NextGen Matters

Rich Brown
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Those leading in Next Generation ministries are navigating a complex landscape of relational, emotional, and organizational pressures that demand resilience, creativity, and deep community connection to sustain impactful ministry in a rapidly changing world.  Does this sound like you?  Then we're glad you're here! NextGen Matters and this podcast are here to guide you through the complexity by providing you with Biblically sound solutions to meet your ministry needs. Why this podcast? Our show helps NextGen ministry leaders overcome the stress of ministry by covering topics that matter for leaders that matter.  With over forty years of continual practical youth ministry experience, Rich understands the journey of where student ministry has been, the challenges facing ministry leaders today, as we prepare another generation to follow Jesus into tomorrow.  His desire is to see this podcast be a resource for those who are professional NextGen Ministry leaders, volunteer NextGen Ministry leaders, and anyone who cares about the Next Generation.   "If we are going to have spiritually healthy students, we must have spiritually healthy local church student ministry cultures, which must come from a place of spiritually healthy ministry leaders.  This podcast exists for that reason!  I want to come alongside you by engaging with you, encouraging you, equipping you, and empowering you to fulfill the God-given calling He has placed on you in your ministry to this current generation of adolescents."  ~ Rich Brown Each episode deals with the real issues today's youth leaders are facing with real solutions based on the timeless truth of God's Word.  And that is a promise! About our Host Rich grew up in a small town in central New York, which featured one stop light and two gas stations. Born into a godly ministry family and consistently seeing and hearing the gospel, Rich gave his life over to Jesus as a young age. During college, he met the young lady of his dreams! Rich says, "Jesus and Janet were the two best decisions I’ve ever made!” They have been married since 1985. Rich and Janet have three adult children (two married), and five grandchildren. His two sons are ordained pastors in ministry, and his daughter owns her own salon. Most important, they all love Jesus! While in college, God called him to student ministries and Rich has been working with students ever since, even now volunteering in his church’s high school ministry. With over 20 years as a student pastor in the local church followed by over 20 years in teaching student ministry in higher education, he loves students and student ministry leaders. In 2019 God called him to begin his own ministry, NextGenMatters, where he seeks to “relationally equip today’s leaders for tomorrow’s generation.” While his primary ministry is now ministering to adults, it all centers back to seeing teenagers be fully mature lifelong disciples of Jesus. He avidly follows baseball, loves landscaping on his two acres, is a history nerd, and doesn't know a day without coffee. His lifelong desire is to live out Colossians 1:28-29.

  1. #21: Why Witness? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.4

    21H AGO ·  VIDEO

    #21: Why Witness? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.4

    Episode Show Notes In this episode, Rich sits down with longtime friend and student‑pastor Mike Camire of Parkway Baptist Church (Moseley, VA) to explore what it really takes to build a culture of witness in student ministry. With only 4% of today’s adolescents affirming core Christian beliefs and professing faith in Christ, the urgency is real — and the opportunity is massive. Mike shares how Parkway has cultivated a sending culture rooted in John 20:21, where students see themselves as everyday missionaries sent into their schools, teams, neighborhoods, and digital spaces, including Mike sharing the story of Parkway’s long‑running public school tailgate ministry, From structured evangelism training to organic lifestyle witness, this conversation is packed with practical frameworks and real‑world stories that will inspire any ministry leader. Only 4% of adolescents profess saving faith in Christ. That means 96% need the good news of forgiveness and freedom in Jesus. This leads us to answer four vital questions: Who will reach them? What can be done? What will you do? How do we build a culture committed to sharing the gospel?Enjoy this episode and give us your feedback in the comments! Resources Mentioned Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/North American Mission Board’s BOB Prayer - https://www.namb.net/Barna Group - https://www.barna.com/Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.comEmail for Mike Camire (Parkway Baptist Church) mcamire@parkwayfamily.orgSubscribe for NGM Thursday Tools emailWatch this episode on YouTube BOB Prayer: Burden for lostness Opportunities to share Boldness to step into those opportunitiesThe Bible (Scripture references in order: John 20:21; Matthew 28:18–20; Philippians 1:27; Ephesians 2:1–5) Timestamps 00:01 – The urgency of evangelism among today’s adolescents00:44 – Introduction to the episode and guest Mike Camire02:11 – Misconceptions about evangelism and redefining “witness”03:29 – Building a “sending culture” in student ministry05:23 – The story of Parkway Baptist Church and student-led growth09:59 – Practical strategies for cultivating a culture of witness13:21 – Tailgate outreach: engaging public schools creatively21:21 – Vision for students living on mission daily30:38 – Recent wins and student testimonies of sharing faith32:15 – Encouragement for ministry leaders to model and teach evangelism36:28 – Why witness matters: the urgency of reaching the next generation40:06 – Final application: personalize, model, and teach the gospel

    43 min
  2. #20: Why Welcome? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.3

    APR 7 ·  VIDEO

    #20: Why Welcome? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.3

    Episode Show Notes In this episode, the host welcomes Justin Lucas, student director at Mercy Hill Church, to unpack the critical role of creating a truly welcoming culture in student ministry.  Together, they explore why even the best worship and teaching fall short if students don’t feel seen, valued, and connected.  Drawing from nearly two decades of ministry experience, Justin shares practical strategies, leadership insights, and personal stories that reveal how meaningful relationships, not just well-run programs, are the foundation for lasting impact. The conversation dives deep into the difference between simply greeting newcomers and cultivating a culture where every student, from first-time guests to long-time attenders, feels a genuine sense of belonging.  Justin emphasizes that welcome is not a one-time action but an ongoing, intentional process that involves leaders, systems, and most importantly, the students themselves.  From building strong volunteer teams to developing student leaders who take ownership of the culture, this episode provides a clear roadmap for moving from surface-level friendliness to transformational community. Listeners will also discover how intentional pathways, consistent follow-up, and relational leadership create an environment where students not only stay but grow, invite others, and step into their God-given purpose.  Whether you’re leading a small group or a large ministry, this episode will challenge you to evaluate your own approach to welcome and equip you with practical tools to ensure every student who walks through your doors experiences the love of Christ in a tangible way. Resources Mentioned:• NextGen Matters Sustainable Cohort • email Rich at rich@nextgenmatters.com • email Justin at jlucas@mercyhillchurch.com Mercy Hill’s 7 Traits of a Welcoming Leader: High EQ  Approachable  Positive  Proactive  Intentional  Inquisitive  EnergeticTimestamps 00:02 – Why “welcome” matters more than programs01:15 – Introducing Justin Lucas and his ministry journey07:00 – The role of connection and community in student retention10:14 – Building a welcoming culture (people + process)12:20 – The 7 traits of a welcoming leader20:24 – Developing a student-led culture of welcome25:26 – Ensuring long-term students feel valued too36:04 – What a “grand slam” welcoming ministry looks like41:27 – Practical leadership application and call to action

    45 min
  3. #19: Why the Word? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.2

    MAR 31 ·  VIDEO

    #19: Why the Word? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.2

    In the second episode in the five-part Vital Signs series of the NextGen Matters podcast, Rich sits down with Kyle Hoffsmith—family ministry pastor and fellow podcast host to tackle one of the most urgent questions facing NextGen leaders today: Is the Word of God truly at the center of our ministries? From the opening minutes, Rich and Kyle go straight at the real issues: Are we teaching Scripture clearly and completely? Are students engaging the Bible on their own? Do they actually know what it says, and is it shaping their lives?  As Kyle puts it, “Whatever we put at the center of our student ministry will drive what happens in that student ministry.” This conversation is a reality check for leaders who want more than hype, entertainment, or a “TED Talk” approach to teaching. Kyle shares how he builds a culture where the Word drives everything—leader training, discipleship, teaching rhythms, even how success is measured. If you’re hungry to see students develop a real appetite for Scripture—students who bring their Bibles, ask deeper questions, and actually want to grow—this episode will fire you up and refocus your mission. Resources Mentioned Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/The Word in Youth Ministry Podcast - https://cpyu.org/ Youth Ministry in the Vine (Book & Podcast) - https://matthiasmedia.com/ Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.comEmail for Kyle Hoffsmith (Old North Church, Canfield) khoffsmith@oldnorthchurch.org Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email https://www.nextgenmatters.com/ contact us Watch this episode on YouTube Timestamps 00:00 - The big questions: Are we truly teaching and living out the Word?01:00 - Introducing Kyle Hoffsmith and the “Five Vital Signs” series04:30 - Why the Word must be the centerpiece of student ministry 07:00 - Letting Scripture shape the entire ministry—not just lessons10:00 - The danger of shallow teaching and losing older students13:00 - Building a culture of the Word over time22:00 - Practical ways to disciple students beyond large gatherings32:00 - The role of the Holy Spirit in transformation35:00 - Vision casting: What a “Grand Slam” Word-centered ministry looks like41:00 - Three key calls to action for ministry leaders

    44 min
  4. #18: Why Worship? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.1

    MAR 24 ·  VIDEO

    #18: Why Worship? 5 Ministry Vital Signs pt.1

    Show Notes  In this first of five episodes speaking into the Five Ministry Vital Signs, Rich is joined by student pastor Ryan Brown and worship leader Jimmy Gillespie to unpack a foundational question for every ministry leader: Why does worship matter? Together, they explore how worship is far more than just a musical set before a message—it is a spiritual catalyst that prepares hearts for an encounter with God and shapes the culture of a healthy ministry. Together, they unpack how worship prepares the heart for an encounter with God, unifies the ministry, and sets the spiritual thermostat before the message begins. Through practical insights and real ministry experience, the discussion goes into the critical connection between worship and teaching, the importance of unity between leaders, and how worship helps reveal the spiritual temperature of a room. The conversation also dives into how to cultivate authentic worship in student ministries—regardless of resources—while emphasizing the balance between spirit and truth. If you want to cultivate a ministry where worship is more than music—where it becomes a lifestyle that forms disciples from the inside out—this episode will encourage, equip, and ignite your vision. Resources Mentioned Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.comEmail for Ryan Brown (Waymaker Church) ryan.brown@waymaker.churchEmail for Jimmie Gillespie (Waymaker Church) jimmiegillespie@gmail.comSubscribe for NGM Thursday Tools emailWatch this episode on YouTube The Bible (Scripture references in order: Psalm 24; Romans 12:1-2; Psalms 33, 34; Judges 13) Timestamps 00:00 – Why worship sets the tone before teaching01:00 – Overview of the “5 W’s” of healthy ministry05:00 – Unity between worship and the message08:30 – How worship reveals the spiritual temperature of students14:00 – Worship as more than music (Romans 12 perspective)20:00 – The role of worship in student development and discipleship27:00 – Dreaming of authentic, lifestyle worship in students37:00 – Practical application: personal, modeled, and taught worship

    42 min
  5. #17: FIVE SIGNS your ministry is Spiritually Fit

    MAR 10 ·  VIDEO

    #17: FIVE SIGNS your ministry is Spiritually Fit

    In this episode, Rich Brown walks ministry leaders through a practical diagnostic for evaluating the spiritual health of their ministry. Using the metaphor of a medical checkup, Rich introduces five essential markers of spiritual health. As Rich says, “Spiritual health grows in ministries that intentionally are cultivating five essential markers.”. Drawing from decades of ministry experience and Scripture, Rich unpacks the five W’s, (Worship, Word, Welcome, Witness, and Work) and how they function together to create a culture where the Holy Spirit forms genuine disciples and where students grow into a thriving, gospel-centered community. These markers act like spiritual lab work—they reveal strengths, weaknesses, and areas needing attention. “These five markers… are the spiritual diagnostics of your ministry.”  When they’re active, ministries don’t just gather students as groups, but they deepen these young disciples into ministries which will broaden gospel impact and glorify God. Resources Mentioned Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/ Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email Watch this episode on YouTube The Bible (Scripture references in order: John 4:23; Colossians 3:16; Matthew 18:5; Acts 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Ephesians 4:12) Timestamps 00:00–01:30 – The ministry health checkup: why spiritual diagnostics matter01:30–03:40 – Introducing the five markers of a spiritually healthy ministry03:40–09:45 – Worship: cultivating genuine passion for the presence of God09:45–13:45 – The Word: building ministries centered on Scripture and discipleship13:45–18:10 – Welcome: creating a culture where every student belongs18:10–23:00 – Witness: helping students live and share the gospel as a lifestyle23:00–26:30 – Work: developing the heart of a servant and opportunities to serve26:30–End – Final diagnostic questions and three practical action steps for leaders

    33 min
  6. #16: Breaking Free from Ministry Comparison

    MAR 3 ·  VIDEO

    #16: Breaking Free from Ministry Comparison

    Episode Show Notes Ministry comparison is one of the quietest and most corrosive forces shaping the hearts of NextGen leaders. In this episode, Rich continues the conversation he began with his son, Ryan Brown, and takes us deeper into the internal, external, and spiritual pressures that make comparison so powerful—and so destructive. But comparison doesn’t have to be a trap.  When handled with honesty and humility, it can become a teacher that clarifies calling, strengthens character, and deepens unity in the body of Christ. This episode names the struggle, exposes the traps, and offers a biblically grounded pathway toward freedom, faithfulness, and joy. Resources Mentioned Next Gen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/ Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email Watch this episode on YouTubeScripture MentionedScripture references in order: 2 Corinthians 3:4-5, Philippians 1:15-18, 1 Corinthians 12, Colossians 2:10 Timestamps 00:00–02:20 – The heart of Next Gen Matters and framing the comparison conversation 02:20–06:50 – Three primary sources of comparison: internal, external, and spiritual 06:50–10:45 – Ungrieved loss: the ministry you expected, the growth you hoped for, the opportunities that didn’t come 10:45–22:05 – When comparison becomes a trap: distorted identity, insecurity, competition, performance, loss of joy, and resentment 22:05–27:50 – When comparison becomes a teacher: clarified calling, diversity in the body, growth, collaboration, and seeing God’s faithfulness 27:50–35:05 – Practical frameworks: Flip the dashboard, the calling triangle (identity, assignment, season), and confidence vs. competence 35:05–41:30 – Fostering gratitude and choosing peer circles over performance circles 41:30–End – Call to action: name your comparison, celebrate another leader, and walk forward in joy

    42 min
  7. #15: The Subtle Trap of Ministry Comparison

    FEB 24 ·  VIDEO

    #15: The Subtle Trap of Ministry Comparison

    Episode Overview Comparison is one of the most exhausting and unspoken pressures in ministry. In this father–son conversation, Rich and Ryan Brown unpack how comparison sneaks into our leadership—through social media, ministry highlight reels, church metrics, and even well‑meaning comments from others. Together they explore the roots of comparison, the ways it can be both healthy and destructive, and how ministry leaders can approach it with a godly, grounded perspective and can guard their hearts while celebrating others and staying faithful to their unique calling. This episode invites leaders to slow down, name the pressure, and remember that God never asked us to run someone else’s race. He called us to be faithful with the people, gifts, and opportunities He has entrusted to us—right where we are. Key Themes - What Comparison Looks Like in Ministry - Why Comparison Is So Common- Healthy Comparison - Unhealthy Comparison - Biblical Patterns of Comparison Resources Mentioned • NextGen Matters – https://www.nextgenmatters.com/• The Bible (Scripture references in order: Genesis 4; Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 11:1; John 21) Links • Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com• Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email• Watch this episode on YouTube Timestamps  • 00:00–03:30 – The pressure of comparison in ministry leadership • 03:30–08:30 – Defining comparison and generational perspectives • 08:30–15:30 – Healthy vs. unhealthy comparison and biblical foundations • 15:30–22:30 – The root of comparison: envy, coveting, and insecurity • 22:30–29:30 – Social media, metrics, and the hidden cost of comparison • 29:30–34:30 – Calling vs. competence: staying in your lane • 34:30–39:07 – Practical action steps: celebrate others, celebrate your wins, and remain faithful

    39 min
  8. #14: When NextGen Ministries Unite (interview with Cody Mummau regarding Episode 2026)

    SEASON 1, EPISODE 14 TRAILER ·  VIDEO

    #14: When NextGen Ministries Unite (interview with Cody Mummau regarding Episode 2026)

    In this powerful conversation, Rich sits down with longtime friend Cody Mummau, high school pastor at Thomas Road Baptist Church, to unpack the heart, vision, and behind-the-scenes journey of transforming a long-standing single-church winter retreat into a citywide, multi-church movement called Episode. What began as one church’s long‑standing winter retreat has transformed into a multi‑church, kingdom‑minded movement—one marked by humility, collaboration, and a shared desire to reach the next generation. Cody shares how God prepared him years earlier through ministry partnerships in North Carolina, where he learned the impact of churches working together rather than competing. Now serving in his hometown, he’s bringing that same vision to the 434 area code—inviting churches of all sizes and backgrounds to unite students around the gospel. As Rich says in the episode, “I want you to be motivated to ask yourself, what can I do to be a part of something greater than just me?” And as Cody reflects, “There’s no possible way that even as large as our student ministry is, we can’t do it alone… The church has to reach the city.” This conversation is a behind‑the‑scenes look at humility, collaboration, and the kind of leadership that builds a culture of “we, not me.” Links Episode Sessions (student gathering hosted by Thomas Road Baptist Church)• Episode Recap• Session 1• Session 2• Session 3 • Email for Cody Mummau (TRBC): cody.mummau@trbc.org• Email for Rich Brown (NGM): rich@nextgenmatters.com• Subscribe for NGM Thursday Tools email• Watch this episode on YouTube Timestamps • 00:00–02:00  – The mission of Next Gen Matters and introducing Cody Mumaw• 02:00–07:30   – From North Carolina to Lynchburg: Cody’s ministry journey• 07:30–15:30    – The early days of collaboration: The 460 Project and multi-church retreats• 15:30–23:30    – 180 Weekend: Scaling a shared student event across 30+ churches• 23:30–30:30   – Returning home and reimagining “Episode” as a kingdom-centered gathering• 30:30–36:30   – Building trust among churches and creating a culture of shared leadership• 36:30–42:30   – Practical steps for leaders: Finding your people and starting small• 42:30–End      – Don’t quit: Longevity, community, and a 24-hour action plan for collaboration

    40 min
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About

Those leading in Next Generation ministries are navigating a complex landscape of relational, emotional, and organizational pressures that demand resilience, creativity, and deep community connection to sustain impactful ministry in a rapidly changing world.  Does this sound like you?  Then we're glad you're here! NextGen Matters and this podcast are here to guide you through the complexity by providing you with Biblically sound solutions to meet your ministry needs. Why this podcast? Our show helps NextGen ministry leaders overcome the stress of ministry by covering topics that matter for leaders that matter.  With over forty years of continual practical youth ministry experience, Rich understands the journey of where student ministry has been, the challenges facing ministry leaders today, as we prepare another generation to follow Jesus into tomorrow.  His desire is to see this podcast be a resource for those who are professional NextGen Ministry leaders, volunteer NextGen Ministry leaders, and anyone who cares about the Next Generation.   "If we are going to have spiritually healthy students, we must have spiritually healthy local church student ministry cultures, which must come from a place of spiritually healthy ministry leaders.  This podcast exists for that reason!  I want to come alongside you by engaging with you, encouraging you, equipping you, and empowering you to fulfill the God-given calling He has placed on you in your ministry to this current generation of adolescents."  ~ Rich Brown Each episode deals with the real issues today's youth leaders are facing with real solutions based on the timeless truth of God's Word.  And that is a promise! About our Host Rich grew up in a small town in central New York, which featured one stop light and two gas stations. Born into a godly ministry family and consistently seeing and hearing the gospel, Rich gave his life over to Jesus as a young age. During college, he met the young lady of his dreams! Rich says, "Jesus and Janet were the two best decisions I’ve ever made!” They have been married since 1985. Rich and Janet have three adult children (two married), and five grandchildren. His two sons are ordained pastors in ministry, and his daughter owns her own salon. Most important, they all love Jesus! While in college, God called him to student ministries and Rich has been working with students ever since, even now volunteering in his church’s high school ministry. With over 20 years as a student pastor in the local church followed by over 20 years in teaching student ministry in higher education, he loves students and student ministry leaders. In 2019 God called him to begin his own ministry, NextGenMatters, where he seeks to “relationally equip today’s leaders for tomorrow’s generation.” While his primary ministry is now ministering to adults, it all centers back to seeing teenagers be fully mature lifelong disciples of Jesus. He avidly follows baseball, loves landscaping on his two acres, is a history nerd, and doesn't know a day without coffee. His lifelong desire is to live out Colossians 1:28-29.

Information

  • Creator
    Rich Brown
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    NextGen Matters

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