The Leading Tomorrow Podcast

As distractions surround us and our attention becomes more fragmented, practicing spiritual disciplines, and encouraging them in others, can be challenging. Jayelle Dolan, with 25 years of experience in youth and adult ministry, joins Jolene on this episode with practical steps to equip the young people in your life to engage in the disciplines that will help them grow in their faith.    Connect with Jayelle at https://www.jayelledolan.com/ Buy Jayelle's book: https://www.amazon.com/Throne-Room-Pray-Powerful-Prayers/dp/B0DMWSTBLS/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=

Does it ever seem like someone from another generation has an unbelievably different perspective or approach than your own? In this episode, Jolene discusses why the differences today are more than a generation gap, and how we can connect in meaningful ways across generations. 

Gen Z faces some unique barriers to spiritual growth. In this episode, Jolene is joined by Dr. O. Brent Dongell to discuss his recent research on Gen Z and the cultural challenges and needs they encounter in seeking to grow in their faith.    Connect with Dr. Dongell on Facebook or Instagram: @brentdongell

This year, 41 million Gen Zers were eligible to vote, 8 million for the very first time. In this episode, Jolene talks through some of the key values and surprising trends that emerged with Gen Z Voters in the 2024 election, with key takeaways for those who are leading young people. 

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Gen Zer, Vanessa Torres, a young corporate professional. Vanessa shares valuable insights from her experiences on how to connect effectively across generations in any work setting.    Show Notes: Connect with Vanessa on Instagram: vanessaannalise_

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Gen Z founder of NoSo November, a global social media detox movement. Maddie and Jolene discuss the impact of social media on the next generation and identify practical steps that can contribute to healthy digital habits.  https://www.nosonovember.org/ https://x.com/NoSoNovember https://www.instagram.com/nosonovember/ https://youtu.be/EhA1s4DC9S8?si=u30-fZesqIBAimXC

In this episode, Jolene is joined by her co-author, Katy White, to celebrate the 2-year anniversary of their book, Mobilizing Gen Z. In their discussion, Jolene and Katy discuss insights they would emphasize from conversations and experiences over the past two years on mobilizing and encouraging Gen Z to pursue their calling.    Show Notes:  To order the book, Mobilizing Gen Z, visit: https://missionbooks.org/ For bulk rates, contact one of the following: orders@wclbooks.com info@leadingtomorrow.org  

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Cyrena Denniston from Black Fire Ministries, to discuss ways to effectively connect with a diverse younger generation.    Show Notes: https://linktr.ee/blackfireministries

This past month, Leading Tomorrow celebrated our 10-Year Anniversary! In honor of that, Jolene spends this episode highlighting and discussing her current Top 10 Picks for Next Gen Resources to help you engage the next generation in business, education, ministry, or your home and community.    Show Notes: https://www.leadingtomorrow.org/blog

In this episode, Jolene is joined by James LaLonde to discuss the importance of grit, and how to encourage it in the lives of kids, teens, and young adults in our lives.    LaLonde Wellness Solutions, Inc.: www.wellnesssolutions.ca A Growth Mindset for Teens by Sydney Sheppard Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth Executive Functioning Workbook for Teens Grit for Kids by Lee David Daniels

In this episode, Jolene discusses ten important Gen Z traits for leaders, parents, teachers, and mentors to understand.    Show Notes: Leading Tomorrow Blog: https://www.leadingtomorrow.org/blog  

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Gen Z graduate student, Andy Renteria. They talk about their experiences with the Biblical Literacy Project, and present practical strategies and insights for encouraging biblical literacy for Gen Z students.     Show Notes: If you would like to see the full report on the pilot trip for the Biblical Literacy Project, contact us at info@leadingtomorrow.org You can connect with Andy on social media:  Insta: @andyrenteriae Facebook: @Andy Renteria LinkedIn: @Andy Renteria

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Dr. Angela Patterson to discuss the findings from The State of Religion and Young People 2023 report. This study reveals that young people are looking for sacred experiences...they just might not be finding them in places of worship. Practical strategies are discussed for how we can engage and encourage Gen Z and Gen Alpha in their spiritual journey.    Show Notes: For the full Springtide 2023 report on The State of Religion and Young People: Exploring the Sacred, go to https://www.springtideresearch.org. Follow Springtide Research Institute on FB or Instagram @wearespringtide 

Gen Z and Gen Alpha have access to more information than previous generations. So, how do we help them learn the information that is important and relevant? In this episode, Jolene presents practical strategies for engaging next gen learners in the workplace, schools, churches, and at home. 

In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss how workplace motivation differs across generations. They consider key strategies for leaders and managers to engage employees of all ages. 

Over 8 out of 10 Gen Zers indicate at least one trauma-inducing experience in their lives; with 1 in 5 reporting 4 to 7 trauma-inducing experiences (Barna). In this episode, psychotherapist James LaLonde joins Jolene to talk about the difference between trauma and vicarious or secondary trauma, and how to help young people in our lives who are navigating trauma.    Show Notes:   LaLonde Wellness Solutions: www.wellnesssolutions.ca Childhood Disrupted by Nakazawa  The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

How are Gen Alpha kids today different from Gen Z? What do we need to understand about this youngest generation? Dr. Barry Saylor joins Jolene on this episode to talk about key insights for parents, teachers and ministry leaders as we engage Generation Alpha.    Show Notes: The full Gen Alpha report can be downloaded on OneHope's research page at https://onehope.net/global-outreach/research/. OneHope's Global Youth Culture study (GYC) data explorer: https://www.globalyouthculture.net/

As we head into summer, it is important to remember some of the best resources we have for building physical, mental, and emotional health in ourselves and those we lead, teach, and parent. Jolene discusses the opportunity we all have to model and encourage the fun and free play that increase wellbeing for every generation.  The Secret Power of Play https://time.com/4928925/secret-power-play/ 1000 Hours Outside: https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/ Free to Learn by Peter Gray The Power of Play by Dr. David Elkind

In this episode, Jolene and a panel of young adults discuss how to effectively onboard Gen Z team members and encourage employee growth, engagement, and retention.   Show Notes: For more on the JAARS interns and fellows programs, check out: www.jaars.org/interns-fellows or connect on Instagram @jaarsinc For more on Jolene's new book, visit: https://missionbooks.org/collections/best-sellers/products/mobilizing-gen-z

Richard Hetzel, missionary in the Peruvian Amazon, joins Jolene on this episode to discuss the next gen in global missions. They identify key mindsets and approaches to effectively engage Gen Z. https://www.youtube.com/@thehetzels https://missionbooks.org/collections/best-sellers/products/mobilizing-gen-z

Josiah, a Millennial manager, joins Jolene in this episode to discuss challenges and opportunities for Millennials who are often managing Gen Z, as well as older Gen Xers and Boomers. They cover some key perspectives and strategies for anyone managing across generations.

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Dr. Angela Patterson from the Springtide Research Institute to discuss the most recent research findings on Gen Z and mental health. The conversation includes common mistakes that adults make when approaching young people about mental health and practical ways that leaders can help Gen Z feel supported in their mental health. Show Notes: https://www.springtideresearch.org/ https://www.springtideresearch.org/shop https://www.facebook.com/WeAreSpringtide

As we enter the holiday season, many of us have gift lists on our minds. In this episode, Jolene talks about some of the best gifts we can give the young people in our lives as we spend time with them over the holidays and engage them throughout the year. Show notes: https://biblicalcounselingcenter.org/power-of-encouragement/ https://www.leadingtomorrow.org/shop.html 

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Dave Raley, founder of Imago Consulting, to discuss common myths about innovation and the need for sustainable innovation. They also look at how the next generation can contribute to successful innovation in teams and organizations. 

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Doug Harrison, Director of Strategy and Innovation at MAF, to effectively engage Gen Z on teams and in organizations. They present key mindsets and action steps for leaders who want to see the next generation thrive in their organizational context. To contact Doug, email dharrison@maf.org To order the book, Mobilizing Gen Z, visit: https://missionbooks.org/ For bulk rates, contact one of the following: orders@wclbooks.com info@leadingtomorrow.org

In this episode, Jolene looks at some of the risks that Gen Z is exposed to by well-meaning parents, friends, organizations and businesses as they post online. Jolene provides important considerations for anyone who wants to protect Gen Z's identity and digital footprint.    https://www.bbc.com/news/education-44153754 https://growingleaders.com/blog/sharenting-solving-the-problem-of-parents-and-kids-on-instagram/

In this special episode, Jolene is joined by her co-author, Katy White, to discuss their new book, Mobilizing Gen Z: Challenges and Opportunities for the Global Age of Missions. The new book launches August 8, 2022. In their discussion, Jolene and Katy present insights on mobilizing and encouraging Gen Z and give an overview of the practical applications and resources in the book. To order the book, Mobilizing Gen Z, visit: https://missionbooks.org/ For bulk rates, contact one of the following: orders@wclbooks.com info@leadingtomorrow.org

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Dr. Bethany Peters to discuss one of the most effective tools for mentoring and leading the next generation. The coach approach is applicable to any context where you are engaging young people and encouraging them to grow. Show Notes: https://www.theleadershipcoachinglab.com/six-weeks-to-a-coach-approach  - Group Coaching Program launching in September https://www.theleadershipcoachinglab.com/coach-approach - Other Coach Approach Training Options https://www.theleadershipcoachinglab.com/resources - Free Resources on Coach Approach / Email sign up Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theleadershipcoachinglab/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-d-peters/  To check out Jolene's new book, visit: https://missionbooks.org/ or www.leadingtomorrow.org

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Jesse Chukwemeka Umeh who recently completed research on the topic of fatherlessness and its impact on the development of leaders. Jolene and Jesse discuss critical trends related to parenting and families in America, and offer hope and encouragement for young leaders and those investing in the next generation.

In this episode, Jolene discusses how to manage technology in our lives to increase productivity, health, and wellbeing. She provides some practical tips for individuals and families to consider as we head into summer. 

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Gen Z high school graduate, Ariana Chaparro. Ariana shares some of the challenges that Gen Z students face today as they seek to practice good self-leadership. She provides insights into helping students develop better self-awareness and emotional intelligence. https://www.leadingtomorrow.org/coaching.html https://www.myipsat.com/

In this episode, Jolene is joined by international church planter, Mark McKinstry, to discuss biblical models of multicultural ministry and leadership. Jolene and Mark highlight important lessons and insights from Scripture for leaders engaging Gen Z, the most diverse and global generation in history. 

How does Gen Z learn best? How can we effectively equip them through training? In this episode, Jolene is joined by Andrea Kroeze, Training & Curriculum Coordinator at Touch the World, where she trains young people for short-term missions. Jolene and Andrea discuss important considerations for effectively training Gen Z in any context. 

In the midst of what many are calling the "Great Resignation," record numbers of employees are leaving their jobs. In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss key considerations for leaders and managers looking to retain the young people on their teams.   

In this episode, Jolene is joined by Jacob Hancock, Executive Director at Seeds Global Innovation Lab. Jolene and Jacob discuss why innovation is essential for organizations, churches, schools and ministries today. They provide practical perspectives and tools for any leader or individual seeking to engage the next generation and remain effective in a rapidly changing world.    Resources on Innovation and Design Thinking:  Creative Confidence by Kelley & Kelley Creativity, Inc. by Catmull Innovation by Design by Lockwood & Papke Design Thinking for Growth by Liedtka & Ogilvie  seedsinnovation.com

Gen Z is growing up as the most diverse generation in history and desires teams and leaders that value diversity. In this episode, Jolene is joined by Charlotte Kassis and Bethany Peters to discuss how to develop our cultural competence as an individual and leader and facilitate healthy diversity on multicultural teams. Show Notes: Multicultural Leadership Mastermind: https://www.theleadershipcoachinglab.com/multiculturalmastermind Info Session: December 13th @ 7 p.m. CST Begins January 12th

In this episode, Gen Z high school graduate, Ariana Chaparro, joins Jolene to discuss texting and how it contributes to miscommunication for young people, as well as adults!

In this episode, Jolene reads an excerpt from her book, Daniel Generation, on building meaningful relationships. She looks at the life of Daniel and discusses why intentionality in relationships is more important than ever for leaders of all ages to thrive in our current culture. Check out the special offers on Daniel Generation English edition, Spanish edition, or audiobook this month at leadingtomorrow.org Visit leadingtomorrow.org to purchase Daniel Generation in English or Spanish for only $10 this month. Send proof of purchase of Daniel Generation in any format to info@leadingtomorrow.org to receive the video series and training guide for free. 

In this episode, Jolene and Josiah will share thoughts on what to consider when posting about kids (or others) on social media. They explore how some of these posts may be public such as posting pictures on Instagram, while others seem to happen in private but often end up turning your child into a set of data points. https://growingleaders.com/blog/sharenting-solving-the-problem-of-parents-and-kids-on-instagram/?mc_cid=9be9ce4022&mc_eid=32dd44164d https://www.bbc.com/news/education-44153754   

As culture continues to change, we often find ourselves disagreeing with the views and decisions of those close to us. In this episode, Jolene and her guest, recent high school graduate Ariana Chaparro, discuss what to do when you want to give advice or share your opinion, especially with someone older or younger than you. How can we engage others in ways that are helpful and not harmful? 

In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss “resume” values or competencies as opposed to “eulogy” values or character. They explore ways that we overemphasize resume values and underemphasize eulogy values, resulting in decreased internal motivation, moral character, and empathy in young people today. Ideas and strategies are presented to help encourage the development of moral value in the young people we mentor.

Most teams today are composed of members from more than one generation. This often results in different values, perspectives, and expectations being present as teams interact. Self awareness helps us navigate some of these differences more effectively. In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss strategies for increasing our self awareness as leaders and team members on multigenerational teams.

In this episode, Jolene talks with Chloe Spoonemore, a recent Gen Z college graduate about her research on how to engage Gen Z in the church. Chloe shares helpful insights for pastors, parents, mentors and leaders seeking to encourage the next generation in their faith.    Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn (Chloe Spoonemore) or on Instagram (@UnfadedThrift)

In this episode, Jolene talks to Children's Ministry Director, Chris Pruett, about adverse childhood experiences and how to help young people who have experienced trauma. Chris presents practical applications for churches, as well as individuals, as we support the children who are suffering in our communities.  Check out Chris' Capstone Project titled, “Building Emotionally Healthy Kids in the Church." https://youtu.be/mtVxg-ABJdw  

In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss cancel culture, how it is seen in our society today, and its impact on Gen Z. They also offer insights on how leaders, parents, and mentors can model the love and forgiveness that cancel culture fails to convey. For more information on related topics visit leadingtomorrow.org

In this episode, Jolene and Josiah discuss how the ultimate goal of many Gen Zers is happiness. Drawing upon research in Jolene's book, Daniel Generation, they share insights for encouraging young leaders to navigate the distractions of technology and pursue more than momentary happiness.

In this episode, Adam Haugen, Discipleship Director at River of Life Church joins Jolene to talk about small group ministry and Millennials as churches consider what ministry in a post-pandemic world looks like. Adam draws upon his experience and research to highlight best practices for engaging the next gen in ministry and discipleship in both virtual and in-person contexts.

Listening is one of the most important ways we can engage and earn the trust of young people in our lives. In this episode, Jolene discusses some of the key elements to actively listening to understand and strengthen relationships.  Learn more at leadingtomorrow.org

The National Student Clearinghouse reported on October 15, 2020 that undergraduate student enrollment is now running 4% below last year's level. In this episode Jolene talks about trends in college enrollment this fall and how to encourage students who are taking a gap year or reassessing their plans. If you know a student who is interested in applying for the virtual gap year, use promo code LT2021 to waive the $50 application fee: https://www.myvirtualgapyear.com/  

This is a generation that is incredibly individualistic and is growing up in a world that tells them identity is fluid. They also live with social media and the pressure to compare themselves to others. Young people today need confidence to understand themselves. In this episode, Jolene discusses the book, The 8 Great Smarts by Kathy Koch, and talks about how we can help Gen Zers identify their unique "smarts," and affirm and encourage them in developing their abilities. 

Gen Z kids have unprecedented access to ideas, opinions, and information. It is imperative that we train them to understand truth and think critically. Elizabeth Urbanowicz joins Jolene to discuss her Worldview Foundations Comparative Curriculum, perfect for parents, teachers and church leaders seeking to equip the next generation to understand and communicate their faith.