How do you design a midweek student service that actually matters?   In this episode, John and Ian dive deep into the structure, philosophy, and flow of midweek gatherings. From preaching to programming, from fun to follow-up, this conversation will challenge how you approach your weekly rhythm. Whether you’re questioning if small groups still work, wondering how long your sermon should be, or simply want to re-center your gathering on Jesus, this one’s for you.   Topics Covered: Why your “why” matters more than your format What a healthy gathering flow looks like How to teach with clarity and conviction When small groups help—and when they don’t Mistakes we’ve made and what we’d do differently This episode is part of our ongoing mission to equip student pastors and volunteers with content that’s theologically sound, practically helpful, and honest about the real challenges of ministry. Want more tools? We’ve built a years of curriculum, leader tools, and training resources at shapingstudentministry.com/sermons

In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian unpack why the school campus might be the most overlooked and most important mission field in your city. They talk practically and unscripted about: • Why showing up at school might matter more than showing up on stage • The difference between “felt needs” and “real needs” on campus • How to build trust with administrators and become indispensable • Why club ministry isn’t the finish line and what to do instead • Real stories that will challenge your excuses and reignite your calling Whether you’re just starting to think about campus engagement or you’ve been grinding it out for years, this one’s for you. Need help equipping your students for this kind of ministry? We’ve built a full year of biblically rich, gospel-centered curriculum to help your students grow and go. Sermon series, small group guides, graphics, and more. Check it out here: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/sermons

What does it really take to stay? This week on The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian sit down with Roger Reid, who has been faithfully leading student ministry in New Brunswick, Canada, since 1994! They talk about the hard seasons, the moments he almost walked away, and why long-term faithfulness matters more than we think. If you’re in a place where you’re questioning your calling or wondering if staying put is still worth it, this one’s for you.

Fall is here, and with it comes packed calendars, high expectations, and the pressure to hit the ground running. But what if starting strong doesn’t mean doing more? What if the most important things for your ministry this fall are the ones that often get ignored? In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian unpack a better way to lead this season. Whether you’re full-time, bi-vocational, or volunteering, they’ll walk you through a practical, sustainable approach to fall that actually works. You’ll walk away with: • A new framework for building momentum without burnout • A focus on foundational habits that strengthen your ministry • A reminder that faithfulness > flash • Real encouragement for whatever season you’re walking into These aren’t flashy tricks. They’re field-tested strategies that will shape your ministry and your soul long after fall kickoff. Part 2 is available "Behind the Wall," where we reveal the final two moves and give you the real-world tools to put them into action. Start your free trial now and get instant access to the full episode, plus tools, templates, curriculum, and more:https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=bdf7472e-3f3d-46f9-8d7e-08c08d9477fe&checkoutFlowId=bc80a8e1-9b2b-41d0-985b-ac94b04a7f60

We’ve all said it.   “We want our students to grow.” “We’re about depth, not hype.” “Parents are the primary disciple-makers.” “Volunteers are essential.”   But if you don’t have a plan to make it happen, it’s not a conviction—it’s a catchphrase.   In this episode, John and Ian unpack the problem with shallow ministry language that sounds spiritual but lacks substance. From overused phrases to borrowed buzzwords, we examine how student pastors can fall into the trap of repeating truths without building toward them.   This conversation challenges you to ask deeper questions: What does student growth actually look like in your ministry? Where does it show up in your calendar, your teaching, and your systems? Are you equipping parents and volunteers—or just talking like you are?   It’s time to move from catchy to convictional. From slogans to strategy. From surface to substance.   Listen now and take the next step toward intentional student discipleship. Start a two-week free trial: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/list

How do you keep your heart soft when students you poured into walk away from the faith? In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian have a raw, pastoral conversation about the deep grief many student pastors carry, especially when students who once seemed “all in” lose their way. They talk through the emotional weight of those moments, how to grieve well, and how to keep showing up with hope instead of bitterness. This isn’t about blaming ourselves or others. It’s about guarding our hearts with the truth of God’s Word and staying faithful to the call, even when the fruit is hard to see. Inside the Episode Why it hurts so deeply when students walk away Paul’s example of grieving without giving up Why emotional maturity matters in ministry You are not the hero—God brings the growth Questions to ask when the grief feels heavy How to walk in hope, not cynicism Join The Community: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=bdf7472e-3f3d-46f9-8d7e-08c08d9477fe&checkoutFlowId=43925d45-8efd-40df-b69d-cbbe7f873a47

What if discipleship was never meant to be one size fits all? In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Howell—a pastor, doctoral researcher, ropes course trainer, and 20-year student ministry veteran—to talk about what it really looks like to disciple neurodivergent students. From ADHD to autism and everything in between, Daniel offers honest insights from both his personal journey and years of ministry experience.   We cover: What youth pastors need to understand about neurodivergent students Why traditional age-graded ministry often falls short How to spot common traits and red flags Misconceptions that lead to ministry mistakes How to connect, disciple, and empower students with ADHD or on the autism spectrum Why every ministry should think more intentionally about neurodivergent inclusion   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence 00:52 Understanding Neurodivergence in Ministry 06:52 Defining Neurodivergence and Its Impact 12:13 Common Traits of Neurodivergent Students 13:04 Understanding ADHD and Autism in Students 15:17 The Importance of Consistency for Neurodivergent Students 17:29 Connecting with Autistic Students 21:26 Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Students 31:02 Embracing Unique Gifts in Neurodivergence   This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed or under-equipped to lead students who don’t fit the mold. Let’s move from surviving awkward moments to creating intentional, Christ-centered connection.

Is summer where student ministry goes to die or is it the secret weapon for a better fall? In this episode, John and Ian dive into the reality of summer chaos: camp injuries, mission trip fails, and the pressure to “keep things going.” But what if summer isn’t about just surviving? What if it’s your best shot at building real momentum for the fall? We talk: • Why some families (and staff) expect you to vanish for the summer, and how to push back • Creative rhythms that help students thrive, not just attend • How to lead smarter, not harder • Practical ways to leverage slower weeks for deeper discipleship and connection • Why NOW is the best time to build your fall plan, recruit volunteers, and prepare your leaders PLUS: If you’re a member behind the wall, we’ve got a bonus segment full of practical tools—calendar templates, planning sheets, and a fall ministry roadmap. Not a member? You can jump in today and get your first two weeks free. Start your Free Trial: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=bdf7472e-3f3d-46f9-8d7e-08c08d9477fe&checkoutFlowId=0a047568-f6b2-49c0-9cd2-c0f19c847bdf

This is the episode that changes everything. Shaping Student Ministry (SSM) and Youth Pastor Central (YPC) have merged into one unified network. Why? Because student pastors need more than content—they need connection, coaching, and community. And now, you’ll get it all in one place. In this episode, John, Ian, and Christopher walk through: • Why we’re merging: What brought SSM and YPC together • What changes for you (and what doesn’t): Access, content, cohorts, and more • The new platform: A first look at our all-in-one coaching and resource ecosystem • What’s coming next: Podcast expansions, resource drops, regional meetups, and a packed fall lineup. Whether you’ve followed SSM for years or you’re a longtime member of YPC, this is the beginning of something brand new for all of us. What you’ll get: • A redesigned member experience • One subscription that includes everything (yes, including Games on Games) • National and regional cohorts • A growing podcast network • Access to exclusive curriculum and tools We’re not just joining forces. We’re building the future of student ministry leadership together. Start your free trial: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/pricing-plans/checkout-1?planId=bdf7472e-3f3d-46f9-8d7e-08c08d9477fe&checkoutFlowId=d303b5ac-f322-4161-adc3-c73cda5fe9e3

What do you wish someone told you when you started in ministry? In this episode, John Oliver is joined by Mark Santana from First Baptist Statesboro to reflect on the early days of leadership in the local church. From building trust with parents and volunteers to navigating expectations, they share honest lessons and encouragement for anyone just getting started or anyone guiding the next generation of leaders. Whether you are leading students, adults, or your entire congregation, this conversation offers wisdom that reaches beyond youth ministry. Topics include: • Why relational leadership always wins over performance pressure• What to prioritize in your first year that will actually last• The leadership rhythms that help you stay grounded• Real talk about failure, growth, and long term faithfulness Watch now on YouTubeListen wherever you get your podcastsConnect with our growing community of leaders:https://shapingstudentministry.com

Summer camp is not just a spiritual high point. It is a strategic opportunity for gospel impact. In this episode, John and Ian walk through what it means to lead students well before, during, and after camp. From setting expectations to creating margin, they share hard-earned wisdom for making the most of camp season. They also dive into one of the most debated questions in student ministry: Should we baptize students at camp? You will hear their honest conversation on timing, accountability, and local church connection when it comes to responding to salvation decisions.   What we cover: • How to plan for discipleship, not just hype • What to prioritize before the bus ever leaves • Leading your team well while at camp • Making follow up a strategy, not an afterthought • What to consider before saying yes to camp baptisms Listen in and equip yourself to lead camp season with intention and clarity.   Subscribe to the podcast and explore our community https://www.youtube.com/@ShapingStudentMinistry https://g6allies.com/ssm-community-checkout

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 4 of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast — where we believe every student pastor should get better, not just busier. In this episode, Ian and John unpack what it means to be a tone-setting leader. What kind of atmosphere do you create when you walk into a room? How do you influence your team’s energy, your students’ sense of belonging, and your ministry’s culture over time? Whether you lead with boldness or quiet strength, this episode is for you. We’ll help you shift from reactive leadership to intentional influence—because student ministry doesn’t just need good vibes, it needs godly leaders who lead on purpose. 🔔 Subscribe for more student ministry conversations📲 Join our community: https://shapingstudentministry.com

Your lesson is prepped, your leaders are ready, the snacks are out… but the students? Scattered. Travel ball, AP homework, rehearsals—and let’s be real, some just don’t show. In this episode, John and Ian dive into one of the most relatable challenges in student ministry: how to disciple students in a culture of inconsistent attendance. You’ll walk away with ideas to shift your mindset, refocus your strategy, and stop equating faithfulness with full rooms. Topics include: Why showing up isn’t the only metric for success What it looks like to redefine the win How to disciple students when schedules get in the way Building intentional rhythms and micro-connections Why Jesus wouldn’t panic about your numbers (and neither should you) Grab your 2-week free trial of the SSM Community and get access to exclusive content, Touchpoints, and leadership cohorts: https://g6allies.com/product-details/product/touchpoints   Also, check out our curriculum at: https://shapingstudentministry.com/lines

Is Senior Sunday just a slideshow and a gift bag… or something more? In this episode, John and Ian talk through how to transform Graduation Sunday into a spiritually meaningful moment for your students, families, and entire church. From cap and gown walk-ins to commissioning prayers and student-led blessings, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and stories that will challenge you to reimagine what this milestone could be. Whether you’re scrambling to throw something together or trying to break out of a tired tradition, this episode will help you make it count.   What we cover: • Why Senior Sunday matters more than you think • The tension between showing up and ghosting • Ways to involve parents, juniors, and the whole church • How to give meaningful gifts • The value of intergenerational blessing and commissioning   Free 30-Day Trial? https://g6allies.com/product-details/product/touchpoints?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ_X-NleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEwNEttbm4wUlhWaE5mcW1yAR6qwUt7GKZ4dnr0D9TtSGQ2mwZ8lPnCRBEiaGEvqlppX3R_A8kYqjNRRgf9ag_aem_zU4x2t45cccJqBr4XycVFw

Not every hard boss is toxic, but not every hard boss is healthy either. In this episode of The Shaping Student Ministry Podcast, John and Ian dive into the complicated world of church leadership dynamics. What do you do when your pastor is hard to work with? How do you know if the issue is them… or you? From micromanagers and ghost leaders to trust issues and toxic patterns, this conversation is real, raw, and practical. If you’re a student pastor or ministry leader trying to navigate difficult relationships on your church staff, this episode is for you. What we cover: • The difference between difficult and untrustworthy leaders • Why many pastors struggle to disciple their teams • How to build trust when it’s been broken • The 6 types of trust every ministry needs • Why some leaders become toxic—and how not to become one Subscribe, share, and check out the full resources and behind-the-wall content at   👉 https://www.shapingstudentministry.com Free 30-Day Trial? https://g6allies.com/product-details/product/touchpoints?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ_X-NleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEwNEttbm4wUlhWaE5mcW1yAR6qwUt7GKZ4dnr0D9TtSGQ2mwZ8lPnCRBEiaGEvqlppX3R_A8kYqjNRRgf9ag_aem_zU4x2t45cccJqBr4XycVFw

Welcome to Season 2 of the Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! We’re kicking things off with a game-changing conversation featuring Dave Coryell, President of Christian Endeavor and author of Less Like Hippos, More Like Honeybees. (WE ENCOUNTERED SOME RECORDING ISSUES... POWER THROUGH!) In this episode, we dive deep into: - Why your discipleship strategy needs more than just curriculum - The danger of treating content as the end goal instead of a means to a greater mission - How to move students from spiritual consumers to active contributors - What hippos and honeybees can teach us about youth ministry - The history and global vision of Christian Endeavor—and why we’re excited to partner This isn’t about burning down what you’ve built. It’s about building better—on purpose, with purpose. Links to Christian Endeavor, Dave’s books, and our brand-new partnership page are below! CE WEBSITE: https://www.ceworks.faith/ DAVE'S BOOK: https://a.co/d/9yDnsc8 PARTNERSHIP: https://www.shapingstudentministry.com/ce 

You poured time, energy, and resources into your big event… now what? In this episode, John and Ian unpack why what happens after the event may be more important than the event itself. Drawing from years of student ministry experience, they tackle questions like: • How do you capture spiritual momentum without overloading the calendar? • Why are relational follow-ups better than reactionary ones? • What does it look like to follow up without fizzling out? • How do you develop rhythms that lead students from a moment to maturity? This isn’t a teardown of events—it’s a call to maximize their impact by being just as intentional after the final session as you were before the doors opened. You’ll walk away with real follow-up strategies for your students, volunteers, and even yourself. 👇Click the Link for your free trial of Touchpoints and The SSM Community! https://g6allies.com/product-details/product/touchpoints

In this episode, we sit down with Jordan Francis of Reframe Youth Ministry—licensed clinician, former youth pastor, and curriculum creator—for a conversation that will shift how you think about student ministry. We talk about: • What technology is really doing to students’ minds and bodies • Why presence, not performance, is the secret sauce of ministry • How to build trust by letting students say the “wild stuff” • Why compassion, vulnerability, and presence must define our pastoral posture • Practical strategies to reframe how we talk, listen, and disciple Join The SSM Community: CLICK HERE   Learn More About ReFrame: CLICK HERE  

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

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!