265 episodes

Welcome to the Youth Ministry Booster podcast! The most honest podcast in student ministry. Hosted by Zac Workun and Chad Higgins. We are the biggest fans of youth ministry leaders. We are here for you with humor and help to engage, entertain, equip, and encourage.Youth ministry is better together.Learn more @ http://www.youthministrybooster.com

Youth Ministry Booster Podcast Youth Ministry Booster

    • Religion & Spirituality
    • 4.2 • 149 Ratings

Welcome to the Youth Ministry Booster podcast! The most honest podcast in student ministry. Hosted by Zac Workun and Chad Higgins. We are the biggest fans of youth ministry leaders. We are here for you with humor and help to engage, entertain, equip, and encourage.Youth ministry is better together.Learn more @ http://www.youthministrybooster.com

    The Youth Ministry Art of Engaging Middle School Boys

    The Youth Ministry Art of Engaging Middle School Boys

    Question...which zoo animal would be the ultimate pocket-sized companion? 

    There is a right answer, but we want to hear yours...

    Join Zac and Chad as they  swap stories that will crack you up and maybe even crack the code on connecting with middle schoolers (read:boys). 

    In this episode, we don't shy away from the pressing questions- like whether gaming streams are the new radio or if there's a method to the madness of K-pop fandom. It's an honest ride through how relational connections are really made. 

    Today's conversations get deep as we explore what drives us to grow and who we trust with our future. So, whether you're in ministry, passionate about youth engagement, or just looking for a blend of banter and wisdom, pull up a chair for an episode that promises to enlighten as much as it entertains.
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    • 33 min
    Navigating Youth Ministry Highs & Lows: From Static to Soul-Care

    Navigating Youth Ministry Highs & Lows: From Static to Soul-Care

    We're not just talking shop; we're opening up about the art of pacing and the vital act of delegating to avoid burnout. 

    Remember  school field trips? This episode Zac and Chad are taking that nostalgic trip down memory lane... it's a memory and a feeling. 

    Ministry comes in waves and this time between spring and summer is one of those valleys. 

    This heartfelt episode is a reminder for all our ministry friends out there: while we're passionate about serving others, we must also cherish and prioritize our own health and happiness.

    Healthy ministry, starting with soul-care, is about striking that elusive balance between ramping up activities and maintaining our personal and family well-being.
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    • 28 min
    Help Your Youth Ministry Small Group Leaders Win (and stick around!)

    Help Your Youth Ministry Small Group Leaders Win (and stick around!)

    Facebook marketplace is safe right? 

     Zach and Chad, your ministry mentors and amateur online bargain hunters, are here to draw the parallels. 

    This episode is an open lesson for what we have learned  navigating the challenges that small group leaders face, especially when confronted with the whirlwind or overload that is a roomful of teenagers. 

    For the next 30 minutes we're dishing out our practical strategies  to help your newbie leaders turn anxiety into confidence, transforming those small group gatherings into from sessions to community. 
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    • 29 min
    Discipline, Distractions, & Disruptions During Youth Ministry Teaching

    Discipline, Distractions, & Disruptions During Youth Ministry Teaching

    JEREMY SIT DOWN!  Whew sorry about that... Kids Amma I right?

    If you have ever had issues with students not listening, being distracting, or even disruptive during teaching time... then do we have a toolkit for you!

    Dealing w/ Distractions, Disruptions, & Discipline Issues:
    If you've ever felt like a ringmaster in a circus of pre-teen hijinks we hope this chat is helpful. We're unpacking the chaos of disruptions with real stories (we have been there!). 

    Can we just send these kids to time-out? 
    Hey YM friends let's talk about how to foster a culture of respect by clearly setting expectations and  involving students in the process and explaining the 'why' behind the rules. It's about making an impact that goes beyond Sunday and into their daily lives, ensuring that every interaction plants a seed for positive behavior and engagement.

    Lastly, let's break it down so you can take it home. 
    From ninja-like non-verbal cues between leaders to a 'three-step process' that's more like  four steps, we're laying down our take on behavioral management. We're sharing our blueprint for establishing clear boundaries, all while nurturing growth and fostering a safe space for teens to thrive. So, gear up for some real talk on crafting an environment where respect is the norm, and chaos is shown the door. And hey, don't forget to drop us your thoughts! booster@youthministrybooster.com
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    • 35 min
    Crafting Winning Games for Youth Ministry: Thanks ChatGPT

    Crafting Winning Games for Youth Ministry: Thanks ChatGPT

    Ever had one of those moments where you're left holding your head in your hands, wondering where your brilliant idea went wrong? 

     Our podcast usually gets down to the nitty-gritty of what it takes to plan not just fun, but also memorable activities for youth ministry. 

    This week we are laying out our failures, asking for help and coaching up what makes games great. 

    So enjoy our queasy missteps and food-related fiascos, all while highlighting the true aim of youth events—safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences for every student involved.

    ChatGPT Games
    Balloon Pop 
    Fruit Lumberjack
     Human Bowling

    We've packed this episode with innovative game ideas that steer clear of athletic prowess and instead, celebrate teamwork and pure, silly fun. So get ready to stock your youth ministry playbook with some fresh, creative game ideas that are guaranteed hits.
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    • 28 min
    Rethinking Youth Ministry Goals, Failures, & Successes

    Rethinking Youth Ministry Goals, Failures, & Successes

    Ever bitten off more than you can chew? 

    Hey friends, Zach Workun and Chad Higgins back for another episode and another year of youth ministry podcasting.

    This episode is a smorgasbord of tips and tales, starting with my own kitchen catastrophe that turned into a smoky sous vide saga. You'll hear how Chad's culinary mishap serves up a lesson in embracing the unexpected and learning from our missteps—not just in cooking but in our ministry efforts too.

    Rolling up our sleeves, Chad and I tackle the hefty topic of expectations in youth ministry. We peel back the layers on why we plan events and who they're truly for. It's all about syncing our passions with the real needs of our audience. This episode isn't just about shrugging off failures; it's a roadmap for refining our perspective to enhance our work. 

    And finally, we're not just talking shop on what could be; we're want to push you on how student ministry adapts to the times. Join us as we question the norms, from worship times to the structure of our gatherings. We hope you'll be just as bold in reimagining how to connect and grow with your youth groups. 
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    • 35 min

Customer Reviews

4.2 out of 5
149 Ratings

149 Ratings

mwcollins.org ,

Great show

Really entertaining and solid advice from these guys!

CEdMedina22 ,

The Medina (TN) Youth Pastor

Great to finally meet these guys in person. #YPS Murfreesboro 2023
Love the podcast. Keep it up guys

Jake_Rasmussen ,

Great Stuff

This podcast is outstanding. Thankful for these two and their investment in youth ministry.

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