Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast
Youth Ministries rise and fall on teams of volunteers, so this podcast is for the WHOLE team. Join the conversation as we tackle the practical questions you’re asking so you'll be encouraged and equipped as you head into your role in your youth ministry this week. Welcome to the Volunteer Youth Worker Podcast.
info_outline
216: How Can You Coach Other Small Group Leaders?
04/09/2024
216: How Can You Coach Other Small Group Leaders?
In this episode, Jeremy and Sid discuss how to coach other small group leaders in both informal and formal settings. They emphasize the importance of fostering a culture of teachability and asking questions to spark curiosity and learning. They also suggest defining a fixed time for coaching sessions and setting clear expectations for the coaching relationship. The hosts encourage veteran small group leaders to take on the role of coaching and supporting younger leaders, recognizing the impact they can have on the next generation. Check out the from . There’s $50,000 available this year! If you’d like to find a university campus group, check out this link: https://p2c.com/students/campuses/ Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at youthworker.community/coalition Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/30944383
info_outline
215: Can You Shape The Future of Your Students?
03/25/2024
215: Can You Shape The Future of Your Students?
Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected] Takeaways Youth workers have the power to shape the future of their students by speaking truth and providing a vision for their lives. Youth workers should see themselves as conduits of truth, communicating the messages of Jesus and helping students discover their unique gifts and potential. There is a hesitation among youth workers to exercise their influence due to fear of getting it wrong or pushing students away, but the void is then filled by other voices. Prayer and seeking God's vision are essential for youth workers to effectively guide and mentor their students. Asking the right questions can help youth workers uncover the potential and purpose in their students' lives. Youth workers have the opportunity to make an eternal difference in the lives of young people and should embrace their role as shepherds and guides. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Framing the Question 00:57 The Role of Youth Workers in Shaping the Future 04:04 Being Conduits of Truth 08:38 Speaking Truth and Calling Out Students 11:08 Asking the Right Questions 13:49 Prayer for Volunteer Youth Workers
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/30525778
info_outline
214: How Do I Deal With a Disruptive Student In My Small Group?
03/19/2024
214: How Do I Deal With a Disruptive Student In My Small Group?
Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/30431673
info_outline
213: What Should You Do When God Doesn’t Answer The Prayers of Your Students?
02/20/2024
213: What Should You Do When God Doesn’t Answer The Prayers of Your Students?
Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at We’re coming to Ontario! Join us February 24, 2024 at Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/30025778
info_outline
212: What Shouldn’t You Share About Your Spiritual Journey With Your Students?
02/13/2024
212: What Shouldn’t You Share About Your Spiritual Journey With Your Students?
Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at We’re coming to Ontario! Join us February 24, 2024 at Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29924993
info_outline
211: What Questions Should You Use To Talk About Social Media With Your Students? Interview with Meisha Watson
02/06/2024
211: What Questions Should You Use To Talk About Social Media With Your Students? Interview with Meisha Watson
Learn more about Meisha at the following links: A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… is a global missions organization that cares deeply about your ministry to the next generation here in our country. So whether it’s leveraging their wisdom to craft ethical mission trips or connecting with them to catch a vision for what God is doing in hard to reach places, your ministry should connect with our friends at Christar. has been a long time supporter of the Youth Worker Community and we love how they merge a commitment to the discipleship of their students with strong leadership development AND world class academics. Take a look at all the program offerings so you know when to recommend TWU to your students! The Chosen is is the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. The series allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew Him. Check out the season 4 and then see if it’s showing in a . You are invited to the YWC Conference! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29815638
info_outline
210: How Do You Help Students Understand What They Think About the Bible and Its Place in Life and Faith?
01/30/2024
210: How Do You Help Students Understand What They Think About the Bible and Its Place in Life and Faith?
A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… The Chosen is is the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. The series allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew Him. Check out the season 4 and then see if it’s showing in a . Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29437053
info_outline
209: How Do You Communicate With Your Students In Between Gatherings?
01/23/2024
209: How Do You Communicate With Your Students In Between Gatherings?
Sid and Jeremy mentioned a few platforms such as… A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… is one of partners for the Coalition and we’ve loved helping dozens of youth workers get their Bachelor’s degree through this partnership. Not only that, but Rocky actually offers a free Intro To The Bible course that you can sign up for . Check it out with your other team members or even your students! The has been faithfully reaching people for Jesus for years and they are using their platform on to help connect with folks around the world. Check it out and see if you or even your students might be interested in volunteering to help spread the gospel in these unique ways! You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29436933
info_outline
208: Can Your Volunteer Experience Get Better Than This?
01/16/2024
208: Can Your Volunteer Experience Get Better Than This?
A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… are developing passionate, relevant servants of Jesus Christ who are shaped by the entire Scriptures. Whether it’s a gap year or a full degree, you should familiarize yourself with Millar. They’ll root your students deeply into the Scriptures with a love for Christ. are such helpful partners in this season and you should check out their Out of the Box discipleship event – it’s a toolkit designed to help you run a great retreat for your students. You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29436828
info_outline
207: How Should You Interact With The Parents Or Guardians of Your Students?
01/09/2024
207: How Should You Interact With The Parents Or Guardians of Your Students?
A special thanks to our partners and sponsors that make this podcast possible… Do you know someone who is thinking about ministry? is a 4-year accredited program for people who want to pursue a future in ministry. The program is designed to go deep theologically and also equip you practically for on-the-ground local church ministry. Launched by Jason Ballard from the Alpha Youth Series and the team at The Way Church in Vancouver, this is a wonderful option for you or your students. If you want to know more, visit (from ) exists to see every youth in Canada hear, respond to, and live out the message of Jesus in their lives. Whether you join in Alberta, Ontario, or Online, make sure to check out to learn more about how your group can be part of this exceptional event. You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/29399083
info_outline
206: How Do You Nurture Gritty Faith? Four Spiritual Practices for the Next-Generation & Being a Student of Those You Lead (Interview With Ebonie Davis by CCLN)
11/28/2023
206: How Do You Nurture Gritty Faith? Four Spiritual Practices for the Next-Generation & Being a Student of Those You Lead (Interview With Ebonie Davis by CCLN)
No matter where you fall on your church's organizational chart, we believe that this conversation with Ebonie around thoughtful discipleship in the youth space will serve you. In their time together, Ebonie and Jason explore how the church can play a vital role in nurturing a Jesus-centered joy among young people. They also touch on topics like contextual spiritual formation for the next-generation and adopting a “whole church” vision for youth discipleship within a community. Ebonie also courageously shares her deeply moving and inspirational journey of discovering Jesus. We hope you enjoy the conversation with the joy-exuding Ebonie Davis. Find out more about Ebonie at… You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in Ontario in the year and you can find more information at March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28817628
info_outline
205: What’s Better For Your Youth Ministry – Live Teaching or Video Curriculum?
10/31/2023
205: What’s Better For Your Youth Ministry – Live Teaching or Video Curriculum?
No matter when and where your youth ministry meets, a core element to what happens is the opening of the Scriptures together. Sometimes a live person leads that experience – usually in the format of preaching or Bible study. Sometimes that experience is led by a resource like video curriculum. The point isn’t as much the method as it is what you do with it. In this conversation, Sid and Jeremy will walk you through the following important next steps for after the teaching, whether it’s live or recorded… You need to guide You need to re-engage the passage You need to ask great questions You need to apply (and invite them to apply too) Would you like to have affordable and accessible video curriculum for your ministry? Check out our growing library of content at You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28469564
info_outline
204: What Should Youth Workers Know About Artificial Intelligence? Interview with Andy Steiger from Apologetics Canada
10/24/2023
204: What Should Youth Workers Know About Artificial Intelligence? Interview with Andy Steiger from Apologetics Canada
Andy Steiger is the founder and president of Apologetics Canada Ministries. He passionately engages pressing issues related to our humanity from a Christian perspective. He has presented at various venues such as Cambridge University on philosophical issues related to Artificial Intelligence, provided ethical guidelines on robotics for the United Nations, and addressed legal concerns over rights of conscience at the World Congress in Philosophy of Law. So he seems like a pretty good person to ask our questions about ChatGPT and AI 😂 You should check out Andy’s book . You can also learn more about the work of Apologetics Canada by visiting their series or . You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary And we’re coming to Ontario! February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28403588
info_outline
203: What Do You Do After a Retreat With Your Students?
10/16/2023
203: What Do You Do After a Retreat With Your Students?
Whether it’s a large scale event like or your ministry’s own event with just your students – we really believe that the work you do after the fact is critically important. The decisions or spiritual experiences that students have are further solidified when we thoughtfully help them process all that they are going through. That’s what Sid and Jeremy talk through in this week’s conversation. If you are a volunteer we hope that you’ll get some really practical ideas on what you should do in the week following an event or retreat. You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East And we’re coming to Ontario! These two events are perfect for you, your youth ministry team, AND your students… October 27-28, 2023 - February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28334384
info_outline
202: What Are The Unique Challenges of Youth Ministry in a Liturgical Church?
09/26/2023
202: What Are The Unique Challenges of Youth Ministry in a Liturgical Church?
Church tradition or liturgies can be challenging to pass on to students who swim in an ever-evolving culture. After all, aren’t teenagers looking for dynamic experiences that are relevant to their daily lives? Aren’t sacred rituals dull to a younger generation? Or maybe that’s not the whole story. Listen in on this interview with Jason Smith, who is a veteran youth worker serving in an Anglican context, as he unpacks the ways that he’s seen not just unchurched students engage in ancient faith practices, but their entire families. And you should definitely check out this picture of the he talks about! You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East And we’re coming to Ontario! These three events are perfect for you, your youth ministry team, AND your students… October 13-14, 2023 - October 27-28, 2023 - February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28141691
info_outline
201: How Are AI, Social Media, and Technology Influencing the Faith of Teenagers? Interview With ChatGPT
09/18/2023
201: How Are AI, Social Media, and Technology Influencing the Faith of Teenagers? Interview With ChatGPT
Jeremy: Hey ChatGPT, why should youth workers listen to this conversation? ChatGPT: Hey there! Youth workers should tune into this conversation because it delves deep into the challenges and realities teens face in our modern, tech-saturated world. It provides insights into the complexities of identity, the double-edged sword of digital exposure, and the importance of striking a balance with technology. By understanding these nuances, youth workers can be better equipped to guide, mentor, and connect with today's teens, helping them navigate their faith journey in an increasingly connected yet sometimes disjointed digital landscape. Plus, it's about adapting and staying relevant in a world that's constantly evolving. It's essential knowledge for anyone genuinely invested in the wellbeing and spiritual growth of the younger generation. Jeremy: 😅 You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East And we’re coming to Ontario! These three events are perfect for you, your youth ministry team, AND your students… October 13-14, 2023 - October 27-28, 2023 - February 24, 2024 - Looking for the Coalition? Details are available at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28073784
info_outline
200: What’s It Like to Wrestle With Gender Dysphoria And How Can Your Ministry Be Helpful For Folks With That Challenge? Interview with Kyla Gillespie
09/12/2023
200: What’s It Like to Wrestle With Gender Dysphoria And How Can Your Ministry Be Helpful For Folks With That Challenge? Interview with Kyla Gillespie
Kyla introduces herself on her website by saying, “Hi, I’m Kyla. I am a biological female who transitioned and lived as male for 6 years, then detransitioned. I’d love to share my story with you.” In this conversation we get to hear a bit of that story, what sparked Kyla’s desire to reignite her faith, and how you and I might consider helping our students experience our own faith communities in a similar way to how Kyla experienced hers. You definitely want to learn more about Kyla and her ministry. You can track with her on or through her website: You are invited to the YWC Conferences! All the details are available at . Bring your whole team to be encouraged and equipped to better disciple the students in your ministry. November 3-4, 2023 - YWC Conference Winnipeg November 17-18, 2023 - YWC Conference Moncton January 26-27, 2024 - YWC Conference Saskatoon February 2-3, 2024 - YWC Conference Vancouver February 9-10, 2024 - YWC Conference Calgary Are you a youth pastor? You should join us for the Canadian Youth Pastor Summit! We’ll be in two locations this next season and you can find more information at October 23-25, 2023 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit West March 5-7, 2024 - Canadian Youth Pastor Summit East Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/28005981
info_outline
199: What Are Some Frameworks To Think More Seriously About Deep Discipleship?
08/15/2023
199: What Are Some Frameworks To Think More Seriously About Deep Discipleship?
In today’s episode Sid will dive deeper into the final four of the seven faith shaping tasks that are necessary for rooting long term faith in adolescents. Deep discipleship is something that we often are chasing as youth workers but it can be difficult to know what that actually looks like in the lives of our students. Join Sid and Jeremy as they talk through these specific tasks that can spark ideas for your own group. Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You’ll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor’s or completing an entire Master’s program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27753888
info_outline
198: How Can You Help Your Students Experience God More?
08/01/2023
198: How Can You Help Your Students Experience God More?
In today’s episode Sid will dive deeper into three of the seven faith shaping tasks that are necessary for rooting long term faith in adolescents. Experiencing God is critical for your students, so helping them understand what that actually looks like and helping them to categorize their emotions and experiences is good work. Join Jeremy and Sid as they walk through ideas that you can take action on in your ministry to your students. Sid mentioned the research project Hemorrhaging Faith, which you can access at . Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You’ll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor’s or completing an entire Master’s program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27619512
info_outline
197: What Are The Critical Faith Shaping Tasks That Are Necessary For Rooting Long Term Faith In Adolescents? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
07/17/2023
197: What Are The Critical Faith Shaping Tasks That Are Necessary For Rooting Long Term Faith In Adolescents? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
Today’s episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership’s classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into seven faith shaping tasks based on the work of Stephen Jones. Whatever your context looks like you’ll be able to see how each of these can spark ideas for sharpening your ministry to your students... Experiencing Categorizing Choosing Claiming Deepening Separating Responding Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You’ll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor’s or completing an entire Master’s program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27489801
info_outline
196: How Can You Help Students Think About Self-Esteem and Self-Denial? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
07/03/2023
196: How Can You Help Students Think About Self-Esteem and Self-Denial? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
Today’s episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership’s classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into a deep conversation about self-esteem and self-denial and how our understanding of these things shape our ministry to students. Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You’ll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor’s or completing an entire Master’s program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out youthworker.community/coalition to learn more about the Coalition! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27357825
info_outline
195: Does What You Do Matter to God? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
06/20/2023
195: Does What You Do Matter to God? Excerpt From a Class at the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership
Today’s episode is a bit unique as you get an inside look at one of the Coalition for Youth Ministry Leadership’s classes from this spring. Sid Koop dives into why caring for the next generation matters deeply to God directly from Scripture! Want to join dozens of other youth workers in the Coalition this year? You’ll be able to use the program towards a fully accredited Bachelor’s or completing an entire Master’s program, all while staying in your local youth ministry context. Check out to learn more about the Coalition! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27192924
info_outline
194: How Do You Know If You’re Really Making an Impact? Interview with Jeanne Mayo
06/06/2023
194: How Do You Know If You’re Really Making an Impact? Interview with Jeanne Mayo
As a volunteer youth leader, you may not necessarily know the people that have and continue to shape youth ministry through their books, teachings, and experience but today’s episode is an interview with one of the very best! Join Jeanne Mayo as she shares about how you can know if you’re really making an impact based on her 50+ years (and counting!) of ministry experience. One of the ways to know if you’re really making an impact is to personally break the cycle of apathy and rejection (ie. students ghosting you, being generally uninterested, etc), by giving the opposite: acceptance and enthusiasm. Once you’re into the journey a bit, ask students one thing that really matters to them that you could pray about and follow up. Showing up intentionally has an eternal impact! You should totally get to know Jeanne more. Head to to access the Cadre, Coaching, and so many fantastic resources. Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/27053430
info_outline
193: When Your Students Want To Fight For Justice, How Can You Help Them Take a Step? Interview with Ally Global Foundation
05/29/2023
193: When Your Students Want To Fight For Justice, How Can You Help Them Take a Step? Interview with Ally Global Foundation
Your students are more tuned in to issues of justice than most generations before them. Oppression, exploitation, equality, and equity are part of many students’ vocabularies. But students can find it difficult to move from the talk to the walk. So while the TikTok videos they’ve seen might have sparked their interest, the truth is that you can help them take a step. And that step will be part of authentic discipleship, helping students understand and respond to the call of God. But knowing what that step looks like can be overwhelming. That’s why today’s conversation will be so helpful for you. Listen in as Ty Hanlon, a local youth pastor, describes the journey he’s been on with his youth group in taking simple and clear steps towards justice. And then hear from Alicia Chinchilla, from Ally Global Foundation, as she helps us all understand more of the issues that are prevalent in our communities and world today. Check out the following links mentioned in the episode for more information… - - - (happening July 8, 2023, there’s still time for you to join!) - - - - Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26982396
info_outline
192: Should You Pressure Kids to Follow Jesus?
05/22/2023
192: Should You Pressure Kids to Follow Jesus?
Whenever new research comes out, we try to make it meaningful and accessible for you to know if and how it affects your ministry. Join today’s conversation with Rick and Lindsay from the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada’s Center of Research on Church and Faith as they dive into one aspect of the brand new . When asked how much Christian parents agreed with the following statement: “I want my children to make their own religious choices, without pressure from me,” 73% moderately or strongly agreed. What does that mean for the way parents are thinking about passing on faith to their kids? And what does it look like to partner with parents in the ways they’d like faith passed on? Modeling AND teaching faith is the way! Check out ParentingFaith.ca for the research project (and other resources) Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26915865
info_outline
191: How Can You Relate Better With Teenagers?
05/02/2023
191: How Can You Relate Better With Teenagers?
Teen culture can become more and more mysterious as you grow older. But no matter what stage of life you are in, there are some things you can do in order to understand more about the students in your group. Today’s conversation with Chandra Styles will give you some tips both on how to relate to teenagers and why it matters. She’ll also cover these two great questions you can use this week in your ministry… What are you listening to these days? (Or what’s the vibe of your playlist?) Is there anything on your social feed that makes you mad? Both questions will help you understand some of your students' values and the ways they are engaging with the world, God, themselves, and others. Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26713902
info_outline
190: What Happens When A Volunteer Leader Needs To Step Down? Interview with Rob Chartrand from Briercrest College and Seminary
04/17/2023
190: What Happens When A Volunteer Leader Needs To Step Down? Interview with Rob Chartrand from Briercrest College and Seminary
As much as we believe that every follower of Christ should be serving their community in some capacity there are times a volunteer leader needs to step down. If you’ve ever wondered how to tell if someone should step down or what your role could be if someone is in the process of doing so, this episode is for you! Join Rob from and Jeremy as they share frameworks from decades of experience, both as volunteer leaders and point leaders. There are generally four main categories of why a volunteer leader needs to step down, and defining it will allow you to engage better. Is it an issue of: Conflict, Chemistry, Competency, and/or Character? From there, start with a conversation leading with curiosity! “Help me understand” is a powerful statement, especially when addressing observable behaviors. And remember - your goal is always to move towards restoration. Looking for a youth leader job description? Access that . Looking to be equipped for ministry? Briercrest has so many opportunities that you could access – no matter where you are at in your ministry journey. Check them out at Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26571441
info_outline
189: What Are The Top Ways To Support Students As They Transition To The Next Phase Of Life?
04/11/2023
189: What Are The Top Ways To Support Students As They Transition To The Next Phase Of Life?
Your students won’t always be in your youth ministry. They’ll move on at some point. At the very least, they’ll all move on after graduating high school. And the research is clear that any time a student experiences a transition in their life there’s a significant chance that faith might not make it through the transition. But that’s where you come in – you can help make sure that a student’s faith remains strong. Join today’s conversation as Jeremy interviews Rolf Nanninga from Power to Change - Students and Theresa Catania from Rexdale Alliance and they share a number of ways that you can get in the corner of students and families during the transition seasons (even those not yet part of your ministry). One great way to support your students that are graduating high school is by offering them access to more financial resources. In light of that, you should get them to check out the , which are designed to encourage a healthy transition to post-secondary by offering funds and by facilitating connections to faith communities on campus. You can also reach out to anytime as he’d love to support you as you send your students to post-secondary. You can also subscribe to his . Here is the event Theresa mentioned: Feel free to have your students and parents attend the event in 2023 either in person or virtually on May 12th 2023. Youth Worker Community also has topical resources on helping your Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26502579
info_outline
188: How Do You Teach Students About Revelation? Interview With Cody Matchett
04/03/2023
188: How Do You Teach Students About Revelation? Interview With Cody Matchett
Revelation is hard to understand at the best of times. It frustrates and fascinates many people with its imagery and apocalyptic tone. And unless you are a Bible scholar, it’s likely you feel intimidated when students ask questions about it. Join today’s conversation with Cody Machett, co-author of Revelation for the Rest of Us with Scot McKnight, as he talks about how to engage students with the book of Revelation. Cody has so many good things to say, but you might discover in this conversation that the best thing you can do to teach your students about Revelation (or really any book of the Bible) is to model what it looks like to journey into Scripture in community. You don’t need all the answers. Just curiosity, a willingness to say “I don’t know,” and the ability to engage scripture as fully as possible, including asking the surprising question, “How does [this piece of Scripture] make you feel?” Want to read more? Go check out by Scot McKnight and Cody Matchett Want to chat more about revelation and/or youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26434434
info_outline
187: How Do You Run A Great Event For Your Students? Interview With The Team From Briercrest's Youth Quake
03/27/2023
187: How Do You Run A Great Event For Your Students? Interview With The Team From Briercrest's Youth Quake
The weekly rhythms of your relational ministry certainly helps disciple students. You don’t want to give up on that. Yet, there’s something special about the experiences that happen outside of the normal rhythms. It’s those special events, retreats, camps, or unique gatherings that so many students point back to as integral for their faith journey. Why is that? And how do you plan those kinds of experiences or events, the kind that transforms your students' faith? Join today’s conversation with AJ and Kaitlin from Briercrest as they offer the frameworks they use when planning and running large events for teenagers! The first step to any great event is knowing yourself, your team, and your audience. Then, get brainstorming! The best brainstorming: Allows time for preparation Has a key prompt Has set expectations beforehand Invites new voices to the table Isn’t limited by your list And finally some general tips and tricks: Over communicate Know your calendar Give clear details Clarify expectations Start earlier than you think you need to Want to read more from AJ’s blog on mountain top experiences? Want to check out more of what Briercrest and Youth Quake are up to? Looking for a great series that you can use this week in your ministry? Check out YQ at Home 2023: And lastly, you should take your students to this year’s Youth Quake! Want to chat about youth ministry? Give us a shout by emailing [email protected]
/episode/index/show/ymteampodcast/id/26356572