Shaping Student Ministry Podcast

The One That Might Save Your Ministry (Burnout vs. Discouragement)

Are you really burnt out… or are you just deeply discouraged?
In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian tackle the confusion between burnout and discouragement — and why understanding the difference could keep you from walking away from something God has actually called you to do.
🔍 In this episode, we cover:
• The signs and symptoms of discouragement vs. burnout
• Why burnout has become a “badge of honor” in ministry culture
• What Barna says about the crisis in pastoral health
• How isolation fuels helplessness (learned helplessness theory)
• The emotional, spiritual, and relational differences between the two
• Why community is the cure
• What Marshawn Lynch and septic tanks have to do with your ministry mindset
🤯 💬 “If you mislabel discouragement as burnout, you might quit something you were called to endure. But if you mislabel burnout as discouragement, you’ll keep grinding until you collapse.”
 
🎧 Want Part 2 of the conversation?
In the subscriber-only bonus episode, we walk through:
✅ Practical rhythms to recover from burnout
✅ How to know when it’s time to take a break
✅ Why a sabbatical might not fix what you’re feeling
✅ How to lead yourself well so you can keep leading others
✅ The burnout quiz to help assess where you stand
 
👇 Join the community for bonus episodes, cohorts, and exclusive tools: shapingstudentministry.com/community

The One About Ministering to Gen Z & Fostering Authentic Discipleship

In this episode, we sit down with Benjamin Crawshaw from TrueFace to tackle one of the biggest challenges in student ministry today:
ministering to Gen Z and fostering authentic discipleship. From navigating identity struggles to overcoming a culture of self-diagnosis, we explore why Gen Z craves authentic relationships and how we can move past surface-level faith to guide students into deep, transformative discipleship.
Benjamin shares insights from his work as Director of Member Engagement at TrueFace, where he helps leaders shift from performance-based Christianity to trust-based discipleship.
He also introduces his new book, The Path—a modern-day allegory designed to help students understand their identity in Christ and walk in authentic faith.
 
📖 Check out The Path 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Path-Different... 🔗
Learn more about TrueFace 👉 trueface.org
📚 Explore The Path 👉 trueface.org/thepath
 
Key Topics Discussed:
How Gen Z forms identity and why it’s different from past generations
The dangers of self-labeling & why our identity in Christ is unshakable
Moving beyond surface-level faith into authentic community
 
🎧 Listen now and learn how to lead Gen Z toward deeper faith!

The One About Making Parent Ministry a Priority

Most student pastors focus on students—but what if the real key to a thriving youth ministry is partnering with their parents?
 
In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, Steve John from The Youth Pastor Conference joins us to talk about why parent ministry isn’t optional—it’s essential. Youth pastors often see parents as obstacles, but when we equip, communicate with, and build trust with them, student retention and spiritual growth skyrocket.
 
What We’re Covering:
 
✅ Why parent ministry fuels church growth—students stay plugged in when parents are engaged.
✅ How small acts of communication build massive trust—parents appreciate being informed!
✅ Why empowering parents = empowering students—discipleship doesn’t stop at the church doors.
✅ How multiple touchpoints keep students connected to church—parents play a key role in retention.
✅ Why youth pastors must stop treating parents like the opposition—they’re your greatest allies.
 
👉 Want to grow alongside other leaders who get it?
Join the Shaping Student Ministry community today: https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-checkout
 
📌 Connect with Steve John:
• Facebook: facebook.com/stevejohn
• Twitter: twitter.com/imstevejohn
• Instagram: instagram.com/stevejohn
• TikTok: tiktok.com/@imstevejohn
• YouTube: youtube.com/@steve_john
 
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
 
✅ Like, subscribe, and share to help more leaders make parent ministry a priority!

The One About Why Your Camp Should Be a Launchpad, Not a Landmark

Student ministry camps can be incredible moments—but are they actually launching students into lasting faith, or just creating short-lived emotional highs? This week on The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, Ian Dunaway and Mark Santana sit down on the way to the airport to talk about rethinking how we approach camps. Instead of treating them as the ultimate goal, what if we made them a starting point for real, ongoing discipleship?
What We’re Covering:
✅ The problem with “big moment” ministry—why emotional experiences don’t always lead to lasting faith.
✅ How to make your camp a launchpad for discipleship, not just a one-time event.
✅ The value of small, intentional gatherings vs. massive camp productions.
✅ Why running your own camp might be the best move for your student ministry.
✅ Practical steps to rethink, rework, and refocus your student ministry events.
👉 Want to grow alongside other leaders who get it?
Join the Shaping Student Ministry community today: https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-ch...
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
✅ Like, subscribe, and share to help more leaders rethink the way they do ministry!
#StudentMinistry #YouthMinistry #CampsWithPurpose #ShapingStudentMinistries #Discipleship #NextGenMinistry

The One Where We Start a Church in Grand Theft Auto 🎮

In this episode, Ian, John, and special guest Jon Rush dive into one of the most unexpected ministry conversations yet—how gaming and discipleship intersect in today’s culture. From Fortnite streams to the bold (and hilarious) idea of starting a “church” in Grand Theft Auto, they explore how student pastors can meet students where they are—yes, even in digital worlds.
But this isn’t just about video games. The conversation expands into why relational ministry beats event-driven strategies, how student pastors can build meaningful connections beyond Sunday mornings, and why showing up at a student’s football game might be more impactful than your next big event. Jon also shares his story of growing up in a broken home, finding community in gaming, and how relational youth ministry changed his life.
They also tackle the real struggles student pastors face, from the short tenure crisis in youth ministry to why so many churches don’t know how to develop and retain student leaders. Plus, Jon offers practical insights on why Gen Z and Gen Alpha will go where they feel wanted—not where we try to entertain them.
🚀 If you’ve ever wondered how to engage students without gimmicks—or you just want to hear about the time John Oliver was actually in an NCAA video game—this one’s for you.
📲 Follow Jon Rush:🎮 Twitch: https://m.twitch.tv/jonrush/home📷 Instagram:   /jonwrush  
👉 Want to grow alongside other leaders who get it?Join the Shaping Student Ministry community today: https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-ch...
🔊 Subscribe, hit play, and let’s talk about discipleship… with a side of Grand Theft Auto. 🎧

The One About Why No One Takes You Seriously (And How to Fix It)

Ever feel like people aren’t taking you seriously in ministry? Like your leadership and influence aren’t respected the way they should be? You’re not alone. Credibility in ministry isn’t automatic—it’s earned.
In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian break down the real reasons why student pastors and ministry leaders struggle to gain influence—and how to fix it before it costs you your ministry.
What We’re Covering:
✅ Why financial integrity matters more than you think—not paying vendors, missing deadlines, and cutting corners kills credibility
✅ Stop looking for handouts and start investing in your ministry—free resources won’t fix a broken system
✅ How to lead with confidence—stop apologizing for your calling and start owning your role
✅ Why self-deprecating humor undermines your leadership—you don’t have to be the joke in the room to be relatable
✅ How to stop making sports the enemy and start fighting for families—ministry is bigger than Wednesday night
✅ What to do when people walk back into church after being gone for months—shame is never a growth strategy
👉 Want to grow alongside other leaders who get it?
Join the Shaping Student Ministry community today: https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-ch...
 
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
✅ Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this today! #StudentMinistry #Leadership #MinistryCredibility #ShapingStudentMinistries #YouthPastor #NextGenMinistry

The One About Why It’s Okay to Stay Where You Are

In a culture that celebrates constant movement, promotion, and “what’s next,” what if the most impactful thing you can do is stay right where you are?
 
In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian sit down with Dan Carson from Student Ministry Matters to talk about the value of longevity in ministry. We dive into the real reasons student pastors often feel the pressure to move on—and why staying can sometimes be the most faithful, fruitful decision you’ll ever make.
 
Here’s what we’re unpacking:
✨ The hidden pressures that push student pastors to leave too soon
✨ How to recognize the difference between burnout and a true calling to move
✨ Why staying put can be a powerful act of obedience and growth
✨ Practical strategies to thrive in the ministry you’re already in
 
Behind the Wall Bonus Content:
In the second half of the episode, we get even more real—breaking down specific ministry scenarios and how to navigate the tough moments that make you question if it’s time to go.
https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-checkout
 
🎧 Want more from Dan Carson?
Check out his podcast, Student Ministry Matters: https://studentministrymatters.podbean.com/
 
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
 
✅ Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear that staying can be just as bold as going.
 
#StudentMinistry #LongevityInMinistry #YouthPastorLife #ShapingStudentMinistries #NextGenLeadership #MinistryMatters

The One with The Theology of Games in Student Ministry

How do games fit into student ministry? In this episode, we’re joined by Steven Bell from GameZooGames.com to talk about the theology of games—how they reflect God’s design for community, creativity, and engagement. We explore how to leverage games for success in student ministry, using them as tools for discipleship, connection, and teaching biblical truths in a fun and meaningful way.
Join us as we discuss:🎲 The biblical foundation for play and games🎯 How games can foster discipleship and gospel conversations🤝 Using games to build authentic community⚠️ Avoiding potential pitfalls in gaming culture💡 Practical ways to integrate games into student ministry
Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how to make games more than just fun—but a tool for transformation in your ministry!
Join SSM and GameZoo (https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-gamezoo-checkout)🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on shaping student ministry!💬 Comment below with your favorite game to use in ministry!

The One Where Ministry Gets Hard (And How to Keep Going)

Ministry is rewarding, but let’s be real—it’s also really hard. There are moments of deep discouragement, leadership mistakes, and seasons where it feels like you’re barely holding on. So how do you keep going when ministry gets tough?
In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, we’re diving into:
• How to handle mistakes and failures in leadership
• What adversity teaches us about resilience and faith
• Practical strategies to stay grounded, encouraged, and effective in difficult seasons.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in ministry, this episode is for you. You’re not alone—God is working in the struggle.
Join the conversation! What’s one lesson God has taught you through a difficult season in ministry?
 
#MinistryLeadership #PastoralBurnout #FaithThroughTrials #StudentMinistry #ShapingStudentMinistry

The One about When Events Don't Go as Planned

How do you make sure your ministry events improve year after year? It all starts with a solid debrief. In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian—together in person for the first time this season—dive into the art of event debriefing. Here’s what we’re covering: ✨ Why debriefing is essential for refining your events and strengthening your team. ✨ A step-by-step guide for evaluating what worked, what didn’t, and how to improve. ✨ Questions to ask your team, attendees, and yourself for honest feedback. Behind the Wall Bonus Content: In the second half of the episode, we get into real-world scenarios—discussing specific challenges from past events and offering practical solutions to handle them like a pro. Whether you’ve just wrapped up a retreat, conference, or outreach event, this episode will help you take the lessons learned and make your next event even better. 📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more practical ministry insights. #StudentMinistry #EventPlanning #DebriefingEvents #YouthMinistry #ShapingStudentMinistries #NextGenLeadership