Ministry Of Fun: A Secret But Important Youth Ministry Principle Youth Ministry Booster podcast

18:53

Send us a text Youth Ministry.. it ain't what it used to be! The digital revolution has transformed youth ministry into uncharted territory, creating what seasoned experts are calling "a perfect storm" of challenges for today's teenagers. At the heart of this storm lies the smartphone – a device that has fundamentally altered how adolescents experience relationships, rest, and reality itself. "The culture is catechizing our kids 24-7 through these devices," -Walt Mueller Special Guest Alert: Walt Mueller of CPYU There is some reason to raise alarms: trends like teens sleeping with phones, FaceTiming until they pass out, and even gambling online during school lunch periods. This constant digital immersion directly contributes to the sleep deprivation fueling unprecedented anxiety levels among young people. Medical experts emphasize that teenagers need approximately nine hours of uninterrupted sleep for healthy development, yet notifications and digital dependencies make this virtually impossible for many. In the wake of Jonathan Haidt's must-read book "The Anxious Generation" Zac and Walt discuss how parents increasingly use their children as "status objects" for social media validation, creating crushing pressure that transforms ordinary activities into high-stakes performance arenas. Youth workers must respond with a threefold approach: prophetic influence (speaking God's truth to cultural realities), preventive influence (building appropriate guardrails), and redemptive influence (offering grace when mistakes inevitably occur). Rather than merely aiming for behavioral compliance, effective youth ministry nurtures heart transformation through balanced spiritual formation. Today's youth ministry leaders function as cross-cultural missionaries who must be deeply grounded in Scripture while simultaneously understanding the complex digital landscape teens navigate. By creating spaces where adolescents can experience genuine community, rest, and spiritual formation apart from screens, youth ministry offers what many teenagers desperately need but rarely experience elsewhere. Subscribe to the podcast to hear more conversations with ministry leaders who are reimagining how we disciple the next generation in an age of digital distraction and spiritual hunger. Support the show Join the community!…

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Youth Ministry: Fight Burnout; Finding Expectancy w/ Jameson Barker 43:16

4 weeks ago43:16

43:16

Send us a text If you're experiencing ministry burnout or feeling your passion fading, establish accountability with someone who knows you well enough to speak truth when you're drifting, and intentionally surround yourself with those newer to ministry who bring fresh perspective and enthusiasm. SPECIAL GUEST ALERT: Jameson Barker Veteran youth minister Jameson Barker shares how he maintains ministry passion after two decades of service by shifting from complacency to expectancy. Here's some practical strategies for staying spiritually engaged when ministry routines become all too familiar. • Fighting complacency after 20+ years in youth ministry • How routines and familiarity can lead to spiritual disengagement • Creating a mindset of expectancy through intentional daily practices • Recognizing warning signs when your heart begins to drift • The importance of staying present during ministry moments • Creating unexpected moments of joy and connection for your team • Building accountability relationships with people who know you well • Surrounding yourself with younger staff to maintain freshness and enthusiasm • Practical ways to approach familiar events with renewed anticipation Support the show Join the community!…

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How to Thrive as a New Youth Minister w/ Miguel Adesokan 36:16

7 weeks ago36:16

36:16

Send us a text What's it like to be new? Feel like you are the only one? Welp you are not! There is a growing trend of folks leading youth ministry that are 1. new to the role 2. home grown from the church where they attend. In this episode we learn firsthand all about it! Join us for an eye-opening discussion about the journey into youth ministry with Miguel Adesokan, who shares his unique experiences as he transitions from volunteer to staff. This timely episode brings to light not only the challenges faced by those new to the ministry but also the incredible opportunities to make meaningful connections and create a thriving youth community. This conversation highlights the vital connections, challenges, and opportunities within the youth ministry landscape. • Journey from volunteer to staff • Unique opportunities in youth ministry • The importance of communication and administration care • Empowering dream teamers and creating leaders • Balancing responsibilities and personal care • Wisdom for newcomers in ministry Support the show Join the community!…

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Embracing the Call to Youth Ministry w/ Mariano Sarabia 38:42

9 weeks ago38:42

38:42

Send us a text What happens when a vibrant young leader embraces his calling in the unpredictable setting of youth ministry? Special Guest Alert: Mariano Sarabia This episode explores the path of youth ministry through the experience of Mariano, who shares his calling, challenges, and successes in empowering young leaders. The importance of humility, prayer, and authentic relationships in ministry are emphasized throughout the conversation, along with practical advice to engage and disciple the next generation. • Mariano's journey into youth ministry through personal tragedy and faith • The essential qualities of humility and teachability for young leaders • Building strong relationships with senior pastors and other colleagues • Engaging young adults in meaningful conversations about ministry • The powerful role of prayer in cultivating future leaders • Strategies for effectively preaching to the next generation • Fostering a culture of support and vulnerability in ministry Support the show Join the community!…

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Redefining Youth Ministry: Rethink Discipleship & Strengthen Parent Ministry 27:33

10 weeks ago27:33

27:33

Send us a text Could You Survive the 1800s? The password is Clifford the Big Red Dog. Could you hack it in the 1800s armed only with modern knowledge? Wild question, right? Zac and Chad wrote a book! This episode kicks off with some fun, lighthearted speculation before we take a deep dive into childhood nostalgia—Dr. Seuss, Clifford the Big Red Dog , and how those early books shaped our love for reading. But this isn't just a trip down memory lane; it’s a special occasion. Chad is back on the Youth Ministry Booster podcast, and we’re celebrating the upcoming release of our new book, Define the Relationship , now available for pre-order! Beyond the laughs and throwback stories (including why Clifford wasn’t just a dog in our childhood imaginations), we shift gears into something every youth leader needs to hear: the power of partnering with parents. We’ve spent years researching, listening to over a thousand church-going parents, and crafting a framework that helps youth pastors and parents get on the same page. Ministry isn’t just about programming—it’s about creating a culture of discipleship that starts in the home. We break down practical next steps, a six-month plan for parent ministry, and why youth ministries should function as spiritual centers in today’s chaotic world. As we wrap up, we tackle one of the biggest shifts needed in youth ministry today: moving from event-based models to deep, relational discipleship. It’s a challenge, but it’s necessary for long-term impact. And of course, we can’t end without some excitement— Define the Relationship is here! We’d love for you to read it, rate it, and review it. Your feedback fuels the future of these conversations, and who knows? Maybe some special guests will join us next time. So grab your headphones, hit play, and let’s dive in! And if you’ve got thoughts, hit us up—we love hearing from you. Support the show Join the community!…

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Mentorship and Youth Ministry: Why We Need More *Tough Love w/ Daniel Kim 41:11

10 weeks ago41:11

41:11

Send us a text Youth ministry is relational work. The work isn't not quality time but quality time. Relationships that are growing are resilient. 🚨SPECIAL GUEST ALERT Daniel Kim dkim@gospelife.com Daniel__Tokyo Youth ministry flourishes when leaders invest in relationships, mentorship, and personal growth. In this episode of the Youth Ministry Booster Podcast, we sit down with a young pastor Daniel Kim navigating cultural challenges and discovering how mentorship shapes resilient leaders. Whether you're a seasoned youth minister or just starting, this conversation will equip you with insights to deepen connections and lead with impact. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why mentorship is the backbone of effective youth ministry ✅ How strong relationships create lasting faith in students ✅ Personal growth and embracing faith through leadership challenges ✅ Lessons from Chicago’s diverse ministry landscape ✅ The unique challenges faced by international youth ministers ✅ Practical ways to build community and develop future leaders Join us as we explore how mentorship fuels leadership, strengthens ministry, and helps you navigate the complexities of youth ministry with resilience and purpose. 🔔 Subscribe now and don't miss a weekly drop! Support the show Join the community!…

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Youth Ministry Strategy For Pastoral Care: Nicknames to Notebird w/ Taylor Doe 48:48

12 weeks ago48:48

48:48

Send us a text This episode explores the significance of building authentic relationships in youth ministry while challenging traditional metrics of success. T-doe shares his personal experiences, from grassroots initiatives like Fast Food Valentine's to creating psychological safety for young people, emphasizing the impact of community and connection in nurturing today's youth. • The origin of the nickname "T-doe" and its impact on personal identity • Importance of relationships in youth ministry and mentoring • Fast Food Valentine's as a tradition of kindness • Measuring success in youth ministry beyond attendance • Creating a psychologically safe environment for youth sharing • Tracking relationships for more meaningful engagement • The role of community and support among youth leaders • Check out our friends at Notebird, a tool for managing and making the most of relationships in youth ministry 🔖🐦 Notebird special! 🔖🐦 Hey podcast listeners Taylor and team wanted to offer you a special promotion! Check it out here: https://www.notebird.app/booster Support the show Join the community!…

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Thriving in Youth Ministry: Leadership, Community, and Overcoming Challenges with Ian Dunaway 57:30

13 weeks ago57:30

57:30

Send us a text You can't quite make it on your own! This episode focuses on the essential characteristics of effective youth ministry, emphasizing the need for community, accountability, and ongoing development of leaders. Zac and guest Ian explore common roadblocks leaders face, along with practical strategies for fostering a healthy ministry environment centered on relationships. 🚨SPECIAL GUEST ALERT Ian Dunaway www.ShapingStudentMinistry.com www.IanDunaway.com Ian@g6Allies.com 💡Big Ideas • Importance of community for youth leaders and church health • Accountability as a tool for growth, not guilt • Moving beyond event-driven ministry to relational connection • Strategies for developing leaders and volunteers • The impact of personal development on overall ministry health Support the show Join the community!…

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5 Wishes For Youth Ministry Magic In 2025 30:57

14 weeks ago30:57

30:57

Send us a text If there is a ministry genie that can grant wishes then here are our 5 for 2025! Happy New Year's episode everyone! This week we explore how to shape youth ministry in 2025, emphasizing relational connections, purposeful engagement, and the joy of community. Chad and Zac have five wishes that will guide ministries to build stronger connections with youth while incorporating fun, service, and social media. Use social media to build bridges, not posts. Serve. Serve Together. Hand Keys To Students Have Fun On Purpose Make It Relational Support the show Join the community!…

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Tradition, Transformation, and Timeless Youth Ministry Wisdom 59:13

17 weeks ago59:13

59:13

Send us a text Picture this: a repaired wise man figurine named King Christmas, hidden for joyous family fun and stories of Christmas Eve steak dinners at Longhorn. These are just a few of the festive gems shared by our guests Chris Trent, Matt Flanagan, and Todd Sanders on the Youth Industry Booster podcast. As we unwrap their cherished holiday traditions, we also explore how these customs evolve, especially with life's changes like welcoming new family members. This episode is rich with heartwarming tales that celebrate the adaptability and joy of family traditions during the holiday season. Turning the spotlight from holiday cheer to divine callings, we dive into the inspiring journeys that led Zach, Matt, Todd, and Chris into ministry. Imagine being placed in a ministry role at just 19, or discovering your life's work through a chance introduction to church. These stories reveal the unexpected paths and profound joy that come with aligning one's personal and spiritual identities. It's a testament to the transformative power of faith and the importance of understanding one's calling in ministry work. Balancing ministry and personal life is no small feat, and our conversation offers insights for sustaining both personal and professional growth. From the critical role of mentorship to the art of juggling family and ministry responsibilities, we emphasize the need for lifelong learning and maintaining strong relationships. We also examine the challenges of different life stages and the importance of embracing change to stay relevant. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone navigating the rewarding yet demanding world of youth ministry. Support the show Join the community!…

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Setting Up Your Future Youth Ministry Self w/ Kevin Libick 1:01:07

18 weeks ago1:01:07

1:01:07

Send us a text Remember a time when cell phones were a novelty and social media was just a distant dream? *Special Guest Alert Kevin Libick* This episode is a nostalgic rewind featuring a seasoned ministry leader who’s been on the front lines since the late '90s. From the days of mailing out calendars and jazzing up bulletin boards with clip art (yes, clip art!) to the arrival of video editing software, we swap stories and laughs about how tech has completely reshaped the way we do ministry. We’re talking about the shift from old-school communication to today’s digital-first approach, unpacking how technology has revolutionized the way we connect with students. But it’s not just about the tools—it's about the transformation in our strategy, from organizational branding to cultivating personal connections that really stick. Balancing Tech and Heart: The New Youth Ministry Playbook Our guest shares insights on how youth groups have moved toward individual branding and identity while staying anchored in the power of relationships. Multi-site church leaders, this one’s for you—we break down the challenges of navigating ever-evolving platforms while keeping the focus on small group investment and relational discipleship. It’s about prioritizing people over programs and flexibility over rigidity to ensure we’re ministering to students, not just at them. Staying in the Game: Passion, Conflict, and Legacy Let’s get real. Ministry isn’t all lock-ins and late-night taco runs. We tackle the hard stuff—like staying passionate when ministry starts to feel routine and learning to face conflict head-on. Our guest opens up about personal battles with adversity, including the life-altering experience of battling cancer, and shares how grace and humility can transform leadership. We explore practical strategies for avoiding burnout, embracing collaboration, and empowering others to take ownership in ministry. You’ll hear how building a culture of service and trust ensures that your ministry doesn’t just survive—it thrives long after you’ve handed over the keys. This episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement to help you lead well and leave a lasting impact. Support the show Join the community!…

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The Power of Presence in Youth Ministry: Streets to Sanctuary w/ Jose Rodriguez 48:17

19 weeks ago48:17

48:17

Send us a text What if the most challenging parts of your past could fuel a transformative future? What if your toughest challenges could become your greatest ministry? In this episode, we reconnect with our friend Jose Rodriguez from Tulsa, now leading Rescue a Generation in Southern California. He shares his incredible story of transformation—from growing up in a tough neighborhood, navigating gang life and racial struggles, to becoming a movement leader for youth in California. His journey reminds us of the importance of faithful outreach, like a simple church bus ministry 🚍, to change lives and spark leadership. ✨ Reflect with us this episode on the "ministry of presence"—a the real game-changer in youth ministry. Showing up during critical moments builds trust and transforms hearts 💛. We also dive into practical strategies for churches to make a real impact through local involvement, featuring success stories like Rescue a Generation 🏫🤝. Learn how to partner with schools, connect with your community, and craft messages that truly resonate 🎤. 🔔 Subscribe and share if you’re passionate about youth ministry! Let’s grow together. #YouthMinistry #Leadership #Outreach #FaithInAction #RescueAGeneration Support the show Join the community!…

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Youth Ministry Is NextGen: Building Bridges w/ TJ Scrapper 46:11

21 weeks ago46:11

46:11

Send us a text 20 years in and still learning new things! 🎧 Special Guest Alert: TJ Scrapper from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, who has dedicated two decades to guiding young people through their spiritual journeys. 🎙️ Youth Ministry In A New Era (Reimagined) In this episode, we dive into the evolving role of youth pastors and the growing recognition of their transformative contributions. Discover how the digital age and shifting political landscapes have reshaped the heart of ministry. 🌟 Let this new era foster collaboration and elevate genuine calling over mere charisma. 🚀 Leadership Insights & Personal Growth: This week we share real-life stories of navigating ADHD in professional roles, unpacking how self-awareness, delegation, and community support can supercharge effective ministry. Discover practical tips to balance evangelism and discipleship, all while staying grounded and teachable in a fast-paced world. ✨ Bonus: We sprinkle in humor as we chat about the “wisdom” that supposedly comes with growing a beard. Earn the Grey!🧔‍♂️ Join us for a conversation full of encouragement, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on youth ministry leadership. Support the show Join the community!…

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Youth Ministry: Superheroes, Sports Teams, Spiritual Gyms, Sprouting Discipleship & Real Talk 48:11

22 weeks ago48:11

48:11

Send us a text 🎉 Let's kick it! Join us and our good buddy Cameron! as we dive into a fun fall episode. Do you ever wondered what happens when a Christmas game goes hilariously off the rails? Or how much leadership is a team sport? This episode is packed with laughs and real talk on the wild ride that is youth ministry! Special guest alert: Cameron Crow Rethinking Youth Ministry Metaphors: Start thinking of your youth ministry like a “spiritual gym,” where students strengthen their prayer game and build lifelong habits of faith. This week we are breaking down why spiritual disciplines are critical, and — surprise! — how some tactics actually boost our approach to forming scriptural habits. It’s all about equipping students for the present, not just the future, so they know they’re essential right now. 💪From evangelism hacks to the power of team-based ministry, Cameron brings fresh ideas on how to rally students around their unique gifts and purpose. Isolation and burnout? Yeah, we tackle those too, showing the importance of meaningful connections to keep the journey sustainable. 🎒Oh, and don’t miss our shout-out to the " Sprouting Discipleship Workbook " — a new go-to resource for disciple making in youth ministry. #YouthMinistry Support the show Join the community!…

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How To Teach the Bible (Teacher's Version) w/ Karen Workun 47:27

23 weeks ago47:27

47:27

Send us a text But how do you teach the Bible? So that students will learn? Special Guest Alert: Karen Workun! In this engaging episode Zac Workun and his guest Karen Workun dive deep into effective strategies for teaching scriptural texts. Karen shares her unexpected passion for genealogy, likening it to storytelling through concise biographies, and how this interest parallels the narrative engagement required in studying and teaching the Bible. Zac talks about the art of creating a "learning tree," drawing connections through recurring names and themes in scripture to enhance comprehension. Managing The Ministry Calendar With the holiday season in full swing, we share the reality of juggling ministry life with family commitments. Organizing the chaos requires teamwork, and we've developed some strategies to keep everything running smoothly. From shared digital calendars to Sunday night family meetings, these tools help us avoid last-minute surprises and ensure everyone is on the same page. Our wall calendar serves as a visual anchor for prayer lists and personal goals, providing a clearer picture of the week's priorities amidst the festive frenzy. Teaching the Bible *Teacher's Version* Building strong relationships is at the heart of effective ministry, especially with teenagers. We explore the art of making complex texts relatable and engaging, whether we're teaching literature or scripture. By fostering curiosity and encouraging collaborative exploration, we aim to create a space where young minds can connect personally and intellectually with scripture. We believe in asking key questions like "What did you notice?" and "What did you wonder?" to spark engagement and build a community of learners, where both students and leaders grow together in their understanding and appreciation of biblical texts. About our guest Karen Workun Karen's insights draw from her extensive 15+ years classroom teaching experience. She is a proponent of emphasizing the need for teachers to slow down and not rush through scripture, recognizing the fast-paced world students navigate today. She encourages leveraging various communication tools beyond classroom settings to maintain engagement. Support the show Join the community!…

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When to make the split... High School & Middle School Ministry 30:57

43 weeks ago30:57

30:57

Send us a text Aww if middle school you could see you now... they would be proud! Switching gears, we tackle a pressing question in youth ministry: (When) Should we split middle school and high school programs? Chad and Zac explore the pros and cons, offering creative solutions for engagement without doubling efforts. From leadership roles for older students to special events for the younger crowd, we dig into strategies that accommodate growth while keeping the community's best interests in mind. This episode is invaluable for anyone grappling with when to make the change in their own ministry. But here is the real issue! Organizing and managing youth ministry split between high school and middle school without pulling your hair out. Let's talk about the importance of a solid leadership structure and understanding your strengths and weaknesses. We also discuss the broader implications for parents and the community, emphasizing the need for thoughtful scheduling and resource allocation. As we embark on new initiatives, we remind ourselves to savor the excitement and celebrate the achievements. Don't forget to connect with Youth Ministry Booster on social media to share your thoughts and gain further support for your church! Support the show Join the community!…

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Youth Ministry Leadership And Handling Criticism 32:40

45 weeks ago32:40

32:40

Send us a text People can be mean! Or if we are being honest... how do you handle the unfiltered honesty of middle school girls in youth ministry? In this fresh episode of the Youth Ministry Booster Podcast, Zac and Chad bring their humor and truthfulness to tackle it! Chad + tortilla = hilarious. What is something you have been told something that was hateful... by a student? We’ve got stories like that and more as we confront the tough reality of receiving criticism in youth ministry. Check out this episode for practical strategies process feedback without losing your cool. Friendship, filters, and fresh air all help! This episode underscores the importance of emotional health, both through your closest ministry relationships and friendships outside of work, ensuring that you're grounded and ready to face each challenge with grace and a smile. So get ready for a laugh and some heartfelt stories that reflect the resilience needed to handle the candid feedback from our young students while still forging meaningful connections. Support the show Join the community!…

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Preparing for Camp in Youth Ministry w/ His Glory Her Good 24:55

46 weeks ago24:55

24:55

Send us a text Smmer camps can transform your youth ministry experience! Join us for a special crossover episode where Zach and Chad from Youth Ministry Booster team up with Amanda and Corinne from His Glory Her Good. We share our personal camp memories, from childhood to recent leadership and we highlight the profound impact camps have had on our lives. Planning a camp and unsure where to start? We've got you covered. In the second half of our discussion, we explore the practicalities of organizing a successful camp. From meticulous planning and community transitions to maintaining personal boundaries, especially for female leaders, we cover it all. Learn more how to prepare your camp leaders for their intensive roles, handle urgent situations with a calm presence, and ensure a productive environment. Check in for creative ideas and expert advice that guarantees a memorable and impactful camp experience for everyone involved. Support the show Join the community!…

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The Youth Ministry Art of Engaging Middle School Boys 33:35

1 year ago33:35

33:35

Send us a text Question...which zoo animal would be the ultimate pocket-sized companion? There is a right answer, but we want to hear yours... Join Zac and Chad as they swap stories that will crack you up and maybe even crack the code on connecting with middle schoolers (read:boys). In this episode, we don't shy away from the pressing questions- like whether gaming streams are the new radio or if there's a method to the madness of K-pop fandom. It's an honest ride through how relational connections are really made. Today's conversations get deep as we explore what drives us to grow and who we trust with our future. So, whether you're in ministry, passionate about youth engagement, or just looking for a blend of banter and wisdom, pull up a chair for an episode that promises to enlighten as much as it entertains. Support the show Join the community!…

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Navigating Youth Ministry Highs & Lows: From Static to Soul-Care 28:27

1 year ago28:27

28:27

Send us a text We're not just talking shop; we're opening up about the art of pacing and the vital act of delegating to avoid burnout. Remember school field trips? This episode Zac and Chad are taking that nostalgic trip down memory lane... it's a memory and a feeling. Ministry comes in waves and this time between spring and summer is one of those valleys. This heartfelt episode is a reminder for all our ministry friends out there: while we're passionate about serving others, we must also cherish and prioritize our own health and happiness. Healthy ministry, starting with soul-care, is about striking that elusive balance between ramping up activities and maintaining our personal and family well-being. Support the show Join the community!…

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Help Your Youth Ministry Small Group Leaders Win (and stick around!) 29:44

1 year ago29:44

29:44

Send us a text Facebook marketplace is safe right? Zach and Chad, your ministry mentors and amateur online bargain hunters, are here to draw the parallels. This episode is an open lesson for what we have learned navigating the challenges that small group leaders face, especially when confronted with the whirlwind or overload that is a roomful of teenagers. For the next 30 minutes we're dishing out our practical strategies to help your newbie leaders turn anxiety into confidence, transforming those small group gatherings into from sessions to community. Support the show Join the community!…

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Discipline, Distractions, & Disruptions During Youth Ministry Teaching 35:54

1 year ago35:54

35:54

Send us a text JEREMY SIT DOWN! Whew sorry about that... Kids Amma I right? If you have ever had issues with students not listening, being distracting, or even disruptive during teaching time... then do we have a toolkit for you! Dealing w/ Distractions, Disruptions, & Discipline Issues : If you've ever felt like a ringmaster in a circus of pre-teen hijinks we hope this chat is helpful. We're unpacking the chaos of disruptions with real stories (we have been there!). Can we just send these kids to time-out? Hey YM friends let's talk about how to foster a culture of respect by clearly setting expectations and involving students in the process and explaining the 'why' behind the rules. It's about making an impact that goes beyond Sunday and into their daily lives, ensuring that every interaction plants a seed for positive behavior and engagement. Lastly, let's break it down so you can take it home. From ninja-like non-verbal cues between leaders to a 'three-step process' that's more like four steps, we're laying down our take on behavioral management. We're sharing our blueprint for establishing clear boundaries, all while nurturing growth and fostering a safe space for teens to thrive. So, gear up for some real talk on crafting an environment where respect is the norm, and chaos is shown the door. And hey, don't forget to drop us your thoughts! booster@youthministrybooster.com Support the show Join the community!…

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Crafting Winning Games for Youth Ministry: Thanks ChatGPT 28:07

1 year ago28:07

28:07

Send us a text Ever had one of those moments where you're left holding your head in your hands, wondering where your brilliant idea went wrong? Our podcast usually gets down to the nitty-gritty of what it takes to plan not just fun, but also memorable activities for youth ministry. This week we are laying out our failures, asking for help and coaching up what makes games great. So enjoy our queasy missteps and food-related fiascos, all while highlighting the true aim of youth events—safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences for every student involved. ChatGPT Games Balloon Pop Fruit Lumberjack Human Bowling We've packed this episode with innovative game ideas that steer clear of athletic prowess and instead, celebrate teamwork and pure, silly fun. So get ready to stock your youth ministry playbook with some fresh, creative game ideas that are guaranteed hits. Support the show Join the community!…

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Rethinking Youth Ministry Goals, Failures, & Successes 35:06

1 year ago35:06

35:06

Send us a text Ever bitten off more than you can chew? Hey friends, Zach Workun and Chad Higgins back for another episode and another year of youth ministry podcasting. This episode is a smorgasbord of tips and tales, starting with my own kitchen catastrophe that turned into a smoky sous vide saga. You'll hear how Chad's culinary mishap serves up a lesson in embracing the unexpected and learning from our missteps—not just in cooking but in our ministry efforts too. Rolling up our sleeves, Chad and I tackle the hefty topic of expectations in youth ministry. We peel back the layers on why we plan events and who they're truly for. It's all about syncing our passions with the real needs of our audience. This episode isn't just about shrugging off failures; it's a roadmap for refining our perspective to enhance our work. And finally, we're not just talking shop on what could be; we're want to push you on how student ministry adapts to the times. Join us as we question the norms, from worship times to the structure of our gatherings. We hope you'll be just as bold in reimagining how to connect and grow with your youth groups. Support the show Join the community!…

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Holiday Gift Giving Guide and Navigating Parent-Youth Ministry Relationships 27:36

1 year ago27:36

27:36

Send us a text Ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions this holiday season? Ever tried to surprise your high-end friends with a gift only to find it relegated to the 'middling' category? Grab a cup of cocoa and join us as we traverse the holiday gift-giving terrain, highlighting the importance of backstory and adventure in choosing presents. We'll even tell you why your friend who has no inkling about a multi-tool could end up loving it as a gift! 0:03: Christmas Gift Wishlist and Midrange Gifts 8:30: Navigating Difficult Parent-Youth Ministry Relationships 24:34: Relationships & Faith in Ministry Venturing into deeper waters, we grapple with the delicate issue of helicopter parenting in youth ministry. Through our exploration, we underline the need to examine each scenario in its unique context and how it transcends individual parents, pushing us to consider the home and generational backdrop. But amidst these challenges, there's the golden opportunity of nurturing relationships in youth ministry. We uncover the essence of deep discipleship and faith formation in impacting the next generation while unearthing the surprising ministry opportunities with parents. So buckle in for an enlightening journey of faith, relationships, and yes, some chuckles along the way! Support the show Join the community!…

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Parasocial Relationships and Youth Ministry 36:18

1 year ago36:18

36:18

Send us a text Could you eat faster than Zac? No One's Going To Take It! Join Zac and Chad, where we kick things off with a hilarious debate centered around Zac's rapid-fire eating habits and his lofty claim of inhaling 50 hot dogs in four minutes. We even ponder on what would be the most embarrassing food record to hold. It's a light and hearty start to an episode that gets you laughing and wondering about your own eating speed. ParaSocial Relationships Then, things take a more profound turn. We journey back to the 1950s as we explore the realm of parasocial relationships and their tremendous influence on present-day youth culture. From their roots in celebrity culture to their evolution and widespread acceptance, it's eye-opening to examine how even individuals with a minute online presence can significantly impact young people's relationships. As we steer this conversation, we also analyze these relationships' potential hazards and how they can impact their connection with higher powers, like God. Improving Our Present Condition But we're not all about identifying problems; we aim to bring solutions to the table. Therefore, in the concluding part of our discussion, we delve deep into the importance of relationships in youth ministry. We emphasize the need for safe social spaces for students and meaningful connections among youth ministers. We believe that humor and fun serve as glue in cultivating these connections, and we take you along as we look into how this can elevate the ministry. Support the show Join the community!…

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How Youth Ministry Grows Relationally 27:41

1 year ago27:41

27:41

Send us a text Youth Ministry Is Relational, but what does that mean? Have you ever wondered how to maximize relational opportunities in youth ministry? That's exactly what Zac and Chad are unpacking in this episode. Chil or No-Bean Chili? We kick off the show with some winter joys and a feel-good chat about all things chili. There's even a bit of a friendly debate on Wolf Brand chili and I share the recipe for my favorite homemade version. Chad's friend eating it cold is a monster by the way! Youth Ministry's Greatest Leverage = Relationships As we shift gears, we dive deep into the world of youth ministry and the unique relational opportunities it offers. But How? We share our insights on how to best utilize these opportunities, emphasizing the importance of setting aside time before services to build connections with students and leaders. We explore the various activities that can foster stronger relationships, such as pre-gathering activities and casual chat spaces. Consider the potential of high school and older student leaders leading these activities and how an inviting atmosphere can be created at the door with clear expectations set for adults. It's almost a new year friends, so buckle up and get ready to hear some real-life strategies that have transformed our youth ministry experience. It's an important time for thinking relationally about your youth ministry. Support the show Join the community!…

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Ocean of Curiosity: How to get youth ministry students to read the Bible. 30:02

2 years ago30:02

30:02

Send us a text How do I get students to actually read their Bibles? Join Zac and Chad as we recount some wilds stories of swimming in open waters. Seriously though, Chad why would you push your wife towards the sharks? Getting students to engage with Scripture starts where they are and nurturing their curiosity so they don't fall into patterns of only reading it during crisis or reciting it as cliche. Remember, your goal is to create an environment where teenagers can explore the Bible's teachings in a way that resonates with them. It's about fostering a genuine interest and understanding rather than forcing them to open to it. Join us as we dive into these practical strategies to help your teenagers build a meaningful connection with the Christian Bible. The role of a great youth minister is as a guide. You are taking people out on the boat to show them how deep and beautiful the ocean really can be. You are creating a safe space for exploration and that support will help your students journey through the scriptures. Support the show Join the community!…

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The Best Free Thing In Youth Ministry (that you might not even be using). 26:49

2 years ago26:49

26:49

Send us a text What are we going to do next? What do we have planned? It's something we say often as youth ministry leaders, but is that really all there is? Is ministry just a matter of planning? Do we really need a better calendar? Is all about what we can plan? We are talking spiritual health inside of Youth Ministry Booster and we have been asking what we need. What we really need is... Discernment. The collective effort to not ask, "what do we have planned?" but to seek what God might have for our ministry through story-telling, celebration, and noticings. God's Plan. It is something we have to be reminded about, like our almost 8 year history of podcasting. Back in 2015, our 'After 9' era, we were self-funded *resourceless* and attending our first conference in Texas with a pop-up banner, borrowed office chairs, and a bowl of gummy bears. There is an invaluable lesson you can only learn when you feel like you have nothing,. It's the lesson about asking the right questions and discernment in youth ministry leadership. So we hope this humorous and helpful reminder gives you hope. Support the show Join the community!…

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Organize For Impact 3: Chaos To Orderly Youth Ministry 43:54

2 years ago43:54