Welcome to the Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! Join co-hosts John Oliver and Ian Dunaway, with over 30 years of combined ministry experience, as they share practical insights, leadership development, and encouragement for student pastors. Tune in every Wednesday for fresh strategies, real-world advice, and powerful discussions designed to help you shape the future of Student Ministry. Subscribe today!
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Welcome to the Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! Join co-hosts John Oliver and Ian Dunaway, with over 30 years of combined ministry experience, as they share practical insights, leadership development, and encouragement for student pastors. Tune in every Wednesday for fresh strategies, real-world advice, and powerful discussions designed to help you shape the future of Student Ministry. Subscribe today!
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
Shaping Student Ministry Podcast
Welcome to the Shaping Student Ministry Podcast! Join co-hosts John Oliver and Ian Dunaway, with over 30 years of combined ministry experience, as they share practical insights, leadership development, and encouragement for student pastors. Tune in every Wednesday for fresh strategies, real-world advice, and powerful discussions designed to help you shape the future of Student Ministry. Subscribe today!