Rethinking Youth Ministry | A podcast for youth ministry leaders, pastors, volunteers, and anyone who cares about students

In this episode, we explore why events remain a vital part of youth ministry and share practical tips for planning, executing, and marketing unforgettable experiences. Learn how to engage students, foster deeper relationships, and create events that leave a lasting impact.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we share personal stories and insights on creating safe spaces for students, leaders, and parents to navigate mental health together. We discuss breaking stigma, supporting one another, and building a holistic approach to youth ministry that empowers teenagers and ministry leaders to live full, thriving lives.

3 takeaways from the episode:

Mental Health Conversations are Essential for Holistic Ministry: Addressing mental health in youth ministry is crucial for guiding students toward a full, meaningful life. Avoiding these conversations can lead to isolation and missed opportunities for healing and growth.

Normalize and Educate to Combat Stigma: Reducing stigma around mental health requires normalizing struggles and educating leaders, parents, and students. Creating open discussions and providing resources can make your ministry a supportive space for mental well-being.

Leadership’s Role in Creating Safe Spaces: Ministry leaders must foster safe, compassionate environments not only for students but also for staff and volunteers to feel supported when facing mental health challenges. Support from leadership can significantly impact one’s journey to wellness and sustained ministry.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Rethinking Youth Ministry podcast, we tackle a tricky question from Kendall in Fort Wayne. How can we help students talk to their parents about tough issues when they’re feeling nervous or insecure? Our team shares practical tips on opening up lines of communication, giving teens the confidence to start those conversations, and working with parents to build trust. Tune in for some great advice on bridging the gap and making those important talks a bit easier for everyone involved.

Here are 3 takeaways from this minisode...

1️⃣ Provide Conversation Tools: Teach teens specific ways to bring up tough topics with their parents.

2️⃣ Role-Play Scenarios: Practice different responses with students to build their confidence.

3️⃣ Supportive Presence: Offer to accompany students when they need to have difficult conversations.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode dives into the latest strategies for engaging Generation Alpha in youth ministry. Join us as we chat with experts, explore innovative outreach ideas, and discover how to make faith relevant and exciting for the youngest generation. Tune in for practical tips and fresh insights!

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode...

1️⃣ Understanding Gen Alpha: Explore the unique traits of Gen Alpha and their impact on faith engagement.

2️⃣ Long-term Vision: Discuss the importance of building lasting relationships with Gen Alpha to nurture their faith journey into adolescence.

3️⃣ Engagement: Discover strategies for incorporating technology and play into youth ministry. 

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we chat about the winter season of XP3. In this episode, we will cover four key topics: humility, emotional health, the true meaning of holidays beyond Christmas, and dealing with an uncertain future. Tune in to get practical tips and perspectives for anyone working with youth in ministry.

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode...

1️⃣ Understanding Humility: Grasping the balance between humility and confidence is crucial for youth development.

2️⃣ Discussing Emotions: Emotional health is essential for spiritual health and reflects being made in God's image.

3️⃣ Reason for the Season: Focusing on the deeper meaning of holidays can enrich your youth ministry.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the RYM podcast, executive pastor Brandon Hare from the Gathering Church in Asheville, North Carolina, shares his journey of launching a student ministry from scratch. This episode will provide practical advice on building a volunteer pipeline, setting realistic expectations, and engaging with the local community. If you are looking to start or revamp your youth ministry, this is a must-listen!

Here are 3 takeaways from this week's miniepisode:

1️⃣ Build a volunteer pipeline: Before launching a student ministry, recruit and train caring adults before launching the ministry.

2️⃣ Set realistic expectations: It's a possibility that initial attendance might be low and not all volunteers will be in place from the start, and that's okay - pace yourself!

3️⃣ Engage locally: Spend time with students in the community and partner with other churches to create a ministry that fills community gaps. 

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we dive into the fun and unpredictable world of student-led ministry! Hear about the highs and lows of letting students share their faith and talents on stage. Get tips on supporting young leaders, enjoy inspiring stories, and learn how to make the most of these opportunities. Perfect for any youth leader looking to see the potential in every student and rethink the spotlight.

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode...

1️⃣ Balancing Risks and Rewards: Learn how to manage the unpredictability of student-led ministry.
2️⃣ Practical Leadership Tips: Get actionable advice on mentoring and supporting young leaders as they share their talent onstage.
3️⃣ Inspiring Success Stories: Hear real-life examples of students thriving in ministry roles.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is all about biblical literacy and the way Gen Z approaches the Bible with today's reading habits. We discuss the importance of getting into the big picture of the Bible and highlight ways community can help students live out their faith actively.

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode…

1️⃣ Fresh Takes on Faith: Explore how Gen Z’s fresh perspective can change Bible reading.

2️⃣ Bible Engagement Tips: Pick up some easy tips to make the Bible feel relevant for this generation.

3️⃣ Community Matters: Learn how community and connection can boost Bible study and faith.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the RYM podcast, Jeremy shares how his approach to youth ministry has shifted from focusing on what he needed as a kid to understanding what today’s youth need. We discuss the importance of adapting to Gen Alpha’s unique needs and how curiosity and empathy can make your ministry more effective. 

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode…
1️⃣ Focus on Today’s Needs: Shift from giving students what you needed to addressing their current needs.
2️⃣  Be Curious, Not Judgmental: Understand students’ diverse identities and listen deeply beyond their words.
3️⃣ Support Deconstruction: Encourage and support both your own and students’ questions and doubts to foster genuine faith.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if we redefine success in youth ministry by shifting focus from traditional metrics like attendance to more meaningful measures such as spiritual growth, volunteer health, and community impact? In this episode of the Rethinking Youth Ministry podcast we disuss just that.

Here are 3 takeaways from this episode…
1️⃣ Expand metrics beyond attendance: Measure youth ministry success through spiritual growth and personal engagement, not just attendance numbers.
2️⃣ Emphasize healthy volunteer teams: Prioritize a fully staffed and healthy volunteer team to support students and distribute leadership.
3️⃣ Measure student impact in the community: Track how students serve their communities to reflect their spiritual growth and ministry impact.

Join the Rethinking Youth Ministry Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/813773488740316 

Like, comment & subscribe to stay updated with the latest content! Learn more about XP3 Curriculum and TRY A SERIES FOR FREE at https://thinkorange.com/xp3. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.