S5 | Ep 17 - The Changing Role of Youth Ministry (Feat. Walt Mueller)
Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast
Release Date: 01/09/2026
Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast
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This week on the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski for a follow up conversation on youth sports, discipleship, and the role parents play in shaping their athletes beyond the game. Building on their previous discussion, this episode shifts the focus directly to parents, unpacking the pressures of modern sports culture, the weight of expectations, and the tension many feel between competition and spiritual growth. Brian and Ed share from both experience and honesty, offering a fresh perspective on how sports can become a powerful space for...
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In this episode of the Momentum Podcast, Eric sits down with Nick Demos to talk about how churches of any size can begin using sports to reach their communities and connect people to Christ. From small church ideas and volunteer recruitment to outreach strategy and building sustainable programs, this conversation is packed with practical insight for ministry leaders ready to think outside the box. In this episode, you’ll hear: 🏀 Why sports can be one of the strongest bridges to your community ⚽ Common misconceptions churches have about sports ministry 🙌 Practical ways to start a...
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This week on the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski to talk about a challenge many churches feel but rarely address head-on, how to navigate sports culture in a way that actually builds the Kingdom. In this conversation, this episode explores how pastors and ministry leaders can begin thinking more intentionally about sports as a space for discipleship. From teaching a theology of play to equipping parents to showing up in the stands, Brian and Ed highlight practical ways churches can meet people where they already are and turn everyday moments...
info_outlineOn this episode of the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric Miller sits down with longtime youth ministry leader Walt Mueller—founder of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding (CPYU)—for a laid-back conversation packed with perspective for anyone serving students today.
Listen as the two talk about Walt’s decades in student ministry, how CPYU started (and why helping parents understand their kids’ world matters more than ever), and the shift from program-driven youth group to relational ministry that actually goes deep. Walt also shares encouragement for youth workers who feel the pressure—how to keep learning, take a hit, stay rooted in God’s Word, and navigate technology and cultural change with wisdom instead of panic. And toward the end, Walt tells a story that brings it all home—one that challenges priorities and reminds leaders why family, rest, and a filled-up spiritual “well” aren’t optional.
We’re so excited for you to tune in and be part of this conversation!
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