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Send a textWhat if youth ministry camp didn't feel like chaos management, but like a well-led, deeply spiritual retreat where students feel seen, leaders feel supported, and emergencies stay small? We just pulled off one of our our smoothest youth ministry camps yet, and we're opening the playbook to 9 things that made it work! Whether you are planning for a summer camp, winter camp, weekend retreat, DNOW or similar, this episode will give you some practical tips to walk away with and implement into your next student ministry camp!if you got value out of this episode, make sure to subscribe, share this with your team, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!=======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#098) Get More Sign Ups for Your Youth Ministry Camp!(#264) How to Plan a Youth Ministry Winter Camp from Start to Finish!(#048) Surviving Youth Ministry Summer Camp: Youth Pastor's Guide(#043) DIY Church Camp Planning - Youth Ministry Summer Camp Checklist!=======We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========
Watch this insightful presentation on the topic "Engaging Deeply With The Youth Of Today" delivered by the Youth Director of The Church of Pentecost and NGN Africa Co-Chair, Apostle David Nyansah Hayfron. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send a textJoin our Spring 2026 Cohort with Onward Leadership Training - Sign Ups are Limited and end March 1st - www.onwardleader.com! New families & students decide in seconds whether your youth ministry feels clear, warm, and worth a visit and your Instagram is often the first viewpoint. In this episode, we will be breaking down the best practices for creating social media accounts that bring students in. From the cadence of your posting rhythms to what you should be posting, this episode will give you a clear path to audit your current accounts and to see where you can improve. These five practical tips can turn your youth group's social media accounts into an active front door for your student ministry.If you want Instagram to grow attendance, build trust, and reflect your youth ministry's real heartbeat, this conversation gives you the checklist and the why behind it. Subscribe, share this with your team, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ if you got value out of this episode!=======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#239) Your Youth Ministry Website is ALL WRONG! (Here's How to Fix It)=======We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========
This week, Tyler Wilhelm, our Youth Director reflects on the moment that God's covenant with His people was sealed. We see the beauty of mediation, the gift of inscripturation, the necessity of substitution, and the invitation into communion. Through the written Word and the shedding of blood, God makes a way for His people to draw near and share in His presence. Want to watch a version of this message? Check out our live broadcast archive at www.declarationchurch.net/live.
This week, Tyler Wilhelm, our Youth Director reflects on the moment that God's covenant with His people was sealed. We see the beauty of mediation, the gift of inscripturation, the necessity of substitution, and the invitation into communion. Through the written Word and the shedding of blood, God makes a way for His people to draw near and share in His presence. Want to watch a version of this message? Check out our live broadcast archive at www.declarationchurch.net/live.
Send a textJoin our Spring 2026 Cohort with Onward Leadership Training - Sign Ups are Limited and end March 1st - www.onwardleader.com! What will 1,200+ midweek youth group programs teach you? In this episode, we open the youth ministry playbook on the 7 biggest lessons I learned from doing over 1,200 youth group services spanning over 2 decades. These tips will help you keep a student ministry healthy & growing - so you can build a program that's both fun and spiritually focused without burning you or your ministry volunteers & staff out.If this helped, subscribe, share it with a fellow youth pastor, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to help more leaders find practical youth ministry tools they can use this week!=======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#208) Youth Ministry Growth Starts With This ONE Thing...(#111) Plan a Whole Year of Youth Group Games in Under 30 Minutes(#093) Youth Pastor Self Care: Making Time for Yourself & Avoiding Burn Out=======We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========
The annual State of the Child Report released by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth shows fewer kids are living in poverty.The report also indicates academic improvement post-pandemic, particularly in TCAP Math scores. However, mental health remains a concern, as does the integration of technology in everyday life. On today's show, we speak with representatives from Tennessee state government and also focus on School Choice legislation impacting public school funding. This is a roundabout edition of This Is Nashville. Join the conversation by calling 615-760-2000 or pop into chat on our YouTube livestream.This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. Guests Camellia Burris, WPLN Education Reporter Kylie Graves, Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth Director of Data, Policy, & Communications Chelsea Crawford, TennesseeCAN Executive Director Maryam Abolfazli, Rise and Shine Tennessee Founder
Episode Notes This week's guest is certainly near and dear to my heart...not only because he is my former Youth Director at First Methodist Church of Henderson...but also because his wide array of career pursuits gave me a considerable amount of water to tread during our conversation!! His name is Bert Montgomery, and he has worn various hats over the years ranging from Senior Minister, to College Professor, to even Juvenile Probation Officer! We'll learn a bit about his service as a Probation Officer in Jackson, Mississippi and Memphis prior to his full-time commitment to ministry work. We'll also hear about his experience teaching courses and leading a church at Mississippi State University, and briefly discuss two fascinating books he has authored: "Elvis, Willie, Jesus and Me" and "Going Back to New Orleans: Post-Katrina Re-Connections and Recollections". Feel free to drop Mr. Montgomery a line at bert@bertmontgomery.com, and be sure to visit his website linked here: http://bertmontgomery.com/. Find out more at https://blabbin-in-the-bluegrassblabbi.pinecast.co
All of us are shaped by marriage, for better or worse, through our families of origin, our personal relationships, or the society in which we live. Based on our experiences, we either hold a high view of marriage as a sacred covenant between God and us, or a low view, where marriage is merely a meaningless formality. Regardless of our experiences, we need to align with God's perspective on marriage to heal from our past and move forward to experience the blessings God intended.Edwin IzumigawaSunday, February 8 Live at 6:00PM
Send us a textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Have you ever stared at the youth ministry calendar, dreading another midweek youth group program or overnight event and wondered "is time to quit student ministry?" I've been there...more than once. This conversation is a candid look at 4 moments that nearly pushed me towards leaving youth ministry and the surprising anchors that pulled me back. If you're looking for honest stories, tangible tools, and a reminder that your work as a youth pastor matters even when the metrics feel fuzzy, this one's for you!If this resonated, share it with a leader who needs a lift, subscribe for more practical help, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ with your biggest takeaway...we read every single one!=======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#168) Listen to This If You Are Thinking About Quitting Youth Ministry(#210) The #1 Reason Most Youth Pastors QUIT Within the First 2 Years(#019) How to Deal with Difficult Students in Youth Ministry - Protecting Your Flock(#093) Youth Pastor Self Care: Making Time for Yourself & Avoiding Burn Out=======We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========
Send us a textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Today, we will be taking an in-depth look at 6 growth-killing mistakes we see all the time in youth ministry and laying out a clear path to build momentum that actually lasts. From fixing inconsistent youth group programming to creating student-owned culture, this is a practical, field-tested guide to growth rooted in health.If you're ready to remove barriers, raise the bar, and see students take ownership, this student ministry conversation is your playbook. Subscribe, share with a fellow youth leader, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to help more youth ministries find these tools. =======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#239) Your Youth Ministry Website is ALL WRONG! (Here's How to Fix It)(#040) How to Start a Student Leadership Team in Youth Ministry(#242) Youth Ministry Room Set Up & Decorating Ideas - Youth Room Remodel!(#047) Youth Pastors & Parents - Best Communication Tips!(#170) The 7 Essential Tips on How to GROW Your Youth Ministry!=======We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========
Send us a textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Do you ever feel like a bigger youth ministry will fix everything? Think again! Today we unpack 5 common myths about youth group growth and share what it really takes to build a healthy, sustainable student ministry...one that can handle momentum without losing its purpose. If you're ready to prioritize health over hype and build a youth ministry that lasts, this conversation will give you the mindset and tools to do it. Subscribe, share with a youth leader who needs it, and leave a quick review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to help more youth ministries grow the right way!=======You may also enjoy these episodes:(#170) The 7 Essential Tips on How to GROW Your Youth Ministry!(#243) 5 Mistakes Youth Pastors Make When Their Youth Ministry Isn't Growing=======
My in-person interview with Roderick Epomba in Mufulira, Zambia. He is the pastor of four churches in Solwezi, where he lives, as well as Mufumbwe, Manyinga, and Zambesi. Catch a glimpse here of life in this part of the world. Roderick also hosts a weekly radio program on Solwezi FM, a station with a potential audience of more than 120,000 people, plus online streaming. He gets a good response and talks to people on the air. He is also the youth and camp director for the United Church of God in Zambia. We have known Roderick Epomba from previous visits. This is our first meeting in seven years. We are here in Mufulira for a three-day pastoral conference with all of Zambia's five pastors and two deacons, during which we discussed pastoral skills and church administration.
Send us a textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** What if the girls in your youth ministry aren't disengaged—they're just not being invited in? In this episode, we unpack simple, high-impact changes that help female students feel represented, included, and excited to serve, without sidelining anyone else in your student ministry.We will be breaking down how simple adjustments to visible leadership, sermon topics & illustrations, discipleship, games and events can bridge the gap that may be existing in how you are currently running your youth group.The result is a youth ministry culture where fairness, representation, and relational depth make space for every student to belong & feel connected.Ready to rethink the playbook and raise engagement for your female students? Listen in and if you get value, then subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Your feedback helps more youth leaders find these tools and build healthier youth ministries ❤️.=======
Colton dives into the opening verses from the epistle of James. James teaches us that trials are meant to form maturity and endurance in Jesus!
Send us a textAre you ready to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Start the New Year strong with these 5 essential youth ministry planning strategies! In this episode, we break down five planning moves that create real margin, sharpen your focus, and lift the quality of everything from student ministry leader care, youth group games, sermons, calendar planning to small group time. If you're ready to grow your student ministry with clarity and margin in the New Year, hit play, share this with a fellow youth worker, and subscribe so you never miss new tactics!!=========Books mentioned:
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** One of the best ways that you can get your youth ministry on the right track for the new year is to get YOURSELF on the right track! Today, we will be going over a ton of beneficial systems to get you and your youth group from where you are to where you want to be! We will also map out practical rhythms across the five engines of a thriving youth pastor: physical health, spiritual devotion, social connection, mental growth, and emotional care. Finally, we will get tactical about habits that stick: pairing tough tasks with small rewards, using time-blocking to protect non-negotiables, and converting idle moments into learning opportunities. If you're ready to swap pressure for a plan and design a year that actually aligns with your calling, this conversation gives you the framework to start and stay consistent. Like, subscribe and share this episode with a fellow student ministry leader or youth pastor!=========Books mentioned in this episode:
In episode 123 of the Eyes on Jesus Podcast, Drew and Tim sit down with Jake Watson—former world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete, commentator, and now Youth Director at LifePoint Church. Jake shares his explosive testimony of walking away from fame, athletic success, and a rising media career to follow the unmistakable call of God.Together, we dive deep into Jake's new book Chasing God: Cultivating the Heart of David, exploring what it really means to pursue God with raw authenticity, emotional honesty, and a warrior-spirit grounded in intimacy with the Holy Spirit. Jake unpacks how King David became his blueprint—not because David was perfect, but because he was repentant, passionate, and relentlessly after God's heart.This episode challenges men, leaders, and believers of all ages to:• Rediscover intimacy with God• Break free from cultural masculinity and embrace biblical manhood• Learn the rhythms of repentance, worship, and passion that marked David's life• Discern God's calling—even when it costs you everything• Build unity in the Church and stop dividing over non-essentialsJake's story will stretch your faith, stir your heart, and remind you that your calling is bigger than your comfort.Get Jake's new book here https://a.co/d/fkYJu7hFollow Jake on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jakewatson_2432/See Jake's sermons here https://youtube.com/@lifepointignite?si=_0IMFHeMg8GcACUoCheck out our brand-new merch store! https://eyesonjesuspodcast-shop.fourthwall.com/Get all our links in one easy place! https://linktr.ee/eyesonjesuspodcastGet the Eyes on Jesus 90 Day Discernment Devotionalhttps://a.co/d/3v8963sJoin our Group on Facebook- Eyes on Jesus podcast community https://www.facebook.com/groups/eyesonjesuspodcastEmail feedback, questions or show topic ideas to eyesonjesuspodcast@outlook.comFor more information on Drew Barker: Follow Drew on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pastordrewbarkerDrew's church's website https://yes.online/For more information on Tim Ferrara: Get all his links in one place- to his social media, all 3 of his books, and more at https://linktr.ee/discerning_dad
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Sometimes warning signs inside of a youth ministry can be subtle while other times they can be very loud and clear...either way, we need to be paying attention and address them as soon as possible. In this episode, we unpack six warning signs that signal trouble in your student ministry and begin the process of diagnosis so that we can restore momentum, culture, and depth to youth group. This conversation is one that youth pastors need to have and will help build a youth ministry students love and invite friends to. Be sure to subscribe, share with a youth leader, and leave a review!=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#074) Going from New Student to Student Leader in Youth Ministry(#156) How to Minister to the 4 Different Types of Students in Youth Ministry(#197) How to Gain Control of a Wild Youth Group - Leading Up Front in Youth Ministry=======
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** The unfortunate truth is that "church hurt" is a real thing and it's only a matter of time until you have a student in your youth ministry or a parent of a student who is dealing with it. So how, as a youth pastor, should you react and handle those dealing with church hurt? In this episode, we open up about how church hurt happens, what it looks like across a wide spectrum, and how youth pastors and student ministry leaders can respond with empathy, patience, and integrity that rebuilds trust and relationships.If you're a youth pastor, youth leader, or youth ministry volunteer looking for a steady path through delicate seasons, this conversation offers tools to listen well, move slowly, and lead with the kind of consistency that heals.
This week, we had the privilege of hearing from City Central's Youth Director, Elijah Hippe, as he shared about three key elements of evangelism. God invites us to partner with Him in reaching others through intercession, invitation, and initiation. As we pray for people, invite them to encounter Jesus, and step out in faith wherever we go, we become living witnesses of His love and power in the world.
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** As every year and season of youth ministry goes by, there is always something new that you learn as a youth pastor. In this episode, we wanted to reflect on a few important pieces of advice that I've gotten along the way that I wish I had known sooner.If this resonates, share it with a leader who needs encouragement, subscribe for weekly student ministry tips and tactics, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—we'd love to hear what you're sowing right now.
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Youth ministry events are such a great way for students to attract new visitors, to reconnect with some students who haven't been attending church recently and a great opportunity for your youth group students to invite friends...but what if your student ministry event is a complete wreck? In this episode, we take a look at 3 (actually 4) mistakes youth pastors commonly make with youth ministry events that can kill their overall momentum and trust with parents & students.If this helped you rethink your next event, follow the show, share it with a fellow youth leader, and leave a quick review so more youth pastors can find it. Tell us: what's one change you'll make before your next event?=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#159) Your Youth Group Event Failed...So Now What?(#217) 5 Vital Tips to Make Your Next Youth Ministry Event a HUGE Success!=======
Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Winter camps don't plan themselves, and waiting until the last minute is how budgets break and leaders burn out. We're opening our full playbook for planning a youth ministry winter retreat that can be cost effective, high-energy, and spiritually impactful! In this episode, we discuss three proven models and show how to pick the one that fits your size, budget, and resources. Then we get practical...how to plan your student ministry winter camp from start to finish! You'll learn the true cost breakdown, a repeatable planning rhythm that works great and finally a step by step schedule you can plug in for your next youth group winter camp.Finally, stick around until the end where we give you a free game that can be played ANY time of year!Game materials mentioned:White Paper Coffee Cups: https://amzn.to/3WfOeUSIf this playbook helps, subscribe, share with a fellow youth pastor or youth worker, and leave a quick review so more youth ministries can run better retreats this winter!=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#050) Games for Youth Groups at Church - Up Front Games!(#221) Youth Ministry Winter Olympic Games - Indoor Youth Group Games! =======
The Lord made a beautiful covenant with King David that would shape the rest of redemptive history. David's response: one characterized by zeal for the presence of the Lord. Do we display this same zeal in response to the New Covenant the Lord has made with us? Join us as Youth Director, Gage Skivington, continues our Unified Kingdoms series!Support the show
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** If you've been in youth ministry for more than a minute, I'm sure someone has told you at least a couple of these 5 youth ministry myths which are simply not true. In this episode, we dig into five stubborn youth ministry myths and replace them with field-tested strategies that actually move the needle. If this episode equips you or challenges a myth you've carried or heard about student ministry, share it with a fellow youth pastor, subscribe for weekly tactics, and leave a review so more youth leaders can find the show. Your feedback helps us serve you better and keeps this youth ministry community growing.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#200) Are You Busy or Burning Out? Youth Ministry Tips(#093) Youth Pastor Self-Care: Making Time for Yourself & Avoiding Burn Out(#004) Compassion Fatigue vs. Burnout - How to Avoid Both!!=======
Today's episode is part of our Christian parenting mini-series we are offering on “Motherhood Taboos” and we are tackling a big taboo of finding out you're pregnant ... and you weren't planning to be. Our guests are both priests who found themselves unexpectedly pregnant and want to narrate the grief and the joy, the surprise and the wonder, and the challenge and hope of a blessing that can leave you limping from a worldview that supports women's autonomy, choice, and freedom. MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:Rev. Mia Kano is an Episcopal priest in the Diocese of Massachusetts, where she serves as the part-time Rector of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Ayer. She lives in Acton, Massachusetts with her husband and two children. Rev. Mia's childhood was shaped by both Catholic and Congregationalist churches. She found her way to the Episcopal Church in her early twenties after exploring secular humanism and Islam. She was ordained as a priest in January 2020. Rev. Reagan Gonzalez was born in Odessa, Texas and raised in Bozeman, Montana. She grew up attending St. James Episcopal Church in Bozeman and later served as its Youth Director and Christian Formation Director before attending seminary. She is a graduate of Montana State University with a degree in Microbiology. After college, Reagan spent a year living in intentional community during a year of service with the Episcopal Service Corps. This experience deepened her faith and confirmed a desire to formally discern a call to ordained ministry. She earned an MDiv from the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas and was ordained to the priesthood in 2018. Reagan has a passion for community life that is grounded in inclusivity. She loves to preach, teach, tell Godly Play stories to children, and introduce people to an open-minded Christianity where questions are welcomed, and where we trust that we learn best by struggling together to hear where the Holy Spirit is calling. Reagan is married to Bryan, they have two children, and one on the way. +++Like what you hear? We are an entirely crowd-sourced, you-funded project. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/AndAlsoWithYouPodcastThere's all kinds of perks including un-aired live episodes, Zoom retreats, and mailbag episodes for our Patreons!+++Our Website: https://andalsowithyoupod.comOur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andalsowithyoupodcast/++++MERCH: https://www.bonfire.com/store/and-also-with-you-the-podcast/++++More about Father Lizzie:BOOK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/762683/god-didnt-make-us-to-hate-us-by-rev-lizzie-mcmanus-dail/RevLizzie.comhttps://www.instagram.com/rev.lizzie/https://www.tiktok.com/@rev.lizzieJubilee Episcopal Church in Austin, TX - JubileeATX.org ++++More about Mother Laura:https://www.instagram.com/laura.peaches/https://www.tiktok.com/@mother_peachesSt. Paul's Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh, PA++++Theme music:"On Our Own Again" by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue).New episodes drop Mondays at 7am EST/6am CST!
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Are you trying to keep your students engaged during small groups in your youth ministry? Small groups are one of the best models for discipleship in student ministry, but what do you do when you can't keep them engaged? In this episode, we give a ton of practical tips on how to keep students listening and sharing during small group time at your youth group. =========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#066) Writing Effective Talk Sheets for Small Group Time in Youth Ministry(#064) What's the BIG DEAL About SMALL GROUPS in Youth Ministry?(#052) Small Group Leader Training for Youth Ministry=======
Gospel Baptist Church, Bonita Springs, FL - Fundamental, Independent, Bible Believing
September 21,2025
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Youth group just ended....now what? Go home? No! Here are 5 things you should do immediately after your youth ministry program night is over. These tips are deceptively simple but are huge in preventing morning fires, strengthening parent trust, and building a resilient team culture. If you lead student ministry, these moves require zero budget and deliver compound results: faster follow-up, fewer surprises, cleaner spaces, and a tighter volunteer community. Try one tonight...Then tell us what you'd add to make the system even better. If this was helpful, follow the show, share it with a fellow leader, and leave a quick review so more youth pastors can find it.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#204) 4 Things I Started Doing Before Youth Group that Changed Everything!(#213) 3 Things I Stopped Doing Before Youth Group (and Why YOU Should Too!)=======
Send us a textCheck out our new partnership with Onward: Youth & Young Adult Pastor Cohort https://www.onwardleader.com/the-cohort *** Are you afraid your youth ministry might be dying? Every youth pastor dreads the moment when they realize their student ministry might be on life support. The energy is gone, attendance is dwindling, and that spark of spiritual growth seems to have dimmed to barely a flicker. Whether you've inherited a struggling youth group or watched your once-thriving program slowly fade, that feeling of failure can be paralyzing. But what if the path to revival is clearer than you think? Before you can apply the defibrillator paddles to your youth ministry, you need an accurate diagnosis. Ready to breathe new life into your dying youth ministry? Let's go!!!=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#085) How to Do Youth Ministry at a Dying Church(#259) Top 10 Bible Resources for Youth Ministry(#256) Best Practices for Emailing the Parents of Your Youth Ministry Students=======
Send us a textCheck out our new partnership with Onward: Youth & Young Adult Pastor Cohort https://www.onwardleader.com/the-cohort *** Are your youth ministry students getting enough spiritual nourishment? Most youth pastors know the feeling of wondering if their sermon is the only biblical engagement students get all week. The truth is, we need to equip our youth group to become "self-feeding Christians" who can navigate Scripture independently.In this comprehensive guide to Bible study resources, we share our favorite tools for studying the Bible. From discipleship-focused materials to leadership development resources, these recommendations cover both teaching aids and student-directed studies.Whether you're looking to enhance your teaching or put materials directly into students' hands, these carefully selected resources will help bridge the gap between Sunday sermons and daily discipleship. Check out the links below!Materials Mentioned in this Podcast:LeaderTreks
Send us a textCheck out our new partnership with Onward: Youth & Young Adult Pastor Cohort https://www.onwardleader.com/the-cohort *** What's the difference between making decisions and making disciples? For many young Christians, the journey of faith begins and ends with "asking Jesus into their heart," but Jesus called us to so much more than a one-time prayer. He invited us to follow Him.In this transformative episode, we will unpack 4 powerful discipleship strategies that move youth ministry students from surface-level faith decisions to becoming genuine Jesus followers. Whether you're a youth pastor or a volunteer, these strategies will equip you to develop disciples who follow Jesus for a lifetime. Every conversation in your youth group can become discipleship—are you ready to make each one count?
Mailbag questions or topic suggestions? Text us!What approach should you take when teaching in a post-Christian context? DJ Rodeffer, Youth Director at Collective Church in Frederick, Maryland, makes a compelling case for topical teaching in this thought-provoking conversation.Speaking from his experience in one of America's most unchurched regions, DJ explains why topical teaching creates powerful entry points for students who've been burned by the church or have no religious background whatsoever. Rather than feeling like a compromise, his approach strategically addresses real-life issues while remaining firmly anchored in Scripture."We feel as if we're able to engage what's specifically going on in our kids' lives," DJ shares, describing how his team crafts series on everything from digital hygiene to mental health based on relationships with their students. This contextual sensitivity allows them to meet young people exactly where they are.While DJ clearly leans topical, he emphasizes there's no ministry without a balance of both approaches. The conversation offers valuable perspective for any youth worker wondering how to effectively communicate timeless truth to a generation hungry for relevance and authenticity. Whether you're team topical, team exegetical, or somewhere in between, you'll find practical wisdom for your ministry context.
Send us a textCheck out our new partnership with Onward: Youth & Young Adult Pastor Cohort https://www.onwardleader.com/the-cohort *** As youth ministry leaders, we're problem solvers by definition... steering the ship through challenges that range from predictable to completely unexpected. This episode dives deep into how effective student ministry leaders navigate change while bringing their team along for the journey.In this episode, we will be taking a look at the Innovation Theory and how it relates to changes you make to your youth ministry. We will also be showcasing the practical strategies for communicating the "why" behind changes, addressing concerns without giving them undue weight, and maintaining your leadership confidence even when facing criticism.Whether you're considering splitting age groups, starting a student leadership team, discontinuing traditional events, or implementing year-round programming, this episode provides the framework you need to lead change effectively. Your courage to make necessary changes, even in the face of resistance, is what distinguishes truly effective youth ministry leadership.
Jeremy Sanders, Youth Director and an elder at COC, continues our series in the gospel of John with "The Reappearance" from John 20:19-29.
Send us a textStart the school year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, be sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Your youth ministry emails aren't just delivering information—they're building relationships, shaping your reputation, and creating trust. When parents feel valued through thoughtful communication, they're more likely to engage, participate, and recommend your youth group to others.Today's parents are overwhelmed with commitments and communications. They're juggling permission slips, deadlines, and logistics for multiple children across activities, sports, and schooling. Your ministry emails can either add to their stress or become a welcome relief. Beyond mechanics, remember that communication is also a ministry. Your emails provide opportunities to share what students are learning, demonstrate your values, and even share gospel truths that might reach unchurched parents. Want to transform your parent communication? Listen now to discover how intentional parent communication can become your student ministry's strongest asset rather than an administrative afterthought. Your emails aren't just words—they're just one more bridge between your youth ministry and the families you serve.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#047) Youth Pastors and Parents - Best Communication Tips=======
Send us a textKick off the school year the right way! Now is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Are your youth ministry students confident in sharing their testimony to their friends, neighbors, classmates or teammates?? The pressure to "share your faith" looms large for many Christian youth, often creating anxiety instead of confidence. But what if evangelism looked less like memorized scripts and more like authentic relationships?Today we will be discussing three powerful strategies for equipping your youth group students to share their faith naturally and with confidence. Let's transform how your students approach faith-sharing...=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#160) YOUTH PASTORS: Are You Challenging Your Youth Group?(#016) How Do You Help Your Youth Group Fall In LOVE With Jesus?=========
Send us a text*** Want a Student Leadership Team Starter Kit? (featuring Application, Job Descriptions, Reference Form, etc.) Email us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com and put "STUDENT LEADERSHIP STARTER KIT" in the subject or description and we will send it over to you!*** What if your students saw themselves as the church rather than consumers of it? This mindset shift is at the heart of creating effective student leadership teams that transform both your youth ministry and the spiritual journeys of your students. Today, we are giving you 5 secrets on how to build a strong student leadership team in your student ministry!You'll discover why student leadership teams create a special "youth group within the youth group" dynamic that deepens relationships in ways regular attendance never could. Whether you're just launching your first student leadership team or looking to strengthen an existing one, this episode provides actionable strategies for success. Ready to empower your students to own their faith? This episode shows you exactly how to start.=========Now is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** =========250th EPISODE GIVEAWAY!!
Send us a text*** Want a Student Leadership Team Starter Kit? (featuring Application, Job Descriptions, Reference Form, etc.) Email us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com and put "STUDENT LEADERSHIP STARTER KIT" in the subject or description and we will send it over to you!*** Is your youth ministry getting ready to launch it's student leadership team and you want to build excitement for it? Today we will be going over 3 ways to encourage your youth group to join it!250th Episode Giveaway!!
Gospel Baptist Church, Bonita Springs, FL - Fundamental, Independent, Bible Believing
July 27,2025
Send us a text250th Episode Giveaway!!
Send us a text250th Episode Giveaway!!
Jeremy Sander, Youth Director at COC, continues our series in the "The Essentials" with "The Doctrine of Perseverance and Glorification."
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** To celebrate our 250th episode, we're taking you on a full behind-the-scenes tour of our midweek youth group program. Our youth ministry has access to our entire church and we will be showing exactly how we transform it and utilize space to enable a thriving student ministry program!From the moment students arrive, every space serves a strategic purpose. We walk through pre-program hangout zones, our leader preparation/meeting spaces, and the main service area where we conduct high-energy games, worship, and teaching. You'll also see how we convert multiple spaces into effective small group environments where deeper connections happen.Whether you lead ministry in a sprawling campus or a modest building, this tour offers practical ideas you can adapt for your context. For churches with limited facilities, we offer scaled-down alternatives that create the same engaging atmosphere without requiring elaborate setups or equipment.If you want to watch the full tour with visuals, check it out on YouTube here:SHOPPING LIST:Mailbox: https://amzn.to/43gjQwFPiggy Bank/Box for Compassion Intl Donations: https://amzn.to/3ZefnZZSmall Group Bins: https://amzn.to/3Iv2ntD (these aren't the same, but similar)Connect 4 Lawn Game: https://amzn.to/3Iv2ntDCastlesports 9 Square: https://amzn.to/4eQLBkFTwo Way Radios: https://amzn.to/4kdMxRENintendo Switch: https://amzn.to/43vS7JyMarket Lights: https://amzn.to/43lCseMBoba Pearls - https://amzn.to/4c695j2Torani Syrup for Italian Sodas: https://amzn.to/4ce85cJ=========If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#121) FREE TIME YOUTH MINISTRY GAMES - 6 Pre-Service Games Activities(#242) Youth Ministry Room Setup & Decorating Ideas - Youth Ministry Remodel=======
What does Paul have to say about true unity? Join our Youth Director, Gage Skivington, as we continue our series through Paul's Letter to the Ephesians.Support the show
Send us a textOn this episode of Coffee with Danny we are joined by Ana, a teacher, leader, and former scholarship student who shares her incredible journey from nervous translator to confident mentor. They talk about the power of practice, pushing through fear, and why showing up, even with mistakes and all, is ultimately what leads to transformation.
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Feeling called to youth ministry but can't seem to get hired at a church? You're not alone! This episode uncovers the uncomfortable yet crucial reasons why some youth ministry-minded individuals struggle to get hired as a youth pastor despite their passion. Whether you're actively seeking a student pastor position or you are involved in hiring for your church, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what makes someone student ministry-ready. =========
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Every youth pastor knows the rollercoaster of youth ministry – the highs of seeing students grow, the lows of drama and discouragement. What many don't realize is that who you choose to ride that student ministry rollercoaster with matters just as much as the ministry itself.Whether you're struggling with difficult team dynamics, seeking to build a powerful team from the ground up or looking to strengthen an already solid group, these insights will help you create a youth ministry environment where everyone – including you – can thrive for the long haul. Your youth ministry's longevity depends not just on what you do, but who you do it with.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#011) How to Recruit the RIGHT Volunteers For Youth Ministry(#024) Raising Up Leaders in Student Ministry - How to Duplicate Yourself!!!(#244) How to Retain Your Youth Ministry Volunteers for Years!(#245) How to Keep Students Coming Back to Your Youth Ministry EVERY WEEK!=======
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** That sinking feeling when your youth ministry isn't growing can trigger panic and questionable decisions. But what if your solution isn't going to bring the result you think it will? In this episode, we take a look at 5 mistakes youth pastors often make when they are faced with the reality that their youth group is shrinking in size. To be clear, the size of your youth group doesn't automatically equal effectiveness, and not every youth ministry is destined for thousands of attendees. However, when you sense momentum has disappeared or attendance is declining, it requires thoughtful investigation rather than hasty reactions. In this strategic episode, we take a look at the challenging reality of student ministry stagnation and offer practical tips for reversing the course.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#235) SPORTS vs. YOUTH GROUP: 5 Ways to Win the Battle of Priorities!(#240) Do Numbers Matter? What Your Youth Ministry Numbers Are ACTUALLY Telling You!=======