In this episode of The Outstand Podcast, Chandler Boyce sits down with marketing strategist expert Dillon Smith to unpack the biggest shifts happening in church content, digital strategy, and audience growth in 2026.

Having worked closely with leaders like Craig Groeschel (Life.Church) and Carey Nieuwhof, Dillon brings a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on what’s actually working, what’s fading, and where churches need to pivot.

They break down why sermon clips are declining in effectiveness, how Life.Church approaches Meta ads and lead generation, and why most churches are investing time and money into the wrong strategies when it comes to social media and content.

This conversation dives into YouTube vs Meta (Facebook & Instagram), the real ROI of podcasts for pastors, and how to build a content strategy that actually reaches people and drives impact.

You’ll also hear practical insights on lead magnets, content quality, and why human connection is becoming the most valuable asset in ministry as AI continues to rise.

If you’re a pastor, church leader, or Christian entrepreneur trying to grow your reach and influence, this episode will challenge your thinking and give you clear next steps.

• Why sermon clip strategies are declining
• How Life.Church actually runs ads
• YouTube vs Meta: where to focus in 2026
• The real purpose of a podcast for pastors
• How to use lead magnets to reach more people
• The biggest mistakes churches are making right now
• What’s next with AI and church leadership

Pastors, church leaders, and Christian business owners who want to grow, reach more people, and build something meaningful without wasting time on strategies that don’t work anymore.

If you follow voices like Craig Groeschel, Carey Nieuwhof, Andy Stanley, or are trying to figure out modern church marketing, this is for you.

Website: https://cmo.church/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dillon-Smith-CMO.Church

If you are someone whose target audience is pastors and churches, whether you sell services, software, products, or resources, you need to be paying attention to what Dillon is doing.

He has worked with some of the most influential leaders in the church space and understands how to actually reach and connect with pastors at scale.

Go check out his website, follow him on YouTube, and stay connected with his content across all platforms.

The Outstand Podcast is built around real conversations with leaders who refuse to blend in. It’s about faith, leadership, growth, and the decisions it takes to stand out in a world that rewards conformity.