PCA NextGen

Matt Hedinger and Lara Jensen reflect on years of student ministry — from internships and inner-city work to burnout, rebuilding, and finding joy again. This honest conversation explores calling, identity, empowering students, and why faithfulness in the ordinary matters more than quick wins.If you’re tired, discouraged, or wondering what longevity in ministry really looks like, this episode is for you.

In the latest episode of the PCA Next Gen Podcast, Mikey Puckett and Gianna Rakes dive deep into the unique challenges and joys of being involved in youth ministry while also juggling the responsibilities of parenthood. Gianna, youth director at New City Fellowship in Chattanooga ,TN, shares her personal journey, offering insights that resonate with many in similar positions.

Meetings, conferences, and the real work of student ministry: forming disciple-makers. Matt, Lara, and Mikey swap stories about “meetings that should’ve been an email,” how conferences refuel without becoming a comparison trap, and practical ways to equip students to serve (ushering, welcoming, tech, leading younger groups). Intergenerational ministry, the loneliness leaders feel, and the Good Shepherd who meets us there.

Matt, Mikey, and Lara are back—laughing through budget season, and talking about how to help students live for Jesus in a world full of noise.

Using Faith for Exiles as a framework, the team unpacks what cultural discernment really looks like for the next generation. From TV shows and pop songs to the deeper questions of what shapes our hearts, this one’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.

Mikey and Lara sit down with Tim Malone (Cornerstone Presbyterian, PA) to talk encouragement—how to give it, how to receive it, and why our identity in Christ matters more than weekly “results.” You’ll hear stories of student-led small groups, church prayer nights, and the surprising power of a handwritten “Barnabas note.” Practical ideas for encouraging your students, volunteers, and yourself, plus Scripture reminders (hello, Barnabas & Paul) to anchor your week.

Join us live on Thursdays at 12:30 PM ET.Website: pcanextgen.org • Hub: nextgenpodcast.live • Instagran: @PCANextGen

In this episode of the PCA NextGen podcast, Mikey Puckett discusses the challenges and limits faced by leaders in youth ministry. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limits, maintaining balance between ministry and family life, and the necessity of ongoing discipleship and community support. Mikey shares insights from Paul David Tripp's book 'Lead', highlighting how leaders can often overextend themselves and the need for self-care and reliance on God's grace. He encourages listeners to embrace their weaknesses and seek support from their community while reminding them of their identity as beloved children of God.

Laughter, conference stories, and a needed reset: Matt, Lara, and Mikey talk instrument chaos, real friendship in ministry, and why your “Fellowship of the Ring” matters. Then they land in Acts 2:42–47—why shared life, prayer, meals, and honest friendship are ministry’s real fuel.

Feeling worn out in ministry? You’re not alone. In this live panel from the PCA NextGen Conference, youth leaders share real talk about staying encouraged, balancing family and ministry, and finding joy in the long game of student discipleship — with plenty of laughter along the way.

How do you build student-led worship that’s spiritually deep and musically coherent? Twins David & Jonathan Harris (Annapolis EP) join Matt, Lara, and Mikey to unpack mentorship, the point-person admin role, practice culture, dynamics, and picking theologically sound songs.

Matt Hedinger, Mikey Puckett, and Blake Creel explore the dynamics of youth ministry, sharing personal stories and insights. They discuss the importance of building community, navigating transitions in youth group models, and the significance of communication. Blake shares his transformative journey from Mormonism to Christianity, emphasizing the power of God's grace and the importance of lamenting current events together. The conversation highlights the need for safe spaces for discussions, the role of relationships in ministry, and the challenges of engaging with students' faith.