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In this episode Trent sits down with Eric Sammons of Crisis Magazine to discuss whether the Catholic church should have "youth ministry".
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 textEver wondered if there's a way to make meetings less painful and more productive? Kate Downing pulls back the curtain on what makes ministry team gatherings work—or fail spectacularly.Returning guest Kate Downing shares practical strategies for transforming team meetings from dreaded time-wasters into valuable, engaging experiences that build team culture and advance ministry goals.Kate's Great Tips• Starting meetings with celebration time (20-30 minutes) focused on relationship building and recognizing God's work• Using language like "what are you praising God for" instead of "wins" to avoid creating competition• Creating and sharing detailed meeting agendas that serve as both roadmaps and historical records• Incorporating professional development through theological training and guest experts• Maintaining focus on relevant topics while knowing when to take detailed discussions "offline"• Ending meetings 15 minutes early for "15 minutes of fun" as a built-in reward• Applying similar meeting principles when developing student leaders• Setting clear start and end times to respect everyone's schedules• Using collaborative note-taking systems that allow everyone access before and after meetingsJoin us for Season 7 of the Youth Ministry Booster Podcast where you'll hear from Kate and other great leaders as we talk about what it means to fly fair and fast in youth ministry.Support the showJoin the community!
Today Matt Eachus, Lead Pastor of Church at Newtown Road in Upstate NY talks about his journey of taking the lead Pastor role from the founding Pastor. He shares encouragement and insight of how to see it done well and wisdom from the previous lead pastor of what he did right. If you are going thorugh a change of jobs or feeling like God is changing directiions in your life, this is for you. He also shares valueable insight on Dads in the church and how thier impact can truly make a difference. He talks about: Healthy Transitions in church leadership What does a Lead Pastor need to prepare personally How to surround yourself with a solid team The value of Strong Men and Fathers in the church The value of Dad's leading thier family daily Check out Matt's church : https://www.newtownroad.org/ Dont forget to sign up to our Date Night - A Night of Laughter and Connection ❤️ Mark your calendars for September 13th at Greenville Oaks 6:30 pm and join us for Known Legacy's Date Night! This is more than just a night out—it's a chance to reconnect with your spouse, share some laughs, and be encouraged in your marriage. Whether you're newlyweds or decades in, this evening is designed to inspire, strengthen, and reignite your relationship. ✅ Fun ✅ Encouragement ✅ Real conversations ✅ Time together—without the distractions Don't miss what God wants to do in and through your marriage! Tag your spouse. Invite your friends. We'll see you there! Sign up today. https://knownlegacy.org/date-night #KnownLegacy #MarriageMatters #ChristianMarriage #DateNight #StrongerTogether #FaithAndFamily TIme is running out! dont miss your spot for our Mens Retreat - last day to sign up is Sept 4th https://knownlegacy.org/2025-mens-retreat Get Ready for the Known Legacy Men's Retreat September 19–21, 2024 Arrowhead Camp & Retreat Center – Cleburne, TX Take a break from the noise and step into a weekend designed just for you—a time to rest, recharge, and rediscover who God created you to be. Whether you're running on empty or just need to hit pause, this retreat is your invitation to refocus on your purpose and build deeper connections with other men on the journey. What's Included: Intentional time to slow down and breathe Dynamic worship & powerful teaching sessions Epic cornhole tournament Basketball, disc golf, gaga ball, 9 square, horseshoes & lawn games Archery & archery tag Indoor activity center: foosball, ping-pong, carpet ball, board games & movie nights Meaningful conversations & memories that last Cost: $300 per person (double occupancy) $400 per person (single occupancy) ⚠️ Spots are limited — don't wait to sign up! https://knownlegacy.o... Chapters (00:00:00) - Known Legacy Podcast(00:03:06) - Question of the Day(00:06:43) - Just Say No to Gifts(00:06:57) - What Would You Bring Back From Your Childhood? The Boss(00:10:24) - Matt Gets Real About His Story(00:14:01) - Pastor David on His Calling beyond Youth Ministry(00:18:08) - When God Calls You to a Transition(00:20:54) - What Was It Like For Your Kids to Live in New York?(00:21:49) - Shepherding Your Kids In the Faith(00:23:43) - A Prodigal Son's Message(00:27:08) - Pastor Duke's Leadership Team(00:31:34) - Matt and Duke's Church Ministry(00:32:18) - How Long Have You Been the Lead Pastor at Newtown Baptist Church?(00:34:24) - Dads Leading Their Families(00:36:22) - Fast Five(00:36:37) - Who Do You Most Arrive to admire?(00:37:50) - Let's Fight for the Reformation(00:39:25) - What are you reading right now?(00:40:28) - 2018 Goal: Get Fitter For Thanksgiving(00:41:23) - No Legacy: The Fast 5(00:41:46) - Fast 6: Most Impactful Piece of Advice You Were Given(00:43:32) - Known Legacy Podcast
Struggling to keep up with youth ministry social media this fall? In this episode of the Hybrid Ministry Show, Nick Clason unveils the Fall Social Media Pack—a done-for-you, but also fully customizable content calendar built to align with your fall kickoff event, guest strategy, YouTube channel, and in-person ministry, saving you hours every week. Learn how to post your way to better engagement on Instagram, TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts, while bridging the gap between digital discipleship and real-life impact in your church!
What do you do when ministry collides with real life—tragedy, grief, and the questions no textbook ever prepared you for? In this powerful episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards reconnects with Mark Fisher, one of his first Campus Life students, to explore some of the hardest lessons learned in youth ministry and beyond. From serving as a chaplain near the Texas-Mexico border, to walking through cancer, loss, and tragedy, to pastoring and parenting through deep personal heartbreak, Mark's journey is both raw and inspiring. Together, Doug and Mark unpack: ✅ The role of faith in seasons of loss. ✅ Why youth workers must address the spiritual crisis behind today's mental health crisis. ✅ How Campus Life and para-church ministries shaped a generation of students and leaders. ✅ The importance of partnering with parents—not just students—in ministry. ✅ Scriptures that sustain leaders when burnout, grief, or doubt hit hard (Matthew 11, Mark 9, Matthew 8). ✅ Why youth pastors matter so deeply—because for many kids, you are the church they think of first. This heartfelt conversation will remind every youth pastor, volunteer, mentor, or parent that while ministry is never easy, the seeds you plant may grow into eternal impact—even if you don't see the fruit for years.
Kyle, and side kick Josiah Rios, interview author and Children's Pastor Hunter Williams about the importance of teaching theology to children. They discuss the book Hunter co-authored titled How to Teach Kids Theology: Deep Truths for Growing Faith. Hunter offers encouragement for youth leaders and volunteers who want to teach theological truths but feel ill-equipped. They discuss the idea of intelligibility and how to appropriately teach truths to children of different ages. We want to teach children biblical truths in language that they understand, but there are times where we also want them to be blown away by how big God really is even if they Won't fully grasp it. Hunter also emphasizes creating a pathway in your church to accomplish the ministry and discipleship goals that you set.
Lauretta hosts the program and is joined by her guest, Deacon Ralph Poyo of New Evangelization Ministries. Lauretta leads Deacon Ralph in a discussion about the need to evangelize, in particular the youth. Deacon Ralph's ministry focuses on the need to evangelize. He serves as the leader of the Youth Ministry at his parish. He shares his life stories and points out how impactful your life story is to connect with others. Sharing these stories helps connect to the gospel, it helps relate how God works in your life. Visit their website at www.NewEvangelizationMinistires.org He will be presenting at a conference in Houston with Pentecost Today on October 10-12, 2025; see the website at www.pentecosttodayusa.org. St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish
Youth ministry takes center stage as Amber sits down with Pastor James Buske, executive director of Lighthouse Youth Centers. They talk about the powerful ways faith and practical support intersect to help young people. Pastor Buske shares how his personal experiences and God's guidance shaped a ministry that addresses complex challenges faced by young people in urban neighborhoods. The conversation reveals how Lighthouse provides more than just a safe space. It equips youth with vital life skills and fosters spiritual growth amid difficult circumstances.This is one of several conversations Amber had at the Christian Leadership Experience in La Crosse, Wisconsin, earlier this summer. The conference was a chance for those in ministry to learn from leaders. Dr. Schoof led a breakout session about fear.Amber wants to hear from you! If you have feedback or ideas, drop her a line at amber@timeofgrace.org
In this heartfelt episode of "You Can Mentor," we welcome Dr. Zac Bauermaster, a dynamic principal, author, and former college basketball player known for his viral social media content (21 million views) that spreads positivity and encouragement. Dr. Bauermaster shares his philosophy on building a school culture rooted in high fives, fist bumps, and genuine connections, emphasizing the transformative power of relationships in education. We explore his personal journey, from his early days as a teacher to his current role in school leadership, and discuss the mentors who shaped his path. Dive into stories of resilience, faith, and the profound impact of simply showing up for others. Whether you're a mentor, educator, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who truly embodies the spirit of mentorship.For more info about Zac, go to https://linktr.ee/zbauermaster--ChaptersIntroduction to Dr. Zac Bauermaster0:00 - 2:00Meet Dr. Zac Bauermaster, a principal, author, and former college basketball player known for his viral social media presence.Creating a Culture of Encouragement2:01 - 8:00Discover how Zac fosters a school environment filled with high fives, fist bumps, and genuine connections.The Power of Presence8:01 - 15:00Explore the importance of showing up and being present in the lives of students and mentees.Personal Journey and Mentorship15:01 - 25:00Zac shares his personal journey, the mentors who shaped him, and the impact of relationships.Balancing Roles and Responsibilities25:01 - 32:00Insights into how Zac balances his roles as a principal, speaker, and family man.Final Thoughts and Advice32:01 - 37:23Zac's advice for mentors and how to keep showing up for those you mentor.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor
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?=========
In this episode of the Hybrid Ministry Show, we're unpacking a proven event evaluation strategy for youth ministry that will help you actually improve your events instead of just surviving them. Learn how to run a productive post-event debrief using a 3-question framework that works for digital and in-person debrief meetings alike. Plus, get access to a sample evaluation form, hear a big announcement, and upgrade your fall youth ministry strategy with intentional feedback tools.
Today's episode of Uncommon Sense with Ginny Robinson is a carefully crafted full-on rant about two awful cultural failures, Donald Trump and Taylor Swift. Both, in their own ways, are failing the next generation and pushing the normalization of pedophilia. Trump refuses to release the Epstein list or hold powerful pedophiles accountable. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift flaunts her naked body on her album cover marketed to an audience that includes young girls who are already being tempted by a society pushing them toward OnlyFans. Feminism has clearly failed. We need to bring back the biblical patriarchy, AKA Christianity.At some point, we have to stop asking why is all of this happening and start living biblically individually, in our families, and as a society. For the sake of our own wellbeing and (far more importantly) the protection of our children. If we can't even agree to safeguard their innocence, what are we doing? Why aren't we protecting the children?--https://bakerbookhouse.com/featured/the-brand-sunday
Are you running on empty in youth ministry? Stressed, comparing yourself to other churches, and wondering if you're enough? It's time to start stopping. In this episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards gets real about the pressures youth pastors, volunteers, and parents of students face—and the powerful freedom that comes when you stop trying to do it all, stop overthinking, and stop carrying results that only God can handle. Drawing from Joshua 1:9 and 1 Kings 19, Doug reveals how courage, rest, and obedience—not fear, comparison, or perfection—are what truly transform student ministry. You'll learn: ✅ Why God uses willing hearts, not polished performances. ✅ How to stop overthinking the gospel and simply ask, “Would you like to invite Jesus into your heart?” ✅ What Elijah's cave story teaches us about burnout, rest, and God's gentle whisper. ✅ Why comparing your ministry to others steals your joy and effectiveness. ✅ How to let go of fear and lead with courage.
“Junior” Senior Adult Cathy Huffines and current Youth Meryl Vaughan share a conversation about what it was like then and now to grow up at Oak Grove UMC. We hope you enjoy this conversation on Youth Ministry, intergenerational ministry, and Older Adult ministry! Our Annual “Celebration of Wisdom and Grace” Worship Service is on Sunday, August 24th at 11am Traditional Worship.We will hear from folks about some of their spiritual practices, whether it's photography and seeing the world through different “lenses”, devotion to a daily meditation practice, living out our faith through acts of compassion, or how lifelong involvement here at OGUMC has impacted lives of people in the community—both locally and globally. New episodes will come out each Tuesday morning on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple podcasts. We hope you will tune in to hear the lived experiences of these sages among us!__You can listen, watch, & subscribe to the Podcast on:+ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OGUMC/podcasts+ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nGIcxSt5ToGbAcs0dmua2?si=fe1da24b3c21492d+ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oak-grove-umc-podcast/id1695962000Sunday Worship at Oak Grove:8:30 & 11am* Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary10:45* Modern in Fellowship Hall*streaming online#ngumc #umc #ogumc #fall #fallpodcast #wisdom
In this stirring message, evangelist Bob Holmes reminds us of the limitless power of God. Drawing from Hebrews 11 and stories of faith, he illustrates how the Creator who spoke the world into existence can do anything, anywhere, at any time. Through personal testimonies and biblical examples, this episode calls listeners to renewed faith, trust, and courage in the God who still works miracles today.Topics DiscussedThe nature of faith from Hebrews 11God's power as Creator compared to man's inventionsTestimonies of God's providence in ministry and daily lifeHow faith emboldens us to face trials like David, Shadrach, Meshach, and AbednegoEncouragement to trust God rather than worryThe reality that God can work in any circumstance—palaces, prisons, deserts, hospitals, or even the belly of a fishPractical stories of answered prayer and miraculous provisionKey TakeawaysFaith pleases God: Without faith, it is impossible to please Him.God is unlimited: He is not bound by time, place, or circumstance.Worry denies His power: Trust replaces fear when we remember who God is.God still works today: Just as in Scripture, He answers prayer, provides, and shows His power in unexpected ways.Our role is trust and obedience: We can follow Him confidently, knowing He is already ahead of us. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
This week on the podcast, Anthony and Jen (our youth staff team) discuss this past Sunday which was youth Sunday; going over all the moments from the morning, talking about the students that served, as well as looking back at some of their favorite moments and memories from youth camp this year and the years before.
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!!
Looking for fun, easy, and totally free youth ministry ideas that actually engage students? In this episode of The Hybrid Ministry Show, Nick Clason shares 10 high-energy, low-prep free time station ideas—from donut decorating to Mario Kart tournaments, 9 Square, Gaga Ball, social challenges, and more—all designed to boost student engagement and connection. If you're a youth pastor craving creative youth group games, fall event strategy, or hybrid ministry tips that work, this episode is packed with stealable ideas and a bonus resource you don't want to miss!
What if your vision for ministry is way too small? In this powerful episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards challenges you to break free from short-term thinking and start planning—not for the next 5 years, or even 50—but for the next 300 years. With inspiration from global missions, a major automotive company's long-term strategy, and the eternal focus of Jesus' Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20), Doug unpacks how youth pastors, volunteers, and parents can prepare the next generation to carry the gospel far beyond our lifetime. You'll discover: ✅ Why the church must plan like Jesus might not return for centuries—while living like He's coming today. ✅ The shocking truth about unreached people groups (even in the digital age). ✅ How to build a generational legacy of faith that outlives buildings, budgets, and programs. ✅ The eternal difference between building earthly organizations and building heaven's population. ✅ What Proverbs 13:22 teaches about leaving a spiritual and practical inheritance. Whether you're leading a youth group, mentoring students, or raising teens, this episode will expand your vision from the temporary to the eternal—and inspire you to lead with heaven in your sights.
In this episode, Paul, Julia, Jake and Rachel discuss the upcoming Jubilee of Hope declared by Pope Francis for 2025, emphasizing its significance for the Catholic Church and the call for youth engagement. They explore the historical context of Jubilee, the importance of local community involvement, and practical ideas for youth ministry to connect with the larger church during this Jubilee year.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Jubilee of Hope06:32 Understanding the Concept of Jubilee12:12 Local Pilgrimages and Community Engagement18:09 Connecting Youth to the Larger ChurchLinks: Spes Non Confudit (Papal Bull)USCCB Jubilee WebsiteArch Indy Pilgrimage SitesArch Indy Jubilee Page pizzasidehugs@gmail.com
Kyle invites Dr. Rich Brown of Next Gen Matters to have a discussion about how to equip our students to reach other students. Rich recognizes that students are the ones who are best positioned to reach their peers with the Gospel. To that end he offers great suggestions on how to equip them to do so. We as youth workers can provide support to our students as they work to evangelize and disciple their own peer group!
Matt Steen has served the local church for over two decades as a youth pastor, church planter, and executive pastor. Originally from Baltimore, Matt currently lives in the Orlando, FL area with his wife Theresa, and has a B.S. in Youth Ministry from Nyack College and an M.Div. and MBA from Baylor University.Certified as an Urban Church Planter Coach by Redeemer City to City and as a StratOp facilitator by the Paterson Center, Matt has made a career of helping churches thrive through intentionality, clarity, and creating healthy cultures. He is convinced that a healthy church is led by a healthy team with great chemistry, and loves partnering with Chemistry's churches to do great things for the Kingdom.Matt joins Dale on today's 95Podcast to discuss the subject of succession planning. As the average age of the American pastor continues to get older, it's imperative that churches begin having conversations around the subject of who will lead the church in the future.Show Notes: https://www.95network.org/how-chemistry-staffing-can-help-you-with-succession-planning-w-matt-steen-episode-298/Support the show
This week we're looking at how to respond to the epidemic of childhood sexual abuse. Sadly, one of the complaints heard most often about Christians and the church is that we ignore the problem of sexual abuse, or sometimes even deny its existence. The consequences of our ignorance and irresponsibility are great. We wind up ignoring the need to develop effective and responsible preventive and redemptive responses. Fortunately, the growing pervasiveness of sexual abuse has caused many churches to wake up and establish protective policies for the church, their children's ministry, and youth group. What, is your church doing? Work to implement policies and training that will reduce the risk of making it easy to put kids into the hands of sexual predators. Screen your volunteers. Require interviews and background checks. Implement oversight and accountability standards.
In this GoMission episode, Mark Gilmore sits down with BCM senior Ben Stoeckmann to reflect on his seven-week internship in Grenada. From curvy mountain roads to palm-lined beaches, Ben's journey was filled with gospel opportunities—three Cola Clash–style youth outreaches, preaching in multiple communities, and connecting with local believers. Yet, the greatest lesson came not from the events themselves, but from what followed: the urgent need to pray for and invest in disciples, not just decisions. Through firsthand experiences and the example of national pastor Jeremy Scott, Ben shares how intentional, life-on-life ministry can break strongholds and multiply lasting fruit.Topics DiscussedLocation, culture, and spiritual climate of GrenadaInternship under national pastor Jeremy ScottThree Cola Clash–style youth outreaches in Victoria, Chantimelle, and Mount RichOvercoming challenges of rainy season and cultural differencesSpiritual strongholds: works-based religion, drinking, immorality, and subtle animismMiraculous connections with young men hungry for God's WordThe importance of praying for disciples as fervently as for salvation decisionsPastor Scott's “life-on-life” discipleship modelApplying disciplemaking principles both overseas and in the U.S.Ben's personal call to missions and growing burden for the Hispanic worldKey TakeawaysSalvation decisions are only the starting point; true Great Commission work requires making disciples.Prayer for discipleship should be just as urgent and intentional as prayer for conversions.Life-on-life investment—sharing ministry and everyday moments—is essential for spiritual growth.Cultural openness to the gospel does not eliminate the need to address deep-rooted spiritual strongholds.The principles of effective disciplemaking overseas are just as vital to practice at home.If you have your own unique story of gospel advance or if you sense God leading you toward a particular people group, we'd love to hear about it. Even if it's just a sentence or two, share what God is doing in an email to gomission@theegeneration.org.GoMission, hosted by Mark Gillmore, is a monthly, missions-focused program designed to expose young people to the people, stories, and opportunities happening across the globe in the world's harvest fields. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
274. The Ministry of Seeing People: Knowing and Authentically Encouraging Your Mentee with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews of mitchmatthews.com In this inspiring episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Author and Coach Mitch Matthews to explore the profound impact of mentorship. Mitch shares his personal journey from a small-town bike shop enthusiast to a successful coach and mentor, revealing how authentic encouragement and the "ministry of seeing people" can transform lives. Learn how to harness the power of curiosity, ask the right questions, and create meaningful connections. Whether you're guiding young minds or leading in the corporate world, Mitch's insights on being present and authentic will equip you to mentor with purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to discover how you can make a lasting difference by simply showing up as yourself. https://mitchmatthews.com/ & @mitch.matthews - Check out Mitch's "Dream. Think. Do" podcast wherever you get your pods!#Mentorship #Encouragement #Authenticity #Leadership--Introduction and Welcome (00:01)Zach Garza introduces Mitch Matthews and sets the stage for the conversation.Mitch's Journey to Coaching (01:19)Mitch shares his background, from a small-town bike shop to discovering his passion for coaching.The Ministry of Seeing People (06:35)Mitch discusses the importance of truly seeing and engaging with others in mentorship.Encouragement in Mentorship (10:54)The conversation shifts to how encouragement plays a vital role in mentoring.Authenticity and Dropping the Persona (23:39)Mitch talks about the power of being yourself and the challenges of maintaining a persona.Practical Mentoring Tools (34:03)Simple yet effective tools for mentoring are discussed, emphasizing curiosity and presence.Conclusion and Resources (44:05)Mitch shares resources and ways to connect, wrapping up the episode.--If this podcast has encouraged or equipped you, would you take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating? On Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom of the You Can Mentor page and click “Write a Review.” On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the settings wheel, and hit “Rate Show.” It helps us reach more mentors like you.Want to go deeper?• Join our Learning Lab for mentoring resources and community• Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop• Come to our annual You Can Mentor GatheringYou can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on instagram @youcanmentor
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!!
Send us a textJay Winn shares how his youth ministry at Riverpoint Church is shifting toward a more relational approach in response to changing student needs. Despite having fewer resources following leadership transitions, Jay is finding success by investing deeply in authentic connections with students rather than focusing primarily on programs and events.• Returning to "old school youth ministry" with a focus on authentic relationships and personal discipleship• Making small groups optional rather than mandatory, resulting in more engaged participation• Moving midweek gatherings to Thursday nights with a discussion-based format that has grown from 30 to 85 students• Creating systems where youth staff have specific students to check on regularly, making relationships a measurable part of ministry• Recognizing Gen Z students' increasing need for one-on-one mentoring amid rising anxiety and information overload• Structuring Sunday morning as the ministry's "front door" with high-energy programming while reserving other gatherings for deeper discussion• Working toward a staffing model with one full-time staff member for every 50 students• Planning a fall retreat focused on helping students reconnect with God personally rather than focusing on service to othersJoin the Youth Ministry Booster community to connect with other youth pastors who are growing, learning, and adapting their ministries to meet today's challenges.Support the showJoin the community!
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”The box had been gathering dust under the bed for years. Inside were the remnants of a journey to Russia that forever changed Jamie McAleer's family. "I never thought I'd go to Russia," she recalls, having grown up during the Cold War when the Soviet Union was considered the enemy. Yet God had other plans that would take her across the world to find her son.Listen to this moving conversation that will challenge you to recognize God's hand in your own life story and consider how sharing your journey might inspire generations to come.Find Jamie's Book Here: I Will Come To YouFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!Read Jack's Latest Blog: "The Tale We've Fallen Into"Support the show
Welcoming new students to your youth ministry shouldn't feel like a firehose of information—this episode unpacks how to create an intentional, low-pressure first-time guest follow-up system. We'll explore the psychology behind making guests feel valued, how to use a youth group welcome box, and why timing your church guest process matters. Plus, get a walkthrough of our youth ministry calendar, a peek at our welcome video strategy, and how to keep student connections alive on social media all fall long!
Dan and Jordan come to the end of their discussion on healthy youth ministry practices by talking about vocation.Practice #1 - Congregations have warmth, challenge, and gracePractice #2 - Congregations have supportive adultsPractice #3 - Congregations have engaged parentsPractice #4 - Congregations have opportunities to serve and leadPractice #5 - Congregations help young people deeply understand their baptismal faithPractice #6 - Congregations help young people develop a resilient identity in ChristPractice #7 - Congregations help young people live out their unique vocations
I've been asked about parenting teenagers, by some people who are anticipating their children soon growing to be teens. This collection of observations is a snapshot of what I've been learning thus far (with my 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 8 year olds). I expect to have more and less to say down the track, but also know that immediacy counts for something. This episode is a forerunner to anything I might say in the future about youth ministry. Charlotte Mason Ourselves Cindy Rollins Mere Motherhood God Will Not Do What We Imagine The Necessary Desperation Teenagers conference videos Interview with ADE podcast on Homeschooling Teenagers
What happens when the pressure's on, the critics are loud, and the easy thing to do is stay silent? In this powerful episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards dives deep into the question every youth pastor, ministry volunteer, and student leader must ask: “Who am I—really—when no one's watching but God?” Through Scripture (Romans 12:2), personal leadership battles, and real-life ministry stories—including an encounter with Dr. Charles Stanley and a youth pastor's redemption story—you'll uncover: ✅ Why your core character is the most powerful message you preach ✅ How to handle unfair criticism without losing your soul ✅ What it takes to lead students when church politics and power dynamics collide ✅ Why integrity practiced under pressure creates leaders worth following ✅ What it looks like to be transformed by God, not conformed by culture ✅ The truth about calling—and why sometimes doing the right thing will cost you everything Whether you're burned out, fired up, or somewhere in between—this episode reminds you:
In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, veteran youth pastor Justin Wong reflects on how culture—through wars, elections, and even music—has shaped youth ministry over the years. He offers honest encouragement for the weary youth worker, while highlighting both the challenges and the unique opportunities that come with serving the next generation.Justin has served in youth and family ministry for over 23 years. He holds degrees from Houston Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Tina, and together they have two daughters, Ella and Mia. Rooted Resources:Lessons Learned During My First Year of Youth Ministry: Leadership Takes Time by Taylor SuttonThe Joy and Crown of Youth Ministry by Clark FobesMaking Space for Encouragement in Youth Ministry by Ericson Joubert Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts
In this solo episode, Bobby Bosler reflects on a summer of surprising stability while ministering from his new home base in Fairmont, West Virginia. Drawing from Psalm 15, he explores the traits of someone who is unshakable—not because of circumstances, but because of nearness to God. With biblical insight and practical challenges, this episode calls young listeners to examine their own lives and find spiritual stability in drawing close to the Lord.Topics DiscussedSummer gospel victories in West VirginiaHow Psalm 15 defines spiritual stabilityThe question: “Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?”What it means to walk blamelessly and obedientlyInternal honesty vs. self-deceptionThe dangers of slander and taking up offensesLearning to hate sin and love righteousnessKeeping your word, even when it hurtsManipulation, corruption, and integrity in relationshipsA call to walk near to God for unshakable stabilityKey TakeawaysSpiritual stability isn't about external calm—it's about internal nearness to God.Psalm 15 gives practical, convicting marks of the unshakable believer.God desires not just outward obedience but inward honesty and consistent integrity.The things that make us unstable—manipulation, slander, compromise—can be replaced by holy living if we draw near to God.Living close to God will expose sin and bring the strength to live unmovable. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
We're live with Joe Chautin, Fr. Doug Busch and Amy Cowley as they talk about Our Lady of the Lake's 175th anniversary, Kathleen Higgins, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, talks about de-siloing youth ministry and Sr. Allison Regina Gliot, talks about her new young adult book called, The Curse He Chose.
Send us a text250th Episode Giveaway!!
Send us a textAlleigh Jezek shares how she revitalized a youth ministry by creating an inviting atmosphere, multiplying small groups, and building an authentic community where students feel empowered to lead and invite friends.
The ultimate fall youth ministry outreach event that actually gets students to show up—plus grab a free donut event download to boost your next youth group outreach. Whether you're planning fall events, student ministry games, or looking for fresh youth group outreach ideas, this episode breaks down how to win students with Sonlife's classic CPR strategy: Win, Build, Equip. Don't miss this youth pastor resource that combines social media, donuts, and brackets into one unforgettable church outreach event!
What separates good leaders from great ones? It's not charisma. It's not popularity. It's not even experience. In this deeply inspiring episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards unpacks the 4 leadership traits that every ministry leader, parent, and pastor needs to lead in today's chaotic world—and only one of them is commonly talked about in church.
Send us a textThis is one of those podcast that needs to be listened to over and over again! Youth ministry is too often ignored or neglected in our churches. But in this podcast, we discuss a very basic, tried and true outline for establishing a successful youth ministry for any size church.Special Guest: Rodney and Autumn Blackwellwww.CanadyMissions.comBlackwells In Brazilwww.LeagueOfLogic.com
Making Faith Matter More: A Conversation with Shane SanchezWhat does it take to truly impact the next generation? In this episode, Zachary Garza sits down with Shane Sanchez—pastor, author, and strategic leader with Tenx10—to talk about the power of mentorship and discipleship in shaping young lives. From his early days playing baseball to his current work helping faith matter more to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, Shane shares his journey and what he's learned along the way.You'll hear about the mission behind 10x10, why authenticity and humility are key in mentorship, and how intentional relationships can change lives.https://www.tenx10.org/Key Topics:Why mentorship matters more than everShane's definition of mentorship: intentional relationships that develop othersUnique challenges and opportunities when mentoring Gen Z and Gen AlphaThe heart and mission of Tenx10Leading with authenticity, humility, and curiosityQuotes: "Mentorship is intentional relationship aimed at development by someone who sets an aspirational example." — Shane Sanchez "The next generation is seeking guidance and support as to how to navigate life as a whole." — Shane Sanchez#Mentorship #Discipleship #NextGeneration #Faith #Tenx10
Send us a text250th Episode Giveaway!!
More and more teens are turning to AI chatbots for connection, advice, and answers. What could go wrong? If you're in youth ministry, you may have already seen the dark side of this trend. In this video, we explore why this shift could be more damaging to Gen Z than social media was for Millennials—and what your ministry can do about it. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 3:00 - Takeaway #1: Delegation Becomes Dependency (Dr. Caroline Leaf) 6:57 - Takeaway #2: Formation Needs Friction 13:00 - Takeaway #3: AI Is Not A Friend 25:17 - The Theological Argument *For* AI In Ministry IMPORTANT LINKS - Caroline Leaf: https://x.com/DrCarolineLeaf - Your Brain On Chatgpt: https://bit.ly/4nyRHKn - Hopeful Intelligence: A Framework for How Spiritual Wisdom Can Reimagine AI — David Kim [Talkingbird]: https://bit.ly/4nCb59z THE 167 NEWSLETTER
In this episode, Dustin Grage shares his journey from aspiring youth minister to political columnist at Townhall.com. He discusses his experiences growing up in Minnesota, the challenges of living in a blue state, and his hopes for the future of his family and community. Dustin emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself amidst external pressures, while also reflecting on the significance of family values and the desire to create a better world for the next generation. The Karol Markowicz Show is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network - new episodes debut every Wednesday & Friday. Follow Dustin on XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton interviews Nate Ward, a former pastor who shares his journey from traditional church leadership to pioneering a new way of being the church with his family. Nate discusses his early life, the challenges he faced in ministry, the impact of COVID-19 on his perspective, and how he is now focusing on outreach and discipleship in a more personal and relational way. He emphasizes the importance of empowering his daughters in their faith and the need for the church to adapt to meet the needs of the community.
It finally happened: Frank invited Tim to his house—no cameras, no podcasting, just good old-fashioned hospitality (and probably snacks). Meanwhile, Andrew's house turned into party central, with a graduation-birthday-graduation-birthday combo that could only be survived with cake and caffeine.Also, May decided to go full youth ministry mode on us. All three of us were knee-deep in youth events, camps, sleepless nights, and questionable group game decisions. We're still recovering, and our group texts prove it.In this episode: • Frank opens the door to friendship—and his living room. • Tim shares the highs and headaches of student ministry in May. • Andrew's calendar has been nothing but “Congrats, Grad!” and “Happy Birthday!” • Plus: burnout talk, late-night ministry texts, and why May is the real church Olympics.Pour yourself another cup of Monday coffee and join us for a raw, real, and ridiculous conversation on life, ministry, and the chaos in between.
With North American Youth Congress set to begin later in the week, Dr. David K. Bernard shares advice and insights that will help Apostolic students and young adults live out God's purpose and plan for their lives.For further reading on this topic, see Dr. Bernard's book The Apostolic Life, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
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=======