Shaping Student Ministry Podcast

The One about Finding and Keeping Your Best Volunteers

Volunteers are the heartbeat of youth ministry. Without them, it’s impossible to impact the next generation in meaningful ways. But finding, equipping, and keeping passionate volunteers can often feel like a daunting task. In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, we unpack the secrets to building an incredible volunteer team that not only serves but thrives. Here’s what we’re diving into:
✨ Recruiting Volunteers: Proven strategies for attracting the right people who align with your ministry’s mission.
✨ Motivating and Training Volunteers: Practical ways to equip your team with the skills and inspiration they need to succeed.
✨ Retaining Volunteers: How to foster a culture of appreciation, personal growth, and community to keep your best team engaged long-term.
 
Whether you’re struggling to recruit or looking for ways to energize and sustain your team, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead and love your volunteers well.
 
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more practical tips and encouragement for student ministry leaders.

The One about Setting Goals in Ministry

As we prepare for a new year, it’s time to think about how to set intentional, effective goals for your ministry. In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, we dive into the why and how of goal-setting to help you focus your efforts, inspire your team, and see real growth in your ministry.
Join us as we discuss:✨ Why goal-setting is essential for effective ministry.✨ How to review the past year to shape future plans.✨ Practical strategies for creating SMART goals that align with your mission.✨ Tips for involving your team and congregation in the goal-setting process.✨ How to prioritize, execute, and celebrate your goals throughout the year.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration you need to set goals that glorify God and impact lives.
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
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#StudentMinistry #GoalSetting #MinistryLeadership #ShapingStudentMinistries #NextGenMinistry #YouthMinistry

The One About the Advantages of Cohorts Over Conferences

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John Oliver and Ian Dunaway are joined by Dennis Wagner from First Baptist Church of Yantis, Texas, and Joshua Villars from Southcrest Church in LaGrange, Georgia. Together, they discuss the power of cohorts and how these ongoing communities have shaped their ministries over the past year.
Unlike traditional once-a-year conferences, cohorts provide consistent support, deeper relationships, and actionable insights that make a lasting impact. Here’s what we’re covering:✨ The differences between cohorts and conferences in ministry growth.✨ How cohorts have encouraged accountability, collaboration, and spiritual development.✨ Why building long-term connections matters for leaders and their ministries.
If you’re looking for a new way to grow as a leader and support your student ministry, this episode will inspire you to explore the advantages of cohorts.
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
#StudentMinistry #CohortsOverConferences #ShapingStudentMinistries #YouthMinistry #LeadershipDevelopment #NextGenLeadership

The One About Planning Disciple Now Weekends

John Oliver and Ian Dunaway are back to unpack the power of Disciple Now Weekends and how just 72 hours can transform your student ministry. Whether you’ve been hosting D-Nows for years or are considering planning your first one, this episode is packed with practical insights and strategies to make the most of this impactful event.
Here’s what we’re covering:✨ Why Disciple Now Weekends are a game-changer for discipleship.✨ How to plan an event that’s gospel-centered, engaging, and transformative.✨ Tips for equipping leaders, creating meaningful moments, and fostering lasting spiritual growth.
Don’t underestimate how a single weekend can shape your students’ lives for eternity. Tune in for a roadmap to maximize these 72 hours and leave a lasting impact!
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts.
#DiscipleNow #StudentMinistry #YouthDiscipleship #ShapingStudentMinistries #DNOWWeekend #NextGenLeadership

The One about Transitioning Well – Navigating Church Moves in Student Ministry

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, Ian Dunaway is joined by Mark Santana, Student Pastor at First Baptist Statesboro, GA, who is filling in for cohost John Oliver. Together, they tackle an important topic in student ministry: how to effectively transition out of and into churches.
With the average tenure of a student pastor hovering around just 18 months, transitions are inevitable—but how they’re handled can significantly impact students, families, and the ministry as a whole.
Join us as we discuss:✨ The challenges and opportunities of transitioning in ministry.✨ Practical tips for leaving well and starting strong in a new church.✨ How to prioritize the spiritual health of students and the church during transitions.
Whether you’re a student pastor, church leader, or someone navigating ministry transitions, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you lead with integrity and grace.
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
#StudentMinistry #ChurchLeadership #TransitionsInMinistry #ShapingStudentMinistries #YouthPastor #NextGenLeadership

The One about What’s Really GOING TO Reach Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

🎙️ Welcome to Episode 7 of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast: 
Ian Dunaway and John Oliver team up for an in-depth conversation about how the church can effectively reach Gen Z and Gen Alpha with the gospel. These generations are navigating a rapidly changing world, and understanding what truly connects with them is essential for impactful student ministry.
In this episode, we cover:✨ Why authenticity, purpose, and meaningful connection matter now more than ever.✨ Practical strategies for bridging generational gaps and fostering lasting discipleship.
This conversation is packed with insights and actionable steps for anyone passionate about shaping the next generation for Christ. If you’re ready to dive deeper into what’s really going to reach these emerging leaders, you’re in the right place!
📺 Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen wherever you get your podcasts!
#StudentMinistry #GenZ #GenAlpha #YouthDiscipleship #ShapingStudentMinistries #NextGenLeadership #Authenticity #YouthMinistry

The One with Christian Endeavor

Welcome to Episode 6 of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Josh Good, Ministry Director for Christian Endeavor. With over a decade of experience as a Youth Pastor and a deep passion for equipping youth workers, Josh shares invaluable insights into student ministry, discipleship strategies, and creating a lasting impact for the Kingdom.
Josh discusses how Christian Endeavor’s framework can transform the local church youth ministry, yielding powerful results as students grow deeper in their faith, take on leadership roles, and live boldly for Christ. Now, as Ministry Director, Josh helps churches nationwide establish intentional and effective discipleship strategies while also writing new resources and speaking at youth retreats and conferences.
We also dive into the themes of Less Like Hippos, More Like Honeybees, exploring how youth ministry can move beyond passive participation to intentional, Christ-centered action. Josh’s passion for empowering the next generation is contagious, and his practical wisdom will inspire you to rethink your approach to youth discipleship.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation on student ministry, discipleship, and empowering youth to live boldly for Christ!
#StudentMinistry #ChristianEndeavor #Discipleship #JoshGood #ShapingStudentMinistries #YouthMinistry #LessLikeHipposMoreLikeHoneybees

The One on Sprouting Discipleship in Student Ministry

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, we’re joined by Cameron Crow, Student Pastor at First Baptist Church in Farmersville, Texas, and coauthor (with his wife, RoChelle) of the newly released book, Sprouting: Discipleship in Student Ministry. Cameron shares his passion for equipping the next generation to grow deeper in their faith through intentional, Scripture-based discipleship.
We dive into the heart of their book, exploring practical tools for leaders to help students not just know about God, but truly walk with Him. Cameron discusses how Sprouting bridges the gap between knowledge and action, encouraging students to set and achieve “Grow Goals” that foster spiritual maturity.
You’ll also hear about the Crow family’s unique approach to ministry as they serve together with their two daughters, teaching the next generation about God’s goodness and magnifying the Lord through their lives (Psalm 34:3).
Whether you’re a leader, parent, or simply passionate about student discipleship, this episode will inspire you to rethink how we cultivate faith in the lives of young believers. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on discipleship, family ministry, and the future of student ministry!
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#StudentMinistry #Discipleship #SproutingDiscipleship #CameronCrow #ShapingStudentMinistries #YouthMinistry

The One about Apologetics in Student Ministry

Welcome to Episode 4 of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Jon Beazley—apologist, church planter, and fitness coach—to discuss a crucial topic: incorporating apologetics into student ministry. Jon brings a wealth of experience in defending the faith and equipping young believers, offering valuable insights on how to address tough questions in today’s culture.
Together, we explore practical ways to introduce apologetics, helping students understand why their faith matters and how to engage with challenging conversations. From building a foundation in biblical truth to empowering students to articulate their beliefs confidently, Jon shares strategies that make apologetics approachable and meaningful for young audiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just getting started in youth ministry, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable steps to help students navigate their faith with clarity and conviction. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation!
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The One where Youth Pastors Create Better Curriculum than They Can Buy

In this episode, John and Ian sit down with special guest Joshua Villars, the Student Pastor at Southcrest Church in LaGrange, Georgia, to dive deep into the art of curating and creating curriculum for student ministry. Joshua shares his passion for designing resources that resonate with today’s students, unpacking the importance of customized content that speaks directly to the unique challenges and needs of a youth group.
Together, they discuss the beauty of building curriculum from scratch, the joy of seeing students grow through thoughtfully crafted material, and how creating tailored resources can make a lasting impact on young hearts and minds. If you’re in youth ministry or simply interested in how to make discipleship more meaningful for the next generation, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.
Tune in to discover:
 • Why creating your own curriculum can elevate your ministry • Tips for balancing curated and original content • Practical advice for crafting lessons that connect deeply with students • How Joshua and his team at Southcrest Church approach curriculum with purpose and intentionality
Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to take your student ministry to the next level! 🙌
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