Podcasts about youth ministries

On this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza sits down with Aaron Parrott of Mentor Kids USA to explore how relationships rooted in faith can transform kids and communities. Aaron shares how his experiences growing up as a missionary kid shaped his leadership and mentoring philosophy, along with lessons learned from building sustainable, Christ-centered mentoring programs. Together, they discuss leadership development, measuring impact, and staying humble and faithful while serving kids from hard places in the name of Jesus. 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 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=======

Send us a textNew Year, New Episode.Welcome special guest Wyatt Pennington everybody! A new father, emerging and awesome youth ministry leader Wyatt walks us through a practical reframe: treat parents as partners, not an inbox. He details quarterly parent nights that include worship, teaching for adults, prayer, and a genuine response, plus simple series-based resources that turn “What did you learn?” into real conversations around the table. The result: families feel pastored, not processed—and students keep growing after Wednesday night ends.We also tackle the screen-shaped world teens inhabit. Instead of declaring tech the enemy, Wyatt models a wiser way: analog alarm clocks, physical Bibles that never ping, printed workbooks, and clear boundaries that make space for God. We unpack how algorithms disciple kids with precision and why embodied practices and honest witness can out-form what big tech outspends. Finally, we get granular on communication: preach shorter sermons with one sticky point, yup just one, and lead descriptively by sharing your actual habits and failures, and commit to loving Jesus when no one is watching.High Points• new dad lessons on sacrifice and joy• modeling boundaries students can see• calling story from midweek to camp• caught not taught approach to mentoring• rebalancing ministry toward parents• practical parent nights with response• screens, algorithms, and formation• analog habits that make space for God• descriptive leadership over prescriptions• why shorter sermons carry furtherSignups for the Youth Ministry Preaching Experience are live. Check it out at lifeway.com/experience come check it out… sign up, let's hang out in Nashville for three days and talk about what it means to teach, preach, and connect with students in 2026 and beyondSupport the showJoin the community!

I stumbled into this camp idea, and I'm going to give it to you today! How I discovered it, what I've done that's worked, and how you can adapt it for your context. This is a great Winter Retreat, Summer Camp or D-Now game concept that runs in the background of your student ministry event! My Game Cheat Sheet: https://www.patreon.com/posts/object-hunt-146629811?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link SHOW NOTES Shownotes & Transcripts https://www.hybridministry.xyz/185 ❄️ WINTER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/posts/winter-seasonal-144943791?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link HYBRID HERO MEMBERS GET IT FREE! https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry DONUT BRACKET VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5ryhkIRyDb4?si=HGPeqL4k03WGceod

It seems like every other day brings a story of a Christian leader, whether well-known or not, that falls into moral failure. How should we respond? Do we continue to use their teaching and writing after the revelations of sin come to light? And perhaps most importantly, are there lessons we need to learn about ourselves from the sins of those who have been entrusted with leadership? That's what we're talking about on this timely and sadly necessary episode of Youth Culture Matters.

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Danny, Isaiah, and Becca reflect on the “landmines” of youth ministry through the lens of 1 Peter 5:8: being sober-minded and watchful because the devil prowls like a roaring lion. They discuss dangers such as the “savior complex,” prideful isolation, us-versus-them attitudes toward church leadership and parents, unhealthy comparison with other ministries, and the temptation to measure success by numbers instead of faithfulness.There is also a danger of neglecting our own souls—becoming “professional Christians” whose Bible reading is only for teaching prep, not personal communion with God. We will discuss both those “landmines” as well as how they can be avoided.Resources:Dangerous Calling by Paul David Tripp Sticky Faith by Kara Powell and Chap ClarkFollow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts

Send us a textJames Alexander Donaldson the 5th is a remarkable young man.  When someone comes to their faith, they often do so with trepidation.  Jimmy ran towards the word of God with a vigor and understanding very seldom seen in today's world.  On his TikTok account, Jimmy takes the passages of the bible, digest them, then delivers the word in a comprehension that exceeds his years.  In this episode we take a walk down the road of faith through a youth's eyes.  Trying to decipher how this transformation came about and where this young man hopes to go as he walks towards this path of enlightenment.Find Jimmy DonaldsonTikTokInstagramFind The Suffering PodcastThe Suffering Podcast InstagramKevin Donaldson InstagramTom Flynn InstagramApple PodcastSpotifyYouTubeSupport the showThe Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube

Those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ are called to bear each others burdens. We are to pray for each other. As friends, we are to love at all times and be there for others during their times of adversity. One thing I've learned as I've spent time with Christian kids is that so many of them battle with loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Even though they are followers of Christ, their adolescent struggles seem to be no different than the struggles faced by their non-believing peers. We are being told that the mental health crisis among our kids is reaching epidemic proportions, and almost two in five teens say they are not getting the support they need. Of course, those of us who are parents need to be more diligent in our efforts to nurture our kids in the faith and support them in any way we can. But there's a role the larger body of Christ must play. You may not have teens of your own, but you can and must endeavor to support the kids in your church through your prayers and presence. 

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 ❤️.=======

Send us a textWant a youth ministry that outlasts the hype cycle and survives staff turnover without losing momentum? Oh for sure, eh! This week's conversation with Canadian veteran youth pastor Jonathan Kornelsen dives into the shift from big events to spiritual formation, equipping teens to lead, and building a ministry that actually gets healthier over time.Jonathan outlines nine core convictions from his Youth Ministry Blueprint—clarifying mission and priorities before any program, crafting a discipleship strategy with measurable wins, protecting leader health as the true foundation, building a volunteer pipeline with strong onboarding, and designing gatherings that are excellent without becoming the point. We connect those principles to biblical models: Nehemiah's prayerful planning, Moses' detailed tabernacle instructions, Paul's leadership structures, and Jesus' focus on disciples over crowds. The result is a practical path for ministries of any size to create belonging, sustain growth, and hand off a stronger system to the next leader.The takeaway is direct: stop chasing attendance as the primary metric and measure formation, ownership, and calling.Jon shares a nine-conviction blueprint for building healthy, transferable structures that outlast any one leader.• defining mission, vision, and priorities before programming• building a discipleship strategy with clear wins• prioritising leader health as the true foundation• equipping students to lead worship, teach, and serve• onboarding and aligning volunteers with clear expectations• designing programs that form disciples, not consumers• creating belonging through small groups and culture• assessing health with simple tools beyond headcount• applying biblical models for structured, durable ministry• resourcing and connecting with Youth Ministry BlueprintOrder Youth Ministry Blueprint on Amazon and follow us on Jonathan at Youth Ministry Blueprinthttps://www.youthministryblueprint.com/Support the showJoin the community!

This episode is brought to you by the children's book "The Adventures of Ben and Travis and the Joy Rider". Get your copy here: https://www.benandtravis.com/store/p/joyrider On today's episode we submit your questions to Will Myhan in honor of the belated birthday froma few weeks back. We ask Will: Why youth ministry? When you're discouraged which Scripture is your go to for a pick-me-up? What is something you've learned about yourself in the last year? Would you rather fight one horse sized duck or 100 duck sized horses? With which aspect from each preacher you've worked would you take and make the perfect preacher? And maybe one or two more. Links mentioned in this episode: Get our free ebook "28 Days of Focused Living" here: https://www.benandtravis.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/benandtravis Reframing Hope Book: https://www.benandtravis.com/books For extra content and material you can use for your family or ministry go to https://www.patreon.com/benandtravis Represent the show: https://www.benandtravis.com/store The Friday ReFresh: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-friday-refresh/id1611969995 Good Old Fashioned Dislike Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-old-fashioned-dislike/id1643163790 Co-Producers: Justin B., Doris C., Rhonda F., Scott K., Mary H., Scott B. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Celebrating 100 episodes of The Word in Youth Ministry Podcast! Kyle Hoffsmith, Walt Mueller, and Chris Wagner all take a look back over some of their favorite moments and episodes. They look forward to what is to come and celebrate what God is doing through this podcast. They also offer encouragement to youth workers as they continue the awesome task of teaching the Bible to students. Here's to another 100 episodes!

In this episode of You Can Mentor, we welcome Matt McGill, a longtime pastor and baseball coach who shares wisdom gained from years of ministry and mentoring. Matt highlights the importance of meeting people where they are and responding faithfully to real needs. He also unpacks four key dilemmas he believes will help mentors better prepare for the challenges and opportunities they will face along the mentoring journey. 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 textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com ***Are you looking for books that will actually move the needle in your youth ministry and your leadership as a youth pastor? In this episode, we are presenting nine books that don't just inspire, but they reshape how you lead, preach, and disciple within your student ministry. This is a great time to compile your reading list and this conversation aims straight at the places youth pastors feel stuck and offers practical ways forward.=======

Send us a textCleaner, Braver, More Effective: Youth Ministry in 2026In this episode of Youth Ministry Booster, Zac and Chad lay our cards on the table, personal stakes, ministry wins we're chasing, habits we're cutting, and the simple shifts that actually build momentum with teenagers.

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Isaiah, Danny, and new co-host Becca focus on a crucial season in student discipleship: senior year. They unpack why senior year is such a unique window for ministry. The hosts discuss helping seniors see the church as more than youth group, preparing them to find a gospel-centered church in college, and giving them categories for God's will, vocation, and faithful involvement in the local church. While there are a lot of potential pitfalls in post-highschool life, there are a lot of great opportunities for students to grow in their faith, and thrive in their walk with Christ in their new season. Making Youth Group ‘Senior Night' More Than Once Each Year - Rooted MinistryThe Summer Before College: A Graduating Senior Gameplan - Rooted Ministry Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts

I tried and evaluated every "Youth Ministry Social Media" Pack I could find on the internet. I evaluated on 4 criteria, and the verdict is in! I discovered the pack you should be using at your church in 2026 and beyond! SHOW NOTES Shownotes & Transcripts https://www.hybridministry.xyz/182 Social Team Checklist https://www.patreon.com/posts/social-media-138081327?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link Mic'd Kid Reel https://www.instagram.com/p/DGtLVQOxLw8/ LIFE CHURCH https://open.life.church/resources/5220-youth-social-media-graphics DYM MONTHLY SOCIAL MEDIA PACK January Pack: https://www.downloadyouthministry.com/p/dym-january-2026-social-media-pack/social-media/instagram-10658.html Membership: https://www.dymmembership.com/ YOUTH MINISTRY DROP https://youthministrydrop.com/ SUNDAY SOCIAL https://sundaysocial.tv/social/ NUCLEUS Video: https://youtu.be/onqh7dHLwKs?si=XFtY-4Lcv32XMoH8 Nucleus Social: https://www.nucleus.church/media SERMON MULTIPLIER https://sermonmultiplier.com/ DYM Membership: https://www.dymmembership.com/ HYBRID HERO SOCIAL PACK https://www.patreon.com/posts/winter-seasonal-144943791?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link Hybrid Heroes get this pack for $4/mo https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry

Parenting teenagers can feel overwhelming—especially in a noisy, over-scheduled, screen-filled world. Cameron Cole and Anna Meade Harris from Rooted Ministry join us to talk about discipling adolescents with grace, clarity, and patience, and why parents still matter more than any algorithm or trend. They also dig into loneliness, technology, late-night conversations, and how churches can better support families (especially single parents).Resources Mentioned:Rooted MinistryRooted Ministry PodcastsGod's Grace for Every Family by Anna Meade HarrisYou're Only Human by Kelly Kapic Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteEditing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Marco Salinas continues the conversation from his NAYC youth worker session. Enjoy this episode to learn how to build a youth ministry that lasts the tests of teen years. Find all your youth ministry resources at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EducateandEngage.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Teens Draw Near to God: The Bride of Christ and Staying True to Your FaithWelcome to the Teens Draw Near to God Poetry Podcast! In this episode, Shirah Chante, your relationship coach since 2010, shares an original poem titled 'Babe,' exploring its deeper meaning and how it can help us draw nearer to God. We delve into the significance of being the Bride of Christ, staying true to our faith, and avoiding the pitfalls of false gospels and idols. Join us for an insightful discussion and poetic reflection on faith, purity, and the love of Christ. Share your thoughts, and don't forget to subscribe for more faith-filled content.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:53 Today's Topic: The Bride of Christ02:46 Reading the Poem: Babe03:49 Exploring the Poem Line by Line06:58 Biblical Insights and Teachings13:12 Personal Reflections and Testimonies18:24 Conclusion and FarewellSupport the show

Glenn Warner teaches Bible at Savannah Christian Preparatory School. In this episode, Glenn shares about his patient, shifting, and sometimes humbling journey in obedience to a call to youth ministry. The interview concludes with Glenn sharing about the ministry of teaching the Bible to high school students in a Christian school.

On today's episode of You Can Mentor, we're joined by special guest Bobby Lopez from Passion SoCal, who shares his heart for mentoring youth in Los Angeles communities impacted by drugs, gangs, and homelessness. Bobby reflects on moments from his own life and how God used mentors to shape his journey. This encouraging conversation reminds mentors that even small acts of presence and love can spark light and hope through Jesus in the lives of the kids they serve. Please make sure to follow @bobbylopez.jr on his socials!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

A Christmas miracle for youth pastors everywhere! A few months ago I went to the DYM 100 Roundtables, and without lifting a finger, or distracting my entire experience, this is how I regularly posted on my church's social media, while in attendance for the conference! BECOME A HYBRID HERO https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry ❄️ WINTER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/posts/winter-seasonal-144943791?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link SHOW NOTES Shownotes & Transcripts https://www.hybridministry.xyz/181 FREE E-BOOK https://www.patreon.com/posts/complete-guide-142500019 HYBRID HERO LINK https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry WINTER PACK VLOG https://youtu.be/RkHc0cTTr6c?si=zBPsd9-JWVo2mXIn 2x GROWTH EPISODE https://youtu.be/ogDlkTHDxew?si=gfcM6cpX6McI0zxs EXCLUSIVE JOSH BOLDMAN INTERVIEW https://www.patreon.com/posts/exclusive-josh-144080714?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link SOCIAL TEAM CHECKLIST https://www.patreon.com/posts/social-media-138081327?source=storefront

How do you serve God faithfully in youth ministry without sacrificing your family in the process? In this heartfelt Christmas-week episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards reflects on decades of student ministry and shares one of the most important lessons he's learned the hard way: every yes comes with a cost—and sometimes the most spiritual word you can say is "no." Rooted in powerful Christmas Scriptures like Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:21, and John 3:16, Doug reminds youth pastors, volunteers, parents, and grandparents why this season is ultimately about Emmanuel—God with us—and the families He has entrusted to us. Drawing wisdom from Martin Luther and leadership insights from John Maxwell, Doug opens up about the trips, retreats, and ministry opportunities he said yes to—some of which he wishes he had approached differently for the sake of his wife and children. In this episode, you'll hear about: ✅ Why "good ministry opportunities" can still cost you what matters most ✅ How saying yes to ministry often means saying no to family time ✅ Why prayer should increase—not decrease—when life gets busier ✅ The leadership truth: whatever you say yes to, you say no to everything else ✅ How to model healthy boundaries for students and volunteers ✅ Why Christmas is the perfect season to reassess priorities and pace This episode is a must-listen for youth pastors, ministry volunteers, teachers, parents, and grandparents who want to finish ministry strong, not burned out—and who want their families to feel loved, valued, and prioritized along the way.

This week Chris and Jeremy have some special guests on to talk about the recent Progressive Youth Ministry Conference that took place in Austin, TX.

Join us on the fourth Sunday of Advent to hear a message from Rev. Kelly Kincaid on joy and see the Youth Ministry's Christmas play. Let's watch them perform in this humorous detective skit that emphasizes the importance of togetherness and sharing during Christmas, as well as giving grace, forgiving misunderstanding and remembering the joy of the holiday season.

Do you long to belong? Do you still feel like the "outsider"? I'm talking with Katy Morgan, author of "The Outsider" about the beautiful story of a girl named Ruth—an outsider, who is brought to the very center of the story. How is this possible? It starts with her meeting a "kinsman redeemer" named Boaz. Free Resource: Pray the PromisesRecommended Resources: Check out Shannon's Amazon Storefront HERE which features Katy's book and Control Girl by Shannon.Katy MorganKaty Morgan is the award-winning author of Songs of a Warrior and a Senior Editor at The Good Book Company. She likes climbing hills and exploring new places—both in books and in real life! Before Katy joined TGBC, she used to work in a school, and now she teaches the Bible every week to children at her church. She also reads ancient Greek and has a master's degree in Classics from Cambridge University.Check out more episodes in the Judgy Series.Get your Free Live Like It's True Workbook.Check out Resound Media. Check out my nine week study, Control Girl: Lessons on Surrendering Your Burden of Control from Seven Women in the Bible.We've got leader's guides, free bonuses and more for you at ControlGirl.com.  Learn more at ShannonPopkin.com.

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 textMerry Christmas Adam & Eve everyone! The holiday calendar swirls, the phone notification buzzes, and suddenly December is deciding everything for you. We pressed pause to talk about the real pressure of ministering well at church and home.Our gift this year to share is presence. Chad and Zac share practical ways to build margin without dropping what matters. There's a tender side to all this too. The holidays carry joy and grief in the same pew. We talk about walking slowly enough to notice the first Christmas after a loss, the newcomer who needs a name remembered, and the family who only shows up in December. With clear expectations at home and a plan for attention—yes to phone-free days—you can serve your church without sacrificing your people• mapping service schedules and roles before crunch time• choosing “Christmas Adam” and micro-traditions to free family time• weekly and twice-weekly family meetings for clarity• device boundaries, batching messages, phone-free days• moving prep earlier to be present with people• shifting from the booth to visible shepherding• noticing grief and first holidays without loved ones• simple follow-ups that turn holiday hellos into care“Please drop a comment and tell us how you drink your coffee”Support the showJoin the community!

I didn't think this breakout session would have such an influence on me, but it surprisingly did! And I even got an exclusive interview with the workshop teacher to deep-dive into it! Plus, free coaching is still on the line for those who join Patreon before the month ends! BECOME A HYBRID HERO https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry ❄️ WINTER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/posts/winter-seasonal-144943791?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link SHOW NOTES Shownotes & Transcripts https://www.hybridministry.xyz/180 30 CONNECTION IDEAS https://www.patreon.com/posts/30-small-group-141961735?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW https://www.patreon.com/posts/exclusive-josh-144080714?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Isaiah, Josh, and Danny dive deep into one of the most vulnerable areas of student discipleship: doubt. Drawing from Mark 9 and personal ministry experiences, the hosts explore how youth pastors can respond when students express questions or wrestle with deconstruction. They offer guidance on how to walk with students through doubt without minimizing it or turning it into a theological debate.The trio challenges youth leaders to create ministry cultures where curiosity and questions are welcomed, not shamed. Through biblical reflection, practical examples, and honest dialogue, they remind listeners that doubt is not the enemy of faith—disconnection is. The episode closes with encouragement for youth leaders to stay faithful, point students to Jesus, and let the Holy Spirit do the transforming work.Resources:Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith by Mike McGarryGospel Hope for Doubting TeenagersFollow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts.Check out our Youth Ministry and Family Ministry Mentorship Program Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts

Kyle invites veteran youth pastor John Kidd to join the podcast to discuss teaching about sex to students. John recently taught a series to his students on the topic, which he titled "Cheap Sex." John gives us insight into how he prepared for the series and some of the resources he turned to. He also helps us understand some of the differences between temptation and desire. They also tackle the idea that love is not affirmation as opposed to the cultural narrative that love is love. John also reminds us to know our audience, know the influences they are facing, and to know the parents of our students, so that we can tailor our teaching accordingly while always remaining anchored in God's Word.

Sunday Evening, December 7, 2025Given by Clay Anderson | Pastor of Youth Ministry, Christ Covenant ChurchWalking into CanaanNumbers 13Watch on YouTubeDownload our mobile app

In today's episode, Zach Garza sits down with Derrick Sier from Reverb Mentoring for an honest conversation about race and culture in mentoring. Derrick shares why mentors should avoid assumptions or a “hero” mindset when working across racial lines, choosing instead to listen, observe, and truly understand. Together they highlight how mentoring becomes most powerful when we simply show up with humility and reflect the love of Jesus. Here's Reverb Mentoring's website for information on Derrick and Reverb - www.reverbmentoring.comIf 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 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:

SHOCKING! In this episode I explore an area of adjustment I did NOT anticipate! In this series, "The DYM100 Roundtables Summary" Series I explore the 3 areas that challenged me from the DYM100 Roundtables! Plus, welcome to the December Patreon Challenge! Become a Hybrid Hero ($4/month), help us get to 25 new members, and get a FREE Coaching call in 2026!

Why does God make us wait—especially when the prayer seems good, urgent, and necessary? In this Christmas-season episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards explores one of the hardest spiritual disciplines for leaders, volunteers, students, and parents: waiting on God's timing. Drawing from Acts 1:4, prophetic anticipation before Jesus' birth, and insights from Mark Batterson's Draw the Circle, Doug unpacks why "not yet" is often God's path to deeper faith, clarity, and spiritual power. Through personal stories and student ministry memories, Doug reveals how waiting forms character—not just in us, but in the students we lead. In this episode, Doug shares: ✅ Why God's "no" is often a "not yet" ✅ Why the disciples were told to wait before receiving the Holy Spirit ✅ How prophetic silence built anticipation for the Messiah ✅ What to do when your prayers seem unanswered ✅ How to teach students patience, trust, and expectancy ✅ Why leaders burn out when they skip the waiting seasons Doug also tackles church expectations, spiritual hypocrisy students see, and why good people sometimes do foolish things—yet God never wastes the waiting. This episode speaks directly to youth pastors, volunteers, teachers, coaches, and parents who are leading students through stress, prayer requests, and spiritual uncertainty. It's a reminder that God works while we wait, and that this season might be the one where He prepares you—and your students—for what's next. _________________________________________________________________________________

If I was to list the many ways in which today's cultural narrative is misdirecting and misshaping our kids, the topic of identity would have to be at the top of the list. This is especially troubling when we realize that the search to figure out who I am is front and center in our kids lives as they grow through adolescence. Our friend Mike McGarry has written a book to help teenagers know and live out the beautiful reality of finding one's identity as a divine image bearer. Stay tuned as I chat with Mike about leading kids to the truth about who they are, on this episode of Youth Culture Matters.

In this episode of Pizza and Side Hugs, the hosts delve into the topic of digital evangelization, exploring how technology and social media can be effectively utilized in ministry, particularly in engaging youth. They discuss the importance of balancing digital presence with personal connections, the challenges of content creation, and the necessity of having clear goals and boundaries when using digital tools. The conversation highlights successful examples of digital ministries and encourages listeners to share their experiences and insights.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Digital Evangelization02:43 Understanding Digital Tools in Ministry05:45 The Balance of Technology and Personal Connection10:04 Engaging Youth Through Digital Media15:05 Best Practices for Digital Evangelization23:24 Highlighting Successful Digital Ministries28:44 Conclusion and Call to ActionLinksECLifeteen at Resurrection/ St. Paul, Ellicott City, MD: https://www.instagram.com/eclifeteen/pizzasidehugs@gmail.com

This week Chris and Jeremy discuss ways to get older adults involved in your youth ministry and why it's important.

jchasedavis.comSupport the show!! - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavisSeven Titans Jeans - https://seven-titans.com/discount/PROOFLegacy Profits Club - https://www.skool.com/legacyprofitsclub/about?ref=1b0c2acb5f0d4781be13ed56801c8fbbDecision Point - https://decisionpoint.org/“Set Free” - https://amzn.to/4pSDoknGo to ionlayer.com and use code FPT to get $100 off your first kit. Video - https://youtu.be/EYBMQk2WmMASummaryIn this episode, Chase Davis interviews Mark Hopson, president of Decision Point Ministries, about their mission to empower the next generation to be courageous witnesses for Christ. They discuss the importance of evangelism in public schools, the challenges faced by students, and the release of the Set Free book, which provides resources for sharing the gospel. Mark emphasizes the need for boldness in evangelism, the significance of addressing cultural issues, and the necessity of understanding sin in the gospel message. The conversation highlights the importance of equipping students and churches to effectively share their faith in today's challenging environment.Support the showSign up for the Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavisFollow Full Proof Theology on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fullprooftheology/Follow Full Proof Theology on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fullprooftheology/

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=======

In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Danny, Isaiah, and Josh dive into the subtle but dangerous “Messiah Complex” that many youth pastors wrestle with—the belief that they must save, fix, or be everything to everyone. From the weight of unmet expectations to the exhaustion of blurred boundaries, this episode uncovers how this mindset leads to burnout and misplaced identity. The hosts offer reflections, cautionary tales, and gospel-rooted encouragement to release control, honor healthy limits, and trust the Holy Spirit to do the work only He can do. Letter to a Youth Worker Experiencing Burnout - Rooted MinistryTrusting God With Our Plans For Our MinistriesCheck out our Youth Ministry and Family Ministry Mentorship Program Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates!Follow and subscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts

Join Matt Taylor, Chasity Johnson, Haley Davis, and Cody Waltman, as they engage in a conversation about Youth Ministry and the importance of student leadership, hearing the voice of God, and being comfortable with who He has created you to be.

Jose Rodriguez went from gang life in North Tulsa to helping transform cities through Jesus, coaching, and the power of presence. In this episode, Zach sits down with Jose, founder and CEO of Rescue a Generation, to talk about what it actually looks like to love and disciple kids from hard places for the long haul.You will hear Jose's wild story of growing up around drugs, gangs, and chaos, finding unexpected family through a bus ministry, and how a youth worker named Nancy refused to give up on him. Together, Zach and Jose unpack:How to have thick skin and a soft heart with studentsWhy “giving up on giving up” matters in mentoringHow gangs often disciple better than churches and what we can learn from thatThe ministry of presence and earning the right to be heardWhy changing a young person's mind can change their entire lifeThe power of calling out identity and potential, even in the “worst” kidIf you mentor or work with urban or at risk youth, this conversation will fill your tank and sharpen your approach. Learn more about Jose and Rescue a Generation, and walk away reminded that love is a universal language, relationships change lives, and yes… you can mentor.--To find out more about Rescue A Generation, check out their website - https://www.rescueageneration.com or @rescueagen--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

Thanksgiving is over, but we're just getting started! In this episode, Nick gives his 4 course meal of FREEBIES for youth pastors, 4 things for YOU, along with the 1 Mystery Course that can unlock everything! SHOW NOTES Shownotes & Transcripts https://www.hybridministry.xyz/177 Games https://www.patreon.com/posts/9-amazing-dym-142425755?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link FREE E-Book https://www.patreon.com/posts/complete-guide-142500019?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link //Coaching https://www.hybridministry.xyz/articles/coaching //Social Team Checklist https://www.patreon.com/posts/social-media-138081327?source=storefront 30 CONNECTION IDEAS https://www.patreon.com/posts/30-small-group-141961735?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link CALENDAR https://www.patreon.com/posts/winter-spring-141564188?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=postsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link SURPRISE MYSTERY DISH Hybrid Heroes Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry

Send us a textStart the New Year strong and grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to grow with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Ready to host a youth ministry volunteer Christmas party your leaders won't forget? We break down four super fun party ideas that turn a simple get-together into a tradition!  Each idea scales for different teams and venues, and every one is designed to build camaraderie, spark laughter, and show real gratitude to your student ministry team.  We also talk about some youth group leader Christmas gift ideas and some ways to remember and share wins from the past year.Be sure to celebrate the people who make youth ministry possible and give them a night that feels like a thank-you, not an obligation. Don't forget to email us if you'd like to get 17 Christmas games and icebreakers for your party!Email us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com for 17 Christmas Party Games & Icebreakers!  Put in the subject line: "Christmas Party Games" and we can send them over!=========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:(#023) Christmas Event & Party Ideas for Youth Groups(#028) Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Youth Ministry Team - 10 Fun Gift Ideas(#123) Youth Ministry Games for Christmas Parties - My 6 Favorite Games!=======

In this episode, Brenda J. and Karen B. interview Deenbo Kidane, Director of the Daniel Initiative, a global network of pastors and church leaders. She also serves as the Director of Children's and Youth Ministry at El Bethel Ethiopian Church. Deenbo shares her story as a 1.5-generation immigrant and how this role allows her to bridge the gap between first-generation parents and second-generation children. She explains how cultural norms that feel "normal" to the first generation can create unrecognized trauma and identity loss in their children. This conversation offers a clear, compassionate look at generational trauma and the challenges second-generation kids face as they navigate belonging, culture, and identity. https://www.danielinitiative.com https://hangingontohope.org

In this episode, guest host Derrick Sier from Reverb Mentoring joins us for an honest conversation about the challenges and growth that can come from interracial mentoring. Together, we explore how differences in upbringing, culture, and lived experience can shape relationships, and how humility and listening open doors for deeper understanding. Through a Christ-centered lens, we discuss how mentors can create safe, compassionate spaces where every young person feels seen, valued, and supported. --https://www.reverbmentoring.com/https://www.restoreokc.org/--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 Gathering--You can find everything at www.youcanmentor.com or follow us on Instagram @youcanmentor

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.