PCA NextGen

In this episode of the PCA NextGen Podcast, Matt Hedinger and Lara Jensen sit down with Emmie Thompson, Assistant Professor of Theological Studies at Covenant College and longtime youth ministry practitioner, for a conversation about youth ministry, Christian community, and the reminder that all ministry is grace. They discuss the pressures students face, the importance of pointing young people to Jesus, and how youth leaders are also being formed through ministry.

In this short reflective episode, Mikey Puckett explores the different postures we can take towards the Lord, based on Skye Jethani's book 'With: Reimagining the Way You Relate to God'. He shares how these postures affect our relationship with God and our effectiveness in ministry, emphasizing the importance of dwelling with Jesus and doing ministry from a place of intimacy.

What does it take to stay in youth ministry for decades?

In this episode, Matt and Lara talk with Pat Rolleston of New City Fellowship in Chattanooga about ministry longevity, discipleship, cross-cultural outreach, and building systems that help students truly belong in the life of the church.

Pat shares his remarkable testimony, lessons from nearly 40 years in ministry, insights from Young Life and the PCA Next Gen Certification, and practical encouragement for leaders who want to serve the next generation faithfully for the long haul.

This episode is honest, thoughtful, funny, and deeply encouraging for anyone serving students, families, and the local church.

In a world where youth ministry often feels isolating and frantic, Isaac Terwilleger reveals the secrets to building lasting, Christ-centered relationships that transform lives—both for teens and leaders alike. What if the key to impactful youth ministry isn’t just what we do, but how deeply we connect—and stay connected—over the long haul?

Isaac, a seasoned youth director and facilitator for the PCA NextGen, shares a behind-the-scenes look at the unique life cycle of a youth worker—from the energetic "cool uncle" phase to the wise "grandparent" who leaves a legacy. You’ll hear how this ongoing evolution shapes genuine mentorship, how long-term ministry fosters resilience, and why every youth worker’s love for Christ must be at the core of all they do.

Join Mikey and Matt as they discuss the power of authentic relationships in youth ministry with guest, Paul Kangas, a PCA Ruling Elder with a diverse career and deep faith, shares how his journey—from art to law enforcement to church leadership—has shaped his understanding of shepherding the next generation.

Most church leaders and youth workers overlook the profound power of lament — but what if embracing sadness could transform your ministry and deepen kids’ faith?
In this episode, Liz Edrington, the associate director of care at McLean Presbyterian Church and author of Anxiety: Finding the Better Story a Devotional for Teens, shares practical strategies for creating space for grief, lament, and joy within youth ministry. From understanding how Jesus himself weeps with us to using Psalms as a tool for emotional honesty, Liz reveals how embracing our human brokenness not only models Christ’s compassion but also invites God's healing in real, tangible ways.

Veteran youth pastor Danny Kwon joins Matt Hedinger and Mikey Puckett to reflect on 29 years in youth ministry, what it takes to stay faithful long-term, and his new book.

The conversation explores mental health in teenagers, the role of the church in crisis care, and how gospel hope and practical wisdom come together in real ministry settings. Danny and his wife, Monica (a trained counselor and psychologist) co-authored, Teenagers and Mental Health: A Resource for Parents, Pastors, and Youth Leaders. He shares insight from this new book on navigating challenges with students and partnering with families and counselors.

This week's episode is a grounded, honest, and encouraging look at youth ministry, mental health, and endurance in ministry.

What keeps young people rooted in the church?

Matt and Mikey are joined by Heather Dirkse from Teach Us to Worship for a powerful conversation on worship, belonging, and why relationships matter more than entertainment when discipling the next generation.

They discuss how churches can help children and students know they are a vital part of the body of Christ, how worship forms hearts over time, and why intergenerational relationships are essential for lasting faith.

A thoughtful and practical conversation for pastors, youth leaders, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of the church.

What helps youth workers stay in ministry long-term?

In this episode, Brad Robson joins the PCA NextGen Podcast to share his story, his heart for student ministry, and what has sustained him through 15+ years of ministry leadership. The guys discuss healthy church culture, relationships with senior leadership, adapting ministry over time, and why sometimes you shouldn’t be afraid to end programs that no longer serve the mission.

Also included: lock-in stories, parenting moments, and plenty of laughs.

In this episode of the PCA Next Gen Podcast, we welcome Robert Row from See Jesus Ministries for a conversation about helping students move beyond head knowledge into a real love for Jesus.

Robert shares how God transformed his own ministry philosophy and why discipleship must be centered not only on truth, but on the person of Christ. We discuss interactive teaching, student leadership, faith that lasts beyond graduation, and practical ways churches can reach the next generation.

A powerful conversation for youth leaders, parents, and anyone passionate about students.