46 - 22 minutes - 29.7 MBSometimes life throws stuff at us that we just can't handle. Illness, relationship issues, responsibilities, big needs, cause all of us to shrink back and ask ourselves, "Why would God bring this into my life?". There are a lot of people who have faced the same situation. What are we to do?
Is AWANA a "Christian Nationalist Child Indoctrination Cult"? (Video Reaction)
May 31, 2022 21:33 - 2 hours - 139 MBEx-Fundie Diaries released a video outlining how the AWANA Clubs program isn't just a fun church group, but a nefarious "Christian Nationalist Child Indoctrination Cult". Is she right? What defines a cult? What's up with all the weird stuff that goes on at AWANA anyway? XtianNinja, a pastor and former AWANA leader (and clubber) walks through her video step-by-step explaining, refuting, and clarifying what's actually going on. *I left it as a very sparsely edited VOD so that folks could trac...
But What if They're a Really Good Person?
May 20, 2022 00:14 - 33 minutes - 43.5 MBIf you've ever asked, "Do good people go to heaven?", give this a listen. XtianNinja talks through the thought process we see in Romans 1-3 and explains why understanding it is critical to understanding what Christians call "salvation".
Can Anyone Ever Actually Feel "Peace" in this Troubled World?
May 16, 2022 23:07 - 20 minutes - 27.6 MBEveryone in the world wants "peace" - but when we try to make it ourselves it doesn't seem to work very well or last very long. How does the peace that Jesus promises us in the Bible differ from the peace we keep trying to make for ourselves?
You Shouldn't Trust Yourself Most of the Time
May 14, 2022 18:35 - 15 minutes - 20.4 MBMost of the time we believe the thoughts that bounce around our heads, thinking that our beliefs, opinions, perspectives, and ideas are right and best. Mature people know that's not true and have realized that we really can't trust our own hearts and minds.
I'm Starting A New and Different Kind of Christian Creator Network!
May 09, 2022 23:29 - 38 minutes - 50.7 MBWe've been thinking and talking about this for months now, but it seems to be time to start making this idea become a reality. If you're tired of dead discords and pointless partnerships, give this a watch and then come chat about it with us. You can help us build the greatest Christian Creator Network on the internet!
You've Probably Already Met Jesus - What Did You Do? -- It Matters more Than You Think
April 27, 2022 00:44 - 21 minutes - 27.1 MBJesus said that if you've met poor, sick, imprisoned, or hungry people, then "as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me." (Matt 25:40) And how you reacted to those people shows a lot about your heart and your faith.
"I HATE Easter and I love Christians" Tweet is Ridiculous! Twitch Pastor Reacts
April 21, 2022 23:27 - 15 minutes - 18.6 MBJo Luehmann tweeted out a pretty intense message declaring her love of Christians, but hatred for the Christian gospel. It just so happened that Logos' Verse of the Day hit this topic perfectly. So, let's talk about that through the lens of 1 Corinthians 15:19-20.
Do All Things REALLY Work Out for Good? Like, ALL Things?
April 19, 2022 23:40 - 31 minutes - 38.1 MBChristians often quote Romans 8:28 ("And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." to each other as a way to bring encouragement to someone going through a tough time. So, why then does it come as such cold comfort at times? What does it really mean?
Jesus Faces an Angry Mob! (Passion Week: Tuesday)
April 15, 2022 00:11 - 33 minutes - 41.3 MBThe leading men of Jerusalem took turns attacking, arguing, and trying to discredit Jesus, in hopes He would fall for their trap so they could accuse and kill Him. It didn't work.