The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers
There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. THE YOUTH MINISTRY PODCAST FOR VOLUNTEERS is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by a couple youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you’re going to love this podcast!
Episodes
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, we sit down with Andy Knight from YouVersion to talk about making the Bible accessible to teenagers and helping them build lasting Scripture habits. We explore how volunteers can strengthen relationships with students through the Bible, why consistent engagement with God’s Word matters, and how tools like the Bible App can fuel spiritual growth. We share practical strategies f...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we dive into the challenges volunteers face in the wake of tragedy. We talk about the importance of leadership, community support, and practical ways to navigate difficult situations. Our guest, Stephen Crane, joins us to share his experiences and offer wisdom on how we can effectively support students during crisis moments.
We discuss why volunteers need to stay...
Summary
In this PART 2 of a two-part episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we welcome Jason Engel, a teaching pastor and assistant professor, to talk about the importance of intentionality in youth ministry. Together, we explore the vital role of volunteers, the need for a clear vision of spiritual maturity, and the importance of holistic discipleship that engages students’ minds, hearts, and actions...
Summary
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we welcome Jason Engel, a teaching pastor and assistant professor, to talk about the importance of intentionality in youth ministry. Together, we explore the vital role of volunteers, the need for a clear vision of spiritual maturity, and the importance of holistic discipleship that engages students’ minds, hearts, and actions.
We also discuss the value of...
Summary
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, special guest Lee Taylor joins the conversation to discuss the importance of building community within youth ministry. Together, they emphasize effective communication with teenagers, the value of sharing meals, and the importance of connecting with parents to strengthen the ministry experience. The discussion also underscores the role of prayer i...
Summary
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry. They explore the challenges of recruiting volunteers, share effective strategies for engagement, and emphasize the importance of creating a culture of appreciation within the church. The conversation highlights the need for a church-wide vision for youth ministry and encourages listeners to active...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we discuss the importance of staying connected with youth culture as volunteers in youth ministry. We explore the challenges volunteers face in understanding current trends and provide practical tools and tips for engaging with teenagers. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity, authenticity, and the use of resources to better connect with youth. The ...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, we discuss the changes that teenagers undergo, particularly after summer breaks. We explore the importance of recognizing these changes in behavior, spirituality, and social dynamics, and how volunteers can effectively support and engage with youth. The conversation emphasizes the need for volunteers to be aware of these shifts, provide opportunities for growth, and maintain m...
In this episode, we celebrate our 60th podcast milestone and reflect on the journey so far. With a packed summer ahead—camps, activities, and all—we talk about why intentional prayer matters more than ever. We share practical ways to pray for your students’ spiritual growth, hunger for God's Word, salvation, and boldness to share the gospel.
The Seven Things to Pray for Your Students:
1. Spiritual Protection
Psalm 24:...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris Trent and Jennifer Fletcher are joined by Mike McGarry, author of A Biblical Theology for Youth Ministry. They discuss the importance of grounding youth ministry in biblical theology, the intergenerational aspect of faith, and the commitment of the church to nurture the next generation. The conversation emphasizes the role of volunteers in youth ministry a...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris Trent and Jennifer Fletcher are joined by special guest Tim Kilgore to talk about volunteer burnout in youth ministry. They share practical ways to avoid burnout by setting boundaries, taking breaks, and staying rooted in worship and authenticity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast
04:55 Understanding Volunteer Burnout
10:11 The Importan...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris Trent and Jennifer Fletcher discuss the importance of authenticity in youth ministry with guest Ryan Appling. They explore how being yourself can be a superpower in connecting with teenagers, emphasizing that different personalities can have a significant impact. The conversation highlights the need for youth leaders to build genuine relationships with stu...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris Trent and Jennifer Fletcher are joined by Lifeway experts Chad Higgins and Zac Workun. They discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry, emphasizing the importance of communication and collaboration between youth workers and parents. Drawing from their new book, Define the Relationship, they share insights from research on the dynamics of parent...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris, Jennifer, and Todd dive into the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry and offer practical strategies for leading healthy small groups. They explore key elements like fostering respect, encouraging participation, and leading with intentionality, while also tackling common challenges such as gossip. Plus, they discuss the power of prayer and Scripture...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, we discuss the importance of vulnerability in youth ministry with youth ministry vet, Doug Franklin. We explore how sharing personal stories can create deeper connections with students, foster an environment of authenticity, and help teach about God's grace. The conversation emphasizes the need for volunteers to be open about their own struggles and experiences to guide studen...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, Chris and Jennifer discuss the importance of working with students who have unique challenges with guest Charlie Jordan. They explore the unique challenges faced by students with special needs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication with parents, fostering compassion among peers, and the overall growth that can occur in youth ministry settings with stude...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, Chris and Wendy Trent discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry, emphasizing the importance of showing up consistently. They explore practical tips for volunteers, including being punctual, covering for absent leaders, prioritizing connections with students, and engaging in activities beyond regular gatherings. The conversation highlights how these actions foster ...
In this episode of the Youth Ministry podcast, Chris and Jennifer discuss creative and practical gift ideas for volunteers working with teenagers during the Christmas season. They emphasize the importance of building relationships with students through thoughtful gifts, including hosting parties, giving books and journals, and providing snacks. The conversation also highlights the significance of encouragement notes and co...
050 | 50 Things We Love About Volunteers
Join us for our 50th episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast. In this episode we discuss 50 things we love about volunteers serving in youth ministry. If you’re looking for some encouragement, this episode is for you!
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Milestone for Volunteers
02:58 50 Things We Love About Volunteers: Introduction
06:09 Todd's Top 10: The Heart of a Voluntee...
049 | Tips for Handling Phones in Small Group
In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, Chris and Jennifer discuss the challenges and distractions posed by cell phones in youth ministry. They share personal experiences and practical tips for volunteers on how to manage cell phone use during small groups/Bible study, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and engaging with parents. The conve...
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