We’re doing a three-part series on one of the most important topics in youth ministry. If you want to do ministry that lasts, this is where you need to be heading with your ministry. Listen in for Part 1 of our Partner with Parents series.

Part 1 of this conversation delves into the critical importance of partnering with parents in youth ministry and the impact this has on the effectiveness of your ministry. This is the start of the conversation, keep listening on for practical ideas and implications in Parts 2 and 3.

Chapters

02:58 The Importance of Partnering with Parents
05:50 Sharing Personal Experiences and Epic Fails
08:34 Understanding the Role of Parents in Youth Ministry
11:47 The Impact of Parental Influence on Faith Development
14:42 Reframing Youth Ministry: A Partnership Approach
17:38 Empowering Parents as Primary Catechists
20:51 Creating Effective Communication with Parents
23:41 Building Trust and Understanding with Families
29:35 Conclusion and Next Steps

Links:

Dr. Christian Smith Article

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In this episode, Paul, Julia, Jake and Rachel discuss the upcoming Jubilee of Hope declared by Pope Francis for 2025, emphasizing its significance for the Catholic Church and the call for youth engagement. They explore the historical context of Jubilee, the importance of local community involvement, and practical ideas for youth ministry to connect with the larger church during this Jubilee year.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Jubilee of Hope
06:32 Understanding the Concept of Jubilee
12:12 Local Pilgrimages and Community Engagement
18:09 Connecting Youth to the Larger Church

Links:

Spes Non Confudit (Papal Bull)

USCCB Jubilee Website

Arch Indy Pilgrimage Sites

Arch Indy Jubilee Page 

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In this episode, Paul, Julia, and Jake talk about building strong, honest communication between youth ministers and pastors. They share why these relationships matter, how to navigate tough conversations with courage and humility, and offer simple tips for staying connected and growing together in ministry. Whether you're just starting out or have been in ministry for years, this conversation offers encouragement and real tools for strengthening your connection with your pastor. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context
01:37 The Importance of Communication with Pastors
07:08 Building Relationships with Your Pastor
09:25 Understanding Your Pastor's Perspective
12:46 The Role of Courage and Humility
14:36 Solidarity with Your Pastor
19:43 Navigating Challenges and Conflicts
24:58 The Art of Saying No
26:28 Regular Conversations and Feedback
29:59 Assessing the Relationship
34:12 Evaluating Performance and Expectations
39:16 Practical Tips for Effective Communication
49:08 Conclusion and Encouragement

Links

https://www.workinggenius.com/

https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx

https://www.myersbriggs.org/

https://archindyym.com/department-of-parish-leadership

Conversation Guide for Speaking with Your Pastor

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In this episode of Pizza and Side Hugs, the hosts dive into a big topic in youth ministry—transitions. They open up with some personal stories and reflections, then get into why smooth transitions really matter—especially when it comes to things like onboarding new students or helping families stay connected. Whether it’s moving from children's ministry to youth ministry or heading off to college, they talk about how collaboration between ministry leaders can make all the difference.

00:00 Introduction to Transitions in Ministry
09:33 Understanding the Importance of Transitions
19:42 Strategies for Effective Transitions
29:48 Engaging Families During Transitions
38:26 Moving Beyond Transitions: College and Young Adult Ministry

Links: 

Newman Connection

Orange Phase cards

Preparing Seniors for College - P&SH

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This Pizza & Side Hugs conversation delves into the intricacies of assigning small groups in youth ministry, exploring the challenges faced, strategies for effective group assignments, and the importance of gender dynamics. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to create a supportive environment for youth, emphasizing the need for flexibility, intentionality, and prayer in the process.

00:00 Introduction to Small Groups in Youth Ministry
02:55 Challenges in Assigning Small Groups
05:54 Strategies for Effective Group Assignments
08:55 Gender Dynamics in Small Groups
11:51 Evaluating Group Sizes and Dynamics
15:01 Flexibility and Adaptation in Group Assignments
17:49 The Importance of Prayer and Intentionality

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In last week's episode, the Pizza and Side Hugs crew talked about the importance of having a mentor as a youth minister...but for new youth ministers to have mentors, that may mean it is time for you to step up and be a mentor. In this week's episode, the team jumps into why you should be a mentor and what that means. Listen in for some great thoughts on mentorship in youth ministry. 

Intro (0:50)

You Could be a Mentor (1:17)

When Should you be a Mentor? (4:20)

What do you Offer as a Mentor? (12:14)

Conclusion (20:51) 

Self Care Episode 

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Christ did not send out his apostles one by one, but two by two. In this episode, the Pizza and Side Hugs team talks about what that means when you are working in ministry- it is so important to be doing it with someone else. Having a mentor can mean having a person to help you troubleshoot, brainstorm, and celebrate. Listen in to hear thoughts on why having a mentor is important and just how to go about starting that relationship. 

Intro Slice (1:04)

Leaders Need Mentors, Too (2:29)

If you’re the YM leader, how do you find someone who will mentor you? (6:53)

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Struggling to figure out the curriculum situation for your youth ministry? It can be an overwhelming topic! With so many different topics and options available, curriculum may be a frustrating part of your ministry. In this week's episode, the Pizza and Side Hugs team sits down to talk about the merits of different curriculums, including writing  your own! 

Intro  

Examples of Youth Ministry Curriculum 

Curriculum Planning

Links: 

Doctrinal Elements of a Curriculum Framework for the Development of Catechetical Materials for High School Students- USCCB

Handbook on the Catechetical Accompaniment Process- IOC

The Reboot: The Vision- P&SH 

USCCB Framework and Timeline- Lifeteen

Conformity Review Listing of Catechetical Texts and Series- USCCB

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The average youth minister only lasts about 18 months...we want to help make sure that you don't fall into that statistic! In this episode, the Pizza and Side Hugs team talks about two main areas where you can take care of yourself: programmatically and personally. Listen in to this episode to learn some ways to care for you!

Intro (2:18)

Programmatic Self-Care (8:50)

Personal Self-Care (26:15)

Discerning Self-Care vs. Leadership (37:23)

Conclusion(41:23)

Links:

Evaluating a Youth Ministry Year

Second Semester Scaries

Campference Registration

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Do you ever struggle to ask good processing questions with teens? In this episode Paul, Rachel, and special guest Charlie Hardesty from the Diocese of Owensboro, break down what it looks like to engage with teens and ask better questions. 

Intro (0:52) 

Charlie Hardesty: Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in Owensboro (1:18)

What Are Better Questions? (2:08)

Creating a Space of Joy (7:44)

Best Practice to Help with Conversations (17:30)

Conclusion (22:40)

LINKS: 

Spinal Tap: Amp to 11 scene

Grow Games

Throw and Tell Ball: All About Me

Connect Deck: YDisciple

Connect Cards: Amazon

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