Hey Volunteers: The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers

073 | You Can't Talk About That (or can you?)

Chris Trent — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Hey Volunteers!, Chris Trent and Jennifer Fletcher discuss the challenges faced by volunteers in youth ministry, particularly the feeling of being overwhelmed. They are joined by Shane Pruitt, who introduces a great new FREE resource 'You Can't Talk About That,' which addresses sensitive topics such as sexuality, gender, and mental health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of volunteers, the need for open communication with parents, and the necessity of grounding discussions in biblical truth.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

01:41 Feeling Overwhelmed as a Volunteer

02:50 Introducing Shane Pruitt and His Resource

04:35 The Value of Volunteers in Youth Ministry

07:27 Discussing Sensitive Topics with Teens

09:17 Cultural Conversations: Addressing Key Issues

11:28 Approaching Difficult Conversations Wisely

14:13 Communicating with Parents and Direct Reports

16:19 Navigating One-on-One Conversations with Students

18:33 Utilizing Resources for Effective Discussions

19:25 Empowering Parents with Resources

20:43 Navigating Conversations on Sexuality

25:45 Understanding Gender Identity

29:44 Addressing Mental Health Challenges

Resources

You Can’t Talk About That! & Other great resources | https://www.gensend.org/leader-resources/

Hey Volunteers! A Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers | There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. Hey Volunteers is a Youth Ministry Podcast that 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 several 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!

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

072 | Fresh Calling w/ Steve Spence

Chris Trent — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:08:33 -0400

Join us in episode 72 with our special guest, Steve Spence. In this episode, Steve shares practical insights on renewing your passion for youth ministry, managing fatigue, and maintaining spiritual health. Perfect for volunteers and youth leaders seeking to stay motivated and effective in their calling.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:46 The Impact of Ministry Fatigue on Volunteers

02:30 Steve Spence's Background and Book 'Fresh Calling'

04:29 The Long-Term Perspective in Youth Ministry

06:28 Understanding Your Calling from God

08:10 The Importance of a Clear Call in Ministry

10:47 Valuing Your Calling as a Volunteer

12:06 Setting Healthy Boundaries in Ministry

14:36 Guarding Your Spiritual and Inner Life

21:15 Celebrating Small Wins in Ministry

23:30 The Power of Recognizing Small Victories

24:40 Remembering Your Why in Ministry

29:59 Final Encouragement and Wrap-Up

Resources

Fresh Calling by Steve Spence | https://youthministry360.com/collections/devos-books/products/fresh-calling

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

071 | Helping Teenagers Apply God’s Word

Chris Trent — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:01:00 -0500

In this episode, we discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry with Doug Franklin from Leader Treks emphasizing the importance of applying God's word in practical ways. With Doug’s expertise, we explore strategies for helping teenagers engage with scripture, the significance of accountability, and the need for building trust in relationships. The conversation highlights the challenges volunteers face and offers practical tips for effective teaching and engagement with students.

070 | How to Experience Community When All You Do is Hang Out with Teenagers

Chris Trent — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:47:16 -0500

In this episode, we discuss the vital role of community among youth ministry volunteers with our guest, Wendy Trent. Together, we share personal stories and practical insights on fostering meaningful relationships among adult volunteers, emphasizing the importance of creating intentional gathering moments, supporting one another, and being proactive in building community. This conversation offers practical encouragement for youth pastors and volunteers who want to strengthen their connections and ultimately serve teenagers more effectively. #youthministry #studentministry #nextgen #nextgenministry

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Challenges

02:32 The Importance of Community in Youth Ministry

05:34 Creating a Welcoming Environment for Volunteers

08:18 Gathering Moments for Adult Volunteers

11:13 Shepherding and Supporting Each Other

14:06 Building Community Through Shared Experiences

16:59 Encouraging Youth Pastors to Support Volunteers

19:53 Being Proactive in Building Relationships

22:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

069 | Building Life-Changing Discipling Relationship with Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the "Hey Volunteers" podcast, Chris Trent, Jennifer Fletch, and Todd Jones discuss the importance of building life-changing discipling relationships with teenagers through youth ministry. They emphasize the role of volunteers in guiding teenagers towards a lifelong faith in Jesus, sharing practical tips and personal stories to inspire and equip listeners. The conversation covers topics such as the difference between chaperones and youth ministry leaders, the significance of authentic relationships, and the impact of prayer and mentorship.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose

03:00 Difference Between Chaperones and Leaders

09:00 Building Authentic Relationships

15:00 The Role of Prayer and Mentorship

21:00 Engaging with Families

27:00 Teaching and Creativity

33:00 Conclusion and Encouragement

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

068 | Advent and the Wisdom of Doing Bible Reading Plans Together

Chris Trent — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:01:00 -0500

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 for choosing and leading Bible reading plans, fostering accountability, supporting small group leaders, and involving students in the process. Along the way, we highlight helpful resources, discuss the importance of authenticity in discipleship, and look ahead to some exciting podcast changes on the horizon.

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction

03:01 — Introducing Andy Knight and YouVersion

06:04 — The Importance of Bible Accessibility for Teens

09:12 — Building Relationships Through Scripture

11:46 — Creating Bible Habits in Youth Ministry

14:55 — Leveraging Technology for Spiritual Growth

17:01 — Starting a Bible Reading Plan

20:00 — Engagement and Accountability in Reading Plans

22:32 — Overcoming Challenges in Small Group Leadership

24:56 — Choosing Topics and Content for Reading Plans

27:42 — Involving Students in the Planning Process

30:01 — Deepening Engagement with Older Students

32:05 — Resources for Youth Ministry

34:01 — Looking Ahead: Changes and New Beginnings

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 several 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!

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

067 | What to Do When Tragedy Strikes

Chris Trent — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:01:00 -0500

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 aligned with their leadership, how to seek guidance when things feel overwhelming, and what it looks like to show up well for students without imposing our own emotions. Together, we explore the tension between navigating our personal feelings while serving, supporting fellow leaders, and remaining present and available for students who need space to process.

Ultimately, we emphasize seeking God’s wisdom, extending grace to ourselves, and fostering a community where both leaders and students can heal, grow, and find hope—even in the most difficult circumstances.

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction to the Youth Ministry Podcast
03:07 — Thanksgiving Plans and Family Dynamics
06:07 — Navigating Tragedy in Youth Ministry
09:06 — Understanding Leadership During Crisis
12:04 — Practical Tips for Youth Volunteers
15:03 — The Role of Senior Pastors in Crisis Management
16:29 — Empathy and Listening in Youth Ministry
19:00 — Navigating Personal Emotions as a Volunteer
22:15 — Supporting Adult Leaders in Youth Ministry
25:27 — Making Yourself Available to Students
29:01 — Seeking Wisdom and Grace in Difficult Times

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

066 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 2

Chris Trent — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:59:02 -0500

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.

We also discuss the value of authenticity in leadership and how volunteers can align with the greater mission of helping students grow in their faith. The episode wraps up with a teaser for part two, where we’ll share more practical ways to implement intentionality in youth ministry.

Takeaways

Intentionality is crucial in youth ministry.
Understanding the 'why' behind ministry activities is essential.
Creating a culture of spiritual growth is a shared responsibility.
Evaluation of ministry effectiveness should focus on spiritual maturity.
Shifts in ministry approach can enhance student engagement.
Volunteers should model good biblical interpretation for students.
Equipping students for life beyond youth ministry is vital.
The goal is to produce lifelong disciples, not just entertain.
Ministry should be driven by a faithful vision rooted in God's Word.
Volunteers need to continually evaluate their methods and objectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:41 Personal Updates and Family News

05:33 Intentionality in Youth Ministry

08:12 Understanding Vision and Mission

11:22 Creating a Healthy Ministry Culture

12:54 The Importance of Evaluation in Ministry

17:16 Shifts in Student Ministry Approach

21:58 Equipping Students for Lifelong Discipleship

27:08 Final Thoughts on Intentionality in Youth Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

065 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 1

Chris Trent — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:11:39 -0400

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.

Takeaways

Volunteers are the rock stars of youth ministry.
The goal is to present every student as mature in Christ.
Intentionality is crucial in youth ministry.
Pragmatism can be a danger if not balanced with vision.
The Great Commission provides a clear vision for discipleship.
Volunteers play a vital role in achieving the ministry's vision.
Holistic discipleship involves engaging the whole student.
Authenticity in leadership is essential for effective discipleship.
God equips us for the tasks He calls us to.
Intentionality in volunteering means aligning with the vision of Christ.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

01:56 Meet Jason Engel: A New Perspective

05:35 The Importance of Intentionality in Youth Ministry

11:16 Understanding the End Goal of Discipleship

17:12 The Role of Volunteers in Achieving Vision

20:04 Holistic Discipleship: Head, Heart, and Hands

23:46 Authenticity in Leadership and Discipleship

25:38 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

064 | Building Community in Your Group

Chris Trent — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 in fostering a supportive environment for youth leaders and their groups. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming topics centered on developing vision and mission in youth ministry.

Takeaways

Building community is essential for effective youth ministry.
Asking good questions can foster deeper conversations with teens.
Sharing meals together helps break down barriers and build relationships.
Connecting with parents enhances the youth ministry experience.
Prayer is a foundational element in supporting youth leaders and their groups.
Creating a comfortable environment encourages open dialogue among teens.
Understanding the interests of students can lead to meaningful connections.
Intentional outreach to parents can provide valuable insights for youth leaders.
Building community lasts beyond the church walls and impacts future generations.
Effective communication is key to engaging with teenagers.

Link to Book Lee Mentions:
https://a.co/d/7nfvoS0

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:39 Building Community in Youth Ministry

05:31 Effective Communication with Teens

08:19 The Importance of Breaking Bread Together

11:03 Connecting with Parents for Better Discipleship

13:47 The Role of Prayer in Youth Ministry

16:42 Conclusion and Future Episodes

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

063 | Recruiting Youth Ministry Volunteers

Chris Trent — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 actively involve their communities in supporting the next generation.

Takeaways

The struggle to find volunteers in youth ministry is real.
Volunteers are essential and should never feel like 'just' volunteers.
Recruitment should be a year-round effort, not just before events.
Utilizing older students as volunteers can be effective.
Creating short-term volunteer opportunities can alleviate commitment fears.
Celebrate and appreciate volunteers to foster a positive environment.
Involve church leadership in promoting youth ministry needs.
Communicate the impact of youth ministry to potential volunteers.
Encourage volunteers to share their experiences to attract others.
Build a community that supports and uplifts youth ministry efforts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:19 The Importance of Volunteers in Youth Ministry

05:51 Why It's Worth It to Recruit Volunteers

08:52 Strategies for Recruiting Volunteers

13:21 Utilizing Older Students as Volunteers

16:52 Overcoming Commitment Fears in Volunteer Recruitment

19:11 The Importance of Intentional Volunteer Roles

21:49 Creating a Church-Wide Vision for Youth Ministry

24:48 Celebrating Volunteers and Building Community

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

062 | Don’t Roll Your Eyes: Keeping Up with Youth Culture

Chris Trent — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 episode concludes with encouragement to stay connected with other youth workers and look forward to future topics.

Takeaways

Volunteers often feel outdated compared to their youth.
Understanding youth culture is essential for effective ministry.
Use resources like the Culture Translator to stay informed.
Engage with students to learn about their world.
Not every trend is negative; discernment is key.
God's truth transcends cultural trends.
Be authentic and relatable to teenagers.
Utilize technology to access information quickly.
Encourage open conversations about cultural issues.
Stay connected with other youth ministry volunteers.

SHARED LINKS:
Youth Culture Translator: https://axis.org/culture-translator/
Center for Parent and Youth Understanding: https://cpyu.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

01:01 Navigating Youth Culture as a Volunteer

05:10 Understanding Youth Culture: The Why and How

06:36 Practical Tools for Youth Workers

10:32 Bonus Tips for Engaging with Youth Culture

11:17 Pro Tips: Learning from Students

15:24 Key Takeaways for Youth Workers

18:06 Conclusion and Future Topics

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

061 | How They've Changed

Chris Trent — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 09:24:56 -0400

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 meaningful conversations with the teens they serve.

Takeaways

Teenagers undergo significant changes during adolescence.
Summer can lead to both spiritual growth and bad habits.
Volunteers should be mindful of the changes in their youth.
Friendship dynamics among teens can shift dramatically.
Encouraging open conversations is crucial for understanding teens.
God's unchanging nature provides stability for teens.
Volunteers should create diverse opportunities for youth to serve.
Recognizing positive changes in teens is important for affirmation.
Building relationships with teens requires consistent effort.
Volunteers play a key role in guiding teens through changes.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Summer Reflections

06:13 Understanding Teen Changes

11:52 Spiritual Growth and Challenges

18:04 Navigating Friendships and Social Dynamics

23:58 Practical Tips for Volunteers

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

060 | Praying for Students During the Summer

Chris Trent — Tue, 27 May 2025 09:10:14 -0400

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 24:3–6 (CSB)

3 Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?

Who may stand in his holy place?

4 The one who has clean hands and a pure heart,

who has not appealed to what is false,

and who has not sworn deceitfully.

5 He will receive blessing from the Lord,

and righteousness from the God of his salvation.

6 Such is the generation of those who inquire of him,

who seek the face of the God of Jacob.,

Selah

2. Hunger for God’s Word

Matthew 5:6 (CSB)

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

3. Spiritual Growth

1 Timothy 4:7–8 (CSB)

7 But have nothing to do with pointless and silly myths. Rather, train yourself in godliness. 8 For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

4. Salvation

Romans 10:9 (CSB)

9 If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

5. Passion to Share the Gospel

Acts 1:8 (CSB)

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

6. Wisdom

Isaiah 30:21 (CSB)

21 and whenever you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.”

7. Spiritual Strength

Ephesians 3:14–21 (CSB)

14 For this reason I kneel before the Father 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named. 16 I pray that he may grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with power in your inner being through his Spirit, 17 and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, being rooted and firmly established in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height and depth of God’s love, 19 and to know Christ’s love that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us—21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Milestones in Youth Ministry

02:54 Summer Plans and Challenges in Youth Ministry

05:54 Intentional Prayer for Students

08:58 Spiritual Protection for Students

12:03 Hunger for God's Word

14:58 Engaging Students in Scripture

15:17 Spiritual Growth in Youth Ministry

17:36 Praying for Salvation

19:43 Developing a Passion for Sharing the Gospel

22:28 Praying for Wisdom in Decision Making

26:24 Spiritual Strength and Guidance

29:11 Practical Tips for Prayer in Youth Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

059 | A Biblical Theology of Youth Ministry and the Role of the Volunteer

Chris Trent — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 and offers encouragement for those involved, especially as graduation season approaches.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

03:00 Meet Mike McGarry: Author and Youth Pastor

05:55 Exploring Biblical Theology in Youth Ministry

08:47 The Importance of Intergenerational Faith

12:13 Youth Ministry as a Church Commitment

15:07 Encouragement for Youth Ministry Volunteers

18:00 Navigating Graduation Season in Youth Ministry

18:22 The Mission of Youth Ministry

21:31 Building Adult Disciples

24:19 The Age of the Apostles

27:58 Youth Ministry in the New Testament

29:54 Resources for Youth Leaders

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

058 | Avoiding Volunteer Burnout

Chris Trent — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 Importance of Personal and Corporate Worship

14:57 Taking Breaks and Creating Margin

20:08 Authenticity in Leadership

23:42 Setting Boundaries and Saying No

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

057 | How Being Yourself is a Volunteer’s Super Power

Chris Trent — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 students, focusing on care over coolness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

03:37 Meet Ryan Appling: A Youth Leader's Journey

06:41 The Importance of Being Yourself in Youth Ministry

15:42 Building Relationships: Caring Over Coolness

15:52 Building Relationships Beyond Scheduled Programming

18:53 The Importance of Authenticity in Youth Ministry

24:58 Serving from a Place of Overflow

30:06 Embracing Your Unique Strengths in Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

056 | Volunteers & Parents: A team for Helping a Teenagers Grow in Christ

Chris Trent — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:27:47 -0400

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-youth leader relationships and highlight the need for volunteers to serve as liaisons, advocating for both sides.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:56 The Importance of Volunteers in Youth Ministry

05:54 Research Insights on Parent and Youth Worker Relationships

09:01 The Role of Volunteers as Liaisons

11:55 Communication and Advocacy in Youth Ministry

14:49 Understanding Expectations in Parent-Youth Leader Relationships

17:49 Addressing Tensions in Youth Ministry

20:52 Building Relationships Over Programs

23:06 Bridging the Gap: Volunteers and Parents

25:46 Expectations and Realities of Parenting in Faith

29:57 Empowering Parents and Volunteers

32:01 Final Thoughts on Relationships in Youth Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

055 | Healthy Small Group Guidelines

Chris Trent — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:01:00 -0400

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 shaping a thriving youth ministry. This conversation is packed with insights on creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued, known, and spiritually nurtured.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:56 The Importance of Volunteers in Youth Ministry

06:04 Healthy Small Group Guidelines

09:07 Creating a Culture of Respect and Participation

11:57 Guarding Against Gossip and Encouraging Vulnerability

14:55 Intentional Prayer Time in Small Groups

18:01 The Importance of Opening Scripture Together

20:56 Creating an Inclusive Environment for All Students

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

054 | Creating Moments of Vulnerability Leading Students to Understand God's Grace

Chris Trent — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:01:00 -0500

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 students in their faith journey. Practical tips for engaging students and fostering forgiveness are also shared, along with encouragement for volunteers to rely on God's grace in their own lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:59 Celebrating Birthdays and Life Updates

05:59 Doug Franklin's Journey in Youth Ministry

08:55 Creating Moments of Vulnerability

12:02 The Importance of Authenticity in Teaching

14:52 Teaching Students About Grace

18:10 Encouraging Forgiveness Among Students

21:05 Practical Tips for Volunteers

23:57 Wrapping Up and Resources for Volunteers

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

053 | Working with Students Who Have Unique Challenges

Chris Trent — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:01:00 -0500

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 students who face unique challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

01:52 The Importance of Volunteer Experience

04:03 Introducing Charlie Jordan and His Journey

07:49 Understanding Parker's Unique Challenges

12:03 Building Communication with Parents

15:59 Fostering Compassion and Growth in Youth Ministry

17:11 Navigating Unique Needs in Youth Groups

19:14 Building Relationships and Setting Boundaries

21:12 Encouraging Growth Through Comfort Zone Challenges

24:07 The Importance of Communication and Collaboration

26:41 Embracing Differences and Celebrating Successes

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

052 | Importance of Showing Up

Chris Trent — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 17:43:12 -0500

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 a supportive environment for teenagers and enhance their overall experience in youth ministry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:47 The Importance of Showing Up

05:57 Being On Time Matters

09:00 Covering Your Group When Absent

11:52 Connecting with Students Over Adults

14:58 Showing Up Beyond Weekly Gatherings

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 several 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!

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

051 | Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:01:00 -0500

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 community service as meaningful ways to engage with students and foster a sense of belonging.

Takeaways

Volunteers play a crucial role in youth ministry, especially during the holiday season.
Creative gift ideas can help strengthen relationships with students.
Hosting a party is a simple yet effective way to connect with students.
Books and journals can serve as meaningful gifts that encourage spiritual growth.
Snacks and treats are a great way to show students you care without overspending.
Encouragement notes can have a lasting impact on students' lives.
Community service projects can be a rewarding way to give back during the holidays.
Holiday socks can be a fun and lighthearted gift option.
Advent devotionals can be a thoughtful gift that encourages spiritual reflection.
It's important to remember the heart behind gift-giving: showing love and support to students.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

03:10 Creative Gift Ideas for Students

07:15 Practical Tips for Hosting Parties

09:10 Books and Journals as Gifts

10:49 Snacks and Treats for Students

12:08 Meaningful Gifts: Bracelets and Encouragement

13:39 Gift Cards: Simple Yet Thoughtful

14:28 Advent Devotionals as Gifts

17:42 Giving Back: Community Service Ideas

19:21 Fun and Lighthearted Gifts: Holiday Socks

20:32 The Importance of Encouragement Notes

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

050 | 50 Things We Love About Volunteers

Chris Trent — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0500

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 Volunteer

12:08 Cameron's Contributions: Passion and Community

17:58 Jennifer's Perspective: The Value of Volunteering

22:32 The Importance of Multi-Generational Community

24:14 Building Lasting Relationships Through Volunteering

25:01 The Role of Volunteers in Ministry

26:28 Creating a Welcoming Environment for Students

28:30 Volunteers as Living Examples of Christ's Body

30:32 Celebrating the Dedication of Volunteers

34:50 The Impact of Volunteers on Youth Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

049 | Tips for Handling Phones in Small Group

Chris Trent — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:53:47 -0500

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 conversation also highlights the significance of teaching teenagers to use traditional Bibles and the need for consistency in implementing these strategies to foster a successful youth ministry environment.

Takeaways

Cell phones can be a major distraction in youth ministry.
It's important to communicate with parents about cell phone policies.
Setting boundaries with technology helps students focus on spiritual growth.
Volunteers should model good phone habits for their students.
Teaching students to use paper Bibles is essential for their spiritual development.
Creating a positive culture around phone use takes time and consistency.
Engaging students in meaningful conversations can reduce phone distractions.
Volunteers should not view phones as the enemy but as tools that need boundaries.
Encouraging students to prioritize their time with God is crucial.
Practical tips can help volunteers navigate the challenges of technology in youth ministry.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

03:01 Navigating Halloween and Family Traditions

05:57 The Challenge of Cell Phones in Youth Ministry

09:08 Understanding the Distraction of Technology

11:58 Practical Tips for Managing Cell Phone Use

15:01 Engaging Parents in the Conversation

17:46 Encouraging Traditional Bible Use

20:59 Consistency and Long-Term Success in Youth Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

048 | The role of a youth ministry volunteer at a youth ministry event

Chris Trent — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 14:46:52 -0400

048 | The role of a youth ministry volunteer at a youth ministry event

In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, we discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry events. We focus on the importance of building relationships with students, providing logistical support, promoting events effectively, and engaging with students during activities. The conversation also highlights the need for youth pastors to have a clear plan for their volunteers and the significance of expressing gratitude to those who serve in ministry.

Takeaways

Volunteers are essential for the success of youth ministry events.
Building relationships with students is a primary role of volunteers.
Logistical support helps events run smoothly and allows youth pastors to focus on ministry.
Volunteers can promote events within their communities to increase participation.
Engaging with students during events fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Youth pastors should communicate clearly with volunteers about their roles and responsibilities.
Gratitude towards volunteers enhances their experience and encourages continued involvement.
Volunteers can help create a welcoming environment for new students.
Sharing stories and experiences from events can promote future participation.
Having a plan for volunteers ensures that everyone knows their role and feels valued.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

02:57 The Importance of Volunteers in Youth Ministry

06:03 Building Relationships with Students

09:05 Logistical Support at Events

11:54 Promoting Events Effectively

15:00 Engaging with Students During Events

17:52 The Role of Youth Pastors in Volunteer Management

20:55 The Power of Gratitude in Ministry

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

047 - Communicating with Middle Schoolers

Chris Trent — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:01:00 -0400

047 | Communicating to Middle Schoolers

In this episode, Chris and Jennifer are joined by Ashley Bohinc, the author of a new book, Communicating with Middle Schoolers. Together, they dive into the unique challenges and proven strategies for effectively connecting with students during this critical stage of development, especially in a ministry setting. This conversation offers practical advice on how to build meaningful relationships with middle schoolers, a group navigating one of the most significant transitions in their lives. A must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and improve their communication with this pivotal age group.

Links Shared During Show:

Ashley Bohinc - https://ashleybohinc.com

Takeaways

Middle schoolers often feel forgotten in ministry.
Breaking down concepts is crucial for understanding.
Concrete language helps middle schoolers grasp abstract ideas.
Categorizing questions can lead to better engagement.
Unstacking instructions can prevent chaos in group settings.
Middle schoolers think literally and need clear guidance.
Engagement issues may be misinterpreted as behavior problems.
Teaching should focus on digestible pieces of information.
Open-ended questions encourage more thoughtful responses.
Teaching mixed age groups requires intentionality and adaptability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast

03:00 The Importance of Middle School Ministry

06:04 Breaking Down Concepts for Middle Schoolers

08:59 Using Concrete Language in Communication

12:01 Categorizing Questions for Better Engagement

14:54 Unstacking Instructions for Clarity

18:10 The Challenge of Teaching Mixed Age Groups

21:05 Final Thoughts and Resources

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

046 - Teaching Teenagers to Study the Bible

Chris Trent — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Podcast 046 | Teaching Teenagers to Study the Bible on Their Own

Join us for episode 46 as we discuss how to help teenagers study the Bible. In this episode, we outline a plan to help teenagers learn how they can utilize tools to help them better understand scripture. We also answer the often asked question: what type of Bible should I buy my teenager?

Links Shared During Show

Youtube Bible Study Videos including Bible Project - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX5WwSC8sWfy7zidaEbgCMhh78wOF2Lh3&si=qb-lC6OmCbIuEYvi

Blue Letter Bible - https://www.blueletterbible.org

Discount Code for Lifeway - YMPV10

Takeaways

Empower teenagers to study the Bible on their own
Get a study Bible and teach teenagers how to use it effectively
Take advantage of free YouTube resources, such as The Bible Project
Involve teenagers in Bible study and provide opportunities for active engagement

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Appreciation for Volunteers

03:29 Topic Introduction: Teaching Teenagers to Study Scripture

04:09 Empowering Teenagers to Study the Bible

07:02 The Power of a Study Bible

12:21 Teaching Teenagers How to Use the Study Bible

17:37 Unlocking the Bible with YouTube

23:25 Engaging Teenagers in Bible Study

26:21 Preview of Next Episode: Communicating with Middle Schoolers

27:46 Closing Remarks and Thanks

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

045 - Networking with Other Youth Ministry Volunteers

Chris Trent — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Podcast 045 | Networking with Other Youth Ministering Volunteers

Join us in episode 45 as we are joined by Chad Higgins and Zac Workun from Lifeway/Youth Ministry Booster. We talk with Chad and Zac about the importance of networking for youth ministry volunteers. They share the need for collaboration and community among volunteers, as well as the value of learning from and celebrating with one another. Overall, the episode highlights the significance of building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging within the volunteer community.

Takeaways

Collaboration is essential for youth ministry volunteers to learn from and support each other.
Building a sense of community among volunteers is crucial for creating a positive and encouraging environment.
Networking with other volunteers allows for the sharing of ideas, experiences, and resources.
Celebrating together and caring for one another strengthens the bond within the volunteer community.
Platforms like the Youth Ministry Booster provide opportunities for youth ministry leaders to connect and grow together. Building a sense of community and care among volunteers is essential in youth ministry.
Hosting events and providing opportunities for volunteers to connect can foster a strong sense of community.
Co-leadership and discipleship among volunteers can model faithful discipleship to students.
Attending conferences and joining online groups are effective ways to network and learn from others in youth ministry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

03:00 The Power of Collaboration

10:49 Building Strong Connections

16:42 Fostering a Sense of Belonging

18:23 Youth Ministry Booster: Connecting and Growing

20:21 The Importance of Community and Care

22:23 Fostering Community Among Volunteers

22:53 The Value of Co-Leadership and Discipleship

29:51 Networking Opportunities: Conferences and Online Groups

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

044 - The Importance of Knowing a Student’s Name

Chris Trent — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode, Chris and Jennifer are joined by Abby Trent, a former student and now a youth ministry major. They discuss the importance of knowing and remembering students' names in youth ministry. Abby shares three reasons why this is important: making students feel seen and known, helping them feel valued, and showing them that they are more than just a camper. Abby also provides practical tips for memorizing names, such as using flashcard apps like Quizlet and coming up with creative associations to remember names.

Takeaways

Knowing and remembering students' names is important in youth ministry because it makes them feel seen and known.
Memorizing names helps students feel valued and shows them that they are more than just a camper.
Practical tips for memorizing names include using flashcard apps like Quizlet and coming up with creative associations to remember names.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

02:17 Abby's Journey to Youth Ministry

04:17 The Impact of Knowing Students' Names

08:50 Making Students Feel Seen and Known

17:48 Practical Tips for Memorizing Names

23:06 Conclusion and Call to Action

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

043 - Leveraging the Momentum of Summer

Chris Trent — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss how volunteers can leverage the momentum coming out of summer in youth ministry. We provide practical tips such as catching up with students about their summer experiences, celebrating and highlighting the spiritual moments from the summer, setting goals for the year as a small group, utilizing the stories of students to recruit other volunteers, and inviting students to start fresh in the new school year. We also emphasize the importance of building relationships with teenagers and pointing them to Jesus.

Takeaways

Take time to catch up with students about their summer experiences and show genuine interest in their lives.
Celebrate and highlight the spiritual moments from the summer to encourage students in their faith journey.
Set goals for the year as a small group to keep students engaged and focused on their spiritual growth.
Utilize the stories of students to recruit other volunteers and showcase the impact of youth ministry.
Invite students to start fresh in the new school year and create a welcoming environment for them.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

05:18 Leveraging Summer Momentum

11:17 Celebrating and Highlighting Spiritual Moments

14:38 Setting Goals for Spiritual Growth

17:36 Utilizing Student Stories to Recruit Volunteers

19:58 Inviting Students to Start Fresh

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

042 - Summer Extravaganza

Chris Trent — Mon, 27 May 2024 00:01:00 -0400

042 - Summer Extravaganza

Join us in episode 42 for our SUMMER EXTRAVAGANZA. This week we are joined by Cameron Wilkins, who works with NextGen for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. We discuss the impact of summer events on youth ministry and the importance of volunteers. We also share tips for volunteers about how to stay connected to teenagers throughout the summer and how to respond to a student who makes a spiritual decision at a summer event.

Takeaways

Summer events, such as camps, mission trips, and vacation Bible school, have a significant impact on the spiritual lives of teenagers.
Volunteers play a crucial role in making summer events successful and meaningful.
Building relationships and creating a sense of community are key aspects of summer events.
The church can provide a unique and powerful experience that goes beyond what secular organizations can offer.
Investing time and effort in summer events can lead to lifelong memories and lasting spiritual growth. Volunteers have a long-lasting impact on youth ministry and should show up consistently to build relationships with students.
Even if volunteers can't attend summer camps or mission trips, they can still make a difference by finding creative ways to be present and engage with students.
Volunteers should offer support, mentorship, and encouragement to students who make spiritual decisions during these experiences.
It is important for volunteers to help students find resources for studying the Bible and remind them of their identity in Christ.
Volunteers should stay connected and continue to invest in the lives of teenagers, even when they can't be physically present.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:07 Overview of Summer Events

05:14 The Impact of Move Conference

09:11 Personal Stories of Summer Camp

12:10 The Importance of VBS

14:00 Building Relationships and Community

16:30 Finding Creative Ways to Engage with Students

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

041 - What to do when your students are too busy to come to church

Chris Trent — Mon, 13 May 2024 00:01:00 -0400

041 - What to do when your students are too busy to come to church

In this episode, we discuss what to do when students are too busy to come to church. We discuss the importance of not reacting negatively or making students feel guilty for not attending. Instead, we talk about how to celebrate the things that are keeping students busy and reminding them that they are on a mission in those places. We also encourage listeners to show up where students are and be creative in finding ways to connect with them outside of church. The episode concludes with a preview of the upcoming Summer Spectacular episode.

Takeaways

Don't react negatively or make students feel guilty for not attending church
Celebrate the things that are keeping students busy
Remind students that they are on a mission in their extracurricular activities
Show up where students are and be creative in finding ways to connect with them outside of church

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

02:49 Preparing for Summer and Introducing the Topic

03:07 Recognizing the Drop in Attendance

05:06 Don't React Negatively or Make Students Feel Guilty

08:02 Celebrating Students' Commitments

11:29 Training Students to Be Missionaries

14:17 Showing Up and Connecting Outside of Church

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

040 - Three Things Every Teenager Needs to Hear You Say

Chris Trent — Wed, 01 May 2024 11:36:42 -0400

Podcast 040 | Three Things Every Teenager Needs to Hear You Say

Join us in episode 40 as we discuss 3 things every teenagers needs to hear from a volunteer. While we’re not trying to oversimplify what it takes to work with teenagers, we do discuss what are the absolute basic things a teenagers needs to hear.

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

039 | Ministering to Teenagers who Don't Have Parents Involved in Your Church

Chris Trent — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Join Chris Trent, Jennifer Fletcher, and Tim Kilgore in episode 39 as they discuss ministering to teenagers disconnected from church-involved parents. Discover the importance of patience, grace, and mindful communication in reaching out to these youth. Learn how to navigate relationships with both teens and their non-church parents with respect and compassion. Gain valuable tips on pointing these teenagers towards Jesus and fostering connections with their families. Stay tuned for a heartfelt reminder to keep these families in your prayers as they journey together in faith.

Takeaways

Be patient and show grace to teenagers who may not be familiar with church culture.

Be mindful of the language used when communicating with both teenagers and their parents.

Respect non-church parents and understand that they love their children.

Point teenagers to Jesus and minister to the whole family.

Get to know the parents and seek opportunities to connect with them.

Pray for the teenagers and their parents.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:02 Ministering to teenagers without involved parents

04:37 Chapter 1: Remember they likely don't know church culture

06:46 Chapter 2: Be careful with the language you use

09:26 Chapter 3: Non-church parents are not the enemy

10:34 Chapter 4: Point them to Jesus

12:35 Chapter 5: Get to know the parents

14:11 Bonus: Pray for the kids and their parents

16:04 Conclusion

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

Episode 38 | Growing an Effective Girls Ministry from the Ground Up

Chris Trent — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode, Chris and Jennifer are joined by Angela Sanders to discuss girls ministry. They talk about the importance of girls ministry and why churches should consider having a separate ministry for girls. They also provide tips for volunteers who are interested in starting a girls ministry in their church. In this conversation, Angela Sanders shares insights on how to effectively run a girls ministry. She emphasizes the importance of assessing the specific needs of the girls in your context and avoiding a cookie-cutter approach. Angela also provides practical steps for starting and maintaining a successful girls ministry.

You can find Angela’s book here: https://www.angelasanderswrites.com/shop

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:13 Excitement about Girls Ministry

06:31 Why Churches Should Consider Girls Ministry

07:17 Tips for Starting Girls Ministry as a Volunteer

19:16 Avoiding Fluff in Girls Ministry

21:24 Preparing Girls for the Future

23:52 Teaching Girls to Turn to Scripture

25:35 Creating an Intentional Environment

27:05 Including Girls in Leadership

28:27 Making Incremental Changes

29:19 Bringing Girls on the Team

30:18 Adding and Evaluating Ministry Elements

31:30 Starting Small and Casting Vision

32:12 Finding the Book and Connecting on Social Media

33:46 Joining the Student Ministry Network Facebook Group

34:13 Preview of Next Episode: Ministering to Kids with Uninvolved Parents

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

037 - Why are teenagers so lonely an how can we help?

Chris Trent — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 37 | Why are teenagers so lonely an how can we help?

Join us as we discuss the issue of loneliness among teenagers and how volunteers can help. We highlight the fact that despite being more connected than ever through technology, teenagers are experiencing high levels of loneliness. We also take a look the reasons behind this, including shallow relationships and lack of genuine connection. We provide four key strategies for volunteers to address this issue. And of course we emphasize the importance of volunteers in building meaningful relationships with teenagers and making a positive impact in their lives.

Takeaways

1. Teenagers today are experiencing high levels of loneliness, despite being more connected through technology.

2. Volunteers can help teenagers by helping them reframe their self-talk and fight the lies with truth.

3. Focusing on relational ministry is crucial for volunteers, as building meaningful relationships with teenagers can help combat loneliness.

4. Volunteers can connect students with other students, breaking down social barriers and fostering genuine connections.

5. Volunteers should go beyond church programs and show up in various aspects of teenagers' lives, such as attending their events and sending encouraging messages.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

04:01 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Teenagers

09:05 Helping Teenagers Reframe Their Self-Talk

12:06 Focusing on Relational Ministry

15:55 Connecting Students with Other Students

23:09 Upcoming Episode and Conclusion

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

036 - A Senior Pastor’s Perspective on Youth Ministry Volunteers

Chris Trent — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 36 | A Senior Pastor’s Perspective on Youth Ministry Volunteers - In this episode, we talk with Ricky Smith about his journey from youth pastor to senior pastor as he emphases the vital role of volunteers in ministry. Ricky shares his personal connection to the church and the importance of volunteers in the church's mission. He also shares about his own upbringing in a church where his father served diligently as a volunteer, and highlights the invaluable contributions of volunteers not just in organizational terms but from a biblical perspective.

You can reach Chris & the team at StudentMinistryNetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

035 - Why are Teenagers So Anxious and What Can We Do to Help

Chris Trent — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 35 | Why are Teenagers So Anxious and What Can We Do to Help - In this episode, we dive into an important topic: anxiety in teenagers. We explore the rising prevalence of anxiety among teens, particularly post-pandemic, where one in three teenagers is affected. We also discuss how anxiety doesn't discriminate by gender, impacting both boys and girls. We also address the challenge of recognizing anxiety in teenagers and distinguishing it from typical teenage stressors.

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

034 - Current Trends Youth Ministry Volunteers Need to be Aware of at the Start of 2024 with Walt Mueller

Chris Trent — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 34 | Current Trends Youth Ministry Volunteers Need to be Aware of at the Start of 2024 with Walt Mueller - Join us as we dive into the latest trends in youth ministry with Walt Mueller from the Center for Parent Youth Understanding. In this episode, Walt shares important insights for volunteers to be aware of in 2024. Discover practical tips for balancing trend-awareness with a busy schedule, enhancing your effectiveness in youth engagement. A must-listen for all youth ministry volunteers!

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

033 - If a youth ministry volunteer were to set goals…

Chris Trent — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 33 | If a youth ministry volunteer were to set goals - Happy New Year! Can you believe it is 2024? Like so many of you, we’re thinking about how we can improve in 2024. That got us thinking about what it would look like for a volunteer to set goals for how they work with students. In this episode we share 5 potential goals to set for 2024.

You can reach Chris & the team at StudentMinistryNetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

032 - Christmas Spectacular 2023

Chris Trent — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 32 | Christmas Spectacular 2023

Get ready for festive fun! Jennifer is back in this jolly episode where we share some great ideas on how to connect with students during Christmas. From fun activities to way you can encourage them spiritually, it's a must-listen for a memorable youth ministry Christmas season. Merry Christmas! #youthministry #studentministry #nextgen #nextgenministry

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

031 - Fun Ice Breakers for Small Groups

Chris Trent — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Episode 31 | Fun Ice Breakers for Your Small Group

When it comes to leading a group of teenagers in a small group, one thing we’ve learned is that doing a good ice breaker before the lesson can really help get teenagers engaged in the conversation. In this episode, we talk about why ice breakers are important and then share 5 solid ideas that you can use in your next small group meeting.

Book Mentioned:

The Complete Book of Questions: 1001 Conversation Starters for Any Occasion

https://a.co/d/cib5f5K

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

030 - Basics of Discipling Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 30 | Basics of Discipling Students

If you’re like us, you love the idea of helping a teenager not only meet Jesus, but live a life for Jesus. In this episode we take a look at how a volunteer can leverage their opportunity to not only teach students, but disciple them.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

029 - Building Trust with Parents

Chris Trent — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 29 | Building Trust with Parents

When we’re given the opportunity to impact a teenager’s life for Jesus, we also have a chance to impact their parents. In this episode, we talk through ideas on how youth ministry volunteers can build trust with parents with the hopes of also impacting them for Jesus.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

Episode 28 | Asking Great Questions that will Lead to Great Discussion

Chris Trent — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 28 | Asking Great Questions that will Lead to Great Discussion

Silence. We’ve all experienced blank stares when leading a Bible study and it’s not fun. In this episode we tackle how to ask great questions in order to increase participation with those we’re teaching.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

Episode 27 - Great resources that will help me be a better youth ministry volunteer

Chris Trent — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 27 | Great resources that will help me be a better youth ministry volunteer

Volunteering with teenagers can be a bit overwhelming at times, so in this episode we share tried and true resources that will help you be the best youth ministry volunteer you can be as you point teenagers to Jesus.

Resources shared in this episode:

Online bible study resources

Blue Letter Bible | https://www.blueletterbible.org

Bible Gateway | https://www.biblegateway.com

Youth Culture Sites

Center for Parent and Youth Understanding | https://cpyu.org

Axis Youth Culture & Culture Translator | https://axis.org

Gen Z Lab | https://genzlab.impact360institute.org/

Books

• Seven Best Practices for Teaching Teenagers the Bible by Andy Blanks | https://youthministry360.com/collections/volunteers-strategy/products/the-7-best-practices-for-teaching-teenagers-the-bible

• DISCIPLE: Ordinary Person’s Guide to Discipling Teenagers by Allen Jackson | https://youthministry360.com/collections/volunteers-strategy/products/disciple

• YM360 - bundle for youth ministry volunteers | https://youthministry360.com/collections/volunteers-strategy

• A Volunteer Youth Workers’ guide to understanding today’s teens by Mark Oestreicher | https://a.co/d/3r44C8L

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

026 - My youth pastor is young, inexperienced, and new… how can I help?

Chris Trent — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 26 | My youth pastor is young, inexperienced, and new… how can I help? Let’s face it… sometimes our churches hire really young youth pastors that don’t have a lot of experience in ministry. We want to see them thrive in ministry, so in this episode we share tips on how you as a volunteer can be an encouragement.

025 Creating Unity When Students Don't Come Much

Chris Trent — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Episode 25 | Creating Unity When Students Don’t Come Much With attendance patterns continuing to change among teenagers and families, it can be hard to maintain unity with your group of teenagers. In this episode we talk through some ideas that we think will help create momentum that will lead to a more unified group.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

024 - Things I Wish I Could Have Said to My Volunteers

Chris Trent — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 24 | Things I Wish I Could Have Said to My Volunteers In this episode we talk with Billy Christol, who is now a Senior Pastor, about things he and most youth pastors wish they could say to their youth ministry volunteers.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

023 - Connecting with Your New Group of Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 23 | Connecting with Your New Group of Students Summer is over and the new school year is upon us. That means for a lot of volunteers, you'll be working with a new group of students along with a new class that has been promoted from children's ministry. In this episode we talk through ideas on how to best connect with those students and get relational traction quicker.

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

022 - Summer Spectacular: Staying Connected to Your Students Over the Summer

Chris Trent — Mon, 29 May 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 22 | Summer Spectacular: Staying Connected to Your Students Over the Summer. The whole gang is here in this episode! We’re talking summer plans and how to stay connected to students in the middle of a chaotic summer.

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

021 - Shane Pruitt Interview - Stay Current without Compromise

Chris Trent — Mon, 15 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Episode 21 | Shane Pruitt Interview: Staying Current without Compromise

In this episode we talk with Shane Pruitt, Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board, about how to navigate difficult conversations on difficult topics with teenagers. We include tips on how to handle these conversations in an appropriate way without compromise.

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN PODCAST:
You can find Gen Send’s New Believers Guide HERE: https://www.gensend.org/life/

OR you can have a student text the word LIFE to 888123

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

020 - Back to the Basics: A spiritual check up

Chris Trent — Tue, 02 May 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 20 | Back to the Basics: A spiritual check up. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in all the work we’re doing “for” God and not realize that we’re not walking with the Lord like we should. In this episode, we take a look at some spiritual basics that will help help us stay close to Jesus.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, Back to the Basics: A spiritual check up

1. Importance of Prayer

2. Daily Bible Study/Quiet Time

3. Engaging in worship through singing and listening intentionally to sermons

After listening to this episode, what stood out to you as a spiritual area you need to get back to the basics on?

Why is it hards sometimes to stay close to Jesus?

What are some things you’ve done for daily Bible study that you’ve found especially helpful?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

019 - How to Support Your Youth Pastor

Chris Trent — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 19 | How to Support Your Youth Pastor. Being the leader of a youth group can be challenging. Join us in episode 19 as we talk about ways you can be an encouragement to your youth pastor, or whoever leads your youth group.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 6 Ideas on How to Support Your Youth Pastor

1. Pray, Pray, Pray

2. Do your best to not just point out failures, but celebrate success… show them respect

3. Choose to be one of their biggest fans! Have their back. (Not saying follow them blindly) *** This includes being a recruiter for your youth ministry

4. Help them get stuff done… admin, clean up, etc

5. Respect their boundaries… days off, work hours, etc…

6. Bless them in tangible ways when possible…

- Volunteer to watch their kids for free so they can have a date night (more than, let me know if you ever need anything)

- Drop them a thank you note with a gift card

- Drop them a note without a gift card

- Celebrate them publicly, including social media

What are some ways you and the other volunteers could bless your youth pastor?

What are some ways you’re seeing God work through your youth pastor?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

018 - Being a Youth Ministry Volunteer vs. Being a Chaperone

Chris Trent — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 18 | Join us as we discuss Being a Youth Ministry Volunteer vs. Being a Chaperone. In this episode we talk incredible impact a youth ministry volunteer can make in the life of a teenager when they think of themselves as more than a chaperone. You’ll be challenged to lean into building great relationships with teenagers.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 4 comparisons we made between Being a Youth Ministry Volunteer vs. Being a Chaperone were:

On task vs On Mission (event/trip)

Observation vs Participation (worship service)

Keeps it private vs. makes it personal (small group moments in Bible study)

One Day vs. Long Term (not simply checking the box on Sundays)

Have you ever thought of yourself as more of a chaperone than a volunteer(as talked about in this episode)?

What are some of the biggest challenges with teenagers of going deeper than being a chaperone?

What are some ways you feel your youth group could go deeper than just chaperoning teenagers?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

017 - How to Talk One on One About Difficult and Sensitive Topics

Chris Trent — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:01:00 -0400

Episode 17 | Join us as we discuss How to Talk One on One About Difficult and Sensitive Topics. In this episode we discuss appropriate ways to discuss confidentiality, mandatory reporting, and when to bring others into the conversation.

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 several 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!

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 5 things to remember when talking one on on about difficult and sensitive topics:

1. Never promise confidentiality

2. Be mindful of mandatory reporting

3. When approached with an issue, consider bringing someone into the conversation on the spot

4. It is your job to take them serious

5. Be mindful on the when and where conversations happen

What is most challenging when it comes to discussing sensitive conversations with students?

Do you think today’s teenagers are facing more challenging issues that ever before?

What are the best ways to encourage students who are going through loneliness, stress, or anxiety?

What is your church’s policy on what to do if a teenager says they are being harmed or are thinking about self harm?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

016 - How to Teach Difficult and Sometimes Sensitive Topics

Chris Trent — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 16 | Join us as we talk about How to Teach Difficult and Sometimes Sensitive Topics. In this episode we discuss the challenges of teaching certain topics in 2023 and we share some ideas on how teach those topics in an appropriate way.

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!

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 6 Ideas on How to Teach Difficult and Sometimes Sensitive Topics

1. Be Prepared: Study up, pray, think through possible difficult questions

2. Avoid sensationalism

3. Remember, the Bible is full of difficult and sensitive topics

4. Instead of approaching topics from the “Don’t Do It” standpoint, focus on God’s plan and purposes.

5. Don’t feel like you have to have all the answers

6. Never promise confidentiality.

Of the 6 ideas, what is one you think you could implement pretty easily?

How do you typically handle difficult and sensitive topics?

What is the most challenging topic you feel we face these days?

Would you say your youth group does a pretty good job addressing difficult topics or would you say you have room to grow?

What is your understanding of teaching “Don’t Do It” vs. “Focusing on God’s plan”?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

015 - How to Get That Kid That Never Talks to Speak Up

Chris Trent — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:01:00 -0500

Episode 15 | Join us as we talk about How to Get That Kid That Never Talks to Speak Up. In this episode we talk through ideas on how to create a culture in your small group that allow all students to speak up and encourages even introverted or unengaged students to add to the conversation.

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!

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 6 Ideas on how to How to get that kid that talks too much to be quiet

1. Remember the goal is not to change an introvert into an extrovert, but create an environment where they will speak up

2. Talk with the parents… not to get the kid in trouble, but to gain insight

3. Talk to the kid who is quiet “one on one” first. Relationship

4. When asking a question, don’t be afraid of silence.

5. Take advantage of teaching methods: 1. Hand out a sheet of paper and get everyone to answer 2. give them multiple choice questions and ask them to unpack that 3. talk with a partner OR Some questions should be easy, anyone can answer, questions

After listening to this episode, would you say your group is pretty good at handling these situations or do you need some improvement?

Of the 6 ideas, what is one you think you could implement pretty easily?

How do you typically handle getting a kid to speak up and feel comfortable in your group?

Are there other things you’ve done that you’ve found helpful in getting students to speak up?

What stood out most from this episode?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

014 - How to How to Get That Kid That Talks Too Much to Be Quiet

Chris Trent — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 12:24:21 -0500

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!

Episode 14 | Join us as we talk about How to Get That Kid That Talks Too Much to Be Quiet. In this episode we talk through ideas on how to deal with that kid that struggles with talking too much and interrupting your class or small group.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 6 Ideas on how to How to get that kid that talks too much to be quiet

1. Get to know the kid.

2. Create House Rules or expected behaviors mainly respect.

3. Use creative methods that allow discussion.

4. Know your steps and how you will respond.

5. Have another adult sit next to that student.

6. Positive Reinforcement

After listening to this episode, would you say your group is pretty good at handling these situations or do you need some improvement?

Of the 6 ideas, what is one you think you could implement pretty easily?

How do you typically handle getting a kid to talk less and not be an interuption?

Without turning this into a gossip session, is there a particular student in your ministry that is challenging in this area? What have others done that they’ve found helpful?

What stood out most from this episode?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

013 - Creating a Welcoming Culture in Your Group

Chris Trent — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:01:00 -0500

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!

Episode 13 | Join us as we talk about Creating a Welcoming Culture in Your Group. We talk through 7 practical ideas on how you can help every student that comes to your group welcome whether is their first time or they’re coming back after a long absence.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 7 Creating a Welcoming Culture in Your Group

1. Know each kid by name

2. Room set up matters

3. Talk up to the kids, not down

4. Creating a welcoming culture also takes place outside of your meeting time: Follow up on prayer requests

5. Food - Pro tip: do a food sign up with your parents

6. Ask your regular attenders to be welcoming

7. Don’t be pushy - how you teach matters

After listening to this episode, how good of a job do you think your group does with making others feel welcome?

Of the 7 ideas, what is one you think you could implement soon?

How do you typically handle connecting with a kid that hasn’t come in a while?

Are there any changes you think need to be made to your meeting space?

What stood out most from this episode?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

012 - Setting Goals as a Youth Ministry Volunteer for 2023

Chris Trent — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 00:01:00 -0500

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!

Episode 12 | Join us as we talk about Setting Goals as a Youth Ministry Volunteer for 2023. We’ll talk through how to evaluate 2022 and think through a few practical ideas you can focus on in 2023.

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Discussion Questions:

As a reminder, our 6 ideas on Setting Goals as a Youth Ministry Volunteer for 2023

- Starts by evaluating the last semester

- Connect Weekly - Automate when possible and make a plan

- Reconnect with students who have stopped coming AND make it easy for them to get reconnected.

- Do some type of gathering outside of your normal meeting time

- Connect with parents

- Pray

What are some things in your small group that went really well in 2023? What are some things you feel like did not go well?

Of the 6 ideas, which one stands out as something you think you should focus on in 2023? Why?

What are some ways you’ve found success in connecting weekly with your students?

What are some gatherings outside your normal meeting time that have been successful? What has been difficult about gathering outside your group time?

What would it look like for your youth ministry team to implement a prayer strategy in your youth ministry?

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You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

011 - Christmas Spectacular - Staying Connected to Teenagers During the Holidays

Chris Trent — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:01:00 -0500

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!

Episode 11 | Join us on our Christmas Spectacular with the whole team PLUS a new special guest. In this episode we discuss how to stay connected with teenagers during the holidays.

You can reach Chris & the team at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

010 - What You Can Do to Encourage Parents

Chris Trent — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 00:01:00 -0500

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!

Episode 10 | Join Chris Trent & Tim Kilgore as they discuss What You Can Do to Encourage Parents. In this episode we share ideas on how youth ministry volunteers can not only minister to teenagers, but be a huge encouragement to parents.

You can reach Chris & Tim at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

009 - Setting the Example for Teenagers Through Participation

Chris Trent — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:01:00 -0500

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!

Episode 9 | Join Chris Trent & Billy Christol as they discuss Setting the Example for Teenagers Through Participation. In this episode we share 5 quick ideas on how volunteers can set the example for teenagers that lead to their being better focused on getting the MOST out of their time at church.

You can reach Chris & Billy at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

008 - Current Trends Impacting Teenagers in the Fall of 2022

Chris Trent — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 00:01:00 -0400

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 that apply to 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!

Episode 8 | Join Chris Trent and Todd Jones as they discuss Current Trends Impacting Teenagers in the Fall of 2022. In this episode we talk about current trends youth volunteers need to be aware of that are impacting the way volunteers interact with teenagers. We talk a lot in this episode about the importance of building great relationships with teenagers in order to gain authority in their lives.

You can reach Chris & Todd at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

007 - How to Prepare Well to Teach a Bible Study Lesson

Chris Trent — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:01:00 -0400

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 that apply to 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!

Episode 7 | Join Chris Trent, Tim Kilgore, & special guest Andy Blanks as they discuss ways to Prepare Well to Teach a Bible Study Lesson. In this episode we talk about 3 tips to help prepare a Bible study lesson well, plus one next level idea that'll help you be even more effective.

You can reach Chris & Tim at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

You can reach Andy at andy@ym360.com

A few great articles written by Andy:

https://youthministry360.com/blogs/all/5-distinctives-of-relational-discipleship

https://youthministry360.com/blogs/all/cultural-relevancy-and-youth-ministry-know-bible-know-teenagers

https://youthministry360.com/blogs/all/how-do-you-define-your-role-as-a-youth-worker

A GREAT book by Andy: https://youthministry360.com/collections/youth-ministry-strategy/products/the-7-best-practices-for-teaching-teenagers-the-bible

006 - How to Take Prayer Requests Without it Taking Too Long

Chris Trent — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 07:29:52 -0400

Taking prayer requests is often part of youth ministry small group meetings, but if you're not careful, your Bible Study time can turn in to one big prayer request session. In this episode, Chris Trent and Todd Jones discuss ways to take prayer requests without it taking too long.

You can find Chris & Todd at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

005 - Part 2 How to Share the Gospel with Your Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:01:00 -0400

Join Chris Trent, Billy Christol (not the comedian), & special guest Shane Pruitt as they discuss ways to share the Gospel with your students. In part 2 of this 2 part topic, we talk about how teenagers all over the country are responding to the Gospel in ways we haven't seen in years. We also discuss the challenges we all face and why sharing the gospel is so difficult sometimes for all of us.

You can reach Chris & Billy at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

You can find Shane at https://www.namb.net/ and on social media https://linktr.ee/shanepruitt

004 - Part 1 How to Share the Gospel with Your Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:01:00 -0400

Join Chris Trent, Billy Christol (not the comedian), & special guest Shane Pruitt as they discuss ways to share the Gospel with your students. In part 1 of this 2 part topic, we talk about how teenagers all over the country are responding to the Gospel in ways we haven't seen in years. We also discuss the challenges we all face and why sharing the gospel is so difficult sometimes for all of us.

You can reach Chris & Billy at https://gabaptist.org/nextgen

You can find Shane at https://www.namb.net/ and on social media https://linktr.ee/shanepruitt

003 - Creative Outing Ideas for Your Students

Chris Trent — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Being present each week for the teenagers you volunteer with is important, but we know that small groups and Sunday school classes that get together outside of group time THRIVE. In this episode we talk through some creative ideas on things you can do with your group that will help take your time with them to the next level.

002 - How to Follow Up with a Student Who Has Stopped Coming

Chris Trent — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:50:38 -0400

It’s hard not to take it personal when students stop coming to youth group or small group. However, it doesn’t take serving in youth ministry very long to learn that there are sometimes difficult circumstances that cause a student to stop coming. In this episode, we’ll share ideas on how to follow up with students who stop coming with the hopes of their wanting coming back.

001 - Myths About Being a Great Youth Ministry Volunteer

Chris Trent — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:49:47 -0400

When we think about working with teenagers, there’s all kinds of things that come to mind when thinking about whether or not we’re really qualified. Let’s face it, none of us want to feel out of touch, too old, or not cool enough. In this first episode, we tackle common myths about what it takes to serve in youth ministry.

000 - The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers Kick Off Episode

Chris Trent — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:48:31 -0400

You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com

We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.