Hey Volunteers: The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers

Chris Trent
  • 5.0 (18)
  • CHRISTIANITY
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There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. Hey Volunteers! is a youth ministry podcast that is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by a couple youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you’re going to love this podcast!

  1. 071 | Helping Teenagers Apply God’s Word

    FEB 16

    071 | Helping Teenagers Apply God’s Word

    In this episode, we discuss the vital role of volunteers in youth ministry with Doug Franklin from Leader Treks emphasizing the importance of applying God's word in practical ways. With Doug’s expertise, we explore strategies for helping teenagers engage with scripture, the significance of accountability, and the need for building trust in relationships. The conversation highlights the challenges volunteers face and offers practical tips for effective teaching and engagement with students.

    22 min
  2. 070 | How to Experience Community When All You Do is Hang Out with Teenagers

    FEB 2

    070 | How to Experience Community When All You Do is Hang Out with Teenagers

    In this episode, we discuss the vital role of community among youth ministry volunteers with our guest, Wendy Trent. Together, we share personal stories and practical insights on fostering meaningful relationships among adult volunteers, emphasizing the importance of creating intentional gathering moments, supporting one another, and being proactive in building community. This conversation offers practical encouragement for youth pastors and volunteers who want to strengthen their connections and ultimately serve teenagers more effectively. #youthministry #studentministry #nextgen #nextgenministry   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Challenges 02:32 The Importance of Community in Youth Ministry 05:34 Creating a Welcoming Environment for Volunteers 08:18 Gathering Moments for Adult Volunteers 11:13 Shepherding and Supporting Each Other 14:06 Building Community Through Shared Experiences 16:59 Encouraging Youth Pastors to Support Volunteers 19:53 Being Proactive in Building Relationships 22:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Hey Volunteers! A Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers | There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. Hey Volunteers is a Youth Ministry Podcast that is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by several youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you're going to love this podcast! You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    28 min
  3. 069 | Building Life-Changing Discipling Relationship with Students

    JAN 19

    069 | Building Life-Changing Discipling Relationship with Students

    In this episode of the "Hey Volunteers" podcast, Chris Trent, Jennifer Fletch, and Todd Jones discuss the importance of building life-changing discipling relationships with teenagers through youth ministry. They emphasize the role of volunteers in guiding teenagers towards a lifelong faith in Jesus, sharing practical tips and personal stories to inspire and equip listeners. The conversation covers topics such as the difference between chaperones and youth ministry leaders, the significance of authentic relationships, and the impact of prayer and mentorship. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 03:00 Difference Between Chaperones and Leaders 09:00 Building Authentic Relationships 15:00 The Role of Prayer and Mentorship 21:00 Engaging with Families 27:00 Teaching and Creativity 33:00 Conclusion and Encouragement Hey Volunteers! A Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers | There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. Hey Volunteers is a Youth Ministry Podcast that is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by several youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you're going to love this podcast! You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    32 min
  4. 068 | Advent and the Wisdom of Doing Bible Reading Plans Together

    12/15/2025

    068 | Advent and the Wisdom of Doing Bible Reading Plans Together

    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast, we sit down with Andy Knight from YouVersion to talk about making the Bible accessible to teenagers and helping them build lasting Scripture habits. We explore how volunteers can strengthen relationships with students through the Bible, why consistent engagement with God’s Word matters, and how tools like the Bible App can fuel spiritual growth. We share practical strategies for choosing and leading Bible reading plans, fostering accountability, supporting small group leaders, and involving students in the process. Along the way, we highlight helpful resources, discuss the importance of authenticity in discipleship, and look ahead to some exciting podcast changes on the horizon. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction 03:01 — Introducing Andy Knight and YouVersion 06:04 — The Importance of Bible Accessibility for Teens 09:12 — Building Relationships Through Scripture 11:46 — Creating Bible Habits in Youth Ministry 14:55 — Leveraging Technology for Spiritual Growth 17:01 — Starting a Bible Reading Plan 20:00 — Engagement and Accountability in Reading Plans 22:32 — Overcoming Challenges in Small Group Leadership 24:56 — Choosing Topics and Content for Reading Plans 27:42 — Involving Students in the Planning Process 30:01 — Deepening Engagement with Older Students 32:05 — Resources for Youth Ministry 34:01 — Looking Ahead: Changes and New Beginnings The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers | There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by several youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you're going to love this podcast! You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    36 min
  5. 067 | What to Do When Tragedy Strikes

    12/01/2025

    067 | What to Do When Tragedy Strikes

    In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we dive into the challenges volunteers face in the wake of tragedy. We talk about the importance of leadership, community support, and practical ways to navigate difficult situations. Our guest, Stephen Crane, joins us to share his experiences and offer wisdom on how we can effectively support students during crisis moments. We discuss why volunteers need to stay aligned with their leadership, how to seek guidance when things feel overwhelming, and what it looks like to show up well for students without imposing our own emotions. Together, we explore the tension between navigating our personal feelings while serving, supporting fellow leaders, and remaining present and available for students who need space to process. Ultimately, we emphasize seeking God’s wisdom, extending grace to ourselves, and fostering a community where both leaders and students can heal, grow, and find hope—even in the most difficult circumstances. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to the Youth Ministry Podcast 03:07 — Thanksgiving Plans and Family Dynamics 06:07 — Navigating Tragedy in Youth Ministry 09:06 — Understanding Leadership During Crisis 12:04 — Practical Tips for Youth Volunteers 15:03 — The Role of Senior Pastors in Crisis Management 16:29 — Empathy and Listening in Youth Ministry 19:00 — Navigating Personal Emotions as a Volunteer 22:15 — Supporting Adult Leaders in Youth Ministry 25:27 — Making Yourself Available to Students 29:01 — Seeking Wisdom and Grace in Difficult Times The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers | There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. The Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by several youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you're going to love this podcast! You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    36 min
  6. 066 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 2

    11/18/2025

    066 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 2

    Summary In this PART 2 of a two-part episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we welcome Jason Engel, a teaching pastor and assistant professor, to talk about the importance of intentionality in youth ministry. Together, we explore the vital role of volunteers, the need for a clear vision of spiritual maturity, and the importance of holistic discipleship that engages students’ minds, hearts, and actions. We also discuss the value of authenticity in leadership and how volunteers can align with the greater mission of helping students grow in their faith. The episode wraps up with a teaser for part two, where we’ll share more practical ways to implement intentionality in youth ministry. Takeaways Intentionality is crucial in youth ministry.Understanding the 'why' behind ministry activities is essential.Creating a culture of spiritual growth is a shared responsibility.Evaluation of ministry effectiveness should focus on spiritual maturity.Shifts in ministry approach can enhance student engagement.Volunteers should model good biblical interpretation for students.Equipping students for life beyond youth ministry is vital.The goal is to produce lifelong disciples, not just entertain.Ministry should be driven by a faithful vision rooted in God's Word.Volunteers need to continually evaluate their methods and objectives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast 02:41 Personal Updates and Family News 05:33 Intentionality in Youth Ministry  08:12 Understanding Vision and Mission  11:22 Creating a Healthy Ministry Culture  12:54 The Importance of Evaluation in Ministry  17:16 Shifts in Student Ministry Approach  21:58 Equipping Students for Lifelong Discipleship  27:08 Final Thoughts on Intentionality in Youth Ministry You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    34 min
  7. 065 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 1

    10/27/2025

    065 | Volunteering with Intentionality Part 1

    Summary In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, we welcome Jason Engel, a teaching pastor and assistant professor, to talk about the importance of intentionality in youth ministry. Together, we explore the vital role of volunteers, the need for a clear vision of spiritual maturity, and the importance of holistic discipleship that engages students’ minds, hearts, and actions. We also discuss the value of authenticity in leadership and how volunteers can align with the greater mission of helping students grow in their faith. The episode wraps up with a teaser for part two, where we’ll share more practical ways to implement intentionality in youth ministry. Takeaways Volunteers are the rock stars of youth ministry.The goal is to present every student as mature in Christ.Intentionality is crucial in youth ministry.Pragmatism can be a danger if not balanced with vision.The Great Commission provides a clear vision for discipleship.Volunteers play a vital role in achieving the ministry's vision.Holistic discipleship involves engaging the whole student.Authenticity in leadership is essential for effective discipleship.God equips us for the tasks He calls us to.Intentionality in volunteering means aligning with the vision of Christ. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast 01:56 Meet Jason Engel: A New Perspective 05:35 The Importance of Intentionality in Youth Ministry 11:16 Understanding the End Goal of Discipleship 17:12 The Role of Volunteers in Achieving Vision 20:04 Holistic Discipleship: Head, Heart, and Hands 23:46 Authenticity in Leadership and Discipleship 25:38 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    29 min
  8. 064 | Building Community in Your Group

    10/13/2025

    064 | Building Community in Your Group

    Summary In this episode of the Youth Ministry Podcast for Volunteers, special guest Lee Taylor joins the conversation to discuss the importance of building community within youth ministry. Together, they emphasize effective communication with teenagers, the value of sharing meals, and the importance of connecting with parents to strengthen the ministry experience. The discussion also underscores the role of prayer in fostering a supportive environment for youth leaders and their groups. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming topics centered on developing vision and mission in youth ministry. Takeaways Building community is essential for effective youth ministry.Asking good questions can foster deeper conversations with teens.Sharing meals together helps break down barriers and build relationships.Connecting with parents enhances the youth ministry experience.Prayer is a foundational element in supporting youth leaders and their groups.Creating a comfortable environment encourages open dialogue among teens.Understanding the interests of students can lead to meaningful connections.Intentional outreach to parents can provide valuable insights for youth leaders.Building community lasts beyond the church walls and impacts future generations.Effective communication is key to engaging with teenagers.Link to Book Lee Mentions: https://a.co/d/7nfvoS0 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Youth Ministry Podcast 02:39 Building Community in Youth Ministry 05:31 Effective Communication with Teens 08:19 The Importance of Breaking Bread Together 11:03 Connecting with Parents for Better Discipleship 13:47 The Role of Prayer in Youth Ministry 16:42 Conclusion and Future Episodes You can reach Chris & the team at studentministrynetwork.com We would LOVE to hear from you! Email us at YouthMinistryPodcast@GaBaptist.org to share show ideas or give us feedback.

    27 min
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There are a lot of great youth ministry podcasts out there, but not many focus only on volunteers. Hey Volunteers! is a youth ministry podcast that is all about providing great content to help volunteers who work with teenagers. Each episode is short and to the point on topics about how to best impact teenagers with the gospel. Each episode will be hosted by a couple youth ministry vets that have been working with teenagers for over 30 years. If you love working with teenagers, you’re going to love this podcast!

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