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What can football teach us about youth ministry and preaching? 

"What can football teach us about youth ministry and preaching? In this episode, we dive deep with Anthony Vargas as he shares his journey from Mississippi to Dallas, and finally to Yukon, Oklahoma, exploring the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.

Anthony opens up about the challenges and rewards of starting fresh in new ministry roles. He shares practical tips on relationship-building, understanding the community you're serving, and the importance of moving at the right pace. We also discuss how feedback from students and volunteers is crucial for effective leadership.

We delve into the art of training and mobilizing Christian students for leadership and evangelism. Anthony emphasizes the need for regular training sessions, engaging young leaders, and the importance of casting a clear vision for adult leaders. Plus, we explore innovative approaches to youth ministry preaching, including how to use interactive methods and technology to keep students engaged.

If you're looking to enhance your youth ministry with fresh perspectives on leadership, communication, and preaching, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you connect with students and craft sermons that resonate in today's fast-paced, digital world."

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What happens when a dedicated youth ministry leader steps into a new role amidst organizational upheaval? 

Amanda Mejias shares her ministry journey from organizing recreation basketball leagues and fitness programs at her home church in Virginia to becoming a girls ministry specialist at LifeWay. 

Amanda’s story is not just about transitions but about uncovering the deeper calling of ministry because of the transitions and the unexpected leadership opportunities that arise even during challenging times. 

Check out this enriching conversation; Amanda discusses the vital importance of community and support among women in student ministry. We explore the importance of collaboration over competition, the value of sharing resources, and the significance of understanding the "why" behind ministry efforts. 

Amanda’s experiences and insights provide a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone involved in youth ministry, particularly during this introspective fall season. Whether you are looking for encouragement or practical advice, this episode offers something valuable for everyone.

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What do you get when you combine a love for coffee, tacos, and the rising cultural trend of YouTube golf?

You get Micah Lynn.

Micah Lynn is a second generation minister, growing up as a pastor's kid in  Texas and then growing and blossoming at OBU and during his residency at the Cross Church School of Ministry. Micah shares his journey and the invaluable mentorship he received along the way. 

Join us for this episode as we sit down with Micah to talk about Gen Z youth ministers, campus ministry, and growing as a leader. Chad is still gone on  "Chadcation," and while we wish him well creating content for his new Youtube golf channel we must return to regularly scheduled broadcast of youth ministry. 

Our conversation focuses on attention to effective strategies for campus ministry. We emphasize the significance of being present and intentional on middle and high school campuses, sharing insights on how small gestures can lead to big trust. We also talk about the shifting role of social media in ministry, we argue for its use as a tool for in organic and genuine engagement rather than  event promotion. 

Finally, we reflect on the challenge and joy of  longevity in student ministry, highlighting the excitement of welcoming new groups of students and the satisfaction of watching them grow over the years. Tune in for a blend of humor, practical advice, and heartfelt discussions on ministry and community engagement.

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How do you know you are called to this thing called youth ministry?

Special guest alert w/ Josh White, Executive Pastor and long-time friend of the podcast, who shares his remarkable journey into ministry. Josh's path to ministry was far from the conventional seminary path, and his story is a testament to the power of embracing the long game (see told you! long game, short season = youth ministry)

Anybody else's kids answer the door shirtless?

Transitioning churches can be challenging and revelatory. Josh opens up about his own experience after moving to his new church and new role. He shares how leaving a comfortable, deeply connected environment after eight years brought fresh perspectives and new opportunities.

The next part of the conversation examines the complexities and growth that come with change, highlighting the importance of being open to new blessings in both personal and professional realms. Josh's reflections offer valuable lessons on recognizing God's work in different settings and the importance of adaptability in ministry.

How has youth ministry changed?

With 2 decades of experience Josh provides  insights into how shifts in student participation and engagement have shaped new ministry approaches. The emphasis is now in work of aligning student activities with the broader church mission. Moreover, we need to double our efforts towards consistent and effective communication between youth ministers and senior leadership.

Want to learn more from and about Josh follow him on IG @r3d.b3ard or connect with him through his church https://arrowheights.org/leadership/

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The real secret to youth ministry?


This week we are joined by special guest Shelby Millis! 

From her  calling in seventh grade to her current role as a youth director at Asbury Church, Shelby’s journey is filled with inspiration and practical wisdom. She also shares her summer of self-care, including her beloved porch swing bed and weekly pool Fridays, underscoring the need for rejuvenation and mental well-being in ministry. Learn why testing one’s calling and having the support of mentors is crucial for a thriving youth ministry experience.

Witness the remarkable impact of a student leadership team in shaping high school ministry. Through a structured application and interview process, students are groomed for real-world responsibilities, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. Shelby and I share some hilarious anecdotes about the creative activities planned by the students, emphasizing the significance of open communication channels. By giving students a platform to voice their opinions and take charge, we enhance their leadership skills and enrich the overall youth group experience.

Explore the nuances of youth identity formation in the digital age and the challenges of engaging high school students. We delve into the complexities of social media’s influence and the importance of rooting students' identities in faith. Discover our insights on adapting ministry activities, like late-night worship sessions and casual community events, to create a more inclusive environment. 

Plus, we highlight the essential role of self-care for ministry leaders, sharing personal journeys of seeking mental health support and building healthy ministry relationships. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge on fostering both personal and community growth in youth ministry.

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Ever wondered if chaotic cafeteria brawls could turn into life-changing spiritual moments?  Welcome special guest Brian Preston! 

NextGen pastor-awesome Brian joins us this week, filling in for Chad, to share his wild and wonderful camp stories straight from our garage recording setup. 

It's the end of CampSZN and we reminiscing about youth camps. Brian shares the unforgettable stage-diving episodes that epitomize the essence of these transformative gatherings. 

Big Question this week? 
What happens when you shift your ministry focus from numbers to nurturing meaningful connections? 

This week we dive into this shift, this transition to explore the benefits of prioritizing people over statistics. Our reflections on this summer and previous  camp experiences emphasize how stepping outside comfort zones can create lifelong memories and foster incredible bonds. 

Discover how seeing the next generation engage in these traditions brings immense joy and enriches our spiritual journeys. Plus, learn about pivotal moments in ministry that redefine our perspectives and growth.

This episode also tackles the  challenges in youth ministry and the importance of humility and compassion in our faith journeys. Whole-heartedly we need to be more honest and more humble than ever before. 

Brian and Zac also discuss how technology can be both a hurdle and a helpful tool in extending ministry beyond traditional settings.

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Can the magic of the Olympics transform your youth ministry? 

Join us as we celebrate Summer Olympic Month with a spirited debate comparing the allure of summer versus winter games. We'll dive into the exhilarating speed of track and field races, the unique thrill of the biathlon, and the intensity of events like speed skating and swimming. 

From international sports showdowns in hockey and basketball to our whimsical dreams of hybrid sports like Mario Kart bobsled, this conversation will keep you on the edge of your seat. We'll also share our favorite Olympic events like the 4x100 relay, shot put, javelin, and diving, and ponder the idea of more frequent games to maintain the thrill.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Discover how the Olympic spirit can invigorate your youth ministry with team games that foster camaraderie and friendly competition. We’ll discuss organizing cohesive events from smaller activities, integrating new students, and ensuring a variety of games to highlight different talents. We’ll also delve into strategic evaluation, emphasizing the importance of assessing involvement, leadership, and spiritual growth beyond mere attendance numbers. By gathering feedback from all stakeholders, we aim to refine and enhance our initiatives, making them even more impactful for our community.

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It's Shark Week fam!  

We are celebrating what about you? It's a big deal in the Higgins and Workun households.

But wait.. could Shark Week  transform your youth ministry? 

Join us as we tap into the fervor of this annual oceanic extravaganza,  and let's draw some  parallels to youth ministry strategies. We discuss how identifying and leveraging kids' passions—be it video games, sports, or anime—can create captivating standalone events that enhance engagement and strengthen connections within the broader ministry.

Chad Higgins joins us to talk about his fascination with the Mako shark, dubbing them the "cheetahs of the sea." His dream of cage diving with sharks encapsulates the essence of breaking free from routine and embracing bold new directions in ministry. We even throw in a playful shark trivia challenge, where Chad's enthusiasm and knowledge are put to the test, adding an element of fun and friendly competition to our conversation.

From sports to music, we explore how youth ministry leaders can form deeper relationships and foster discipleship by aligning with students' passions. 

Tune in to discover how blending the excitement of Shark Week with impactful youth ministry strategies can bring about meaningful connections and lasting impact.

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Aww if middle school you could see you now... they would be proud! 

Switching gears, we tackle a pressing question in youth ministry: (When) Should we split middle school and high school programs? 

Chad and Zac explore the pros and cons, offering creative solutions for engagement without doubling efforts. From leadership roles for older students to special events for the younger crowd, we dig into strategies that accommodate growth while keeping the community's best interests in mind. This episode is invaluable for anyone grappling with when to make the change in their own ministry.

But here is the real issue! Organizing and managing youth ministry split between high school and middle school without pulling your hair out. 

Let's talk about the importance of a solid leadership structure and understanding your strengths and weaknesses. 

We also discuss the broader implications for parents and the community, emphasizing the need for thoughtful scheduling and resource allocation. As we embark on new initiatives, we remind ourselves to savor the  excitement and celebrate the achievements. 

Don't forget to connect with Youth Ministry Booster on social media to share your thoughts and gain further support for your church!

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People can be mean! Or if we are being honest... how do you handle the unfiltered honesty of middle school girls in youth ministry? 

In this fresh episode of the Youth Ministry Booster Podcast, Zac and Chad bring their humor and truthfulness to tackle it! 

Chad +  tortilla = hilarious. 

What is something you have  been told something that was hateful... by a student? 

We’ve got stories like that and more as we confront the tough reality of receiving criticism in youth ministry. Check out this episode for practical strategies process feedback without losing your cool. Friendship, filters, and fresh air all help! 

 This episode underscores the importance of emotional health, both through your closest ministry relationships and friendships outside of work, ensuring that you're grounded and ready to face each challenge with grace and a smile. 

So get ready for a laugh and some heartfelt stories that reflect the resilience needed to handle the candid feedback from our young students while still forging meaningful connections.

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