Student Ministry Connection

What if we began seeing school teachers as youth leaders on the mission field of the public school? How could we support them, equip them, and empower them as the church? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks with Mike Hicks of Christian Educators and Lift America about all that and more. Let's get ready to connect and grow.    Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Lift at https://christianeducators.org/liftamerica  Email Mike at mhicks@christianeducators.org  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

Want to try new ideas in your ministry without blowing up your program? In this quick episode of Student Ministry Connection, we're talking about a simple way to test fresh ideas while keeping your core ministry strong.   Links referenced in this episode:  Purchase a copy of Growing Young on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4jlJupO   Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

What if your students actually wanted to read the Bible—and understood it when they did? On this episode, Steve talks with student ministry veteran Dr. Ken Castor about how we can help teenagers engage Scripture in ways that are meaningful, lasting, and life-changing. From writing a year-long devotional to helping create an entire youth Bible, Ken brings decades of experience and insight to this conversation you won't want to miss.    Links referenced in this episode:  Connect more with Ken Castor at https://kencastor.com  Learn more about the Make a Difference Youth Bible at https://makeadifferencebible.com  Purchase the MAD Youth Bible on Amazon - https://amzn.to/43ge9Pc  Purchase the MAD Devotional on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4j3oMuM  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

Does every ministry need a catchy name? Should it match your church's branding—or stand out on its own? And what if your youth group's name already sounds like a dozen others? In this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we'll break down six essential questions to ask before naming—or renaming—your ministry or program, so you can avoid confusion and create clarity for your students, your church, and your community.     Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

Ever wondered how collaboration among churches can create a powerful outreach opportunity? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks with Dan Lynch about his faith journey and his experience guiding about 50 churches that collaborate every year for camp. They talk about what it takes to create an impactful, large-scale youth retreat with lots of churches, the challenges faced, and the miraculous stories of transformation that happen at these camps.     Links referenced in this episode:  Email Dan at dan@pepc.org  Learn more about Colorado Winter Camps at https://www.coloradowintercamps.com  Save $25 off your Orange Conference 2025 ticket by visiting https://bit.ly/orangeconference25 or use our affiliate code STEVE25 at checkout.  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

 Mission trips can be life changing for students, but if they're not planned well, they can be disastrous. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve breaks down 3 crucial areas to focus on to set up our trips for the biggest impact.    Links referenced in this episode:  Save $25 off your Orange Conference 2025 ticket by visiting https://bit.ly/orangeconference25 or use our affiliate code Steve25 at checkout.  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!      

On this quick episode of Student Ministry Connection, we're talking about one thing you can do to both connect with others and grow in your ministry: conferences. Steve shares 3 reasons why they're important where you can find them.    Links referenced in this episode:  Steve's list of youth leader conferences is at https://stevecullum.com/2024/11/04/youth-pastor-conferences-2025/  Save $25 off your Orange Conference 2025 ticket by visiting https://bit.ly/orangeconference25 or use our affiliate code Steve25 at checkout.  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Join our beta Discord server at https://discord.gg/WXtS7BaGAU  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Games in student ministry—some love them, some avoid them, but could they actually be a key tool for deeper discipleship? On this episode, Steve talks with Mike McGarry about the theology of fun and games—why they matter, how they can open the door to meaningful conversations, and how to use them effectively in your ministry. Get ready to rethink how games can fit into your ministry and how they can open the door to deeper faith conversations.   Links referenced in this episode:  Youth Pastor Theologian website - https://youthpastortheologian.com  Read Mike's blog post about fun and games - https://www.youthpastortheologian.com/blog/fun-and-games-in-youth-ministry  Buy a copy of Lead Them to Jesus on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4ih1CkI  Save $25 off your Orange Conference 2025 ticket by visiting https://bit.ly/orangeconference25 or use our affiliate code Steve25 at checkout. Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Join our beta Discord server at https://discord.gg/WXtS7BaGAU  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Middle schoolers are full of energy, questions, and chaos—but they're also at one of the most pivotal moments in their faith journey. So how can we better connect with them and create a ministry that truly meets them where they are? My guest today has dedicated her life and ministry to helping churches do just that. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we're talking all things middle school with Ashley Bohinc and exploring how "Make it Middle School" can transform the way you reach and disciple students.    Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Ashley on Instagram: @ashleymariebohinc  Check out Ashley's website at https://ashleybohinc.com  Learn more about Make it Middle School at http://makeitmiddleschool.com  Buy a copy of Communicating to Middle Schoolers on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3TMgP1p  Learn more about Carry 117 at https://carry117.com  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Join our beta Discord server at https://discord.gg/WXtS7BaGAU  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

 What if you could unlock a deeper understanding of how you work best in ministry? What if a simple tool could help you and your team thrive instead of just survive? In this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks with veteran youth pastor and ministry coach Derry Prenkert about the power of ministry coaching, the Working Genius assessment, and how these tools can help you lead with greater clarity and confidence.     Links referenced in this episode:  Check out Derry's website at https://www.derryprenkert.com  Follow Derry on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/derryprenkert  Email Derry at derry.prenkert@standingstoneministry.org  Sign up for the Youth Ministry Leader Cohort at https://www.ymlcohort.com  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Join our beta Discord server at https://discord.gg/WXtS7BaGAU  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

 How do we keep students coming back to our ministry and our programs? What's going to help us open that front door really wide, but close that back door so that they don't escape and never experience the Christian community that we're creating in our student ministries? Well, that's exactly what we're talking about on this quick episode of Student Ministry Connection.     Links referenced in this episode:  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Join the beta Discord server at https://discord.gg/WXtS7BaGAU  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do you grow a youth group? And what does that even mean? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve digs into what growth should look like and how we can shift our priorities to get there.    It starts by shifting our focus away from program growth to growing students and the Kingdom in these 3 ways:   Equipping and empowering students to share their faith and reach their schools, teams, neighborhoods, etc. Partnering with other local churches/ministries to strategize together, pray together, and support one another. Creating healthy environments within the community where students can continue to grow and bring their friends to continue growing.   Links referenced in this episode:  Get a copy of Gospelize Your Youth Ministry by Greg Stier - https://amzn.to/4fQeBrV  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

We had some great guests in 2024, so on this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we highlight some of the best moments from this year, including topics like: youth pastor compensation, empowering teenagers, anxiety, being fired, helping kids enter our student ministry, keeping students attention while teaching, using artificial intelligence, training the next generation, staying connected, preparing students for evangelism, and trying to figure out when to stay or when to go.    Links referenced in this episode:  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

When do you know it's time to move on from either a specific church or from student ministry altogether? This is a question we've all asked at some point, which is why we're talking about it on this episode of Student Ministry Connection. Todd Pearage joins Steve to discuss some practical things to look for and some solid resources that will help you navigate that question now and in the future.    Links referenced in this episode:  Connect with Todd on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/toddpearage  Email Todd at todd@youthleadersummit.com  Learn more about Youth Leader Oasis at https://youthleaderoasis.com  Learn more about Youth Leader Summit at https://www.youthleadersummit.com  Follow the Youth Ministry Leader Cohort on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/theymlcohort or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/YMLCohort  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How can we practice the thankful attitude that Paul talks about in Colossians 2 and 3, especially in the middle of busyness, divisiveness, and struggles? On this quick episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve shares a simple method to remain thankful and shares some of the things he is thankful for, including you.    Links referenced in this episode:  Email the podcast at studentministryconnection@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Imagine a high school where students are leading their friends to Jesus, where outreach happens in the cafeteria, and the gospel is shared in classrooms across the campus. This isn't just a dream—it's happening right now, with over 10,000 students responding to the gospel through student-led events in their schools. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks with Andi Custer from Decision Point about how equipping students to share their faith is transforming schools and bringing hope to thousands!    Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Decision Point at https://decisionpoint.org  Email Andi at andi@decisionpoint.org  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

If we want to be healthy ministry leaders, there are 3 big connections we need to focus on. First, we have to be pursuing Jesus. And the other 2 connections we need are with a network of other youth leaders and with a ministry coach or mentor. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Dustin Fisher joins Steve to discuss how you can make both of those happen.    Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).    Links referenced in this episode:  Email Dustin: dustin@hotschurch.org  Find or start a local network at http://nnym.org  Learn more about PACT Ministry at https://pactministry.org Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do we stay in student ministry for the long haul? And what would it look like to be at a church for 10, 15, 20, or more years? That's exactly what Steve talks about with Jeff Glenn on this episode of Student Ministry Connection. Before stepping into his role with National Network of Youth Ministries, he served as youth pastor of a church for over 26 years.    Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).    Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Jeff's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/jeffglenn  Email Jeff: jglenn@nnym.org  The Heart of a Great Pastor by H.B. London Jr. and Neil  B. Wiseman - https://amzn.to/3AaN1Xj  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection    Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.    Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5    Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.    Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.    Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection     If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do you make every dollar count in student ministry? Whether you're working with a tight budget or just looking for ways to save, today's episode is packed with practical tips to help you stretch your resources and still have an impact. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we dive into 15 tips on how you can maximize your student ministry budget—no matter how small.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Youth Pastor Compensation Report 2024 - https://www.chemistrystaffing.com/resources/compensation-youth-pastor-2024/ Youth Pastor Compensation Survey 2025 - https://www.chemistrystaffing.com/resources/2025-youth-pastor-compensation-survey/ Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Are you struggling to stretch your budget for student ministry or wondering how to fund that next big event? In this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve shares some practical tips to overcome budgeting challenges and offers advice on establishing, managing, and requesting a budget, along with strategies for effective fundraising. Emphasizing the importance of strong relationships with church leadership and financial teams, this episode sets the stage for a two-part series, with a focus on cost-saving strategies in the next installment.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How can we go beyond just teaching about singleness, dating, friendships, and romance at youth group? What if there was a resource that walked students through all of those topics in just 4 weeks, addressing many of the answers they already have, and offering solid interactive questions that were rooted in Scripture? Thankfully, our guests just wrote a student devotional that I think you're going to love. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks with Heather Flies and Tony Myles about their stories, ministries, their latest book, and how it can enhance your ministry.  Sponsors for this episode of podcast: Next Gen Ministry Network - http://nextgenministrynetwork.com G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Buy "Single, Dating, Friendships, and Romance" on YM360 - http://bit.ly/single-dating-friendships-romance  Buy the book on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4cQwMMA  Follow Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherflies  Follow Tony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonymyles  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Links to the more popular ones are at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Have you wondered how artificial intelligence could change the way you connect with your students? Maybe you're curious about how AI can help you create more engaging content, streamline communication, or even better connect with your students. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Tom Pounder joins Steve to discuss some practical ways to harness A.I. and avoid some critical pitfalls in order to enhance our ministry to students and families.  Sponsors for this episode of podcast: Next Gen Ministry Network - http://nextgenministrynetwork.com G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Check out Tom's website at http://tompounder.com  Follow Tom on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tapounder  AI for Church Leaders: https://www.aiforchurchleaders.com  Church Tech Today: https://churchtechtoday.com  MetaChurch by Dave Adamson on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3cYYg9g  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:  Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  Find more links at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

A student gets home from youth group, camp, or a mission trip, and the parent asks how it was and all they hear is “good.” How can we help parents have better conversations with their teenagers? On this quick episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve shares 5 ways we can help parents to have good conversations with their kids.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Find out how you can participate in NNYM's Footprints on Campus prayer initiative at https://bit.ly/footprints2024  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  Find more links at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do you know when it's time to change or quit doing a program? When is it time to change up the way you do youth group, camp, mission trips, or even VBS? On this quick-hit episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve shares how to evaluate ministry programs and some ways to go about modifying or letting them go when it's time to change it up. Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Find out more about GLS NextGen - www.nnym.org/gls  Use the discount code SMT24NXTGEN to get the $99 rate for GLS NextGen!  Find out how you can participate in the Footprints on Campus prayer initiative at https://bit.ly/footprints2024  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  Find more links at https://linktr.ee/studentministryconnection   If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Why is it sometimes so easy for us to forget Jesus in the middle of ministry? We get caught up in the doing of ministry and don't spend much time with Jesus himself, the vine (John 15). On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Candice Wynn joins us to talk about staying connected to Jesus and also about her brand new ministry, BOON.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Candice on Instagram: @therevcan  Learn more about BOON at https://www.thebooncommunity.com   Find out more about GLS NextGen - www.nnym.org/gls  Use the discount code SMT24NXTGEN to get the $99 rate for GLS NextGen!  Enter by Aug. 23, 2024, to win a FREE ticket to GLS NextGen 2024 at https://bit.ly/gls2024ticket  Find out how you can participate in the Footprints on Campus prayer initiative at https://bit.ly/footprints2024  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do we respond when someone decides to leave your church or ministry? Do we have a castle mindset or a kingdom mindset, seeing the bigger picture of the entire church? Steve White joins us this week discuss what it's like to  have a kingdom mindset and keep it. Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Mission NextGen on Instagram: @missionnextgen  Learn more about Mission NextGen at https://missionnextgen.com  Connect with Steve White at steve@missionnextgen.com  Find out more about GLS NextGen - www.nnym.org/gls  Use the discount code SMT24NXTGEN to get the $99 rate for GLS NextGen!  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

 How can we train up the next generation of leaders? The Global Leadership Summit has been thinking about that very question and they're ready to answer. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we talk with Jenna Istvanik and Mariana Rubinec, two young leaders from GLS NextGen about what we can expect from this year's event, why you should attend, and why you should consider bringing your team and students along with you. Links referenced in this episode:  Find out more about GLS NextGen - www.nnym.org/gls  Use the discount code SMT24NXTGEN to get the $99 rate for GLS NextGen!  Sign up to host GLS NextGen for free - https://bit.ly/hostglsnextgen2024  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

We've all been there... You're teaching a group of teenagers, but one or more of them aren't paying attention. Frustrating, right? So how do we teach in a way that draws teenagers in and encourages them to engage rather than being distracted by their friends' phones or more. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve is joined by Mike Haynes to discuss how to captivate students' attention and keep it throughout your talk.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Mike on Instagram @mikeehaynes   Follow Mike on Facebook @mike.haynes1   Learn more about Mike on previous episodes: 32, 55, and 93.   Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Attend GLS Next Gen 2024 for only $99 with the NNYM partner code SMT24NXTGEN. Register today at www.nnym.org/gls.  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and their other games by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!     

How did you get started in student ministry? And what are you doing to raise up the next generation of leaders? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve talks about how he got started and also provides some resources that we think will really help us in raising the next generation of leaders that will come after us. Links referenced in this episode:  Leadership Pathway - https://leadershippathway.org  LeaderTreks - https://www.leadertreks.org  Ignite Youth Leadership - https://www.igniteyouthleadership.org  GLS Next Gen - www.nnym.org/gls  Use the discount code SMT24NXTGEN to get the $99 rate for GLS Next Gen!  Listen to the Free Refills Podcast, where Steve talked about OC24 - http://nnym.org/podcast  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save 10% off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!     

Are you here for it? This question was posed at The Orange Conference 2024, and throughout the event, we had main stage and workshop speakers helping us understand how God is here for it and how we can be here for it in order to reach this next generation for Christ. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve is joined by several conference attendees to talk about who was here for them and how they plan to be here for it.  Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Free Refills Podcast, where Steve will soon appear talking about OC24 - http://nnym.org/podcast  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum   Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter   Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport   Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact   Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com   Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum   Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5   Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!     

How do we transition students well from kids ministry to student ministry? How do we walk with parents during this time? And how do we come alongside families during this time of high anxiety? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Jay Reynolds joins Steve to share how he and his church have created a seamless transition in their ministry and how we can do that as well.  Links referenced in this episode:  • Follow Jay on Instagram: https://instagram.com/reynoldsjay  • Email Jay: jayr@gethope.net  • Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  • Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  • Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  • Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  • Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  • Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  • Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   • Apple Podcasts  • YouTube  • Podbean  • Spotify  • Amazon Podcasts  • Pandora  • TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!   

Have you ever been fired or maybe in a ministry that just wasn't working? And then wondered how you can bounce back from that? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Kyle Isabelli, pastor and author of Refined by the Fire(d), shares about his experience with getting fired and how God refined him through it and eventually began redeeming it.  Links referenced in this episode:  Buy Refined by the Fire(d) on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4agPnRp  Check out Kyle's website and more ways to buy his book at https://kyleisabelli.com  Follow Kyle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyleisabelli  Join the book club for A Non-Anxious Life at https://forms.gle/qQh5N49a5Fe8b9Xf7  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do you celebrate your high school graduates? This question pops up a lot in youth ministry circles, especially in late winter and early spring. So on this quick-hit episode of Student Ministry Connection, we're getting really practical. Steve shares what he's done over the last several years in hopes that it might help you as you think about your own way of celebrating graduates. Links referenced in this episode:  The Blessing by John Trent and Gary Smalley on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4971Wx8  Learn more about The Blessing Challenge at https://www.theblessing.com/theblessingchallenge  Starting Now by Crystal Chiang and Gerald Fadayomi on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VlGbql  Every Student Sent, a database of campus ministries - https://everystudentsent.org  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

While we know anxiety is runny rampant in the teenagers we serve, many of us have probably not stopped long enough to realize it has affected many of us as well. Alan Fadling joins Steve to talk about his Unhurried Living ministry and his brand new book, A Non-Anxious Life. Even if you feel pretty healthy right now, it's important to think about these things so we can stay healthy for ourselves and the students, families, and teams we serve. Enter to win a copy of Alan's book by going to our Instagram post for this episode, like the post, and leave a comment. We'll choose a winner on March 19, 2024.  Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about Alan's ministry at https://www.unhurriedliving.com  Follow Alan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alanfadling  Purchase Alan's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3wLeUn2  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Are we going about student ministry the right way? Are we giving this next generation all they need to become the world-changers that God has created them to be? How do we remove the obstacles and set them up for God-defined success? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Billy McMahan joins Steve for a candid conversation about what student ministry is all about.  Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Billy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/mcmahan.billy  Learn more about African Inland Mission at https://us.aimint.org  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

How much should the average youth pastor make? How can we'd set ourselves up to get a raise? And how much does your church size, ministry size, tenure, and education factor into your pay? If you have questions about youth pastor compensation, this is the episode for you! On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Dan Navarra joins us to unpack the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Report.  Links referenced in this episode:  Download the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Report at https://www.chemistrystaffing.com/resources/compensation-youth-pastor-2024/  Email Dan at dan.navarra@chemistrystaffing.com  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

Are you connected with other youth leaders around you? In this Student Ministry Connection and Free Refills crossover episode, Wayne Morgan, Travis Deans, and Steve talk about why it's important to find a network, how they've been blessed by ministry networks, and how they originally got connected with National Network of Youth Ministries.  Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about NNYM at http://nnym.org  Listen to the Free Refills Podcast on your podcast app or at https://www.youthworkers.net/podcast.htm  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

What does it mean to rest? And how can we rest when there is so much to do? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve takes a moment to share some of what he's learned over the past several years on the topic of rest, especially as it pertains to us in student ministry. If we are going to do well in this ministry, we need to find fulfillment in Christ, so we'll discuss why we need to say no sometimes, why Sabbath is important, some bad examples of rest, and a few ideas of how to truly rest in and with God.  Links referenced in this episode:  Bible Project podcast series on Sabbath - https://bibleproject.com/podcast/series/7th-day-rest-sabbath/ Unhurried Living podcast series on rest (265, 267, 269, 271) - https://www.unhurriedliving.com/blog?tag=podcast Youth Ministry SoulKeeper podcast - https://podcast.downloadyouthministry.com/youth-ministry-soul-keeper/ Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

How can we multiply the amount of teenagers we're reaching in our community? Many of us might think it has to do with bigger events and more programs, but our guest, "Mr. Bill" Freund, who has been a very successful youth pastor for a long time, says it's more about focusing on the right things. What are those right things? Get ready to take some notes from all the amazing wisdom Mr. Bill shares on this episode of Student Ministry Connection!   Links referenced in this episode:  Follow Bill on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mrbill6761  Follow Bill on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mrbill6761  Register for The Orange Conference at https://theorangeconference.com  Save 10% off your OC24 ticket by using promo code: OC24NNYM10  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

Each year, high school seniors are excited to finish their education and graduate. Many churches, however, are not too excited, because they fear these students will also graduate from their faith in God. Many of us are all too familiar teenagers who walk away from the church and their faith when they leave youth group. So in this episode, Steve shares 5 tips for helping students not graduate from their faith.  Links referenced in this episode:  Learn more about the statistics and research surrounding teens leaving the church at https://coldcasechristianity.com/writings/are-young-people-really-leaving-christianity/  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

What does it look like to not only share Jesus with the next generation but to also equip parents as the spiritual leaders in their homes? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we'll talk with Sam McDowell, author of Parent Equip, about what all of that means and share some practical steps on how youth leaders can take equip parents in what the Bible says is their role.  Links referenced in this episode:  Check out Sam's website at https://sammcdowell.com and his book at http://parentequip.com (discount code shared near the end of the interview)  Follow Sam on Instagram at https://instagram.com/sam__mcdowell  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: https://instagram.com/studentministryconnection  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

 Should we take a  break from our student ministry over the holidays, canceling our programs that week. I've heard this question from youth pastors a lot. And my short answer is yes, but today on student ministry connection, I'm going to share five reasons of why it's important for you to take a break over the holidays.  Links referenced in this episode:  Read about 5 Youth Ministry fixtures that need to die at https://bit.ly/5mymftntd  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Contribute to the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Survey before November 30, 2024, at the following link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx-js1VfoX8scimVovqAD9KxXD_-RS7aipfMHOCclQ9W32gg/viewform  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!  

While we often talk about the importance of partnering with parents, what does that actually look like? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we brought on a parent to ask her directly what she has appreciated and what she believes all youth pastors should know.  Links referenced in this episode:  Email Michelle at teamgreger@gmail.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Contribute to the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Survey before November 30, 2024, at the following link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx-js1VfoX8scimVovqAD9KxXD_-RS7aipfMHOCclQ9W32gg/viewform  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How can we take a Cobra Kai approach to our ministry? I don't necessarily mean how can we strike first and strike hard and show no mercy, but how can we take some of the principles we see in that show and apply them to our ministry with teenagers. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Travis Deans joins us to discuss what we can learn from Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence, and he also provides 5 things that student ministry must do to keep moving forward.   Links referenced in this episode:  Email Travis at tdeans@nnym.org  Read Travis' blog post at https://www.youthworkers.net/blog/cobra-kai-youth-ministry-3160.htm  Learn more about 9 Month Mission Trip at https://www.9monthmissiontrip.com/  More from Travis on episode 87 - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/087-9-month-mission-trip-with-travis-deans/  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Contribute to the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Survey before November 30, 2024, at the following link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx-js1VfoX8scimVovqAD9KxXD_-RS7aipfMHOCclQ9W32gg/viewform  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Are you a bivocational youth leader, or are you curious what it's like to be bivocational, where your ministry is not your only source of income? Maybe you're wondering how you can even do that. While it's not for everyone, Caleb Julin joins us to talk about how he's balancing everything and also writing a huge Bible study series that he's giving away. Even if you're full time, you will still learn a lot from Caleb.  Links referenced in this episode:  Connect with Caleb on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caleb.julin  Join the Bivocational Youth Pastors group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2144550492548279  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Contribute to the 2024 Youth Pastor Compensation Survey before November 30, 2024, at the following link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx-js1VfoX8scimVovqAD9KxXD_-RS7aipfMHOCclQ9W32gg/viewform  Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Once we have our student ministry team, and we've begun to train them, what do we do with them? Where exactly can they serve in the ministry, and how do we set them up for success now and in the future? This is part 3 of Student Ministry Connection's mini-series on teams, and today we're talking about sending that team through empowerment and multiplication. Links referenced in this episode:  Episode 48 on Networking - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/048-networking-with-jonny-radcliff/ Episode 100 on Networking - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/100-importance-of-networking-with-kevin-miles/ Episode 107 on Connecting with other Ministries - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/107-how-to-connect-with-others-in-student-ministry/ Episode 61 on Importance of Leaders - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/061-the-importance-of-leaders-with-billy-mcmahan/ Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do we help our leaders become better leaders, setting them up to succeed? And how can we continue to develop them with the skills and abilities they need, as well as help them grow as a follow of Jesus? This is part 2 of Student Ministry Connection's mini-series on teams. On this episode, we talk about equipping and discipling them.  Links referenced in this episode:  DYM's Youth Ministry University - https://www.ymuniversity.com  DYM's National Day of Training - https://trainmyvolunteers.com  YM360's MyYouthMin - https://myyouthmin.com  Leadertreks - https://trainmyvolunteers.com  Axis - https://axis.org  CPYU - https://cpyu.org  Lead Small book - https://amzn.to/44HSYo7  Lead Small study guide - https://orangeleaders.com/resources/lead-small-study-guide/ Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Whether you're a full-time youth pastor or a very part-time volunteer, along the way, we've all realized we can only do so much our own. On top of that, we need to build something that doesn't rely solely on us. So welcome to Student Ministry Connection's 3-part mini-series of podcast episodes focused on student ministry teams. This episode is all about forming and onboarding your team.  Links referenced in this episode:  Blog: Creating a Volunteer Strategy - https://stevecullum.com/2018/05/14/creating-a-volunteer-strategy-in-student-ministry-oc18/ Episode 69: Recruiting a Great Team - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/069-recruiting-a-great-team-with-steve-cullum/ Episode 61: The Importance of Leaders - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/061-the-importance-of-leaders-with-billy-mcmahan/ Episode 82: Wearing Many Hats - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/082-wearing-many-hats-with-jeremey-veal/ Episode 104: The Volunteer Playbook - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/104-the-volunteer-playbook-with-nick-blevins/ Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

It's no secret that teenagers all over are dealing with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and all kinds of mental health struggles. So how do we support them? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, we are joined by Dr. Chinwé Williams to talk about mental health and teenagers. Among many things, Dr. Williams is a licensed and board-certified counselor, supervisor, speaker, and author of Seen: Healing Despair and Anxiety in Kids and Teens Through the Power of Connection.  Links referenced in this episode:  Get a chance to win one of Dr. Williams' books by liking this episode's post on Instagram and leave a comment. @studentministryconnection  Check out Dr. Williams' website at https://drchinwewilliams.com  Follow Dr. Williams on Instagram @dr.chinwewilliams  Purchase her "Seen" book - https://amzn.to/3Kxlu4h  Purchase her "Beyond the Spiral" book - https://amzn.to/3KzEvDc  Learn more about NNYM's Footprints and Funds campaign at https://donorbox.org/footprints2023/fundraiser/steve-cullum  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's NNYM newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter - @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter - @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

Camps, mission trips, and retreats are great for those times when we can get away and spend longer uninterrupted time with a group of leaders and students. But how do we make it through those times without feeling incredibly tired and burned out? On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Steve offers 3 tips that can help you not only survive but thrive during camps and extended ministry programs. He also provides some other resources and reads some tips provided by some of our community.  Links referenced in this episode:  Episode 34: Overcoming Burnout with James Sabin - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/034-overcoming-burnout-with-james-sabin/ Episode 90: Avoiding Burnout with James Sabin - https://studentministryconnection.com/podcast/090-avoiding-burnout-with-james-sabin/ Youth Ministry SoulKeeper Podcast - https://podcast.downloadyouthministry.com/youth-ministry-soul-keeper  Free Refills Podcast - https://www.youthworkers.net/podcast.htm  The Art of Rest by Adam Mabry - https://amzn.to/3rN4znZ  The Myth of Balance by Frank Bealer - https://amzn.to/3DvZDXc  An Unhurried Life by Alan Fadling - https://amzn.to/3Y6498k  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!    

How do we prepare for camp, what do we do during camp, and what is our process for following up and evaluating after camp? It's important to have dedicated experiences within student ministry like camps, mission trips, retreats, and more. On this episode of Student Ministry Connection, Jeff Harding, of the Youth Ministry Maverick podcast, shares some wise tips on preparation, engagement, and follow-up as we dive into the secrets of a successful camp experience.  Links referenced in this episode:  Check out Jeff's Youth Ministry Maverick podcast at https://youthministrymaverick.com  Learn more about Steve's ministry with NNYM at http://nnym.org/stevecullum  Sign up to get Steve's NNYM newsletter at https://bit.ly/cullumnewsletter  Support the ministry by giving online at https://bit.ly/cullumsupport  Contact Steve about partnerships, speaking, coaching, or consulting at https://bit.ly/cullumcontact  Read Steve's blog at https://stevecullum.com  Follow Steve on Twitter: @stevecullum  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Instagram: @studentministryconnection  Follow Student Ministry Connection on Twitter: @stuminconnect   Be sure to join us in prayer for revival every Wednesday at 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET.  Sponsor for this episode of podcast: G Shades - https://gshades.org (Use code CONNECTION to save $20 off your next order).  Purchase a copy of Life Through the Lens of the Gospel by Mike Haynes - https://amzn.to/432h2B5  Get 40 free credits for Coleader by following this link - https://bit.ly/coleader-steve  Get a copy of the Cards Christians Like card game and/or their brand new game, Holy Guacamole, by using the link https://bit.ly/cardschristianslike and also support Student Ministry Connection.  Note: Some of the links above are affiliate links. By clicking them, Steve may receive commission to support this ministry.  Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, including these listed below:   Apple Podcasts  Google Podcasts  YouTube  Podbean  Spotify  Amazon Podcasts  Pandora  TuneIn Radio  If you like what you hear, be sure to like, subscribe, share, and comment! Thanks, be sure to get connected, and may God bless your ministry!