Podcasts about hard places

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza talks with Brittany Sawrey-Coulson and Benjamin Crawshaw from True Face about the power of authenticity in mentorship and discipleship. They challenge performance-based models of discipleship, emphasizing identity in Christ and the value of genuine, trust-filled relationships. The conversation covers how mentors can create safe spaces for youth through authentic connection, meaningful dialogue, and shared experiences. They also discuss the role of food, curiosity, and presence in building trust, as well as the impact of social media and technology on mentorship. The episode wraps up with practical resources to help mentors guide deeper, more impactful conversations with their mentees. Check out Brittany and Benjamin's book, The Path: What if the Way of Jesus is Different Than You Thought? on Amazon here. You can also download a sneak peek of the book or learn more at https://www.trueface.org/thepath. --Takeaways: TrueFace helps Christians find peace through identity-based discipleship.Authenticity and humility are key to connecting with today's youth.Mentoring starts with trust, not performance.The next generation craves real relationships and self-understanding.Safe, grace-filled environments foster growth and transformation.Shared meals and genuine curiosity deepen connection.Face-to-face, experiential learning is powerful in a digital age.Mentors must be secure in their identity to lead well.The Path Experience Guide provides practical tools for mentors.Social media brings both challenges and chances for deeper engagement.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and True Face01:53 The Journey of True Face and Its Impact06:12 Authenticity in Mentorship and Discipleship08:55 Shifting from Performance to Identity15:07 Building Relationships in Mentorship21:07 The Role of Humility in Mentorship23:01 Creating Safe Environments for Change36:00 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Mentoring44:03 Resources for Effective Mentoring Conversations--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

June 8th Sermon

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza talks with Susie Gallo of Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance about the life-changing impact of mentorship. They explore the value of compassion, curiosity, and authentic connections with mentees. Susie offers practical advice on supporting mentors, creative approaches to recruitment, and the importance of patience in building meaningful relationships. The episode emphasizes how small, everyday experiences can shape young lives and calls for greater community involvement in mentoring efforts.https://sonomamentoring.org/--Takeaways:Mentoring is about building authentic relationships.Compassion should come before comprehension in mentoring.Curiosity helps mentors understand their mentees better.Simple experiences can create lasting memories for kids.Setting mentors up for success is crucial for effective mentoring.Community engagement is essential for recruiting mentors.Patience is key in the mentoring journey.Kids often face challenges that mentors may not see.Mentors should be aware of their mentee's family dynamics.Creating a supportive environment is vital for mentoring success.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Connection07:12 The Importance of Compassion in Mentoring15:42 Building Authentic Relationships in Mentoring23:40 Setting Up Mentors for Success30:11 Innovative Approaches to Mentor Recruitment37:33 The Journey of Mentoring: Patience and Growth--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews Randy Odom, President of Kids Across America (KAA), to explore the powerful impact of mentorship and the unique opportunities KAA provides for youth. Randy reflects on his own mentorship journey and discusses how camp experiences play a vital role in shaping young lives. The conversation highlights the Kaleo program, which develops young leaders, and offers insight into daily life at KAA—where the focus is on building strong relationships in a safe and supportive environment. The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to get involved and support KAA's mission.https://kaakamps.org/--Takeaways:KAA provides a safe and nurturing environment for kids.Mentorship is crucial for youth development and overcoming challenges.The camp experience can lead to significant personal transformation.Building trust is essential in mentorship relationships.The Kaleo program empowers youth leaders to support their communities.Effective training for counselors is vital for impactful mentorship.Real-life stories illustrate the power of mentorship.Daily activities at KAA are designed to foster relationships and personal growth.The camp emphasizes Christian values and community support.Investing in youth workers is key to sustaining mentorship efforts.--Chapters: 00:00  Introduction to Kids Across America02:11  Randy Odom's Journey and Mentorship05:04  The Impact of Camp Experiences08:31  The Need for Mentorship in Today's Youth11:06  The Role of Mentorship in Overcoming Challenges13:31  Training Counselors for Effective Mentorship19:05  Real-Life Stories of Transformation20:19  The Kaleo Program and Its Importance25:47  The Camp Experience: Daily Life at KAA35:38  Conclusion and Call to Action--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza speaks with Reverend Clarence Ford III, Program Director of the Crossroads Mentoring Program in Houston, Texas. They explore how mentoring serves as a form of discipleship and plays a critical role in youth development. Clarence highlights the power of building relationships within schools to bring hope to young people, and he emphasizes the importance of community partnerships and proper mentor training. Framing mentoring as a meaningful ministry, the conversation calls on listeners to take part in the collective effort to support youth and families through mentorship and service.https://crossroadsmentoring.org/--Takeaways:Mentoring is a form of discipleship.Building relationships is key to instilling hope.Hope can be restored by helping kids dream again.Partnerships enhance the effectiveness of mentoring programs.Meeting basic needs is crucial before mentoring can take place.Training is essential for mentors to be effective.Unity in diversity is important in community work.Mentoring can change the trajectory of a young person's life.Everyone has a role to play in mentoring and community service.Use your gifts to serve and build the kingdom.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Discipleship03:00 The Role of Mentoring in Youth Development05:58 Building Relationships in Schools08:56 Instilling Hope in Youth12:01 The Importance of Partnerships14:58 Training Mentors for Impact18:07 The Call to Mentoring20:59 Conclusion and Encouragement--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

Elise White Diaz, a passionate advocate for trauma-informed multilingual education, joins Highest Aspirations to discuss practical strategies for connecting with and supporting students who have experienced trauma or come from challenging backgrounds. Drawing on her extensive work in diverse settings, Elise emphasizes the power of understanding students' experiences and building trust as foundational elements for effective teaching.This episode explores the impact of trauma on learning and language acquisition, highlighting the importance of emotional attunement in the classroom. Elise introduces her "Discover, Connect, Respond" framework and the practical "Four S's" routine as actionable ways for educators to create safe and supportive environments. Learn how fostering secure connections and responding empathetically to student needs can unlock their potential and promote growth.Key questions we address:What are some key principles of trauma-informed practice that educators should understand when working with multilingual learners who may have experienced adversity? How does trauma impact a student's brain and their ability to acquire language and engage in learning, and what are some practical classroom strategies to address these challenges? Why is the concept of attachment theory particularly relevant when supporting multilingual learners with trauma histories, and how can educators foster secure connections in the classroom to promote healing and growth? For additional episode and community resources:Download the transcript here.Learn more about Elise and her work with Seidlitz here.Pre-order Elise's upcoming book Discover, Connect, Respond. Dr. Dan Siegel's video How our Relationships Shape Us.Order book by Jonathan Haidt The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.Learn more about the Ellevation Scholarship and how to apply. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, ⁠visit our blog.Elise White Diaz is well-versed in the challenges facing students from hard places. Her journey in trauma-informed education began in Honduras, where she dedicated herself to a school for child laborers in the city's garbage dump. Elise brought her global experience to a diverse district in North Texas. There, she integrated principles of culturally relevant, trauma-informed education with language acquisition strategies, driving substantial growth in student performance. As a consultant with Seidlitz Education, Elise travels nationwide to assist districts in fostering language development and cross-cultural connections. She is honored to keynote state conferences and is the author of the forthcoming book, Discover, Connect, Respond: A Practical Approach for Trauma-Informed Education.

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews Michael Morgan, founder of A Few Good Mentors, Inc. Michael shares his journey from being an FBI surveillance expert to becoming a dedicated youth mentor. The conversation explores the importance of mentoring, the challenges of recruiting male mentors, and the core values that guide their organization. Michael emphasizes the need for male role models in the community, the impact of mentoring on young lives, and the significance of faith in overcoming challenges. The episode concludes with insights on how to engage and retain mentors while addressing the evolving needs of today's youth.https://afgmentoring.net/--Takeaways:Mentoring is about caring for the next generation.There is a significant need for male mentors in communities.Succession planning is a crucial aspect of mentoring.Recruiting male mentors is a challenging but necessary task.Core values like SHIELDS guide mentoring efforts.Engaging mentors requires personal connection and support.Today's youth face unique challenges, including mental health issues.Education needs to be made fun to engage students.The impact of mentoring can be seen years later.Faith plays a vital role in the mentoring journey.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Michael's Background02:52 Transition from FBI to Mentoring Youth06:07 The Importance of Mentoring and Succession Planning09:00 Challenges in Recruiting Male Mentors12:01 Core Values: SHIELDS and Their Significance15:01 Engaging and Retaining Mentors18:08 Addressing the Needs of Today's Youth20:48 The Impact of Mentoring on Young Lives24:01 Overcoming Discouragement in Mentoring27:06 Final Thoughts and Resources for Mentors--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

“Discipleship in a fallen world is discipleship in a hard place.” This is how Amy Gower approaches discipleship as she ministers to women who have recently been rescued from human trafficking and addiction situations. Join Amy and Hunter as they discuss what it looks like to root yourself in God's Word while walking through the open door of ministry in difficult places.  FULL SHOW NOTES DISCUSSION QUESTIONS How does the gospel shape how you approach discipling people in difficult situations? What can we glean from Jesus Christ's life and ministry when preparing ourselves for the good work the Lord has set before us? How might modeling you prayer life after Jesus' affect how you go about discipleship? What is one open door for ministry that the Lord has for you right now? How might you prepare right now for this good work? How can developing a robust theology of suffering (rooted in God's Word) help you in discipleship contexts while also keeping in mind the other person's greatest need in that moment? What might you do or implement based on what you learned in this week's episode? FOR MORE Give to Journeywomen Ministries  Listen on Apple Podcasts | Android | Spotify Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook Leave a rating & review Interviews do not imply Journeywomen's endorsement of all writings and positions of the interviewee or any other resources mentioned.  On the Journeywomen podcast, we'll help you know and love God through his Word, find your hope in the gospel, and invest deeply in your local church as you go out on mission for the glory of God.

In this episode, Zach shares an exciting update for the You Can Mentor podcast! The show, which started four years ago with co-founder Stephen Murray, has been dedicated to helping faith-based mentoring organizations collaborate, grow, and equip themselves with best practices. Over time, they've created 264 podcast episodes, a series of books, and hosted the National Christian Mentoring Gathering.Looking ahead, the podcast is shifting gears with a new focus on quality over quantity. Zach explains that, while the podcast will still feature some familiar voices, the goal is to bring in the most valuable guests—experts in the mentoring field—who can provide listeners with practical tools and insights.This season will also see a new episode schedule: bi-weekly episodes focusing on expert guests who can share mentoring tools to help organizations thrive. Zach also acknowledges that they've interviewed many of their contacts over the past few years, so re-interviews might be coming soon to catch up on what's new with past guests.The podcast will continue to provide resources like consulting, coaching, and downloads to support faith-based mentoring ministries. Zach encourages listeners to reach out with any questions, guest suggestions, or ideas for future episodes.As always, the You Can Mentor team is committed to equipping and encouraging listeners to serve kids from hard places and their families. Zach wraps up by expressing love and support for all the listeners in their mentoring journey.www.youcanmentor.com

Chivonne's incredible story of transforming her own life from losing her first marriage, her home, multiple miscarriages and herself to rebuilding her life, her family, and a successful business is inspiring. Chivonne's personal experience coupled with her work is the inspiration behind her daring mission to teach others that they can transform their lives from the inside out.Her impactful work has transformed the lives of thousands, from youth and their families, the incarcerated population and parolees as well as hundreds of unhoused veterans. She has spoken nationally and internationally to groups of women, both great and small about how to transform one's life.Chivonne's journey birthed The Mosaic Refinery, an organization where the mission is to harness the transformative power of embracing our brokenness, using it as a catalyst for growth and refinement. Chivonne believes that beautiful things grow in hard places and she takes people on a journey, seamlessly blending personal stories with her mental health expertise to guide women through the refining process from brokenness to whole and beautiful.You will be inspired by her own journey.Stay focused, stay positive, and always have fun. Coach Maria

Have you ever been deceived by something that looked good on the surface but led you away from the truth? In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul warns the church about false teachers who disguise themselves as servants of Christ. In this sermon, Pastor Nate unpacks Paul's passionate defense of the gospel, the dangers of spiritual deception, and how we can stand firm in authentic faith.--Sermon by Pastor Nate Click--New to Heritage?Want to get more involved?Looking for a Group or Ministry Team?Let us know at https://heritage.ccbchurch.com/goto/f...--Stay Connected:Website: http://www.hbcmonroe.orgHeritage Facebook: / heritagebaptistchurchmonroe

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews AD, the Men's Mentorship Manager at GRIP Outreach for Youth in Chicago. AD discusses his faith journey, his background in mentorship, and the mission of GRIP, which focuses on building meaningful, life-on-life relationships with youth. The conversation highlights GRIP's programs, such as SLAM, a sports-based mentorship initiative, and the Future Steps program, which helps prepare students for life after high school. AD underscores the importance of equipping mentors, connecting them with students, and fostering growth in both groups, concluding with inspiring stories of transformation and the role of prayer in mentorship.--Takeaways: AD's journey from San Antonio to Chicago highlights the unexpected paths God can take us on.Mentorship is about building relationships and being present in students' lives.SLAM combines sports and mentorship to create a fun and engaging environment for youth.The Future Steps program helps students prepare for life after high school through practical skills and career guidance.Equipping mentors is essential for effective mentorship and building trust with students.Understanding the gap between expectations and reality can help mentors avoid discouragement.Prayer is a vital component in seeking mentors and guidance in mentorship programs.Growth in mentorship is a two-way street; both mentors and mentees learn from each other.Community partnerships enhance the effectiveness of mentorship programs.Stories of transformation remind us of the impact mentorship can have on young lives.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to AD and GRIP Outreach06:45 AD's Journey and Background13:23 Understanding GRIP's Mission and Programs19:30 SLAM: Sports and Mentorship22:05 Future Steps Program: Preparing for Life After High School25:35 Equipping Mentors for Success31:18 Connecting Students and Mentors35:31 Growing and Developing Relationships36:18 Stories of Transformation and Encouragement--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

We are nothing if not about making Misfit History. And today's momentous Misfit moment is brought to you by Abby Jartos, who reserves the historical honor of being our VERY FIRST ILLUSTRATOR here on the Isle! There's a lot happening in this podcast. Connecting to your creative side, for one. Cause guess what? You've got one. Yes. You! Even if you don't have a single flowy boho piece in your wardrobe. Creativity takes on many forms. In fact, in this episode's Stupid Game, you can play along with Abby at home and actually find out What Type of Creative You Really Are, thanks to our friends at Buzzfeed. (take the quiz here: https://www.buzzfeed.com/natashajokic1/creative-type-quiz) That alone is something right there. But wait, there's more! We also talk about themes around the beautiful book she illustrated, "The Good for Nothing Puddle" (written by Jana Jackson)... Things like finding joy in grief, redemption in loss, beauty for ashes... what do you do when God seems silent... oh yes, we get into it. Cause that's what we do: Play Stupid Games and then Go Deep. You'll want to get the book, cause it's not only beautiful, it's really helpful (ah, form AND function) especially for anyone you know, whether a child or not, going through a season of sadness. It's available wherever you like to get your books (Amazon, Goodreads, all the places)... and HERE's a thought: why not request it at your public library?? Cause that's what the public needs: More beautiful, HELPFUL books! Find out more about Abby (and her Experiential Design Studios... cause I KNOW you want to know more about THAT) here: https://abbyjartos.com/ And follow her on Insta... maybe even sliiide into her DM's here: @abbyjartos For more Misfit fun for everyone (podcasts, blogposts, gallery of beauty, even some original music) - subscribe to isleofmisfits.com (oh, and if you like what you hear, feel free to give us a review to help expand our siblinghood of square pegs, and spread the good news of OWNING OUR AWKWARD, LOVING OUR FELLOW MISFIT, and SEEKING BEAUTY AND TRUTH EVERYWHERE).

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza sits down with John Barnard to dive into their new book, The Youth Mentoring Playbook, a must-read for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of young people. They share key insights, practical strategies, and real-life experiences that help mentors build strong, meaningful relationships. Whether you're a coach, teacher, or community leader, this book will give you the tools to guide and inspire the next generation. Tune in for valuable takeaways and a behind-the-scenes look at their journey in writing the book!Purchase your copy of The Youth Mentoring Playbook here! --It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Grant Skeldon dive into the significance of mentorship and discipleship, especially for young people who have faced tough challenges. They share personal stories, insights on starting a new church in Nashville, and the essential role of community in building meaningful connections. The conversation highlights the importance of creating lasting memories in mentorship and overcoming common obstacles that hinder individuals from engaging in these relationships. Zachary and Grant discuss the challenges and rewards of discipleship, touching on barriers like time constraints and feelings of inadequacy. They stress the power of sharing personal testimonies and stories as key mentoring tools. The conversation also explores the stages of discipleship, from being a learner to becoming a multiplier, while underscoring the value of hospitality and warmth in relationship-building. Ultimately, they reflect on the hard work of discipleship and its rewarding potential to make a lasting impact.--Takeaways: Mentorship can significantly impact young people's lives.Creating a safe environment is crucial for trust in mentorship.Community is essential for effective discipleship.People are more open to the gospel during transitions.Connection is more important than content for the next generation.Core memories enhance the mentoring experience.It's important to connect mentees with caring adults.Showing up consistently builds strong relationships.Overcoming feelings of inadequacy is key to mentoring.Discipleship should focus on building relationships, not just teaching. Many people feel they don't have time for discipleship.Feeling unqualified is a common barrier to mentoring.Discipleship can happen in everyday life, not just formal settings.Your testimony can be a powerful tool for discipleship.Sharing failures can create deeper connections than sharing successes.Hospitality is key in building relationships with the next generation.Discipleship involves multiple stages: learner, leader, disciple maker, multiplier.It's important to invest in others, not just for their sake but for the sake of future generations.Discipleship is hard work, but it is worth the effort.Building relationships at the table can lead to transformative experiences.-- Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:00 The Impact of Mentorship and Discipleship04:33 Mentoring Kids from Difficult Backgrounds07:01 Starting a New Church: Way Church in Nashville11:53 The Importance of Community in Discipleship17:14 Creating Core Memories in Mentorship23:00 Overcoming Roadblocks in Mentorship24:20 Overcoming Barriers to Discipleship41:09 The Stages of Discipleship46:37 The Hard Work of Discipleship--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

Andrew Ginsberg has been the president of Operation Mobilization USA for the last six months, stepping into the role and following in the footsteps of George Verwer, founder of OM (and past ). Coming from a Jewish upbringing, Andrew tells the story of the nine-year path that led him to following Jesus—and then his eventual route into full-time ministry. Andrew shares three things the Lord taught him in the 18 months before he took over the presidency of OM-USA, preparing him to lead OM through this season. He also talks about the weight of leadership when sending gospel workers to places where their lives are at risk due to Christian persecution. Andrew is reminded that it's his job to inform, not to stop people from being a witness for Christ. “It's very easy to give up control, hold my hands up, and let the Lord do the work,” Andrew says, “The gospel moves in our presence but not because of our presence.” Andrew will also share the story of one witness in Sudan, and how OM-USA is using social media to reach individuals willing to be disciple-makers. His greatest joy is to see others called to go and spread the gospel to the unreached parts of the world. Pray that the Lord would call more laborers into the harvest and that the gospel wildfire would continue to spread in closed nations.

Life doesn't always make sense, and neither does suffering—but Job's story proves that faith isn't about having answers, it's about trusting God through the chaos. He lost everything, faced bad advice, and still held on. When we stop trying to control the unknown and surrender to God, we realize He's been in control all along. Even when we can't see Him working, He never abandons us. (Talk by Don Baker)

Andrew Ginsberg has been the president of Operation Mobilization USA for the last six months, stepping into the role and following in the footsteps of George Verwer, founder of OM (and past VOM Radio guest). Coming from a Jewish upbringing, Andrew tells the story of the nine-year path that led him to following Jesus—and then his eventual route into full-time ministry. Andrew shares three things the Lord taught him in the 18 months before he took over the presidency of OM-USA, preparing him to lead OM through this season. He also talks about the weight of leadership when sending gospel workers to places where their lives are at risk due to Christian persecution. Andrew is reminded that it's his job to inform, not to stop people from being a witness for Christ. “It's very easy to give up control, hold my hands up, and let the Lord do the work,” Andrew says, “The gospel moves in our presence but not because of our presence.” Andrew will also share the story of one witness in Sudan, and how OM-USA is using social media to reach individuals willing to be disciple-makers. His greatest joy is to see others called to go and spread the gospel to the unreached parts of the world. Pray that the Lord would call more laborers into the harvest and that the gospel wildfire would continue to spread in closed nations. OM co-founder Dale Rhoton has also been a guest on VOM Radio. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Brad Griffin of Fuller Youth Institute explore the impact of mentoring teenagers, with a focus on identity, belonging, and purpose. Brad, drawing from his research at the Fuller Youth Institute, stresses the importance of genuine connections with young people and fostering safe environments where they can express their thoughts and emotions. The discussion underscores the value of trust, active listening, and guiding teens toward purpose through meaningful service and community engagement.You can checkout Brad's book, Three Big Questions here. To get free resources or find out more information about Fuller Youth Institute, visit https://fulleryouthinstitute.com/.--Takeaways:Mentoring is about listening to teenagers' questions.Identity, belonging, and purpose are crucial for youth.Building trust is essential in mentoring relationships.Creating a safe space allows teens to be authentic.Helping others gives teenagers a sense of purpose.Mentors should not have an agenda when engaging with youth.Follow-up conversations show care and build trust.Teens often feel pressure from expectations around them.Community and church can provide a sense of belonging.God's will for our lives is broad and forgiving.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Identity07:32 Exploring Identity, Belonging, and Purpose15:32 Building Trust and Authentic Relationships23:20 Creating Safe Spaces for Teens33:20 Understanding Purpose and Community--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of You Can Mentor, Zachary Garza speaks with Dominick Sanchez from Urban Story Ministries about the power of mentorship in urban communities. Dominick shares his journey from troubled youth to mentor, emphasizing the importance of understanding at-risk youth and addressing misconceptions about their behavior. He highlights the need for trained, compassionate mentors, home visits to grasp mentees' backgrounds, and consistency in building trust. The conversation also explores conflict resolution, setting expectations, and helping youth redefine their identity. Urban Story's mission focuses on equipping local churches to support and guide young people effectively. https://www.urbanstoryministries.com/--Takeaways:Dominic's journey into mentorship began after a life-changing experience at 15.Urban Story aims to empower local churches to effectively mentor youth.Misconceptions about behavior and salvation can hinder effective mentorship.Effective mentors must be called to urban ministry and receive proper training.Home visits are crucial for understanding the backgrounds of mentees.Compassion and understanding are key to building trust with at-risk youth.Mentorship involves consistently showing up and being present in a child's life.Setting clear expectations helps manage group dynamics and behavior.Conflict resolution requires separating the child from their audience.Mentors should focus on resetting the identity of the youth they work with.--Chapters:00:00  Introduction and Background02:47  Dominic's Journey into Mentorship04:08  Understanding Urban Story and Its Mission06:09  Misconceptions in Urban Youth Mentorship08:06  Qualities of Effective Mentors10:45  Tools for Mentoring at-Risk Youth14:38  Dominic's Personal Story and Passion18:34  Advice to Young Dominic22:27  The Role of Mentors in Conflict Resolution24:27  Managing Group Dynamics and Behavior32:20  The Importance of Compassion in Mentorship--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

Everyone loves the idea of following Jesus when things go our way and blessings follow, but how do we follow Jesus in hard places? How do we learn to say yes when it costs us things we love? Justin reflects on these questions with his friend David Taylor, who has recently returned from over a decade of ministry in Turkey.Justin Kendrick is the Lead Pastor of Vox Church, which he founded in 2011 with a group of friends on the doorstep of Yale University. Since then, the church has grown to multiple locations across New England with the dream of seeing the least-churched region of the U.S. become the most spiritually vibrant place on earth. Justin is the author of the USA Today bestseller How to Quiet a Hurricane, as well as Bury Your Ordinary and The Sacred Us (David C Cook). In addition to hosting Justin Kendrick: The Devoted Life Podcast, he continues to create sermon material, small group studies, and video content weekly through Vox Church. Justin and his wife, Chrisy, live with their four children in the New Haven area. To learn more about Justin, visit JustinKendrick.com.

In this episode of You Can Mentor, Zachary Garza speaks with Alyssa Bryant from Save Our Youth, a mentoring organization in Denver, Colorado. Alyssa shares her journey from the music industry to her role as Marketing and Events Coordinator. They discuss the organization's mission to instill God-given worth in young people, the impact of mentoring, and the various programs supporting youth aged 10 to 17. She highlights the importance of creating fun experiences for mentees, the rigorous mentor recruitment process, and the long-term value of mentorship. The episode ends with a call to action for potential mentors to get involved.https://www.saveouryouth.org/mentor/--Takeaways:Alyssa transitioned from the music industry to mentoring.Save Our Youth has a waitlist of over 90 kids.The organization focuses on instilling God-given worth in youth.Mentoring relationships average 52 months in duration.Events are designed to create memorable experiences for youth.The recruitment process for mentors includes background checks and interviews.Mentors are supported by mentoring specialists throughout their journey.The organization provides scholarships and resources for youth transitioning to adulthood.Fun experiences are prioritized to build strong mentor-mentee bonds.Save Our Youth encourages community involvement and volunteerism.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Save Our Youth06:25 Alyssa's Journey to Save Our Youth12:10 The Impact of Mentoring on Youth18:01 The Mentor Recruitment Process24:54 Creating Lasting Mentor-Mentee Relationships28:12 Supporting Youth Beyond 1831:24 Call to Action for Potential Mentors--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this heartfelt conversation, we sit down with Angela Mackey to explore what it means to hold onto faith when the road ahead feels unclear. Whether you're navigating infertility, illness, or an unexpected challenge, this episode is a reminder that you were never meant to bear the weight of it all by yourself. Angela shares her personal experiences, offering wisdom from Scripture and reflections that bring both comfort and clarity. We talk about the power of simply being present for those who are hurting, the reality that faith isn't about never doubting but about trusting God in the midst of uncertainty, and the ways we can lean into His goodness even when we don't understand His timing. If you've ever felt distant from God or wondered if your faith is enough, this conversation will remind you that He is always near, holding you in His grace, even when the path doesn't make sense.Episode Highlights: Angela's journey.Hearing from the Lord.Holding onto faith.You don't have to carry the burden.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Purpose Beyond Motherhood and Angela Mackey:Twelve 12 Ministries WebsiteIG Handle: @twelve12ministriesFacebook: @twelve12ministriesEmail: info@twelve12ministries.org Visit the Twelve 12 Ministries ShopGet your copy of Angela's Book: Difficult to Conceive by Angela MackeyVisit Angela's websiteFollow Rethinking My Thinking on FacebookListen to the Life As Worship PodcastFollow Angela on InstagramThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

In this episode of You Can Mentor, host Zach talks with Kent Evans, founder of Manhood Journey, about the role of mentorship in fatherhood. Kent shares how a mentor shaped his teenage years and emphasizes the power of asking questions over giving answers. They explore the dangers of mentoring, the importance of humility, and how mentors should guide mentees in building decision-making skills. The goal is to transition from mentor to friend, creating a space where both mentor and mentee learn from each other.https://manhoodjourney.org/--Takeaways: Mentorship can profoundly impact personal development.Finding mentors who embody the qualities you aspire to is crucial.Asking questions is more effective than providing answers in mentorship.The best mentors learn from their failures and experiences.Mentors should aim to help protégés solve higher-order problems.Life experiences shape our understanding of mentorship.Building relationships with protégés can lead to lifelong friendships.Effective mentorship involves guiding others to think for themselves.Biblical principles can provide a foundation for fatherhood and mentorship.Mentorship is a continuous learning process for both mentors and protégés. Mentors should focus on asking questions instead of providing answers.It's crucial to help mentees build their own decision-making frameworks.Avoid the mentality that your way is the only way to succeed.Recognize that every individual has unique experiences and insights to share.Ego can hinder effective mentoring; humility is key.Mentoring is about guiding, not dictating paths.Encourage mentees to consider the impact of their decisions on relationships and community.Learning can happen in both directions in a mentoring relationship.Every person you meet has something to teach you.Mentors should model the behavior they wish to see in their mentees.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background03:11 The Importance of Mentorship09:41 The Dangers of Mentoring12:41 Being the Answer Man19:56 Upgrading Problems in Mentorship20:15 The Role of Questions in Mentoring24:25 Building Decision-Making Frameworks26:40 Avoiding the 'My Way' Mentality34:49 The Importance of Trading Seats in Mentoring--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza interviews Mike McGarry, a seasoned youth pastor and theologian, about the critical role of mentoring in youth ministry. They delve into the importance of presence in mentoring relationships, discipleship, and how to assess a mentee's spiritual relationship with God. Mike highlights the significance of identity in Christ, emphasizing the need for youth to understand their role as image bearers of God. The conversation also explores the challenges and strategies of mentoring youth in a spiritual context, touching on the awkwardness often felt in initiating conversations about faith, selecting the right biblical texts, and practical tips for overcoming barriers to spiritual discussions.Throughout their dialogue, Zach and Mike stress that mentoring requires intentionality, authenticity, and vulnerability, especially when it comes to building relationships that foster spiritual growth. They discuss how mentors can guide young people, particularly those without reliable adult figures in their lives, by providing meaningful affirmation, support, and insights into Christian doctrine. The conversation highlights that spiritual vitality is essential for a healthy faith and that every youth should have a mentor to help them navigate their relationship with God.--Takeaways:The ministry of presence is foundational in youth mentoring.Building relationships is key to effective youth ministry.Discipleship is a slow process requiring intentionality.Understanding Christian doctrine is essential for youth.Spiritual vitality is crucial for a healthy faith.Mentors should assess their mentees' spiritual relationships.Identity in Christ is central to mentoring.Prayer should be the first step in mentoring.Authenticity and vulnerability strengthen mentoring relationships.Every youth should have a mentor guiding them in faith.Mentors should highlight positive traits in mentees that reflect Christ.Opening the Bible can help ease awkward conversations about faith.It's important to meet with mentees with the expectation of discussing faith.Awkwardness in spiritual conversations is common but can be overcome.Asking about prayer requests can lead to deeper discussions.Choosing engaging biblical texts is crucial for effective mentoring.Insecurities can hinder mentorship; submit them to God.Mentors should avoid comparing themselves to other adults in mentees' lives.Meaningful affirmation is more impactful than empty flattery.Mentors play a vital role in guiding youth towards a relationship with God.--Chapters00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry and Mentoring09:48 Understanding Discipleship and Spiritual Growth21:58 Identity and Being Created in God's Image28:38 Navigating Mentorship Awkwardness36:16 Choosing the Right Biblical Texts45:41 The Unique Role of a Mentor--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

David faces a no-win decision as Saul threatens his life repeatedly. He chooses to escape to the Philistines for safety despite being anointed by God as the future king. This raises the challenge of staying loyal to God, Saul, and Israel while under Philistine rule. Similarly, as followers of Jesus, we encounter challenging circumstances that test our loyalty to God and his mission. Will we trust Jesus as he leads us into strange, difficult, or hostile seasons and situations?1 Samuel 27

Why Are the Hard Places So Hard? | Matthew 28:16-20 | Dwight Tomlinson

In this episode of You Can Mentor, Zachary Garza and Norris Williams of Identity Exchange (www.identityexchange.com) explore the vital connection between identity and mentorship. Norris shares his personal journey, emphasizing how understanding our identity in Christ shapes everything we do and how societal labels can distort our self-worth. The conversation dives into the crucial role mentors play in helping youth discover their true identity beyond external achievements, highlighting the importance of hearing God's voice to guide that process. With a focus on transformation and empowerment, they discuss how mentors can facilitate connections with God, leading to a stronger sense of identity rooted in His perspective, not societal standards. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how mentorship can truly change lives!--TakeawaysIdentity is not tied to what we do, but who we are.Curses and praises can distort our true identity.Hearing God's voice is essential for understanding our identity.Mentors play a crucial role in helping youth discover their worth.Self-image should be rooted in God's perspective, not societal standards.Facilitating conversations with God can transform lives.Every individual has the authority to hear God's voice.The importance of blessing others to counteract negative messages.Empowerment comes from knowing one's true identity in Christ.Mentorship is about guiding others to hear from God themselves.--Chapters00:00 Introduction to Identity and Mentorship08:19 The Importance of Identity in Mentoring15:01 Jesus' Identity and Its Relevance25:54 Facilitating Conversations with God37:54 Empowering Mentees to Hear God's Voice43:06 Conclusion: The Power of Blessing and Identity--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

Where is the place in your life that it's most difficult to follow Jesus? Jesus knows what is competing in your heart when he asks for your full devotion to Him. In the second part of this two-week series, Pastor Nichole looks at why we need to follow Jesus whenever, wherever, and with whatever He asks.

Dr. Nojus Saad, physician, social entrepreneur, digital health advisor, and founder of Youth for Women Foundation, grew up in northern Iraq under the shadow of the 2003 U.S. invasion. At just 16, he founded an organization to drive gender equality and digital health inclusion, choosing activism and hope over despair.He talks about his journey into medicine, the power of digital technology, and how men can make a difference in the movement toward gender equality. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination toward dignity and human rights and the transformation of oppressive norms. Learn more about Dr. Nojus Saad and the Youth for Women Foundation: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nojus-saad/ and https://youthforwomen.org/.

In this episode of the You Can Mentor Podcast, Zachary Garza interviews John Shearer, leader of Academy 4, a nonprofit mentoring over 4,200 fourth graders annually by partnering with local churches to build sustainable relationships with schools and families. John shares how his cancer journey led him to nonprofit work and highlights Academy Four's programs, which equip children with leadership skills and foster community engagement. With a focus on love, service, and long-term commitment, the episode explores how mentoring transforms both children and volunteers, demonstrating the power of intentional relationships to create lasting change. https://academy4.org/--Key PointsAcademy Four's programs include Spark Clubs and mentoring sessions.The mentoring program helps children develop leadership skills.Parents play a crucial role in their children's education and development.Academy Four aims to equip parents through community programs.The organization has a waiting list of schools wanting to join.John believes in the power of community involvement for positive change. Sustainability is key for community partnerships.Long-term commitment leads to deeper impact.Mentoring is about building relationships, not just numbers.Volunteers often receive more than they give.Love and service can transform communities.Every child deserves to feel known and cared for.Effective mentoring requires intentionality and structure.Community engagement can break down barriers.Relationships are reciprocal; both mentors and mentees benefit.The mission is to love and serve, not to fix.--Chapters00:00 Introduction to Academy Four and John Shearer05:07 John's Journey to Academy Four09:56 The Mission and Programs of Academy Four15:07 Building Relationships with Churches and Schools24:55 Building Sustainable Community Partnerships29:54 Long-Term Commitment to Schools35:57 The Power of Love and Service41:48 Transformative Relationships in Mentoring47:52 Community Impact Through Mentoring--it would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Check out our website for more info. www.youcanmentor.com Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza sits down with Noah McGuffey, Mentor Coordinator at Forerunner Mentoring in Dallas, Texas. Together, they dive deep into Noah's inspiring journey—from his childhood experiences abroad to how those formative years ignited his passion for mentoring. Noah opens up about the powerful mission of Forerunner Mentoring, shedding light on the real challenges of recruiting mentors and the vital role of fostering strong relationships with both mentors and mentees. Whether you're an experienced mentor or just starting out, Noah offers valuable insights on how to attract the right people, onboard them effectively, and show genuine gratitude for their commitment. Don't miss out on these actionable strategies that can take your mentoring efforts to the next level. -- TakeawaysNoah's upbringing overseas influenced his passion for mentoring.Forerunner Mentoring aims to fulfill the potential of young boys without father figures.Building relationships is key to successful mentoring.Recruiting the right mentors is a continuous challenge.Church partnerships are vital for mentor recruitment.Mentors need to feel supported and valued to remain engaged.The onboarding process is crucial for mentor confidence and safety.Expressing gratitude to mentors enhances their experience.Transformative stories often emerge from mentoring relationships.Creating a culture of appreciation is essential for retention.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:03 Growing Up Overseas and Its Impact05:46 The Role of Mentoring in Noah's Life09:02 Forerunner Mentoring: Mission and Challenges12:06 Recruitment Strategies for Mentors14:45 Building Church Partnerships18:02 Creating Positive Experiences for Mentors19:55 Onboarding Process for Mentors26:02 Retaining Mentors and Building Relationships30:00 Stories of Transformation38:59 Expressing Gratitude to Mentors--If you are a mentoring leader, check out the You Can Mentor learning labs. We are a monthly leadership cohort that surrounds you with equipping and encouragement from other mentoring leaders. For an hour each month, we discuss a topic that will help you be a more equipped and encouraged leader. We have two cohorts: one for executives and one for program directors. Check out our website for more info. www.youcanmentor.com Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com

Text me your thoughts! Life brings some hard times that challenge our well-being. A hardy pine tree in Yellowstone Park offers lessons in resilience. The soil of our life will not be perfect. But we can keep growing with intentional care, community, and spirituality.Segments include:A tough tree in Yellowstone Park 0:09Secrets of the Lodgepole Pine 1:25Lessons for Resilience in hard times 2:20Learn about the TRACKS EXPRESS NewsletterSupport the showSubscribe to the TRACKS EXPRESS newsletter and find more resources for well-being at https://www.tracksforthejourney.comEnjoy the Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@tracksforthejourney77

Hello Seattle Mariners fans! Kate Preusser, Anders Jorstad and John Trupin are back after the Christmas Holiday to question the deep quiet of the Mariners offseason thus far. Who nailed their Christmas giving? Who was serving? Will Luis Castillo stay or go? Does Anders Jorstad have the secret sauce to sweeten up a bitter offseason? Can The Kims (Hye & Ha Song) or The Rays save the Mariners? https://mybookie.website/MeetAtTheMitt SOCIAL LINKS: https://twitter.com/MeetattheMitt / https://bsky.app/profile/meetatthemitt.bsky.social https://twitter.com/LookoutLanding / https://bsky.app/profile/lookoutlanding.bsky.social https://twitter.com/JohnTrupin / https://bsky.app/profile/johntrupin.bsky.social https://twitter.com/KatePreusser / https://bsky.app/profile/katepreusser.bsky.social https://twitter.com/EvanJamesAudio / https://bsky.app/profile/evanjamesaudio.bsky.social https://twitter.com/AndersJorstad / https://bsky.app/profile/andersjorstad.bsky.social https://twitter.com/RealZachMason / https://bsky.app/profile/zachmason.bsky.social https://macdougallbats.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast, John and Zach discuss the "motorcycle metaphor" to highlight important lessons about mentorship through John's experience riding motorcycles with his 18-year-old son. Here are the key takeaways:Communication is Key: Effective communication is vital for mentoring, especially when introducing new experiences to a mentee. This includes preparing them beforehand, offering guidance during the experience, and debriefing afterward. It's crucial to anticipate challenges and communicate clearly about what to expect.Superpower Observation: Mentors should be observant, noticing both verbal and nonverbal cues from their mentees. Just as John had to be extra aware of his son's safety while riding, mentors need to be attuned to their mentee's feelings and behaviors, sensing when something is off and offering support.Modeling Learned Habits: Mentors should be mindful of their actions, as mentees often imitate them. John observed his son mimicking his riding posture, reminding him of the power of modeling positive habits. Mentors should lead by example, as mentees will often do what they see, not just what they hear.Being Intentional: Preparation and intentionality are essential for effective mentorship. This means being intentional in conversations, actions, and even in how mentors approach situations with their mentees. It's about being present, clear, and thoughtful in every interaction.In summary, effective mentoring requires communication, observation, intentionality, and modeling good habits. Mentors should guide, observe, and lead by example while always being prepared to learn from their own mistakes and offering grace when things go wrong.This episode is packed with actionable tips that will take your mentoring to the next level. Whether you're mentoring in your community, at work, or at church, these insights will make a real impact.

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In this episode of You Can Mentor, host Zach sits down with Annie and Dennis from Club Christ Ministries in Las Vegas, an organization dedicated to mentoring kids and transforming communities. Annie, the Program Director, and Dennis, the Henderson Center Director, share powerful stories of how their work provides hope and support to kids facing challenges like violence and poverty.Through tutoring, leadership development, and spiritual guidance, Club Christ Ministries is creating a safe space for kids to grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. You'll hear inspiring accounts of kids discovering their potential, breaking cycles of hardship, and embracing their faith—all thanks to the consistency and love of mentors.This episode is a moving reminder of how one mentor can make a lasting impact, not just on a child's life but on future generations. Don't miss this conversation, and find out how you can be part of the mission to transform lives through mentorship.Listen now, and visit youcanmentor.com for resources and ways to get involved! Give us that 5 star rating and share this episode with your friends. Thanks!

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, host Zachary Garza welcomes Andy Paul, a youth pastor from Salem Baptist Church in Georgia. They discuss the importance of mentoring in youth ministry, sharing personal stories and practical tips for connecting with young people. Andy shares his journey into youth ministry, the significance of radical hospitality, and the unique challenges and opportunities of mentoring in rural communities. The conversation emphasizes the value of showing up for kids, building relationships, and the lasting impact of mentorship.--Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction10:35 The Role of Mentoring in Youth Ministry16:08 Mentoring in Rural Communities28:16 The Impact of Mentorship on Youth

In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza sits down with Dr. John Trent to explore the life-changing impact of mentorship and the power of words. Dr. Trent opens up about his own journey, overcoming a difficult childhood, and the crucial role mentorship played in his healing. He highlights the importance of having someone who truly believes in you and introduces the concept of "the blessing"—a biblical idea centered around affirming and adding value to others' lives.Together, Zachary and Dr. Trent dive into the five key elements of blessing, including the healing power of meaningful touch, and how these elements can transform relationships. They discuss how mentorship can guide individuals through their struggles, help them recognize their worth, and inspire hope for the future. Through a powerful conversation about encouragement, faith, and the deep connections that mentors can foster, they reveal how words, touch, and genuine commitment are essential in guiding others toward growth and healing.Download the Shareable Resource at https://www.youcanmentor.com/downloads.-- Dr. John Trent is an award-winning, best-selling author and the president of StrongFamilies.com and the Center for StrongFamilies, both organizations dedicated to strengthening marriage and family relationships worldwide. He is known for books such as The Blessing, Breaking the Cycle of Divorce, Heartshift, and Leading from Your Strengths. Dr. Trent is also the creator of the Lion, Otter, Golden Retriever, and Beaver personality framework. He holds a Master of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Counseling from North Central Texas Federation of Colleges and Universities. For over 40 years, Dr. Trent and his wife, Cindy, have been married and have two daughters, Kari and Laura. 00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and the Power of Words02:01 John Trent's Personal Journey and the Importance of Relationships06:42 The Role of Mentorship in Healing and Growth11:42 Understanding the Concept of the Blessing16:52 The Five Elements of Blessing and Meaningful Touch23:24 The Power of Touch and Connection24:26 The Importance of Spoken Words28:10 Overcoming Lies and Seeking Encouragement32:26 Attaching High Value Through Words34:42 Envisioning a Special Future36:19 Genuine Commitment in Mentorship42:49 Pointing to Jesus in Mentorship

The Gate Youth Association is a 501(c)(3), non-profit corporation whose mission is to demonstrate Christ's love to the youth of our community through academic, social, recreational, and spiritual activities. Currently, The Gate is open 5 days a week and serves 400 teens each week through various programs. Their vision is a community where future generations experience, follow, and serve Christ. Considering that Tuesday Church Lunch has been in existence for 30 years and our afterschool programming has been in place for 19 years, The Gate is currently seeing their vision come alive. They see past Gate students already reaching various stages of adulthood from high school graduate to midlife and many are living proof of our mission statement. The Gate sees our past students serving as influential men and women of faith and goodwill in our community, our nation and our world. They are now helping others around them be known, encouraged and encounter Christ's unconditional love.Learn more at https://www.thegateyouth.org/ or @thegateyouthassoc--You Can Mentor. We help Christian Mentoring Leaders thrive. • Come to our National Christian Mentoring Gathering. • Join our monthly Learning Lab Leadership Cohorts • Check out our books and shareable resources.  • Be a part of our Christian mentoring network. • Find ways to get better through our coaching and consulting.Find all at youcanmentor.com or follow us @youcanmentor on Instagram. If you'd like to help, please give us a 5 star rating wherever you listen to our podcast.

Addressing mental health in college is extremely important. Today we're talking to Chris Troutt, LMFT, a Christian family therapist who brings a unique background to her clients. She and her late husband, Burt, are parents to twelve children and have twenty-five grandchildren. Chris is a biological mother, an adoptive mother, a stepmother, and a foster mother; she brings both education and personal perspective into the therapy session. Chris believes strongly in systems theory and in the power of God working in a person's life. It is her desire to help others during their journey. Chris specializes in Prenatal Exposure to Alcohol and Drugs, Trauma and Attachment Disorders. Her work with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders is especially meaningful to her as a parent of a child diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Chris has a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University, Nashville, Tennessee. Chris is the co-founder and CEO of the Papillion Center for FASD with offices in Gallatin, Tennessee and Paducah, Kentucky. She speaks nationally and internationally on Understanding Children and Families from Hard Places, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. In episode 517 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we find out what are Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and why Chris is so passionate about it, what are the realities of neuro-biological outcomes for trauma in a child's life, what opportunities there are to heal after that trauma at a young age, common signs that a college student might need to seek help for their mental health, how students can manage the pressure of social media while maintaining a healthy self-image, how students can develop resilience and cope with rejection, advice on dealing with imposter syndrome, tips for managing test anxiety or performance stress, and how students learn to set boundaries with friends, family, and professors to protect their mental health. Enjoy!

All mentoring organizations always need more of two things:Mentors and Money.November 15th officially starts the End of Year Giving season, so tune into our podcast to learn how to maximize your fundraising during the final days of 2024. Maintaining consistent communication with donors during this season is vital to ensuring their continued support with such critical funding at stake. Effective donor engagement can mean the difference between meeting or falling short of fundraising goals, which in turn can influence an organization's ability to execute their mission. We talk about this, and so much more, on this episode of You Can Mentor.--Find all fundraising wisdom at www.nextafter.com.A curious mind, a competitive drive, and an empathetic fundraiser, Courtney Krus leads client success at NextAfter. In this role, Courtney drives the strategy, testing, and optimization within organization's fundraising programs; ultimately helping nonprofits grow more names, donors, and dollars for their cause.Prior to serving as Executive Vice President with NextAfter, she led the digital marketing and fundraising for a broadcast, publishing, and education nonprofit. She has developed and directed multiple innovative, multi-channel fundraising and content marketing campaigns and led enterprise content strategies within the for-profit and nonprofit space.Her extensive experience fuels her desire to help organizations embrace a culture of optimization and testing, and champion a donor-centric, data-driven philosophy. Courtney is also a board member for a local nonprofit and a momma to two boys.--You Can Mentor. We help Christian Mentoring Leaders thrive.Come to our National Christian Mentoring Gathering.Join our monthly Learning Lab Leadership CohortsCheck out our books and shareable resources. Be a part of our Christian mentoring network.Find ways to get better through our coaching and consulting.Find all at youcanmentor.com or follow us @youcanmentor on Instagram

If you or someone you know grew up without a father, I'd like for you to check out my new book, Tell Me About Your Father. It is an auto-biographical journey that describes how I dealt with my fatherlessness. I pray it is a tool for mentors who have fatherless mentees, for mentors who may have grown up without a positive relationship with their father, or for anyone who has a loved one who has a fatherless past.-- What goes through your mind when I ask you about your father? Perhaps a smile pops up on your face because you had the best dad in the world. But what if you have the opposite reaction and are met with anger, sadness, or even apathy because your relationship with your father has hurt you in some way? If that's you, I know how you feel. So, tell me about your father. Let's figure out how you got to where you are today by tackling topics such as generational sin and how your wounds are impacting you as an adult. Together, let's go on a journey to identify the hurts from your father and how to process and heal those pains so you, and everyone who comes after you, can be set free. Free to choose faith over fear, security over insecurity, and help you experience the unconditional love of God instead of the performance-based love of people. Using personal testimonies from his own life, Zach Garza will use his story to encourage you to start the journey, give you tips to keep you on the path of healing, and share stories that will let you know that you are not on this journey alone. Your relationship with your father may not be perfect. Your father is definitely not perfect. But the Lord can use those hurts and the power of forgiveness to help you become your best self and to give you the greatest gift he can give you; more of Himself.--Find Zach's new book here and holler at him zach@youcanmentor.com--If you like the pod, share it with a friend and give us a five star rating. Check us on instagram @youcanmentor, follow us on youtube @christianmentoring, and find us at www.youcanmentor.com

Ok. We got 5 asks. Our heart in all of this is to see you thrive. So here we go...Would you please:- Follow us on social media @youcanmentor to spread the word about Christian mentoring.- Check our books on Amazon.- Share the podcast with your mentoring friends- Give us that 5 star rating to help us out- Come to the National Christian Mentoring Gathering and Join the monthly Learning Labs.Ok. That's a lot. I'm done. :)Back to the show notes.YCM Podcast / Matching EnergyMatching energy is what it sounds like. You match the energy of your mentee. If he is excited, you get excited. If your mentee is down, act accordingly. This is about losing yourself for the sake of your mentee. It is about creating a safe space for them to celebrate, process, or grieve. Here are some tips on matching energy: Notice your mentee. Non verbals. Facial expressions. Read the situation as soon as you come into contact with them. Ask questions, but use discernment on when to stop asking questions. If they don't want to talk, honor that. Sometimes words are not necessary. If they are excited, match that. Celebrate with them. This can be hard as adult, because we have seemed to forget how to celebrate. If down, check in on them. If they are excited, remind them of the good thing they are celebrating often. Pray with them. Can we thank God for this celebration? Can we ask God for comfort? What not to do:It's ok to encourage, but don't make them feel bad for feeling bad. Don't be a wet blanket. We get it. You're tired. You're stressed. Get your eyes off self and on to them. There is so much power in joy, laughter, and celebration. Don't one up. Just don't. Think of the person of Jesus. How did he act when he was at a party? Do you think he laughed? Was full of joy? How did he act towards the sick or down and out?Jesus was full of compassion. He was observant. He was 100% focused on others. Whatever the other person needed, he figured out what they needed and gave it to them. We must see our mentee. Truly see them. We must know them and know when there is more than some underneath the surface going on. We must enter into the meeting with them thinking “How are they? What do they need? How can I serve them?”Son of man came to serve. Please follow @youcanmentor on social media and give us a 5 star rating! If you are a part of a mentoring organization, we'd love to get to know you! Please reach out to us! Contact us at zach@youcanmentor.com or at www.youcanmentor.com

One of the most critical aspects of cross-cultural work is how to practically care for those we send. In this episode, Nik takes a deep dive into the most important elements that individuals and churches need to consider to most adequately take care of our "sent ones".

The problem is, in this modern world, we've become so addicted to ease and comfort that we've got a culture that has created "exit strategy" saints... As humans we tend to think of any negative circumstance or painful situation as punitive. It is part of our nature to view these times with a “why me?” or “what's the quickest way to end it” mindset. There is no trial that we cannot benefit from. Adversity comes into your life, but God has a purpose for you. His primary aim is that you grow spiritually continuously your entire life.In this episode of Keep It 100, we have a transparent REAL TALK moment about the hard places, open up about our adversities, and highlight the glorious outcome Heaven has for you.Website: www.seanandchristasmith.comFacebook: @seanandchristasmithministriesInstagram: @revseansmith @mrschristasmithTwitter: @revseansmithYouTube: @seanandchristasmithministries

Jesus invites those with intellectual disability to meet Him in His Word. But churches aren't always as equipped to lay out a feast for them, as they are for those without obvious disabilities. Paul and Jill Miller's journey with their daughter, Kim, led to creating interactive Bible studies for individuals with disabilities. Join hosts Dave and Ann Wilson as they hear about the impact disability ministry can have on churches and families. Will they be fed at your church? Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Paul and Jill Miller, their ministry, and their books at seeJesus.net. You can find the See Jesus Interactive Bible Studies here. You can find Jill Miller's devotional for families, Finding Jesus on Upside Down Days: Family Devotions from the Barnyard, in our shop. Finding Joy in the Hard Places with Autism, a conversation with Paul and Jill Miller. His book, 5 Traits of a Healthy Family, is out now! We'll send it at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us toward stronger families around the world. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network

What do difficult days, disability, and donkeys have in common? They're all pathways to finding Jesus, according to Jill and Paul Miller. They joined Dave and Ann Wilson on this episode of FamilyLife Today to discuss the ups and downs of their journey -- including the joy and hardship of parenting a child with disabilities and the wonder of living on a farm, which inspired Jill's devotional. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Paul and Jill Miller, their ministry, and their books at seeJesus.net. You can find the See Jesus Interactive Bible Studies here. You can find Jill Miller's devotional for families, Finding Jesus on Upside Down Days: Family Devotions from the Barnyard, in our shop. Finding Joy in the Hard Places with Autism, a conversation with Paul and Jill Miller. His book, 5 Traits of a Healthy Family, is out now! We'll send it at no cost to you with a donation of any size this week, as our way of saying a huge "Thank you!" for partnering with us toward stronger families around the world. Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network