Have you ever paused to consider what’s really going on beneath the surface in the lives of the kids and students you serve? So often, we see behaviors that confuse or frustrate us, but behind many of those actions is a story—sometimes one marked by pain, trauma, or stress they don’t yet have the words to explain.

In this episode, Chuck Peters and Stephanie Shivers invite you to slow down and reflect on the reality that many children and youth are carrying more than we realize. The impact of trauma and toxic stress—especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic—has left a deep mark on this generation. This conversation explores the reality of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how they affect brain development, emotional regulation, and relational connection. We discuss why ministry leaders need to approach kids with empathy and understanding, providing safe spaces where they can heal, grow, and experience the love of Christ.

As ministry leaders, we have a unique opportunity to meet them in their brokenness, offer them safe spaces, and point them toward the hope and healing found in Christ. Whether you’re a kids ministry leader, student pastor, or volunteer, this episode will equip you with insights and tools to better support the next generation in their spiritual and emotional journey. Thanks for listening!

SHOW LINKS:

ETCH Conference 

Connect with Lifeway Next Gen Ministry  

Have you ever stopped to think about how different generations view the world, the church, and even the gospel? In kids ministry, we often focus on reaching the next generation—but understanding where they've come from and who’s come before them is just as important. Every generation brings its own values, challenges, and perspectives to the table, and as ministry leaders, we have the opportunity—and responsibility—to bridge those gaps.

Chuck Peters and Jana Magruder unpack the unique characteristics of each generation—from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers to Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. Jana explores how generational traits influence ministry approaches, communication styles, and discipleship strategies while Chuck emphasizes the need for ministry leaders to adapt, fostering intergenerational connections and creating spaces where all generations can grow together in faith.

Whether you're new to next gen ministry or a seasoned leader, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration to help you lead more effectively across generations. Thanks for listening!

SHOW LINKS: 

Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder 

Flip the Script

Lifeway Research

Mccrindle Research

iGen by Dr. Jean Twenge

Generations by Dr. Jean Twenge

The Anxious Generation

In this impactful episode, Chuck Peters sits down with Dr. Shelly Melia to discuss one of the most critical issues facing today’s kids and students: worldview formation.

As ministry leaders and parents, we have a short window to help shape how the next generation sees God, truth, and the world around them. Dr. Melia unpacks the importance of establishing a biblical worldview early and offers practical insight into how families and churches can work together to build a solid foundation of faith.

This conversation dives into the role of parents as the primary disciplers in their child’s life and addresses the cultural challenges families face when teaching biblical truth. Dr. Melia also highlights why intentionality matters in helping kids develop a God-centered worldview and offers encouragement for ministry leaders to support families and reinforce a strong biblical foundation.

If you’re passionate about discipling the next generation, this conversation will encourage and equip you to be intentional in shaping young hearts and minds for Christ.

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Lifeway Next Gen

How can we equip students to engage with God’s Word in a way that transforms their lives? In this episode, Chuck Peters, Brett Buckland, and Chris Brown explore the importance of biblical literacy and introduce the Seven Arrows method, a practical framework designed to help students study and apply scripture effectively.

This conversation highlights the necessity of intentional Bible study, teaching students not only to gain knowledge but to respond with action, reflection, and prayer. As ministry leaders, we have the privilege of guiding the next generation to see scripture as more than just words—it’s the foundation for their faith and relationships.

We hope this conversation has encouraged you to be more intentional in teaching students how to study God’s Word. If this episode was helpful to you, would you take a moment to rate and review the podcast? Your feedback helps us reach more next-gen ministry leaders with practical insights and encouragement. And don’t forget to share this episode with your team, fellow leaders, or anyone passionate about discipling the next generation.

Thanks for listening!

SHOW LINKS: 

Reach Teens

Seven Arrows 

Explore the Bible 

The Gospel Project

Bible Studies for Life

Hyfi

ETCH NextGen Ministry Conference

Technology is shaping the way Gen Z and Gen Alpha think, interact, and even define their identity. In this episode, we dive into the profound impact of smartphones, AI, and social media on the next generation’s mental health, social dynamics, and spiritual growth.

Tony Bianco joins us to explore the challenges and opportunities technology presents for today’s youth. From screen addiction to academic integrity, from social media pressures to online gender differences, we discuss how leaders and parents can guide children to embrace their true identity in Christ while navigating the digital world.

As ministry leaders, we can’t ignore the influence of technology. How can we equip the next generation to think critically, set boundaries, and stay grounded in their faith? Let’s talk about it.

SHOW LINKS: 

Connect with Lifeway Next Gen

The Anxious Generation

What if the next generation isn’t rejecting the gospel—they just haven’t heard it clearly?

As ministry leaders, we have the greatest message in the world, but are we communicating it in a way that truly connects with Gen Z and Gen Alpha? Are we equipping them not just to hear the gospel but to share it boldly with their peers?

In this episode, we’re wrapping up our four-part series on the gospel and the next generation with Shane Pruitt, who challenges us to be authentic, prayerful, and interruptible in our evangelism. He reminds us that while culture constantly shifts, the gospel never changes, and we must be intentional about engaging in real, meaningful conversations that break through distractions.

So here’s the challenge: Are you prepared to share the gospel in a way that meets young people where they are? Are you raising expectations in your ministry, inviting responses, and explaining biblical truth without assumptions?

Lean in, take notes, and get ready—because today’s conversation is all about practical, powerful ways to bring the gospel to the next generation.

SHOW LINKS: 

Connect with Lifeway Students
Connect with Lifeway Kids 

As ministry leaders, how can we ensure that the next generation remains deeply rooted in God’s Word? Are we modeling the kind of Bible engagement we hope to see in the kids and students we lead? In this episode, we dive into the heart of Next Gen ministry and the vital role Scripture plays in shaping young hearts and minds.

In this engaging conversation, Chuck Peters and Dr. Kevin Jones discuss the foundational importance of keeping the gospel at the center of Next Gen ministry. Their conversation highlights the necessity of ministry leaders modeling Bible engagement, and physically carrying and using their Bibles in front of kids to demonstrate its importance. They stress how children should be directed to Scripture as the ultimate source of truth and guidance, encouraging them to read and understand it for themselves. They also explore the role of incentives in fostering Bible engagement, making it both meaningful and enjoyable for young learners.

If you found this conversation helpful, take a moment to rate and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us reach more ministry leaders. And don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who is passionate about investing in the next generation. Let’s keep making disciples together!

SHOW LINKS:

The Gospel Project
Connect with Lifeway Students
Connect with Lifeway Kids 

Welcome back to another great episode of ETCH Next Gen Ministry Podcast with Chuck Peters! In this truth-packed episode, we sit down with the National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board, Shane Pruitt, to talk about the Revival Generation!  Gen Z and Generation Alpha are experiencing a spiritual awakening, and it’s time for ministry leaders to step up, lean in, and disciple with boldness!

Shane dives deep into the hope-filled movement happening right now, and how he's interacting with young people who are hungry for truth, searching for meaning, and more curious about the Bible than ever before! He unpacks fresh data showing that religious disaffiliation is declining and shares why this is the moment for the church to invest in the next generation like never before!

If you’re passionate about reaching the next generation, you don’t want to miss this conversation! Let’s fan the flame of this revival together! 

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Connect with Lifeway Students

Connect with Shane Pruitt

The GenSend Podcast 

Flip the Script

Welcome back to another great season of ETCH with Chuck Peters! 

Are you keeping the gospel at the center of your ministry to the next generation? As leaders, it’s easy to get caught up in programs and distractions, but Gen Z and Generation Alpha need authentic gospel conversations now more than ever. 

In today's episode, Chuck Peters and Dr. Kevin Jones explore the vital role of next-generation ministry in reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha with the gospel. They emphasize the importance of keeping the gospel central to all ministry efforts and provide insights on avoiding distractions that can steer ministries off course. You'll also hear practical tools for equipping leaders to feel confident in evangelism and strategies for integrating gospel truths into everyday interactions.

Join the conversation as they discuss the keys to effective leadership, the power of authentic gospel conversations, and the importance of creating opportunities to introduce young people to Jesus. If you're passionate about making a lasting impact on the next generation, this episode will inspire and equip you to lead with clarity and purpose.

Tune in now and discover how to keep the gospel at the heart of your ministry! And don't forget to share this episode with a friend!


SHOW LINKS:
The Gospel Project 
Connect with Lifeway Students
Connect with Lifeway Kids 

What if one week could transform your church and community for eternity? Could a summer tradition become your most powerful tool for outreach and evangelism? YES! We believe that Vacation Bible School (VBS) is more than just an event—it’s a ministry strategy with lasting impact!

In this episode, we dive deep into why VBS is more than just a summer tradition—it’s a game-changing outreach and evangelism opportunity for your church. You'll discover how VBS builds meaningful relationships, engages entire families, and serves as a powerful multi-generational ministry strategy. Ben Mandrell, along with Chuck Peters and Melita Thomas, tackle common challenges churches face in implementing VBS, from budget constraints to volunteer recruitment, and explore solutions that make it achievable for every church. Be inspired by stories of lives transformed through VBS and learn why trustworthy, culturally relevant content is key to its lasting impact.

If you’re looking for a proven way to impact generations, this conversation will leave you convinced that VBS is the best investment you can make this year!

Check out the show links below to take your best next step in reaching the community God has entrusted to you!

SHOW LINKS:
Start Listening to Season 1 of ETCH
Lifeway VBS 
VBS Digital Catalog
VBS Directors Club
VBS Free Sample
VBS Preview Digital Pass